#206 Non-Food Franchising: The Career Path AI Can’t Replace

What if the safest path in an AI-driven economy isn’t climbing the corporate ladder, but owning a business that AI can’t automate?

In this episode of High Voltage Business Builders, Neil Twa sits down with franchise expert Jon Ostenson, former President of ShelfGenie and founder of FranBridge Consulting, who has helped thousands of people transition from corporate jobs into business ownership.

Jon shares how he left a Fortune 1000 VP role, took a pay cut, and stepped into franchising with zero industry experience. He breaks down why non-food franchises (home services, senior care, property services, fitness, pet care, and B2B services) are exploding in demand as AI reshapes the job market and accelerates corporate layoffs.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✅ The difference between food and non-food franchises (and why non-food wins)
✅ What it costs to buy into a franchise and how royalties really work
✅ How much profit new franchise owners can expect in year one
✅ Semi-passive franchising models and how professionals keep their W2 while owning a business
✅ Why home services, senior care, and property services remain AI-resistant
✅ How to evaluate a franchise’s financials, support, and long-term viability

📍 Chapters

02:00 Taking a pay cut and jumping into entrepreneurship
05:00 AI layoffs and why people are rushing into business ownership
07:34 How much you can earn in year one with service-based territories
12:00 How to hire operators and what makes a great candidate
14:25 Funding, legal considerations, and evaluating franchise agreements
15:51 Typical investment ranges and the $100K–$400K sweet spot
18:00 New disruptions in franchising (junk removal, lawn care apps, etc.)

Guest: Jon Ostenson
Website: https://franbridgeconsulting.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-ostenson
Book: Non-Food Franchising

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