You should learn something new every day. Those words come from a new Potbelly franchisee, Hampden Keil, who started a multi-unit franchise with his father, Bryant Keil, the founder of Potbelly. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as we hear Hampden talk about his experience and how he and his dad are creating a Potbelly dynasty, starting with 13 restaurants with plans to add 15 more.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, I interview Hampden Keil, COO of the Keil Group, LLC, to discuss his journey into the restaurant industry and his experience in building a Potbelly Sandwich Works multi-unit franchise business alongside, Bryant Keil, his father. Keil talks about his background in journalism, his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, and the valuable lessons he learned working at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. The conversation delves into the Keil Group's ambitious plans to expand their footprint by adding new Potbelly units to their existing 13, the importance of operational systems, and the evolving dynamics of family-run businesses. Keil also offers insights into the challenges of hiring and training staff, the significance of having a strong support system, and the advantages of being a Potbelly franchisee.

Topics discussed include:

1. Keil’s Early Career & Education

A. Experiences as a Journalist

B. Experiences at Lettuce Entertain You

C. Experiences at Joe's Brewery

D. Experiences at the Keil Group

2. The Potbelly Brand & Legacy

A. Founding and Evolution of Potbelly

B. Unique Franchising Model and Operations

C. Benefits of Checklists and Operational Standards

D. Advantages of becoming a Potbelly Franchisee

3. Working with Family

A. Definite division of roles: Hampden handles operations; Bryant focuses on

growth and development.

B. Benefits of complementary working styles (realistic vs. creative).

C. Benefits of daily catch-up calls that blend business and personal

conversation.

4. Advantages of Becoming a Franchisee

A. Quality product and brand identity.

B. Strong corporate support and operational guidance.

C. Opportunity for personal and professional support.

5. Advice for Aspiring Franchisees and Students

A. Be prepared for the shift from floor operations to oversight.

B. Confidence grows with experience.

C. Constant learning and listening to experienced team members are key.

Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:

Website: FranchiseU!

Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast

Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast

Twitter: @franchiseupod

TikTok: @franchiseupod

Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.

This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

I'm not the techiest person around. And so when I was approached to talk to a couple of folks about geofencing, I thought, geo what? So I had to take a look, find out what it was, but then it fascinated me, and it is a way for a small franchise to really maximize their foot traffic. So in this episode of FranchiseU!, I talk with Ernesto Cullari and Barbara Wardell, who've come up with an incredible concept.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, I ask Ernesto and Barbara to share their initial curiosity and subsequent fascination with geofencing. They discuss how this technology can help small franchises increase their foot traffic and more. This conversation has some very innovative uses of the geofencing concept.

Topics discussed include:

1. Understanding Geofencing

2. Benefits of Geofencing include:

• Increased Foot Traffic
• Targeted Marketing
• Enhanced Customer Engagement

3. How to embrace Geofencing

4. Learn more at the Cullari and Wardell Ad Agency Website

Ernesto Cullari is a multifaceted creative professional writer, commercial photographer, director, and Co-founder and CMO; renowned for pioneering GPS-based, location-based advertising. With expertise in content creation, digital advertising, and marketing strategy, he has worked with a wide range of high-profile brands and personalities. He was a regular on-air contributor and producer for The Financial Quarterback™ and has an extensive background in the music industry, having led artist development for Grammy-winning KNS Productions. A published songwriter and columnist, Cullari’s writing has appeared on Fox News and in triCityNews. In 2012, he ran for U.S. Congress as a GOP candidate in Monmouth County. Follow Ernesto Cullari on LinkedIn

Barbara Wardell is a seasoned marketing and ad professional who left behind a very successful career in the specialty medicine world to become a disruptor on behalf of small businesses. She has a focused and competitive mindset she uses to guide, Cullari & Wardell, a geofencing ad agency. Wardell focuses on what makes her clients strong and their competition weak. She then uses GPS location data to match would-be customers to her client’s strengths, thereby best positioning her clients for success. The measurable results in terms of increased foot traffic and online conversations are game-changing. Beyond her professional pursuits, Wardell is a proud mother of two outstanding young men, balancing her role as a dedicated businesswoman with a passion for enjoying life to the fullest and spending quality time with family and friends. Follow Barbara Wardell on Instagram.

Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:

Website: FranchiseU!

Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast

Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast

Twitter: @franchiseupod

TikTok: @franchiseupod

Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.

This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser and Dr. Isabel Botero joined by Bonny and Marcus Shelton, who share their incredible journey as multi-generational KFC franchisees. The Sheltons recount the inspiring history of Bacon Enterprises, Inc., starting with Bonnie's father in the 1960s, through their significant contributions to the KFC community, and culminating in the successful exit from their family business. They discuss the keys to their success, including family unity, clear communication, and strong ethical values. The Sheltons also share their strategies for managing a family-owned business, the importance of transparent operating agreements, and their comprehensive approach to ensuring the well-being of their employees during the sale. This episode provides valuable insights into maintaining family harmony while achieving business success.

Time Topic

00:00 Introduction and Co-Host Welcome

00:20 Meet the Shelton Family: Multi-Generational KFC Franchisees

01:27 Bonnie's Story: The Early Days of Bacon Enterprises

04:10 A Family Business: Challenges and Triumphs

07:14 Marcus's Journey: From Childhood Memories to Business Leader

12:10 The Next Generation: Roles of the Shelton Daughters

15:27 Growth and Leadership: Expanding the Franchise

18:25 Working Together: Family Dynamics in Business

22:46 Balancing Family and Business

23:12 Leadership and Conflict Resolution

27:35 Values and Principles in Family Business

28:34 Decision to Sell the Business

31:20 Navigating the Sale Process

37:36 Celebrating and Reflecting on Success

40:03 Advice for Family Businesses

42:58 Final Thoughts and Gratitude