About Steve Olson

Steve Olson is a leading authority on franchising. He is Publisher of Franchise Update Media Group, an industry resource for over 2000 franchise organizations. He has recently authored the book, “Grow to Greatness: how to build a world-class franchise system faster.”

With nearly 30 years in franchise consulting, sales and executive management, Steve specializes in accelerating expansion for emerging and established franchise brands. He has served on franchise boards and is a frequent columnist and speaker on the subject of franchising.

Matt Phipps has enjoyed an impressive career in the creative, brand building and operational part of the business arena. Today, his entrepreneurial talent and experience are what drive him to continue to create the vision and direction of his company, Blendz.

Franchise entrepreneur Gina Carr joins me on this segment of The Smallbiz Brain. Gina is a franchising entrepreneur with a strong interest in helping communities and their businesses grow.

On this segment I interview Jim Belanger, president of Gamer Doc Video Games. Jim is a veteran of the Franchise industry with a wealth of experience. having lead companies such as Burger King, Rent A Center, Play N Trade and others.

Mr. Alex Vantarakis has over 10 years of management, ownership and acquisition experience. He has extensive experience in the areas of acquisitions, finance, franchise development and strategic planning; Mr. Vantarakis is active in the business brokerage industry as a member of the Business Broker Network, Texas Association of Business Brokers and The International Business Brokerage Association.

I interview Shannon Wilburn and Daven Tackett on their development of a successful consignment shopping system which is now a franchise system that can be started by any community-minded individual. Shannon and Devon have put together a system for the non-business savvy individual to make money and serve local families.

I interviewed Matthew Walsh to discuss the Alternative Board—a very interesting small business-coaching-franchise-model that he runs in New Mexico.

Marguaux is the Founder of Footprints International a home party shoe business. She and I discussed shoes and the opportunity for women to start a home-based businesses having shoe parties.

I interviewed Jan Van Blarcum, founder and owner of Creative Tutors in Plano, Texas. Jan started her business in her home tutoring other people’s children to earn some extra money. This has grown to become a full-fledged franchise business with 10 franchises in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, with plans to go nationwide. Come hear about Jan’s move from part time home based business to a full-fledged franchise opportunity.

Karen Owens started BTS Cruise and Tour simply because she loves cruising. Learn about her challenges and successes in shaping her business over the years.