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Turning Challenges into Opportunity: How Haley Haar Revitalized an AlphaGraphics Franchise - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Success stories often begin with opportunity. Haley Haar’s began with a challenge.

When Haley and her husband purchased an AlphaGraphics location in downtown Kansas City in 2009, they weren’t stepping into a thriving business. Instead, they inherited a location with a poor reputation, limited market share, and strained customer relationships. Many prospective franchise owners would have walked away. Haley saw possibility.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Haley shares the story of how determination, leadership, and a commitment to serving others helped transform a struggling franchise into a respected business and trusted community partner.

Betting on Themselves

One of the most interesting aspects of Haley’s journey is that she knowingly purchased a business that needed significant work.

Part of the decision came down to affordability, but it was also rooted in confidence. Haley and her husband had extensive experience working within the AlphaGraphics system and understood the industry. Rather than viewing the business’s challenges as obstacles, they saw them as opportunities.

They knew they weren’t starting from scratch. They already understood the business model, customer needs, and operational side of the printing industry. That experience gave them the confidence to tackle a turnaround.

Rebuilding Trust

After taking ownership, Haley quickly learned just how damaged the business’s reputation had become.

Some former customers were willing to give the new ownership team a chance. Many were not.

Rather than spending all their energy trying to win back every dissatisfied customer, Haley made a strategic decision. She focused on building relationships with businesses that had never worked with AlphaGraphics before.

Instead of looking backward, she looked forward.

By introducing new customers to the company’s capabilities and focusing on service excellence, Haley steadily grew market share and rebuilt the brand’s reputation throughout Kansas City’s business community.

Learning the Power of “No”

One of the most valuable lessons Haley learned came during the early growth phase of the business.

Like many entrepreneurs, she initially said yes to every opportunity that came through the door. More projects meant more revenue, and more revenue meant survival.

Over time, however, she discovered that not every customer or project was a good fit.

Some jobs generated little profit. Others consumed valuable resources that could have been better invested elsewhere.

Her advice to business owners is simple: learn what not to say yes to as quickly as possible.

Growth isn’t just about adding business. It’s also about understanding which opportunities align with your goals and which ones distract from them.

The Transformational Power of Mentorship

A major influence on Haley’s leadership development came through the Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentorship Program in Kansas City.

The three-year mentoring experience paired her with an experienced business mentor while also connecting her to an extensive network of entrepreneurs and subject matter experts.

The timing couldn’t have been better.

During her participation in the program, Haley faced significant challenges, including losing a key employee and one of the company’s largest customers. Having a mentor helped her maintain perspective and navigate those setbacks without losing sight of the bigger picture.

Her experience highlights an important lesson for entrepreneurs: success doesn’t happen in isolation. Strong mentors and supportive networks can provide invaluable guidance during difficult seasons.

Kindness Versus Niceness

Perhaps the most memorable part of the conversation centered on Haley’s leadership philosophy.

She believes strongly in kindness. However, she also draws a distinction between kindness and niceness.

Kindness means treating people with respect, supporting employees, and doing what is right. Niceness, on the other hand, can sometimes become people-pleasing.

For Haley, true leadership requires the courage to stand up for employees, establish boundaries, and address difficult situations directly.

Sometimes the kindest thing a leader can do isn’t the easiest or most comfortable.

This philosophy has shaped both her company culture and her approach to leadership.

Breaking Barriers as a Female Business Owner

When Haley entered the printing industry, she often found herself as one of the few women in the room.

As a young business owner in a traditionally male-dominated field, she frequently encountered assumptions that she wasn’t the real decision-maker.

Rather than allowing those perceptions to define her, she used them as motivation.

Over time, Haley established herself as a respected leader by consistently demonstrating expertise, confidence, and results. Her story serves as a powerful example for women entrepreneurs navigating industries where they may still be underrepresented.

Innovation in a Changing Industry

Many people assume printing is an old-fashioned industry. Haley strongly disagrees.

She describes today’s printing world as one of rapid innovation and technological advancement.

Digital presses, automation, sophisticated color management systems, and workflow software have transformed how modern print businesses operate. What once required extensive manual labor can now be accomplished with remarkable speed and precision.

At the same time, Haley believes technology has created opportunities for greater creativity. Her team regularly collaborates with artists and organizations to bring complex ideas to life while maintaining exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Final Thoughts

Throughout the episode, one theme remained consistent: determination.

From competing in trap shooting as a young girl to rebuilding a struggling franchise and establishing herself in a male-dominated industry, Haley has spent a lifetime proving that challenges can become opportunities.

Her journey reminds us that successful leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to learn, adapt, stay true to your values, and continue moving forward when others might quit.

For franchise owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders alike, Haley’s story offers a powerful lesson:

Success isn’t determined by where you start. It’s determined by what you’re willing to build.

From Golden Handcuffs to Greater Purpose: Sabrina Martin's Journey into Entrepreneurship - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Success doesn’t always look the way we expect.

For many professionals, career success is measured by promotions, compensation, titles, and recognition. Yet even when those boxes are checked, something can still feel missing.

That was the reality for Sabrina Martin.

After a highly successful corporate career in healthcare, Sabrina found herself asking a question that many professionals eventually face:

Is this really how I want to spend the rest of my life?

Her answer led her down a path toward entrepreneurship, creativity, community involvement, and a renewed sense of purpose.

A Successful Career That No Longer Felt Right

By traditional standards, Sabrina had achieved remarkable success.

She advanced quickly through the corporate ranks, earning promotions, leadership opportunities, financial rewards, and professional recognition. She was respected, valued, and successful.

But beneath the surface, she began noticing something was changing.

Her work had become her identity.

The demands of corporate leadership required extensive travel and long hours. As her responsibilities grew, other important parts of life received less attention.

Relationships.

Community involvement.

Personal fulfillment.

Time with family and friends.

The things that mattered most were slowly being crowded out.

The Warning Signs We Often Ignore

One of the most powerful moments in the conversation centered around self-awareness.

Looking back, Sabrina realized there were clear signs she wasn’t happy long before she left her corporate role.

The most surprising observation came from her husband.

After she left, he told her he was relieved because she had spent months walking around the house sighing.

She hadn’t even noticed it herself.

That realization led to an important lesson.

Sometimes the people closest to us notice our dissatisfaction before we do.

Sabrina encourages people to ask themselves several important questions:

Has your personality changed?
Do you feel fulfilled at the end of the week?
Are you excited about Monday morning?
Are you becoming the person you want to be?

If the answers are consistently negative, it may be time to evaluate other opportunities.

Escaping the “Golden Handcuffs”

Like many professionals, Sabrina experienced what she calls the “golden handcuffs.”

The salary was good.

The title was impressive.

The benefits were strong.

Walking away felt risky.

Yet she came to realize something important:

Staying can be a risk, too.

Remaining in a role that no longer aligns with your values may cost you relationships, personal growth, fulfillment, and time—things that can never be replaced.

This perspective helped Sabrina reframe entrepreneurship not as reckless risk-taking, but as a thoughtful pursuit of a more meaningful future.

Why Franchising Made Sense

Sabrina wasn’t new to business ownership.

Earlier in life, she had built a business from the ground up.

While that experience was valuable, she knew she didn’t want to start over completely from scratch.

This time, she wanted a proven model.

A support system.

A roadmap.

A playbook.

Franchising offered exactly that.

After exploring various opportunities, she ultimately chose Gotcha Covered, a custom window treatment franchise that allowed her to combine business ownership with her long-standing passion for design and home improvement.

Building a Business Around Creativity

Long before entering franchising, Sabrina had a love for interior design.

She originally studied design and spent years renovating and redesigning homes.

Her entrepreneurial journey gave her the opportunity to reconnect with that passion.

Today, she helps homeowners transform their spaces through customized window treatments, balancing aesthetics, functionality, energy efficiency, and personal style.

What sets her approach apart is her commitment to understanding each client’s goals before making recommendations.

Rather than focusing on quick transactions, she focuses on long-term relationships and helping clients make decisions they’ll be happy with for years to come.

The Power of Transferable Skills

Many people hesitate to explore entrepreneurship because they believe their experience doesn’t apply.

Sabrina disagrees.

Her background was healthcare.

Her current business is home improvement.

Yet many of the same skills transfer seamlessly:

Strategic planning
Sales and relationship building
Market analysis
Customer service
Leadership
Team development
Communication

She emphasizes that every prospective business owner should evaluate both their strengths and the areas they may need to develop or outsource. No entrepreneur possesses every skill necessary for success.

Finding Purpose Through Community

One of the biggest surprises after becoming a business owner was discovering how much local communities depend on small businesses.

Today, Sabrina actively participates in her Chamber of Commerce, supports youth sports, attends charitable events, and volunteers with organizations that provide transportation for seniors.

The impact has been profound.

In fact, she admits that helping others often provides more fulfillment than the bonuses she once received in corporate America.

Those experiences reinforced a lesson she wishes she had learned earlier:

Purpose often comes through service.

Advice for Women Considering Entrepreneurship

Sabrina offers particularly powerful advice for women who may be considering business ownership.

Too often, women feel responsible for being the stable force in the household.

They may hesitate to take risks.

They may feel pressure to avoid failure.

They may underestimate their abilities.

Her message is simple:

Don’t let fear stop you from exploring possibilities.

You don’t have to quit your job tomorrow.

You don’t need all the answers.

You simply need the willingness to learn.

Explore the opportunities.

Ask questions.

Understand what’s available.

Give yourself permission to consider a different future.

Growth Is Energizing

One of the most inspiring parts of Sabrina’s story is the enthusiasm she has rediscovered.

After years of feeling stagnant, she’s once again learning new skills, solving new problems, and challenging herself in new ways.

She describes the experience as energizing.

Rejuvenating.

Even transformative.

Her husband certainly notices the difference.

The woman who once spent her days sighing is now excited about her work, her clients, and the future she’s building.

Final Thoughts

Sabrina Martin’s journey reminds us that success isn’t just about what appears on a résumé.

It’s about fulfillment.

It’s about relationships.

It’s about purpose.

It’s about becoming the person you want to be.

For anyone feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or curious about entrepreneurship, her advice is worth considering:

If the thought keeps crossing your mind, there’s probably a reason. Don’t ignore it. Explore it. Learn about it. Give yourself permission to imagine what’s possible.

Sometimes the biggest risk isn’t making a change.

It’s staying exactly where you are.

From Independence to Community: Carolyn Williams on Leadership, Women's Health, and Building a Life That Lasts - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

When Carolyn Williams talks about fitness, she’s not really talking about fitness.

She’s talking about community.

She’s talking about longevity.

She’s talking about leadership.

And perhaps most importantly, she’s talking about the courage to stop trying to do everything alone.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Carolyn Williams, owner of three Bar Method studios in Vancouver, shares how a fitness class she took with her mother transformed not only her physical health, but also her philosophy on life, business, and relationships.

From Retail Executive to Franchise Owner

Before becoming a franchise owner, Carolyn spent a decade working in retail buying for large organizations. Along the way, she developed a passion for fitness and became an avid marathon runner.

Everything changed when she attended her first Bar Method class with her mother in 2007.

The workout challenged her in a way she hadn’t experienced before. As someone naturally drawn to difficult goals, Carolyn embraced the challenge. What surprised her even more was how dramatically it improved her marathon performance.

She became stronger, faster, and less injury-prone.

But the physical benefits weren’t what ultimately mattered most.

The experience gave her something she could share with her mother—a workout that challenged a woman in her twenties while remaining accessible and beneficial for a woman in her sixties.

That realization sparked a deeper appreciation for fitness as a tool that transcends age and life stages.

Learning to Do Hard Things

One recurring theme throughout the conversation was Carolyn’s willingness to embrace difficult challenges.

Interestingly, she doesn’t attribute that mindset to childhood.

Instead, she believes it developed through experience, particularly through marathon running.

With each challenge completed, her confidence grew.

Run a marathon.

Qualify for Boston.

Open a studio.

Lead a team.

Raise a family.

The lesson became clear: difficult things are often far more achievable than they initially appear.

One memorable strategy Carolyn shared was her practice of turning personal goals into daily reminders—even using them as passwords. A favorite example was “Be Bold 2023,” a phrase she typed repeatedly throughout the year as a reminder of the person she wanted to become.

The Myth of Doing It All

When asked how she manages multiple businesses, motherhood, marriage, community involvement, and fitness, Carolyn offered a surprisingly simple answer:

She doesn’t do it alone.

Rather than wearing busyness as a badge of honor, she actively builds systems of support.

She relies on her husband.

She depends on her managers.

She works with other parents.

She asks for help.

And she gives help in return.

Her philosophy is rooted in the idea that life works best when people operate as part of a village rather than as isolated individuals.

This perspective stands in stark contrast to the common narrative that successful women must somehow juggle everything themselves.

Carolyn rejects that idea entirely.

“I am not a superhero,” she explains.

Instead, she focuses on creating sustainable systems that allow her to thrive personally while still achieving her goals professionally.

Lessons Learned from Watching Her Mother

One of the most emotional moments of the interview came when Carolyn discussed her mother.

As a child, she watched her mother sacrifice many of her own ambitions to focus on raising a family.

While Carolyn deeply appreciates everything her mother did, witnessing those sacrifices shaped her own views on work, family, and fulfillment.

In fact, there was a period when Carolyn wasn’t sure she wanted children at all because she believed motherhood and a meaningful career couldn’t coexist.

Eventually, she and her husband intentionally chose a different path.

They committed to approaching parenting as equal partners.

They built support systems.

They created a family structure that allowed both individuals to pursue meaningful work while remaining actively involved parents.

That decision has become one of the defining foundations of Carolyn’s life and leadership philosophy.

Why Community Matters More Than Ever

Community is at the heart of everything Carolyn does.

It’s at the heart of her family.

It’s at the heart of her business.

And it’s at the heart of The Bar Method experience.

Her studios celebrate milestones in extraordinary ways.

Members reaching 100 classes are recognized.

One client recently completed 3,000 classes and received flowers, gifts, and a personal celebration.

Every year, hundreds of women participate in a 100-day fitness challenge culminating in a large celebration event that brings together hundreds of participants.

Why go to such lengths?

Because Carolyn believes women don’t celebrate themselves often enough.

She sees these events as opportunities to recognize strength, commitment, growth, and personal achievement.

The result is something far more meaningful than a fitness program.

It’s a community.

Redefining Longevity

Many people think of longevity strictly in terms of physical health.

Carolyn takes a broader view.

Yes, strength matters.

Balance matters.

Flexibility matters.

Bone density matters.

But she argues that relationships and community are equally important.

Her mother, now approaching 80, continues taking classes not only for the physical benefits but also for the social connections.

The friendships.

The conversations.

The sense of belonging.

Longevity isn’t simply about living longer.

It’s about maintaining the physical, mental, and social well-being that makes life enjoyable.

Leadership Through Example

As a multi-unit franchise owner, Carolyn believes culture begins with leadership.

She still teaches classes.

She knows members by name.

She spends time working directly with clients.

She remains visible and engaged.

Rather than expecting employees to uphold values she doesn’t demonstrate herself, she models the behaviors she wants to see.

The same philosophy applies to instructor development.

The training process is demanding, and candidates are told from the beginning that it won’t be easy.

But the goal isn’t simply to create better instructors.

The goal is personal transformation.

Confidence.

Communication.

Resilience.

Growth.

These qualities ultimately benefit every area of life—not just fitness.

Independence vs. Isolation

Perhaps the most powerful insight from the entire conversation came when Carolyn challenged a common assumption.

Many people view independence as doing everything themselves.

Carolyn sees it differently.

She argues that independence doesn’t require isolation.

You can be capable.

You can be strong.

You can be self-sufficient.

And still rely on others.

Still ask for help.

Still build community.

That distinction resonated deeply with both Rebecca and Tracy and serves as one of the episode’s most memorable takeaways.

True strength isn’t refusing support.

It’s having the confidence to seek it when needed.

Final Thoughts

Carolyn Williams’ story isn’t just about fitness, franchising, or entrepreneurship.

It’s about creating a life that is both successful and sustainable.

A life built on partnership rather than sacrifice.

Community rather than isolation.

Strength rather than burnout.

Her message is simple but profound:

You don’t have to do it all alone.

And perhaps that’s exactly what makes lasting success possible.

Why Trust Breaks Down in Franchise Relationships - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Franchise relationships rarely break down because of one bad conversation, one missed email, or one disappointing month.

From Operator to Owner: Mike DeJong's Blueprint for Building a Business That Creates Freedom - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Many entrepreneurs start a business seeking freedom.

Freedom of schedule.

Freedom of income.

Freedom of choice.

Yet somewhere along the journey, many discover they’ve unintentionally built something very different.

Instead of owning a business, the business owns them.

That reality became painfully clear for Mike DeJong during what should have been a relaxing vacation in Mexico. What happened next would reshape his entire approach to business ownership and eventually inspire his work helping entrepreneurs build companies that operate without constant owner involvement.

The Vacation That Changed Everything

Like many business owners, Mike believed owning a company would provide flexibility and freedom.

So when winter in Wisconsin became too much, he booked a last-minute trip to Mexico.

The vacation lasted only moments.

Shortly after landing, his phone rang.

His manager was quitting.

Instead of enjoying the beach, Mike spent much of the trip handling business issues remotely, answering calls, solving problems, and trying to keep operations running.

The experience forced him to confront an uncomfortable truth.

Everything depended on him.

Or on one key manager.

Neither scenario was sustainable.

That realization sparked his commitment to creating systems, processes, and teams that could function independently.

The Operator Trap

According to Mike, many entrepreneurs fall into what he calls the “operator trap.”

They start by doing everything themselves.

Sales.

Marketing.

Operations.

Hiring.

Customer service.

Problem solving.

At first, that hustle helps build the business.

Over time, however, it creates dependency.

The owner becomes the answer to every question, the solution to every problem, and the bottleneck behind every decision.

The result?

Long hours.

Difficulty taking vacations.

Constant interruptions.

And ultimately, a business that cannot scale efficiently.

Why Entrepreneurs Become Bottlenecks

One of the most insightful moments of the conversation came when Mike described how owners unintentionally create their own limitations.

Most entrepreneurs are highly capable.

They’re often faster than everyone else.

They know the answers.

They know the shortcuts.

They know how things should be done.

Because of that, they continue taking responsibility for tasks they should have delegated long ago.

Eventually, the business grows beyond what one person can reasonably handle.

The owner becomes overwhelmed, but continues believing nobody can do the work as well as they can.

That mindset creates the very bottleneck that limits growth.

The Three Business Archetypes

Throughout the interview, Mike introduces a simple framework for understanding team dynamics.

He believes most people naturally fit into one of three business archetypes:

The Hunter

Hunters pursue opportunities.

They love growth, sales, networking, and finding the next big opportunity.

They’re energized by possibility and movement.

The Architect

Architects build systems.

They create structure, processes, plans, and organization.

They ensure ideas become repeatable and scalable.

The GSD

The GSD (“Gets Stuff Done”) person excels at execution.

They turn plans into reality and keep operations moving forward consistently.

Mike argues that successful organizations need all three archetypes working together. While individuals may lean toward one category, strong teams combine all three strengths.

The Myth of Doing It All

Many entrepreneurs believe they need to master every aspect of business.

Mike disagrees.

One of his biggest leadership breakthroughs came when he stopped searching for people who thought like him and started hiring people who were better than him in specific areas.

Rather than creating a team of “mini-Mikes,” he focused on finding individuals whose strengths complemented his weaknesses.

That shift allowed him to build stronger teams while reducing his own workload.

Fear Disguised as Stress

Another powerful insight centered on fear.

When entrepreneurs avoid hiring, delegating, expanding, or making major decisions, they often describe themselves as stressed.

Mike suggests that stress is frequently a symptom of something deeper.

Fear.

Fear of failure.

Fear of making the wrong decision.

Fear of losing money.

Fear of disappointing others.

Fear of not being good enough.

Recognizing that fear is often the real issue allows business owners to address the root cause instead of simply managing symptoms.

Building Systems Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

One of the most practical sections of the conversation focused on documentation and process creation.

Many owners assume they need extensive manuals before delegating work.

Mike recommends something much simpler.

Record yourself doing the task.

Using tools like Loom or other screen-recording software, talk through the process while completing it.

Explain what you’re doing.

Explain why you’re doing it.

Explain the decisions you make along the way.

Then hand the recording to someone else and let them follow the process.

As questions arise, refine the documentation.

Within a few iterations, a repeatable system begins to emerge.

Small Wins Create Big Progress

Mike also emphasizes the importance of breaking large challenges into smaller actions.

Entrepreneurs frequently become overwhelmed because they’re focused on the entire project.

Hiring an employee.

Writing a book.

Building a process.

Launching a new initiative.

Instead of focusing on the entire outcome, Mike encourages identifying the smallest next step that can be completed quickly.

Success creates momentum.

Momentum builds confidence.

Confidence creates progress.

Lessons from Failure

Mike is refreshingly honest about his journey.

His success didn’t come from avoiding mistakes.

It came from learning through them.

Throughout his career, he experienced failures, setbacks, and difficult business seasons.

Those experiences eventually became the foundation of his coaching, consulting, and writing.

Today, his mission is helping others avoid the same pitfalls and accelerate their path to business freedom.

The Path from Operator to Owner

The central message of Mike’s work is simple:

Business owners don’t need to do everything.

They need to create systems that allow others to succeed.

They need to build teams with complementary strengths.

They need to delegate responsibility.

And most importantly, they need to stop being the bottleneck.

When that happens, businesses become more scalable, more profitable, and far less dependent on a single individual.

The owner gains something many entrepreneurs seek but few achieve:

Freedom.

Final Thoughts

Mike DeJong’s story serves as a reminder that growth isn’t simply about working harder.

It’s about working differently.

It’s about replacing dependence with systems.

Replacing fear with action.

Replacing bottlenecks with empowered teams.

And ultimately, transforming from an operator trapped inside the business into an owner capable of leading it.

For entrepreneurs striving to build something sustainable, scalable, and fulfilling, Mike’s message is one worth remembering:

The goal isn’t to become indispensable. The goal is to build a business that thrives because of your leadership—not your constant presence.

Why Some Franchisees Are Easy to Coach—and Others Aren't - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Every franchisor has them.

Everyone Is an Onion: Melissa Davis on Curiosity, Leadership, and the Human Side of Franchising - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

What does an aspiring journalist, an airline employee, an event planner, and a franchise executive have in common?

For Melissa Davis, the answer is simple:

People.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Melissa Davis, Vice President of Franchising for Express Employment International, shares an inspiring and unexpected career journey that ultimately reveals a powerful truth: success in business begins with understanding people.

An Unexpected Path to Franchising

Melissa’s career journey was anything but linear.

Originally, she planned to become a journalist. Drawn to writing, storytelling, and human-interest pieces, she pursued journalism before transitioning to a communications degree.

What attracted her most wasn’t necessarily the writing itself.

It was the opportunity to learn people’s stories.

To understand what motivates them.

To uncover the experiences that shape who they are.

Those same interests would eventually become the foundation of a successful career in franchise development, even though Melissa didn’t realize it at the time.

After college, a self-described “quarter-life crisis” led her from California to Oklahoma. What was supposed to be a short-term move turned into a permanent one after she met her future husband.

Along the way, she worked in event planning, catering, and customer service before accidentally discovering franchising through an interview for an executive assistant role.

Fortunately, the leadership team interviewing her recognized something she didn’t yet see in herself.

They saw someone uniquely equipped for franchise development.

And they were right.

The Common Thread: People

When Melissa looks back at her various career experiences, she sees one consistent theme.

Every role centered around people.

Whether helping travelers during airline delays, supporting families during milestone celebrations, or guiding entrepreneurs through business ownership decisions, she was always connecting with people and helping them navigate important moments in their lives.

Those experiences taught her empathy.

They taught her resilience.

Most importantly, they taught her that everyone has a story.

That understanding would eventually become one of her greatest strengths as a franchise development leader.

Everyone Is an Onion

One of the most memorable moments of the interview came when Melissa described her perspective on people.

“Everybody is an onion.”

Everyone has layers.

Everyone has experiences.

Everyone has motivations, fears, goals, and challenges that aren’t immediately visible.

The key is being curious enough to discover them.

For Melissa, curiosity isn’t simply a personality trait.

It’s a leadership skill.

It’s a relationship-building tool.

And it’s something she believes could make the world a kinder place.

If people spent less time making assumptions and more time asking questions, many misunderstandings could disappear.

Why does someone hold a particular belief?

Why are they frustrated?

Why are they hesitant?

Why are they excited?

Curiosity helps bridge gaps that judgment often widens.

The Art and Science of Franchise Development

Melissa offers a fascinating distinction between the science and art of franchise sales.

The science is the process.

Discovery calls.

Validation.

Financial reviews.

Legal documentation.

Decision-making milestones.

The art is everything in between.

Building trust.

Developing rapport.

Asking questions.

Creating relationships.

Understanding motivations.

Helping candidates make informed decisions.

For Melissa, franchise development isn’t about convincing someone to buy a franchise.

It’s about determining whether the opportunity is genuinely the right fit.

Sometimes the answer is yes.

Sometimes the answer is no.

Either outcome can be a success if it leads to the right decision.

What Makes a Great Franchise Owner?

At Express Employment International, Melissa and her team have refined the characteristics they look for in successful franchise owners.

One of the most important requirements is full-time owner involvement.

Express has learned through decades of experience that owner-operators consistently achieve the strongest outcomes within their model.

Beyond operational commitment, they seek people who:

Love working with people
Enjoy building relationships
Have leadership potential
Can coach and mentor teams
Possess ambition and drive
Are energized by human interaction

The common denominator?

People skills.

Because staffing isn’t simply about filling positions.

It’s about connecting businesses with individuals and creating opportunities that benefit both.

Emotional Intelligence Matters

One of the most insightful discussions focused on emotional intelligence.

Melissa acknowledged that business acumen, financial expertise, and operational skills are important.

But they’re not enough.

A person may be highly successful as an individual contributor while struggling to lead a team.

The ability to manage relationships, build trust, communicate effectively, and develop others often determines whether a business owner can scale successfully.

For staffing businesses in particular, emotional intelligence is critical.

Clients want familiar faces.

Employees want strong leadership.

Communities respond to genuine relationships.

Without those foundations, long-term success becomes much harder to achieve.

The Challenge of Leadership

Melissa also shared a personal leadership lesson.

As a high-performing individual contributor, she excelled at achieving her own goals.

But transitioning into leadership required developing entirely new skills.

Delegation.

Coaching.

Empowering others.

Shifting focus from personal success to team success.

Rather than asking:

“How do I hit my goal?”

The question became:

“How do I help my team hit theirs?”

That mindset shift transformed the way she approached leadership and ultimately strengthened her effectiveness as a leader.

The Future of Staffing

Looking ahead, Melissa sees significant opportunities within the staffing industry.

While economic cycles inevitably create fluctuations, staffing has historically demonstrated remarkable resilience.

One area she believes will experience substantial demand is skilled trades.

As labor shortages continue, businesses will increasingly need qualified workers with specialized skills.

She also addressed concerns surrounding artificial intelligence.

Rather than replacing workers outright, Melissa believes AI will increase demand for individuals who understand how to use these tools effectively.

Organizations will need employees who can leverage technology to improve productivity and efficiency.

The future workforce won’t compete against AI.

It will work alongside it.

Lessons Beyond Business

While the conversation centered on franchising and staffing, its lessons extend far beyond either industry.

Melissa’s message is ultimately about people.

It’s about asking better questions.

Being more curious.

Giving grace.

Looking beneath the surface.

And recognizing that every individual has a story worth understanding.

In a world that often moves too quickly, Melissa reminds us that meaningful relationships are built one conversation at a time.

Final Thoughts

Melissa Davis may have started her career pursuing journalism, but in many ways, she never left it behind.

Today, she still tells stories.

She still helps people navigate important life decisions.

She still asks questions.

And she still remains deeply curious about the people she serves.

That curiosity has become the foundation of her leadership philosophy—and perhaps the secret to her success.

Because as Melissa reminds us:

Everyone is an onion.

And every layer has a story worth discovering.

Self-Control: The Franchisee Skill Nobody Talks About Until There’s a Crisis - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Most franchisors do not talk about Self-Control during the franchise development process.

Building Confidence, Community, and Franchise Success with Kim Collier - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

On this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and co-host Tracy Kawa welcomed Kim Collier, Chief Development Officer of Ducklings Early Learning Center, for a deeply meaningful conversation about childhood development, leadership, entrepreneurship, family business dynamics, and purpose-driven franchising.

Kim’s story is one rooted in resilience, responsibility, and the belief that people are capable of far more than they often realize.

Learning to “Figure It Out”

Growing up in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, Kim was raised in a household where both parents worked hard and children were expected to contribute. Chores, home projects, car repairs, and DIY renovations were all part of everyday life. Rather than shielding their children from responsibility, Kim’s parents invited them into the process.

Those experiences helped shape Kim’s philosophy that confidence is built through participation, trust, and problem-solving.

As Kim explained during the interview, when adults invite children to help, they are communicating trust. That trust becomes empowering. Children begin to believe they are capable, resourceful, and able to solve problems on their own.

That mindset eventually became foundational not only to Kim’s leadership style, but also to the educational philosophy behind Ducklings Early Learning Center.

Why Messy Childhoods Matter

One of the most impactful parts of the conversation centered around modern parenting and the developmental importance of sensory play.

Kim discussed how many children who stayed home during COVID struggled with sensory integration, independence, and social interaction when they eventually entered childcare settings. Some children had rarely handled messy materials, fed themselves independently, or experienced unstructured play.

At Ducklings, however, children are encouraged to explore through hands-on learning, sensory activities, social interaction, and even mess-making.

Whether it’s paint, sand tables, Play-Doh, or cleaning up spilled rice, Kim believes these moments are critical developmental experiences that teach problem-solving, responsibility, teamwork, and confidence.

The conversation highlighted a broader societal shift toward overprotection and “bubble wrapping” children — something Rebecca and Kim both agreed can unintentionally limit independence and resilience.

Instead, Kim encourages allowing children to experiment, fail, explore, and learn naturally through real-world experiences.

The Origin Story Behind Ducklings

Ducklings Early Learning Center began with a community need.

In the early 1990s, Kim’s mother directed a YMCA childcare program that unexpectedly closed, leaving 40 families without childcare options in a rural Pennsylvania community. Rather than accepting the loss, Kim’s mother decided to create a solution herself.

Using funds borrowed from Kim’s father’s 401(k), the family launched the first Ducklings Early Learning Center in 1994. Kim later joined the business after the birth of her oldest child, and over time the company expanded to four successful schools.

Eventually, demand outpaced the company’s ability to grow organically.

Families wanted Ducklings in additional communities, and Kim realized franchising could provide the solution.

Despite having no prior franchising experience, Kim embraced the challenge with the same “figure it out” mentality she learned as a child.

Today, Ducklings is preparing to open its 22nd location.

Building a Purpose-Driven Franchise Brand

Kim described Ducklings as a purpose-driven business that balances education, community, and entrepreneurship.

The company looks for franchise owners who possess both “a mind for business and a heart for education.”

This balance is essential because many educators naturally prioritize service over profitability. Kim acknowledged that some franchise owners initially struggle with the idea of making money in a caregiving profession.

Her perspective is refreshingly direct:
“It’s my job to make sure that you make money. What you do with it is up to you.”

Kim explained that profitability allows franchisees to create scholarships, invest in facilities, support staff, and ultimately expand their impact within the community. A financially healthy business creates more opportunities to serve others.

The Power of Community

Beyond education, Ducklings places a strong emphasis on community connection.

Kim described childcare centers as foundational community hubs where parents find support, encouragement, friendship, and guidance during one of life’s most challenging transitions: parenthood.

Through events like Muffins with Mom, Donuts with Dad, graduations, and community outreach programs, Ducklings intentionally creates opportunities for families to build relationships.

The organization also supports charitable initiatives including Ronald McDonald House and Alex’s Lemonade Stand, encouraging children and families to participate in giving back together.

Kim shared that many friendships formed through Ducklings have lasted decades — a testament to the long-term impact strong community environments can create.

Family Business and Honest Leadership

Another standout part of the conversation was Kim’s discussion about working alongside her mother and sisters in business.

Rather than avoiding conflict, Kim believes the family’s success comes from their ability to communicate honestly and challenge each other openly when necessary.

Kim explained that because they share the same mission and values, disagreements are never personal — they are simply part of building the best possible experience for families, staff, children, and franchisees.

Rebecca noted how refreshing it was to hear women openly discuss healthy conflict, especially in leadership environments where many people avoid difficult conversations altogether.

Leading with Heart and Strength

By the end of the episode, one thing became abundantly clear: Kim Collier leads with both heart and business intelligence.

Her passion for children, education, community, and franchisee success is deeply woven into the culture of Ducklings Early Learning Center. At the same time, she understands that strong systems, profitability, accountability, and leadership are necessary for long-term impact.

It is that balance between compassion and business acumen that continues to drive Ducklings’ success and expansion.

As Tracy Kawa beautifully summarized at the close of the episode, Kim leads with heart while also demonstrating incredible sharpness as a businesswoman — a combination that makes her both inspiring and highly effective.

Principled Leadership: Why Great Franchisees Take Tough Stands - Zorakle Profiles Franchisee Profiling

Jamie Patterson — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Leadership is easy to admire when everyone agrees.