Before you start any type of business, the smartest thing you can do is research as much as you can about that industry and type of business. The same goes for franchising: the more you know, the more successful you will be as a franchisee.
Podcasts are excellent learning tools. You can take them on the go (on your morning commute, walking the dog, washing the dishes), and they’re chock-full of useful information and news that you need to know. Here are a few to add to your listening lineup.
Rick Bisio’s Franchise Focus
Rick Bisio is the author of The Educated Franchisee , and his podcast, Franchise Focus , covers a wide swath of topics of interest to would-be franchisees as well as current ones, including how the current administration affects franchising, online advertising, and what to look for in a franchise disclosure document.
Franchise Euphoria
On the Franchise Euphoria podcast , Josh Brown, a franchise lawyer and entrepreneur, discusses his insights, strategies, and best practices for starting and running a franchise.
Social Geek Radio
If technology appeals to you, be sure to check out Social Geek Radio , a weekly podcast discussing the social technologies used in franchising. Topics include trends in multi-unit franchising, sensory marketing, and franchise growth.
Franchise Today
Stay on top of the latest news and trends in franchising with the Franchise Today podcast. You’ll hear from franchising experts on best practices, industry trends, and mobile franchising.
Bonus Business Podcasts
Beyond tapping into the franchising industry, you’ll do yourself an even bigger favor if you also consume information about running a business in general. Check out these podcasts to sharpen your skills.
Mixergy
Find inspiration from startup founders on Mixergy . You’ll hear both success and failure stories from thought leaders in various industries, all designed to make you more street smart about running your own business.
Entrepreneur on Fire
One of the most popular entrepreneurship podcasts (maybe due to its 7-day-a-week schedule), Entrepreneur on Fire interviews industry moguls like Seth Godin, Tim Ferriss, and Tony Robbins to get their secrets to success. Now all you have to do is apply them to your own business!
The EntreLeadership Podcast
Leadership is an important skill to develop for business owners and franchisees alike. In the EntreLeadership Podcast , you’ll get tips to improve your own skills from proven leaders like Mark Cuban and Dave Ramsey.
Whichever podcasts you listen to, listen with an open mind, because you can learn a lot if you’re willing.
Susan Payton is the President of Egg Marketing & Communications, a marketing firm specializing in content writing and social media management. She’s written three business books, including How to Get More Customers With Press Releases, and frequently blogs about small business and marketing on sites including Forbes, AllBusiness, The Marketing Eggspert Blog, and Tweak Your Biz. Follow her on Twitter @eggmarketing.