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.

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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

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Jamie Krasnov, CEO of Apex Leadership Company, about his journey from finance to philanthropy-driven entrepreneurship. Krasnov discusses his background in private equity, his passion for franchising, and the innovative fundraising solutions provided by Apex Leadership. Apex conducts fun runs and other events at schools to raise funds significantly while teaching leadership, fitness, and wellness. Krasnov explains the franchise model, emphasizing its low entry cost and the support provided to franchisees. Apex aims to serve thousands of schools, driven by a mission to build future leaders and support underprivileged communities.

Jamie Krasnov is a dedicated business leader who currently holds the position of CEO at Apex Leadership Company. In this role, Krasnov has been instrumental in steering the company's strategy and execution to increase value to the Apex franchisees and Apex schools across the nation. His determination to elevate the company’s led to the brand seeing an outstanding 200% revenue increase since he took stepped into the role as CEO in 2021. Before his tenure at Apex, Krasnov founded Heritage Operating Partners, a private equity firm supported by other operators concentrated on fast-growing franchisors. Prior to Heritage, Krasnov served in various investing roles across private equity, public equity, and investment banking for a decade. He graduated with honors from the University of Texas. Krasnov resides in Houston, Texas, where he enjoys spending time with family and his two dogs.