Summary

In this episode, Jonathan Hill sits down with Dana Edwards Manatos, Founder & CEO of Milkshake Factory, to dive into the incredible 110-year legacy of her family business and how she’s transformed it into a modern-day franchise success story. Dana shares the inspiring journey from her great-grandparents’ corner candy shop in Pittsburgh to the national expansion of Milkshake Factory today. She opens up about growing up in the chocolate factory, the lessons learned along the way, and how family recipes continue to power the brand’s identity.

The conversation covers everything from Milkshake Factory’s cult-like following to its big break with Costco, the challenges of scaling a hospitality-driven brand, and how franchising is shaping its next chapter. Dana also talks about her personal “why,” the importance of community, and her vision for building generational legacy through chocolate, ice cream, and unforgettable experiences.

Keywords

Milkshake Factory, Dana Edwards Manatos, franchising, family business, chocolate, ice cream, legacy brand, Pittsburgh, franchise growth, Costco, hospitality, community, entrepreneurship, generational wealth, franchising success, QSR, brand expansion, dessert franchise, franchising stories, food and beverage, retail growth, women in franchising, family legacy, scaling a brand, franchise ownership, customer experience, franchise development, innovation, retail franchising, family recipes, community-driven brand