Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Bron Launsby, Founder & CEO of Slick City Action Park, the world’s first indoor, waterless slide park. Bron shares his journey from being one of the largest franchisees in the Sky Zone trampoline system to launching a brand-new concept that’s redefining family entertainment.

We talk about the inspiration behind Slick City, what it takes to scale a passion project into one of the fastest-growing franchises in the country, and how Bron and his team are breaking down barriers in the entertainment space. Bron also gives an inside look at the rapid growth of Slick City—expanding to more than 60 locations in just a few short years—and the challenges and opportunities that come with building a high-thrill, high-design brand from the ground up.

Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship, franchising, or the future of entertainment, this conversation is packed with insights, energy, and inspiration.

Keywords

Bron Launsby, Slick City, Slick City Action Park, waterless slide park, indoor entertainment, family entertainment, franchising, franchise growth, franchise development, fast-growing franchises, entrepreneurship, startup journey, Sky Zone, trampoline park, recreation industry, high-thrill attractions, innovation in entertainment, breaking barriers in franchising, passion to franchise, scaling a business, business growth, franchise opportunities, multi-unit ownership, emerging brands, franchisor, indoor attractions, action park franchise, franchising success stories, building a franchise system, family fun, sports and recreation, indoor slide park, growth strategies, franchise leadership, national expansion

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

In this episode, Jonathan Hill sits down with Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands, to discuss her remarkable journey in franchising and leadership. Catherine shares her personal story of resilience, from a challenging childhood to becoming one of the most respected executives in the franchise industry. She reflects on her early experiences in family business, the lessons learned from building Sir Speedy into a national powerhouse, and her leadership through the Great Recession as CEO of FASTSIGNS.

Catherine also dives into the mission of Propelled Brands, which includes FASTSIGNS®, NerdsToGo®, MY SALON Suite®, and Salon Plaza®, and explains how she continues to drive growth while supporting franchisees. She offers insights into effective franchisor–franchisee relationships, the importance of industry advocacy, and what it means to choose to live as a “victor” rather than a victim.

Listeners will come away inspired by Catherine’s leadership philosophy, her passion for franchising, and her commitment to helping others succeed.

Keywords

Catherine Monson, Propelled Brands, FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite, franchise leadership, franchising, IFA, advocacy, women in franchising, business growth, entrepreneurship, resilience, leadership podcast, franchising podcast