In this episode, we’re joined by Phil Mowat, Senior Franchise Consultant at Ashtons - someone who’s spent years guiding brands through the messy, exciting, occasionally painful journey of turning a good business into a great franchise.

Phil’s known for his straight-talking style and his ability to balance the commercial realities of franchising with the human side of supporting real people. And it’s that mix that ends up shaping this conversation from the very first minute.

We start in an unexpected place - Phil’s experiences with colour-blindness - and explore how the things we don’t often talk about can influence the way we make decisions, lead teams and communicate. From there, we move into travel stories, music, personal growth and the quirks that make us who we are.

Then we dig into franchising: why it’s never “just the next step,” why mindset beats method, and what Phil wishes more founders understood before they announce they’re “launching a franchise on Monday.”

We explore the reality that franchising is a second business. One that demands commitment, patience and the willingness to build relationships with clients and franchisees that go deeper than the legal agreement.

It’s a candid, human conversation about the real work behind franchising success and the personal experiences that shape the way leaders show up.

“Franchising is a second business. And it’s bloody hard. You need to be all in on it.”

The Franchised Jukebox - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6zh6C4lgZCsjgct3phuOfC?si=62c84a26fe1b4f9b