2017’s Rockstar Franchisees

Each of these outstanding franchisees have achieved rockstar status by setting an admirable example of leadership, business acumen, and contributions to their community.

After the experience of helping her mother navigate the difficult process of finding senior living options, Paula put her 35 years of experience in healthcare, operations, and sales to work with a CarePatrol franchise.

Already a successful small business owner running a computer networking and technology company, Michael fell in love with cruising. He invested in a Cruise Planner franchise to help make others’ travel dreams come true.

As an independent travel operator, Tracy’s had more than her share of headaches. Now as an Expedia CruiseShipCenters she’s able to focus on her commitment to continuous improvement and helping her team achieve their goals.

The Asbells were slowly building a side business buying rental properties while JD was a corporate road warrior. With HomeVestors, they turned their side business into a successful full-time venture that gave them more family time and financial freedom.

After buying an underperforming HouseMasters business, Butch Upton tapped into the expertise of the franchisee network to learn the tricks of the trade and turn his franchise into a thriving success.

Feeding his desire to stay in the pizza business and his Michigan community, Hershock opened five units and now encourages staff and managers to make a difference by giving back to local causes.

Despite operating in one of the smallest markets, David Stein is a top producer. Now as an operator and area developer he trains and coaches fellow franchisees on how to achieve the same level of success.

Along with his father and brother, Ryan Knowles has gone from a couple of movers and two trucks to operating three franchise units with 37 trucks and 100 team members.

A 13-year career in accounting and finance sidetracked Mike Kirk’s passion for the green industry, which began mowing yards as a teen. After being downsized from corporate America, he reignited his dream by opening a U.S. Lawns franchise.