E19: The Franchise 500! With Entrepreneur Media

Hosts: Michael Hyam and Liane Caruso  
Guests: Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine

This week is a very SPECIAL ‘The Franchise 500’ episode of the podcast with Jason Pfeiffer, Editor-in-Chief at Entrepreneur. 

Packed with wisdom and actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for franchisors, suppliers, and more. Read through the key learnings and insights from the episode below!

Podcast Summary: A Deep Dive Into The Franchise 500, The Top 10 Brands, How To Get On The List, And More.

The Importance of Adaptability in Business

Jason emphasized the critical role adaptability plays in staying relevant. He shared stories of businesses that thrived by pivoting their models to meet evolving market demands. 

One example he mentioned was how a small restaurant chain transitioned to a delivery-first model during the pandemic, enabling it to not only survive but expand its customer base. “Your ability to adapt is directly tied to your ability to succeed,” Jason remarked, highlighting how businesses must embrace change to remain competitive. 

​​A Deep Dive into the Franchise 500 Lists

One of the highlights of the conversation was Jason’s insights into the renowned Franchise 500 list, an annual ranking of the top franchise opportunities. Jason discussed the rigorous methodology used to evaluate franchises, which includes factors such as financial stability, brand strength, growth rate, and support systems for franchisees.

He shared examples of franchises that have consistently ranked high on the list due to their innovation and adaptability. For instance, household names like McDonald’s and Dunkin’ continue to dominate due to their ability to evolve with changing consumer preferences, such as offering healthier menu options and leveraging technology for convenience.

Jason also highlighted lesser-known franchises that have made significant leaps in the rankings. One example was a boutique fitness brand that integrated digital classes during the pandemic, allowing them to retain members and attract new ones even when physical locations were closed. 

“The Franchise 500 list is not just a ranking—it’s a blueprint for understanding what works in franchising,” Jason noted.

Moreover, he pointed out how the list provides valuable insights for prospective franchisees. By analyzing the rankings, individuals can identify opportunities that align with their goals and values. “If you’re considering franchising, the Franchise 500 list is your roadmap to making an informed decision,” Jason emphasized.

Building a Resilient Mindset

Entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges, and Jason stressed the value of resilience. He encouraged listeners to reframe failures as opportunities to learn and grow. 

For example, he shared the story of an entrepreneur who faced a significant setback when their product launch failed but used customer feedback to refine their offering and achieve greater success on the second attempt. 

“Every setback is a setup for a comeback,” he noted, inspiring entrepreneurs to view difficulties as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Jason also recommended practices such as journaling and mindfulness to help maintain a positive outlook during tough times.

The Power of Storytelling

As a seasoned editor, Jason shared insights into the art of storytelling. He highlighted how crafting a compelling narrative can set a brand apart. One memorable example he provided was of a clothing brand that used customer testimonials to showcase how their products improved lives. 

“Stories connect people to your mission,” he said, encouraging businesses to leverage storytelling to build emotional connections with their audience. Jason suggested using a mix of personal anecdotes, customer success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses to create a relatable and authentic brand image.

Jason’s expertise and passion for entrepreneurship shone through in this episode. His insights into the Franchise 500 list and franchise growth trends make for a helpful, informative listen.

Click here to see the Franchise 500 list for 2025!