Second Chances as Our Mentors See It

by Elizabeth Denham

In every issue, we will take a Million Dollar Minute to get the perspectives of our mentors about all things franchising. This month’s Q&A focuses on our theme of Second Chances and how franchising has changed our mentors’ trajectories. Here are the responses from Kristin Selmeczy, Jerry Akers, David Kajganich, and Ray Pillar. With their varied roles and experiences, they are the Dream Team in franchising. Let us know if you have questions for our next issue!

How did franchising offer you a second chance in your career?

KS: Franchising allowed me to have a family life and a career! I was PTA President, Cub Scout Master, Room mom for every party, hockey mom, baseball team mom… it just never ends! I serve on the Board of the Ms. Molly Foundation, and I have been so blessed to be able to enjoy watching my kids grow while giving back to the community!

JA: While I had a successful career on a couple of different levels, I was still missing something! I was missing the chance to be my own boss and to have the chance to make a difference in many lives through my business

DK: Joining the franchise allowed me to fulfill my desire to own my own business and be responsible for the results of my efforts.

RP: You have many more people cheering you on, rooting for your success, helping you in every way conceivable.

What did franchising teach you that you can’t get anywhere else?

KS: I learned that even people who don’t have a fancy degree, who grew up in subsidized housing can be successful!

JA: Knowingly buying into a system where you are generally more successful by leveraging the skills taught by the franchisor even in areas you were accepted as an expert in your previous life. In their business, they are the experts!

DK: Being part of a franchise system emphasizes the importance of implementing and following proven systems and procedures.

RP: Rely on proven systems and processes.

What did franchising enable you to do that surprised you?

KS: Franchising allowed me the opportunity to help other people, in this case, women, like my mom, who struggled to work hard and be able to provide for children.

JA: Gain a different income level and bring my kids into the business thereby changing their lives!

DK: The impact that you can make in the community.

RP: Partial retirement. I love business, so I get to do what I want when I want.

What are your favorite holiday traditions within your franchise locations?

KS: I love all holidays, but the best are the ones when the American traditions and Mexican traditions are shared together.

JA: Buying a holiday meal for each location and celebrating with all the staff, albeit virtually!

DK: We really didn’t have any traditions...except that it was the busiest time of the year, and the last six weeks of the year were both exhausting and exhilarating.

RP: Potluck food events, fantastic homemade recipes. Our annual Christmas parties.

What are your favorite family holiday traditions?

KS: I love spending time with family and friends! Summer holidays are the best! BBQ is roaring, the gate is open and all are welcome!

JA: Family meals and communal time with extended family we may only see that one time a year!

DK: We look forward to getting together with the family and getting to see our kids, especially, since we don’t see them often because we live in different states.

RP: Secret Santa gift-giving.

What are you looking forward to in 2022?

KS: I’m looking forward to everyone getting back to work! I want to help more people realize their dreams of business ownership! I want women to see that they can have a family and a career. If I can do it, so can they!

JA: A return to an even higher level of normalcy after Covid allowing us to get back to growing businesses and improving the lives of even more staff!

DK: Opening another franchise; The Joint Chiropractic!

RP: In the coming year, we are prepared for better business results.