In this episode of "All Things Greater Burlington," join host Steven Brody along with guest, Michelle Caston, owner and operator of seven McDonald's locations in southeast Iowa, as they delve into the fascinating world of running a McDonald's franchise. Michelle shares her journey through McDonald's rigorous "next generation program," the inner workings of managing multiple locations, and the significance of community involvement and philanthropy, with a focus on supporting the Ronald McDonald House. Despite challenges like supply chain disruptions during COVID, Michelle details how the franchise has thrived, thanks to strong supplier relations and an emphasis on technology and rigorous standards. From discussing the practicalities of operations and the excitement of serving the perfect french fries to the strategic decisions behind menu offerings like the McRib, this episode offers listeners a behind-the-counter look at one of the world's most recognizable eateries and the local impact of a global brand.
