Shows
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseHow John Evans Built EverLine Coatings into a Scalable Franchise EmpireEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanHow John Evans Built EverLine Coatings into a Scalable Franchise EmpireIn this special episode, Pete and Dave sit down with John Evans, founder and CEO of EverLine Coatings, to unpack what it truly takes to build and scale a franchise brand from scratch.John takes us inside his entrepreneurial journey—starting as the son of multi-unit franchisees, learning the ropes through College Pro Painters, and eventually launching EverLine, a B2B pavement maintenance company that has grown to 120+ franchisees across No...2025-07-3020 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseFear Is Lying to You—Here’s How to Reclaim ControlEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanFear Is Lying to You—Here’s How to Reclaim ControlFear is a powerful force—but in this episode, Pete and Dave break down how it can actually be a sign that you're on the right path. When it comes to escaping the corporate grind and becoming your own boss, fear will show up. But it doesn’t have to hold you back.Pete and Dave unpack the common fears that executives face when transitioning from corporate roles to franchise ownershi...2025-07-2319 min
Cut The Tie | Own Your Success“The Hardest Part Was Letting Go of the Paycheck”—John Evans on Making the LeapCut The Tie Podcast with John EvansWhat if success wasn’t about working more—but about designing smarter systems? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with John Evans, founder and CEO of EverLine Coatings and Services, to explore how building a simple, scalable model from day one set the stage for explosive franchise growth.From nearly giving up in year one to building a coast-to-coast franchise brand, John shares the hard lessons, mindset shifts, and non-negotiables that fueled his transition from founder to CEO. If you’re dreami...2025-07-2233 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First Franchise10 Corporate Skills That Make You a Strong Franchise OwnerEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan10 Corporate Skills That Make You a Strong Franchise OwnerIn this episode, Pete and Dave unpack a powerful idea: the corporate world may have burned you out, but it also prepared you perfectly for business ownership. From managing teams to executing strategy, corporate leaders already have the tools—they just need the right vehicle to use them. That’s where franchising comes in.Drawing from their own time in executive roles, Pete and Dave walk through the mindset shifts and business skil...2025-07-1629 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseLeaving Your Job to Be Your Own BossEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanLeaving Your Job to Be Your Own BossIn this episode, Pete and Dave break down the real meaning of the “entrepreneurial lifestyle”—not the Instagram version, but the version built through hard work, structure, and ownership. After decades in corporate, they share how business ownership gave them back their time, their health, and their purpose.They explore how the franchise model helps you bypass the chaos of starting from scratch and instead build a life where you decide what matters—whether...2025-07-0913 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseWhite Collar Jobs Are Disappearing —Here’s Why You Need a PlanEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanWhite Collar Jobs Are Disappearing —Here’s Why You Need a PlanIn this episode, Pete and Dave break down a hard trend reshaping corporate America: the rapid elimination of white collar jobs. Whether you’re a senior executive or a rising professional, the writing is on the wall. AI, automation, remote work, and cost-cutting are not temporary disruptions—they’re driving long-term structural changes. So the question is: Are you prepared?In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The R...2025-07-0219 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseBeat Ageism and Own Your FutureEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanBeat Ageism and Own Your FutureIn this episode, Pete and Dave tackle a hard truth: ageism in corporate America is real, hitting seasoned professionals earlier. But instead of getting pushed out and stalled, you can create a new path forward. They share their personal stories of overcoming age bias and building successful businesses on their own terms through franchise ownership.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The Wake-Up Call...2025-06-2510 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseTake Control of Your Destiny: Break Free and Build WealthEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanTake Control of Your Destiny: Break Free and Build WealthIn this episode, Pete and Dave break down the real process of walking away from the corporate grind and stepping into business ownership with confidence. Whether you’ve hit your tipping point or you’re still debating if it’s time, this conversation outlines the three key steps to take control of your future and live life on your terms through franchise ownership.In this episod...2025-06-1817 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseStart a Purpose-Filled Business Through Franchise OwnershipEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanIn this episode, Pete and Dave explore what it really means to lead with purpose—and how small business ownership through franchising can be a powerful path to fulfillment. Whether you're seeking community connection, a values-aligned venture, or the ability to create a culture that reflects who you are, this conversation breaks down what it takes to bring your mission to life.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Discovering Purpose Beyond the Pr...2025-06-1119 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseHow to Master a Professional Transition with ConfidenceEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanCareer transitions are inevitable, but they don’t have to be intimidating. In this episode, Pete and Dave get personal about navigating significant changes with purpose and power. Whether you're considering leaving corporate or it left you—this conversation offers a roadmap to approach your next chapter with clarity, confidence, and control.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Mindset First, Strategy SecondBefore you take your next step...2025-06-0418 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseHow to Achieve the American Dream Through Franchise OwnershipEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanIn this episode, Pete and Dave get real about the modern American Dream—and why franchise ownership may be the most practical path for professionals who want control, flexibility, and long-term wealth. If you're tired of working hard for someone else’s goals, this episode is for you.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Control Over Your CalendarFranchise ownership means no more 6 a.m. meetings unless you want them. You decide when and how you...2025-05-2821 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseWhat to Expect During Franchise Due DiligenceEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan walk you through one of the most important—and often misunderstood—parts of the franchise journey: the investigation process. If you're wondering what to expect as you evaluate a franchise, this episode breaks it all down: from mindset to meetings, documents to discovery, and everything in between.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Setting the Right Mindset for Due DiligenceYou don’t know what y...2025-05-2123 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseIs There Still Any Income Security in a Job?Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dig into a harsh truth: the traditional promise of job security is dead. With mass layoffs, AI-fueled automation, ageism, and global outsourcing accelerating, the corporate ladder has fewer rungs than ever. But there's another way forward—one where you hold the reins.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The Illusion of Job SecurityFrom AI adoption to corporate restructuring, today’s managers are being repl...2025-05-1419 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseOver 50 and Overlooked? Franchise Your Way to FreedomEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan get honest about something professionals over 50 don’t talk about enough: ageism. From being “overqualified” to getting fewer callbacks and smaller offers, they break down how corporate America is pushing out experienced leaders—and how you can turn that challenge into a new opportunity through business ownership.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Facing Ageism in the Corporate WorldDave shares his personal experience of being pushed out of a corpor...2025-04-3009 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseWhy the First Year of a Presidency Is Prime for Franchise FreedomEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan break down why the first year of a presidential term is often a powerful time to start a business. From economic stimulus and tax changes to increased access to capital and infrastructure investments, this episode dives into how political transition years can create real advantages for small business owners and franchise candidates.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:A Surge in Economic StimulusNew presidents often push early investment into...2025-04-1613 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseWhy Franchise Owners Win at Life, Wealth, and BalanceEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan unpack one of the most pressing trends in corporate America: the disappearance of management roles. With companies flattening organizational structures, cutting executive positions, and demanding more with fewer resources, seasoned professionals are facing unprecedented pressure—and fewer opportunities for advancement.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Fewer Roles, More CompetitionAs organizations eliminate layers of leadership, executives are finding themselves underemployed, overworked, or pushed out. Pete and Dave share insights on...2025-04-0914 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseWhy Americans Are Ditching Jobs to Build Wealth Through FranchisingEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan take on a timely and important topic: Why so many Americans are unhappy in their jobs—and what they can do about it. Inspired by a recent article from The Wall Street Journal, they break down the most common reasons people feel stuck or burnt out at work and explore how franchise ownership could be a path to freedom, fulfillment, and long-term wealth.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Career Stagnation and Burnout...2025-04-0220 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseFranchise Funding 101: How to Finance Your Business the Smart WayEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dive into one of the most important topics in franchise ownership: How to fund your business. They are joined by Christine Hansen from FranFund, who shares expert insights on the different ways to finance a franchise—from self-funding and SBA loans to using retirement funds tax-free. If you’re ready to invest in yourself but unsure how to fund it, this episode is for you.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Understanding Franchise Fund...2025-03-2632 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseThe #1 Mistake People Make When Switching CareersEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanFear of change keeps a lot of people stuck, but transition is inevitable. Whether by choice or circumstance, at some point, you’ll have to pivot. The real question is: Are you ready for it? In this episode, Dave and Pete tackle the mindset, planning, and strategies needed to navigate professional transitions confidently.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Overcoming the Fear of TransitionMany professionals procrastinate big career decisions due to fear of failure or un...2025-03-1917 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseThink You Can Buy a Franchise? Let’s Talk NumbersEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanOne of the biggest questions aspiring franchise owners ask is: How much money do I need to invest in a franchise? In this episode, Dave and Pete break down the key financial factors every franchise candidate needs to understand—liquid capital, total investment, working capital, and net worth requirements—so you can confidently determine what’s realistic for your financial situation.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Understanding Liquid Capital and Total InvestmentPete explains the differ...2025-03-1221 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseFranchising Just Got Sexy—Here’s WhyEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanFranchising isn’t just about owning a business—it’s about finding the right fit. But what makes a franchise sexy? In this episode, Dave and Pete break down the most attractive industries in franchising today and what truly makes a business opportunity stand out.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:What Makes a Franchise Sexy?It’s not just about what the business does—it’s about what it can become. Dave and Pete explore what draws c...2025-03-0519 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseHow Hands-On Should You Be in a Franchise?Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan tackle one of the biggest questions potential franchise owners ask: How involved do you have to be in a franchise? They break down the executive model of franchise ownership, discussing the differences between full-time engagement and semi-absentee ownership. If you're considering franchise ownership but wondering how much time you’ll need to invest, this episode is for you.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The Executive Model of Franchise OwnershipThere’s a...2025-02-2627 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseBrick-and-Mortar or Service-Based? Choosing Your Franchise PathEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dive into one of the most important decisions potential franchise owners face: Should you invest in a brick-and-mortar franchise or a service-based business? They break down the key differences, including startup timelines, financial considerations, revenue models, and scalability. If you're exploring franchise ownership, this episode will help you make an informed decision.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Bricks-and-Mortar vs. Service-Based FranchisesDave and Pete compare the timelines for launching a...2025-02-1917 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseAI Is Reshaping Careers—Are You Ready?Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dive into one of the most pressing topics in today’s business world: the impact of AI on jobs, careers, and entrepreneurship. They discuss how AI is changing decision-making, efficiency, and talent management—and what you can do to stay ahead.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The Rise of AI and Its Impact on White-Collar JobsAI is transforming industries at a rapid pace, streamlining decision-making, reducing costs, and reshaping job...2025-02-1216 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseEscape the 9-to-5: The True Rewards of Entrepreneurial FreedomEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan discuss the many lifestyle advantages of entrepreneurship. Sharing personal stories and practical advice, they dive into what makes the entrepreneurial journey rewarding, empowering, and life-changing.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:The Entrepreneur’s LifestyleDave and Pete reflect on their transition from corporate executives to entrepreneurs, emphasizing the freedom, flexibility, and purpose that come with owning a business.Freedom and FlexibilityPete highlights how entrepreneurship allows him to...2025-02-0521 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseCan Your Business Survive and Thrive in a Recession?Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dive into a timely topic: Can your business survive and thrive in a recession? They share personal stories, practical advice, and insights on recession-resistant industries to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate uncertain economic times.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Facing Fear in Uncertain TimesPete shares how he overcame fear when starting his Junk King franchise during an economic downturn and how the right mindset can lead to success even in...2025-01-2917 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseRecognizing Ageism: Steps to Take NextEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan delve into one of the most pressing challenges for experienced corporate professionals: ageism. Sharing personal stories, strategies, and actionable advice, they discuss recognizing and overcoming workplace ageism while exploring opportunities to create financial independence through entrepreneurship.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Recognizing Ageism in the WorkplaceThe hosts highlight common signs of ageism, including reduced career advancement opportunities, limited challenging assignments, and workplace cultural shifts that marginalize experienced professionals....2025-01-2217 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseBold Moves: Investing in Business During an Economic RecessionEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan explore whether investing in a business during an economic downturn is a smart move. With personal stories and practical advice, they challenge common fears and show why tough times often create unique opportunities for entrepreneurs.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Investing During Tough TimesPete shares his story of starting a franchise during an economic downturn, overcoming fear, and realizing that timing the economy is as unpredictable as timing the...2025-01-1515 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseTop Reasons to Choose Franchise Ownership in 2025Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan tackle an important question: Why should you invest in a franchise in 2025? With a mix of compelling statistics, personal insights, and practical advice, they explore why 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for franchise opportunities.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Franchising as a Resilient IndustryThe franchise industry continues to grow, with over 800,000 establishments generating nearly $850 billion in annual economic output. Dave and Pete highlight why franchising has...2025-01-0818 min
The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First FranchiseOur First Franchise: A Journey of Two EntrepreneursEscape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanDavid Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan explore the transformative power of franchise ownership, sharing their personal stories of breaking free from corporate constraints. They also explore the first steps, challenges, and ultimate rewards of entrepreneurship.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Escaping the Corporate World Pete and Dave recount their experiences leaving stable, high-paying corporate roles to pursue entrepreneurship. From navigating fear to embracing uncertainty, they share how they broke free from the 9-to-5 mold.P...2025-01-0121 min