In this episode of The Deal Scout, host Susan Reilly sits down with franchise industry veteran Don Schin, who brings over 25 years of experience and a passion for doing franchising the right way. Whether you’re thinking of buying into a franchise, launching your own, or scaling one with integrity, this episode is packed with real-world insights that matter.

Don has worn nearly every hat in the franchise world—franchisee, master franchisee, CEO, broker, and now consultant. But it was his role as a master franchisee that most shaped his philosophy: responsible growth, local empowerment, and building businesses that truly impact families and communities.

Don shares why undercapitalization is the #1 reason franchise brands stumble, and how many new franchisors get it wrong by focusing on speed over sustainability. He explains how the “plug and play” myth sets franchisees up for failure and why emerging brands often lack the systems, support, and profitability structure to survive.

From building matching systems that pair the right people with the right opportunities, to guiding new franchisors through the process of going to market, Don’s mission is clear: to raise the standard across the franchise industry and help people succeed long term. He even discusses his “Are You Franchiseable?” assessment and how his company operates as the “eHarmony of franchising.”

If you're entering a season of career change, thinking about launching a franchise, or looking to scale without imploding, Don shares the tools, mindset shifts, and battle-tested truths to help you build something that lasts.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What “doing franchising right” really looks like
The two biggest reasons franchises fail
How Don identifies red flags in emerging brands
Why mindset and support are just as important as capital
What a good franchise deal actually looks like
How to avoid jumping into a business that’s a short-term trend

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Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as financial, legal, or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host, Susan Reilly, and any guests, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or organization.

Susan Reilly is a licensed real estate broker, but this podcast is not a substitute for professional advice. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified financial advisor, legal counsel, and tax professional before making any financial decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.

Franchising with Integrity: Don Schin's Guide to Building Smarter, Sustainable Franchise Growth

The Deal Scout