Would You Rather Buy a Degree… or Buy a Career? | Dr. John P. Hayes With Tom Pabin

The Franchise Hot Seat Podcast with Dr. John P. Hayes - Director, Titus Center for Franchising

The Franchise Hot Seat Podcast with Dr. John P. Hayes - Director, Titus Center for Franchising
Would You Rather Buy a Degree… or Buy a Career? | Dr. John P. Hayes With Tom Pabin
Jul 06, 2026 Season 1 Episode 91
Dr. John P Hayes

John Hayes interviews Tom Pabin on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, discussing Pabin's journey with his college-planning franchise, Class101, and his book, Squeezed. Pabin shares the story of how he started Class101 in 1997, developed systems for a decade before venturing into franchising, and managed steady growth until he eventually sold the company. He remains involved as a franchisee. They debate the necessity of college education for everyone, the risk of families overpaying for education, and emphasize the significance of student suitability and performance over the reputation of the institution. Hayes suggests that students with knowledge of franchising have an edge in the job market, while Pabin views franchising as a means to purchase a career that aligns with one's purpose. They use examples such as McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish to illustrate the impact of franchisees, the importance of culture fostered through practical actions, and the value of sharing ideas and recognition. Pabin interprets "squeeze" as a form of pressure that propels growth, advocating for mentors, supportive "lemonade teams," perseverance, a positive mindset, and deliberate self-challenge. Pabin encourages listeners to visit his website, tompabin.com, for his book and coaching services.


- With Tom Pabin.


TIMESTAMPS:

02:35 The College Planning Founder Who Never Went To College.

07:45 When A $400K Degree Is A Terrible Investment.

11:55 Why Franchise Students Land Jobs Instantly.

13:45 The Lost Generation Searching For Passion.

16:10 The McDonald's Franchisee Who Invented The Filet-O-Fish.

19:30 The Franchise Hall Of Fame That Changed Everything.

21:45 Why Leaders Should Deliberately Squeeze Their Teams.

24:45 The 2:00 AM Test That Exposes Your True Circle.

27:25 Why Smart People Squeeze Themselves On Purpose.

30:10 The One Skill College Never Teaches (But Franchises Require).

33:55 How A Toastmasters Class Could Save Your Career.

38:40 The Funeral Test That Reveals Your Real Network.


LINKS:


WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast



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