From Burger King to Panera to Academia: The Career Path No One Plans For - With Martha Flynn

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
From Burger King to Panera to Academia: The Career Path No One Plans For - With Martha Flynn
Feb 02, 2026 Season 1 Episode 80
Dr. John P Hayes

DESCRIPTION:

John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Martha Flynn, the new director of the Titus Center. Flynn shares her journey into franchising, which began unexpectedly at Burger King and evolved into various roles at Dunkin' and Panera. The discussion touches on the scarcity of formal franchising education and how Flynn mastered franchise law and operations. The importance of internships for students is also discussed. The conversation also explores the changing role of women in franchising, the advantages of an academic focus in franchising, and the unique opportunities this provides for students at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Both Flynn and Hayes underscore the vital role of practical internships and hands-on experience in equipping students for successful careers in franchising.


- With Martha Flynn.


TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Intro

00:37 How did Martha start franchising?

01:58 What was learned at Burger King?

06:17 Why move to Dunkin' and Inspire?

08:52 What challenges did Panera present?

09:44 Why transition to academia?

12:20 How does franchising education impact students?

16:47 What opportunities exist for students?

22:07 What is the future of franchising internships?


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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