The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First Franchise

Start a Purpose-Filled Business Through Franchise Ownership

Dave Greenberg and Pete Gilfillan

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

In 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 Product
Even businesses that seem purely transactional—like salon suites or junk removal—can carry deep mission-driven value. Pete and Dave explain how purpose often lies in the impact a service delivers, not the service itself.

Community as a Cornerstone
Franchise ownership puts you back into your neighborhood. From sponsoring youth teams to becoming the “mayor” of your zip code, Dave and Pete share why being hyper-local brings lasting fulfillment.

Empowering Teams and Creating Culture
One of the most overlooked parts of entrepreneurship is the power to develop people. The hosts discuss how franchise owners lead by example—and how that leadership shapes culture, loyalty, and performance.

Purpose-Driven Customer Experience
Delivering memorable service starts with intention. Pete and Dave share how small touches—like proactive communication or mission-aligned service models—can become the heartbeat of your brand.

Using a Franchise System to Scale Your Impact
A franchise model doesn’t restrict your purpose—it amplifies it. With proven systems in place, you can focus on building relationships, innovating with intention, and growing a business that reflects your values.

Innovation That Aligns with Mission
From eco-friendly paint solutions to community-based marketing in dry cleaning, this episode highlights real examples of owners innovating with purpose—and why it leads to customer loyalty and community trust.


Key Takeaways:

  • Franchise businesses can be deeply mission-driven—you just have to look beyond the surface.
  • Community connection is a key driver of purpose and long-term fulfillment.
  • Empowering employees and creating a culture starts with the owner’s example.
  • Great customer experiences reflect the purpose behind your business.
  • Franchise models give you the tools to grow and give back.


“It’s not what you do—it’s how you do it. A purpose-driven life starts with doing business the right way.” — Pete Gilfillan


CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN
Website:
https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENB

CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN

Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/
Website:
https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG

Meet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web
Website:
https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/