The Escape & Empower Franchise Podcast | Buying Your First Franchise

Take Control of Your Destiny: Break Free and Build Wealth

Dave Greenberg and Pete Gilfillan

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan
Take Control of Your Destiny: Break Free and Build Wealth


In 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 episode, Dave and Pete discuss:


Recognizing Your Breaking Point
From missed family moments to overwhelming travel demands, Pete and Dave share the personal wake-up calls that led them to walk away from corporate life and reclaim their freedom.

Making the Decision to Change
Taking control of your destiny starts with a mindset shift. The hosts explain how fear and comfort often delay action, and why choosing to move forward is the most powerful step.

Finding the Right Business Fit
Not all franchises are created equal. Pete and Dave outline their step-by-step approach to helping executives uncover opportunities that align with their values, lifestyle goals, and financial expectations.

The Franchise Due Diligence Process
Choosing the right brand isn’t about guesswork. The hosts explain how to evaluate a franchise like an investor: digging into systems, support, economics, validation calls, and long-term potential.

Working Hard—and Working Smart
Business success requires focused effort. From hiring a coach to leading by example, Pete and Dave share how to apply corporate discipline to entrepreneurship without burning out.


Key Takeaways:

  • You can’t move forward until you decide to take back control.
  • The right franchise opportunity should match your goals, not just your interests.
  • Launching a business requires energy, focus, and urgency.
  • Leverage coaches, franchisees, and systems to improve your odds of success.
  • When you work hard for yourself, the payoff goes far beyond a paycheck.


“You don’t need to build someone else’s dream anymore. It’s time to build your own—and do it on your terms.” — David Greenberg


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

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG
Website:
https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/



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/