Retail Intel

Send us a textA facial can be fast, luxurious, and accessible- and still scale nationwide. We sit down with FACE FOUNDRIÉ founder Michele Henry to unpack how an open-air, under-an-hour service became a franchisable engine powered by walk-ins, memberships, and a meticulously designed client journey. From the first location next to a Starbucks to a flagship on Austin’s South Congress, Michele explains why patience in Class A real estate and the right co-tenants can change a brand’s trajectory.

Send us a textWhat happens when a chef treats a tortilla like a canvas and a restaurant like a community lab? Miguel Reyes, cofounder of Quesadilla Gorilla, shares how a tiny Fresno storefront grew into a franchise-ready brand rooted in scratch cooking, playful specials, and authentic connection. We unpack the systems behind consistent quality, the menu philosophy that balances tradition with experimentation, and the real estate strategy that favors grocery-anchored centers over drive-thrus. If you're curious about scaling with soul, Miguel’s transparent roadmap, from focused margaritas to franchisee-led marketing is packed with insights. 

Send us a textTodd Gailor's journey from corporate banker to entertainment entrepreneur offers a masterclass in seizing opportunities others miss. After 20 years in commercial lending, a pandemic-induced moment of reflection led him to acquire Edder's Custom Golf Center, a rundown but beloved Cincinnati institution dating back to 1951.What makes The Acres special goes beyond golf balls and putters. Gailor recognized that creating spaces where families disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other fills a crucial need in our digital age. "The kids and parents are playing miniature golf together," he explains. "There's this incredible family dynamic of unplugged." This philosophy guides every aspect of the business – from the four core revenue centers (driving range, miniature golf, restaurant, and bar) to seasonal innovations like their popular lighted forest walk.Perhaps most remarkable is The Acres' relationship with Mill Creek, once North America's mos

Send us a textCelebrating Retail Intel's 60th Episode!

Send us a textWhat happens when a beach-loving journalism student discovers the transformative flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine? For Josh Wamsley, it sparked a journey from teaching English abroad to founding Mazunte. Join us to hear the inspiring story behind this beloved Midwest Restaurant. 

Send us a textJoin Brian Sheehan as he sits down with Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow,  Founders of Amber Waves. What happens when two aspiring professionals with backgrounds in economics and international relations stumble into farming? For Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow, it sparked the creation of Amber Waves Farm, a revolutionary nonprofit teaching farm that's redefining what farm-to-table truly means.

Send us a textJoin Brian Sheehan and special guest Michael Ruvolo, Co-Chief Executive Officer of X-Golf, on the latest episode of Retail Intel!  Dive into an insightful discussion about the ins and outs of retail and uncover how X-Golf is redefining the game. Whether you're in the industry or simply curious about the innovative intersection of retail and sports, this episode is for you.  

Send us a textThis week on Retail Intel, host Brian Sheehan sits down with the amazing Amy Leclerc, Co-Owner and President of Franchising at Sit Still Kids Salon. 

Send us a textThis week on Retail Intel, host Brian Sheehan connects with Mike LaRue, Angry Chickz Franchisee, for an in-depth conversation about what makes Angry Chickz a standout brand.

Send us a textPECO’s Brian Sheehan sits down for Part 2 with Sri Divel, the Principal of The Culinary CMO, to talk about what's new and exciting, affecting the restaurant world!  Sri’s profound insights and expertise shine through—showcasing the incredible connection between creativity and strategy in the culinary world.  Catch the full episode now and be inspired! 

Send us a textWhat makes a physical store truly worth visiting in today's digital-first world? Melissa Gonzalez, founder of MG2 Advisory, reveals the evolution of retail design that's reshaping how brands connect with consumers through physical spaces. Listen now and join the conversation about creating spaces that deliver experiences digital simply cannot replicate.

Send us a textTune in to the latest episode of Retail Intel with host Brian Sheehan, our Director of National Accounts, and special guest Bennett Maxwell, Chairman of Dirty Dough. Discover how Dirty Dough is shaking up the cookie game with their super-stuffed cookie bombs! From unique processes to the sweet secrets behind their growth, you don't want to miss this episode!

Send us a textDive into the purest flavors of Mexico with our latest episode of Retail Intel! Join host Brian Sheehan and Bhagyesh Patel, co-founder and CEO of Taco Pros, as they explore the enticing world of Mexican market street foods.Inspired by the gastronomic art of Mexico, Taco Pros aims to transport you to the flavors of Mexican Tianguis (market) street foods. They take pride in investing in quality ingredients to ensure customers get the great taste they are famous for.

Send us a textWe're celebrating the 50th Retail Intel Episode! Ready for some shaved snow magic? Join Brian Sheehan as he sits with the Co-Founders of Vampire Penguin, Paolo & Leo San Luis! Discover the delicious story behind one of today's most unique and trending dessert brands. Listen now to get inspired by their incredible journey and see how they're redefining the dessert game.

Send us a textIn our latest episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan sits down with Dave Allee, founder of Almond Surfboards. Almond Surfboards isn’t just a surf shop — they're a custom board shaper, an apparel brand, a surf product collaborator, an eCommerce business, and a community hub all rolled into one. Tune in to hear about their dynamic, multi-faceted approach to serving their customers and creating a unique surf culture experience.

Send us a textDive into the latest episode of Retail Intel! Brian Sheehan sits down with Jasmine Chin, managing member of Happy Lemon USA, to discuss the art of serving refreshing, delectable beverages including their famous Cheese Foam Tea. Get ready to uncover industry secrets, brand stories, and inspiring tips.

Send us a textJoin our host Brian Sheehan as he chats with Nicole Tanner, the visionary Founder of Swig, home of the Dirty Soda. Discover how Swig is bubbling up across the country. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation filled with entrepreneurial wisdom and innovative ideas.

Send us a textIn this episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan sits down with Marisa Kochnover, a luminary in franchise development for sugaringLA and the Director of Franchise Development at REP'M Group along with Chadwick Brown, the Senior Project Manager at REP'M Group, as we explore the vibrant world of health and wellness in commercial real estate. SugaringLA is known for its organic sugaring studios and lasting hair removal service and earthly care.

Send us a textOn this episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan is with Amrit and Prabhjot Nijjar, the owners and operators of Tandoori Pizza! They give us the saucy details on their unique Indian-style pizza creations that are guaranteed to make your mouth water! Their slogan, “a little heat, a lot of heart”, truly describes their mission when it comes to their food.

Send us a textWelcome back to Retail Intel with your host, Brian Sheehan! In this episode, we're joined by Bretley Roche and Jim Jamerson from Segovia Partners, a goal-oriented, dedicated and solutions-based retail brokerage firm that leverages relationships to obtain results.