My journey in franchising began as the Director of Food Service for Little General Stores, where I oversaw multiple national brands including Subway, Godfather’s Pizza, Taco Bell, Baskin-Robbins, Arby’s, and Steak Escape. That early exposure to franchise operations and brand management ignited a passion that has shaped my career ever since.

In 2006, my wife and I made the bold decision to take control of our financial future. Leaving behind a stable pharmaceutical career, we invested everything—literally maxing out our credit cards—to open our first Edible Arrangements store. What started as a single store quickly evolved into a 17-year journey of growth, leadership, and record-breaking success.

We ultimately built a multi-state enterprise of nine locations generating over $52 million in total revenue, earning Multi-Unit Owner of the Year (2010) and Franchisee of the Year (2013) honors. Our Youngstown, OH store became the top-performing location in the brand, achieving over $2 million in annual sales—a first in Edible Arrangements history.

Beyond ownership, I also served on the franchisor side. As an investor and later CEO of The Simple Greek, a fast-casual Mediterranean brand featured on CNBC’s The Profit with Marcus Lemonis, I led the brand through a successful sale to WOWorks, ensuring franchisees had the foundation to thrive. That experience provided a 360° perspective on franchising—from franchisee to franchisor—that continues to guide my approach today.

Most recently, I’ve expanded into the health and wellness sector as a multi-unit franchise owner with SweatHouz, an innovative recovery and wellness brand. Our ownership group operates a flagship studio in Youngstown, OH, with plans for continued expansion across multiple markets.

Now, as Vice President of Franchise Development for Bed Bath & Beyond, I’m channeling nearly two decades of franchise experience into building a world-class system focused on growth, innovation, and long-term franchisee success. My mission is to help entrepreneurs realize their own version of the American dream—through smart, scalable, and sustainable business ownership.