Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan discuss the many lifestyle advantages of entrepreneurship. Sharing personal stories and practical advice, they dive into what makes the entrepreneurial journey rewarding, empowering, and life-changing.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• The Entrepreneur’s Lifestyle
  Dave and Pete reflect on their transition from corporate executives to entrepreneurs, emphasizing the freedom, flexibility, and purpose that come with owning a business.
• Freedom and Flexibility
  Pete highlights how entrepreneurship allows him to attend his daughter’s soccer games and control his schedule, while Dave shares how he organizes his week to maintain a balance between work and personal priorities.
• Control Over Your Future
  Entrepreneurs drive their own success. Dave explains how taking control of his destiny removed the fear and unpredictability he faced in the corporate world.
• Financial Upside
  Unlike corporate roles with capped bonuses, entrepreneurship offers unlimited earning potential. Pete shares how he plans for growth and takes action to achieve financial goals.
• Personal Growth and Creativity
  Entrepreneurs face real-world challenges that foster continuous learning and innovation. Pete recounts a creative solution he implemented to improve the work environment for his salon suite tenants.
• Legacy and Community Impact
  Both hosts explore the lasting impact of entrepreneurship, from creating a legacy for their children to making meaningful contributions to their communities through jobs, services, and sponsorships.

Key Takeaways:

• Freedom Drives Fulfillment: Entrepreneurship provides the freedom to design a life that aligns with personal and professional values.
• Purpose Creates Meaning: Owning a business driven by purpose enriches both life and work.
• Balance Is Key: Entrepreneurs can prioritize what matters most, whether it’s family, hobbies, or personal growth.

"Entrepreneurship is hard work, but it’s rewarding work. You’re building wealth, creating freedom, and living life on your own terms." — Peter Gilfillan

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/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan dive into a timely topic: Can your business survive and thrive in a recession? They share personal stories, practical advice, and insights on recession-resistant industries to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate uncertain economic times.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Facing Fear in Uncertain Times
  Pete shares how he overcame fear when starting his Junk King franchise during an economic downturn and how the right mindset can lead to success even in tough times.
• Recession-Resistant Industries
  The hosts explore ten categories of franchises that can withstand economic downturns, including senior care, cleaning services, automotive repair, health and wellness, tax preparation, childcare, and more.
• Recurring Revenue Opportunities
  Dave emphasizes the appeal of franchises with recurring revenue models, such as beauty and wellness services, which remain steady even in challenging times.
• Planning for Success
  Both hosts highlight the importance of matching business opportunities to personal skill sets and preferences, ensuring a strong alignment for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• You Can’t Time the Market: Like investing, there’s no perfect time to start a business—you just need to get started.
• Recession Resistance Matters: Essential services and recurring revenue businesses provide stability during economic fluctuations.
• Know Yourself: When choosing the right business, success starts with understanding your strengths, preferences, and goals.

"Recession or not, thriving in business comes down to preparation, resilience, and choosing the right opportunity for you." — 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/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan delve into one of the most pressing challenges for experienced corporate professionals: ageism. Sharing personal stories, strategies, and actionable advice, they discuss recognizing and overcoming workplace ageism while exploring opportunities to create financial independence through entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Recognizing Ageism in the Workplace
  The hosts highlight common signs of ageism, including reduced career advancement opportunities, limited challenging assignments, and workplace cultural shifts that marginalize experienced professionals.
• The Reality of Corporate Transitions
  Pete shares alarming statistics about how many executives are forced out of their positions after age 50, often unable to secure comparable roles. Dave reflects on how transitioning from the corporate world provided freedom and a chance to redefine his goals.
• Parallel Paths to Financial Freedom
  Dave and Pete outline different strategies for navigating ageism, including building semi-absentee franchises alongside W-2 roles, diversifying income streams, and preparing for corporate exits proactively.
• Leveraging Entrepreneurial Spirit
  The hosts emphasize how entrepreneurship eliminates the barriers of ageism, allowing individuals to apply their skills and passions in a way that builds lasting wealth and independence.

Key Takeaways:

• Prepare for Ageism: It’s not a matter of if but when. Diversify your income and assets before being caught flat-footed.
• Transitions Offer Freedom: Embrace career shifts as opportunities to focus on what truly matters in your life.
• Entrepreneurship Has No Age Limit: Your experience and skills are assets in business ownership. Hire for what you don’t know and focus on growth.

"Ageism doesn’t apply when you’re an entrepreneur. Your drive, skills, and vision matter more than your years." — 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/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan explore whether investing in a business during an economic downturn is a smart move. With personal stories and practical advice, they challenge common fears and show why tough times often create unique opportunities for entrepreneurs.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Investing During Tough Times
  Pete shares his story of starting a franchise during an economic downturn, overcoming fear, and realizing that timing the economy is as unpredictable as timing the stock market.
• Overcoming Fear and Gaining Control
  Both hosts reflect on how entrepreneurship offers control over fear and uncertainty, empowering individuals to take charge of their financial futures.
• Economic Downturns Create Opportunity
  Dave and Pete explore why recessions often lead to reduced competition, better resource access, and improved real estate and marketing opportunities for business owners.
• Recession-Resistant Industries
  Pete highlights need-based businesses like health and wellness, children’s activities, and restoration services as resilient options during economic slowdowns.
• Building Entrepreneurial Skills in Your Family
  Pete shares how he involved his children in his entrepreneurial journey, instilling valuable skills and preparing them for a future where creating their opportunities will be essential.

Key Takeaways:

• Fear is False Evidence Appearing Real: Entrepreneurs learn to manage fear by focusing on what they can control.
• Tough Times Thin the Herd: Reduced competition and better labor availability make recessions a strategic investment time.
• Focus on Recession-Resistant Industries: Choose businesses that provide essential services to maintain economic stability.

"There’s never a perfect time to invest. You just need to trust your skills and take control of your destiny." — Peter Gilfillan

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/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan tackle an important question: Why should you invest in a franchise in 2025? With a mix of compelling statistics, personal insights, and practical advice, they explore why 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for franchise opportunities.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Franchising as a Resilient Industry
  The franchise industry continues to grow, with over 800,000 establishments generating nearly $850 billion in annual economic output. Dave and Pete highlight why franchising has proven to be a stable and thriving business model.
• Job Creation and Economic Impact
  Franchising contributes significantly to job creation, employing nearly 9 million people in the U.S. Pete shares how these hyperlocal jobs make a meaningful impact on families and communities.
• Opportunities in Essential Services
  From home repair to senior care, essential services offer stable consumer spending and resilience, even during economic challenges. Pete recounts working with a glass repair franchise that thrived due to its necessity in daily life.
• Leveraging Technology for Success
  Technology is transforming franchises, with innovations like AI and advanced tech stacks enhancing customer acquisition and operational efficiency. Dave shares examples of tech-savvy franchises creating seamless customer experiences.
• Favorable Financing Conditions
  Pete discusses the improving financing landscape, including SBA loans, home equity options, and the ROBS program, making it easier for aspiring entrepreneurs to invest in franchises.

Key Takeaways:

• Franchising Is Thriving: With a massive economic footprint, franchising offers opportunities across diverse industries.
• Invest in Stability: Essential services and health and wellness franchises remain strong, regardless of economic conditions.
• Plan for Scale: Franchises provide scalable models that allow owners to grow their businesses significantly over time.

"2025 isn’t just a year for business growth—it’s the year to take control of your destiny and create a life on your terms through franchising." — 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/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan explore the transformative power of franchise ownership, sharing their personal stories of breaking free from corporate constraints. They also explore the first steps, challenges, and ultimate rewards of entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Escaping the Corporate World

Pete and Dave recount their experiences leaving stable, high-paying corporate roles to pursue entrepreneurship. From navigating fear to embracing uncertainty, they share how they broke free from the 9-to-5 mold.

• Partnering with Your Spouse

Dave highlights his wife Laurie's critical role in his franchise journey, emphasizing the importance of involving family in major business decisions.

• Choosing the Right Franchise

Both hosts reflect on how they selected their franchises—what worked, what didn’t, and why aligning with a business model you love is more important than chasing a passion.

• Building a Legacy

Pete discusses how entrepreneurship shaped not only his career but also his family's outlook. From giving his kids titles in his business to teaching them about leveraging debt, Pete explains how owning a business can leave a meaningful legacy.

Key Takeaways:

• Get Your Spouse Onboard: Family support is crucial to overcoming fears and building confidence in your entrepreneurial journey.
• Focus on the Business Model: Loving the process and services your franchise offers often outweighs initial interest in the industry.
• Embrace Gratitude: Both hosts agree that maintaining a mindset of gratitude is a cornerstone of success and fulfillment.

"Entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money; it’s about building a life you can be proud of while impacting others positively." — 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/