JT Thiessen on What Makes Franchising Work

Описание: Franchising isn’t about systems alone. It’s about people.

In this episode of MustardHub Voices: Behind the Build, Curtis Forbes sits down with JT Thiessen, a 33-year veteran of the franchise industry who has helped grow and develop 18 different brands. JT shares how an early college project unexpectedly launched his career, why franchising is a distribution model, and what founders often misunderstand about growth.

The conversation explores what makes a business truly ready to franchise, how to vet both brands and franchisees, and why listening is the most underrated leadership skill in the franchise world. JT also discusses hiring and retention challenges, the impact of AI on frontline and entry-level work, and why human skills like empathy and communication will matter more — not less — in the future of work.

This episode is a must-watch for franchisors, franchisees, and operators building people-driven businesses at scale.


About JT:

JT is a 33-year veteran of the franchise industry, where he has had the good fortune of leading Development teams for 18 brands. His passion for franchising stems from the positive transformations that he has witnessed in the lives of his teammates and the franchisees he put in business, including his mother, brother, sisters, and nephew. He resides in Coto de Caza, CA, with his wife and two college-age children.