Chief Change Officer Podcast Summary
Episode #196: James Hilovsky – Why Athletes Are Built for Business (And How Franchising is Their Secret Weapon) – Part One
Release Date: February 23, 2025
Host: Vince Chan
Guest: James Hilovsky, Franchise Consultant at Riverside, Southern California

Introduction: Embracing Change Through Franchising

In episode #196 of Chief Change Officer, host Vince Chan delves into the unique intersection of sports and business franchising with guest James Hilovsky. James, a seasoned franchise consultant, specializes in guiding retired NBA and NFL athletes as they transition into successful franchise owners. This episode explores how the discipline and teamwork ingrained in athletic careers seamlessly translate into thriving business ventures.

Guest Background: From Minor Leagues to Franchise Consulting

[00:12 – 07:38]

James Hilovsky begins by sharing his personal journey from being a minor league baseball player for the Philadelphia Phillies to becoming a franchise consultant. An injury cut his athletic career short, prompting a swift transition into the restaurant industry. Drawing parallels between sports teams and restaurant operations, James emphasizes the importance of teamwork and systems in business management.

After 25 years with Del Taco and subsequently leading franchise growth for Pieology—scaling from one to over a hundred restaurants—James partnered with former NFL players to expand into ice cream franchises. However, when proposed ventures outside his passion arose, he opted to start his own consulting business four years ago. His mission: to match athletes and professionals with suitable franchise opportunities, ensuring they navigate the complexities of franchising successfully.

Notable Quote:
"Using franchising as a means to fulfill the dream of becoming immersed and settled in the community was life changing."
— Vince Chan [00:12]

Navigating Business During COVID-19

[07:38 – 09:48]

Vince inquires about the challenges faced by James when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. James recounts the uncertainty and fear prevalent in the early days of the pandemic. However, he notes that certain franchise sectors, particularly home services like bathroom remodels and window cleaning, experienced significant growth. The pandemic-induced shift in work dynamics—such as increased remote work and layoffs—also led many to consider franchising as a viable business alternative. James capitalized on this opportunity, aiding individuals to pivot and invest in franchises during a tumultuous period.

Notable Quote:
"It really turned out being that people were stuck at home and were on zoom and doing that type of thing, that a lot of people had a lot of time to look at different options that were out there to help them, as well as a lot of people got laid off and were looking for things to do."
— James Hilovsky [08:17]

The Synergy Between Sports Franchising and Traditional Franchising

[09:48 – 15:59]

The conversation shifts to the parallels between sports franchising and traditional business franchising. James articulates that both realms operate under strict guidelines and systems designed to ensure success. In sports, franchises like the Los Angeles Lakers adhere to NBA regulations, analogous to how business franchisors provide franchisees with comprehensive playbooks.

Key similarities include:

• Structured Systems: Both sports and business franchises rely on detailed playbooks or operational manuals to guide performance and ensure consistency.
• Regulatory Compliance: Just as sports franchises operate under league rules, business franchises must adhere to franchisor-imposed guidelines.
• Coaching and Support: Franchisors act as coaches, providing ongoing support and feedback to help franchisees optimize their operations.

James emphasizes that athletes, accustomed to following playbooks and responding to coaching, are naturally suited for the franchise business model. Their ability to adhere to systems and accept constructive criticism aligns perfectly with the demands of running a successful franchise.

Notable Quote:
"Athletes are perfect people to go into business for themselves... they've been given by a coach or playbook. Here's the playbook, here's the plays, here's the system."
— James Hilovsky [10:40]

Success Stories: Athletes Transitioning to Franchising

[15:59 – 22:17]

James shares compelling examples of athletes he has assisted in their franchising journeys:

1. Former NFL Super Bowl Winner:

   • Initially successful with a wine business, he sought a more passionate venture.
   • After exploring various options, he found a franchise focused on mental health and concussion support.
   • His goal: Establish franchises in every NFL city to aid former players and others facing similar challenges.
   • Outcome: Successfully launched his first franchise in Florida, expanding his business empire.

2. Former Professional Baseball Player:

   • Transitioned from corporate America to seeking a family-oriented business.
   • Opted for a dog grooming franchise, allowing his family to manage the first location.
   • Outcome: Secured a restoration deal in Atlanta with plans to expand to multiple units.

3. Current NFL Player:

   • Aiming to build a business generating $500,000 annually within three years.
   • Chose a fitness brand offering transformative weight loss challenges.
   • Outcome: Plans to establish a multi-unit franchise, ensuring substantial revenue post-retirement.

James underscores that each athlete's journey is unique, driven by individual passions and goals. His role is to identify franchises that align with their personal values and business aspirations, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling transition from sports to entrepreneurship.

Key Qualities of Successful Athlete-Franchise Owners

[22:17 – 26:06]

When reflecting on what makes athletes excel in the franchising world, James highlights three primary qualities:

1. Risk-Taking Ability:

   • Athletes are accustomed to betting on themselves, an essential trait for entrepreneurship.
   • Their confidence in their abilities mirrors the self-reliance required to succeed in business ventures.

2. Receptiveness to Coaching:

   • Just as athletes follow coaches' instructions on the field, successful franchisees adhere to franchisor guidelines.
   • This openness to feedback and willingness to implement advice ensures operational excellence.

3. Leadership Skills:

   • Athletes often possess inherent leadership qualities, whether through leading by example or vocal direction.
   • These skills enable them to manage teams effectively, fostering a productive and motivated workforce.

James asserts that these attributes, ingrained through years of athletic training and competition, provide a solid foundation for thriving in the franchising sector.

Notable Quote:
"Athletes are able to take a risk because their whole lives they've bet on themselves... they have the confidence and I'm going to bet on myself."
— James Hilovsky [22:54]

Conclusion: Empowering Athletes to Outgrow Themselves

Vince Chan wraps up the episode by highlighting the transformative power of franchising for athletes. By leveraging their inherent skills—risk-taking, coaching receptiveness, and leadership—athletes can successfully transition into business, creating lasting legacies beyond their sports careers. James Hilovsky's expertise serves as a beacon for those seeking to harness franchising as a vehicle for personal and professional growth.

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Disclaimer: This summary is intended to provide an overview of the podcast episode based on the provided transcript. For comprehensive insights and detailed discussions, listening to the full episode is recommended.