Born and raised in Chicagoland, Deanna Radulescu is a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in Business and Accounting. As the former VP of Key Accounts & Business Operations for a $20 million transmission remanufacturing facility, Deanna navigated complex contracts, doubling business size and earning stellar recommendations from major clients.
In the world of entrepreneurship, few paths are as rewarding yet challenging as that of a franchisee. Gary Prenevost, a passionate entrepreneur and multi-unit franchisee, has navigated this landscape with remarkable success. As the owner of FranNet, a franchisee search coaching company, Gary has dedicated his career to helping aspiring business owners find their footing in the franchise world.
Gary Prenevost's diverse background
Gary's journey to becoming a franchise expert is anything but conventional. He began his career in banking, where he spent seven years learning the ropes of corporate structure. However, the confines of corporate life soon felt stifling. "I was the contortionist in the invisible box," he recalls, highlighting the limitations he faced in a big corporation. This realization propelled him into the family business realm, where he encountered the complexities of family dynamics and the challenges of having "too many bosses and not enough workers."
His transition into franchising began in 1991 when a satisfied customer recruited him to help sell franchises. This pivotal moment marked the start of a new chapter in his career. Gary quickly discovered the freedom and potential that came with being a franchisee. "I went from working 70-80 hours a week to just 30 hours and crushing my numbers," he shares. This newfound balance allowed him to thrive, leading him to eventually purchase FranNet and expand his territory significantly.
The franchise landscape
One of the most common misconceptions about franchising is that it is solely about food and retail. Gary dispels this myth, explaining that only 35-40% of franchises fall into these categories. With over 80 different industries represented, franchising offers a diverse array of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. "It's not about buying yourself a long-hours, low-paying job," he emphasizes. Many of his clients maintain their corporate jobs while building multi-unit strategies on the side, creating long-term wealth.
Gary's expertise extends beyond just franchise ownership; he is also a sought-after keynote speaker and author. His book, "The Unstoppable Franchisee," outlines the seven drivers of next-level growth, providing valuable insights for anyone in business. "Mindset is where it all starts," he asserts, emphasizing the importance of awareness and operational management skills in achieving success.
The power of mindset
Gary's philosophy centers around the idea that growth is possible for anyone willing to embrace it. He believes that the journey to success involves stepping out of one's comfort zone and confronting challenges head-on. "Next-level growth is possible and likely for any business owner," he states. His mantra, "Own it, learn from it, do better where you can," serves as a guiding principle for both positive and negative experiences.
In addition to his business acumen, Gary is also a yoga teacher and martial artist. He draws parallels between these practices and the entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of discipline, focus, and personal growth. "Martial arts teaches you to check your ego at the door," he explains a lesson that resonates deeply in the world of business.
A vision for the future
As Gary continues to expand his influence in the franchise community, he remains committed to helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. His dedication to mentorship and education is evident in his work with clients, guiding them through the complexities of franchise ownership.
For those interested in exploring the world of franchising, Gary Prenevost stands as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration. With his extensive experience and unwavering passion, he is poised to help the next generation of entrepreneurs unlock their potential and thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of business.
To connect with Gary and learn more about his work, visit his website or find him on LinkedIn. His book, "The Unstoppable Franchisee," is available on Amazon and serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their business journey.
Deanna Radulescu, Founder & Host of Label Free Podcast
Born and raised in Chicagoland, Deanna Radulescu is a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in Business and Accounting. As the former VP of Key Accounts & Business Operations for a $20 million transmission remanufacturing facility, Deanna navigated complex contracts, doubling business size and earning stellar recommendations from major clients. After a life-changing event, Deanna pursued her passion for fashion, founding Deanna Marie Label and successfully launching three collections, including a Kickstarter campaign raising over $5k. A skincare line and a charity event against Human Trafficking rounded out her fashion journey. In 2019, Deanna ventured into podcasting with Label Free.
