The Dirt Dog Pod

Going Above & Beyond for Their Franchisees - David Slavny, Chief Development Officer for The Learning Experience

David Slavny, CDO of The Learning Experience joins us on the Dirt Dog Pod to discuss the rapidily growing daycare market. Discover how TLE navigated the challenges of COVID-19, the role of franchisees in their growth strategy, and the unique approach they take to site selection and development. We also explore TLE's innovative use of characters, like Bubbles and Friends, to create engaging and educational content that resonates with children and parents alike. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned real estate professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the dynamic daycare industry and the importance of strategic partnerships. Tune in to learn more about the future of TLE and the exciting opportunities ahead.

Become the "Most Loved" Company - Shawn Nelson, Founder & CEO of Lovesac

In this episode of the Dirt Dog Pod, we sit down with Shawn Nelson, the visionary founder and CEO of Lovesac. From a spontaneous idea on his parents' couch to a publicly traded company, Sean shares the incredible journey of Lovesac's evolution. Discover how a giant beanbag concept turned into a billion-dollar brand, the challenges faced along the way, and the philosophy of "Design for Life" that drives their success. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of taking action. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

Teacups of Joy at Mountain Mike's - Garret Snyder & Rob Campos, Mountain Mike's Pizza

This week we have our first double guest episode! Robert Campos and Garrett Snyder join us to talk about the growth of Mountain Mike's Pizza. Garrett Snyder is the Vice President of Restaurant Development for Mountain Mike’s Pizza, where he oversees all aspects of site selection, design and construction. Since joining the brand in July 2020, Garrett has played a pivotal role in Mountain Mike’s rapid expansion, growing its national footprint from three states to ten, with a presence in 15 states expected by the end of 2026. Robert Campos serves as Vice President of Franchise Development at Mountain Mike’s Pizza, where he leads the brand’s efforts to identify, recruit and inform potential new franchise partners. In this role, Robert is dedicated to expanding the reach of Mountain Mike’s across the country by aligning with passionate entrepreneurs who share the brand’s commitment to quality, community and exceptional guest experiences. The Mountain Mike's team is passionate about bringing fun memories to communities across the US through their brand. Nothing like a classic arcade game, some time with family, and teacups of joy.

Butt Rockin' Blues and Barbecue Sauce Down to Your Elbows - Dave Anderson, Founder of Famous Dave's Barbecue

Dave Anderson, the Founder of Famous Dave's, joins us on the Dirt Dog Pod. Dave is an perfect example of the American Dream. Born to Native American parents, Dave worked to open the first Famous Dave's in his small town in Wisconsin. The rollercoaster ride for the brand from there is really something to behold. Dave lives for Barbecue and loves the experience that it creates bringing people together. He built the restaurants in his vision to create the ultimate place for people to gather together and have a fun meal. In this episode we discuss: * Dave's upbringing around BBQ and how the brand begun. * The vision that Dave had for the brand and how they focused on the smallest details to create his vision. * Dave's inspirational view on the importance of failing and owning your failures.

Being a Mover is Never Easy - Dok Kwon, President of Cupbop

Dok Kwon, the COO and President of Cupbop, joins us on the Dirt Dog Pod. Dok moved to Utah to join the Cupbop brand leaving behind his high paying finance life in New York. Dok made this big change in his life because of the goal that Cupbop is trying to obtain. Dok shares that the brand is trying to become the first national QSR to teach the US about Korean Cuisine. He is so passionate about this goal that he made the drastic change to move across country and join a new budding brand. In this episode we discuss: * Dok shares his story of moving to the US and finding his path by working to help his family. * The wild story of how Cupbop has become such a massive brand in a part of the world you would not expect. * The view that the Cupbop team has towards growth and how they are going about growing without losing the brand's identity.