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The Entrepreneur DNA

Semi-Passive, Fully Profitable: Inside the World of Non-Food Franchising | Jon Ostensen

July 1, 2026·40m

I sat down with Jon Ostenson, a two-time Inc. 5000 founder and the top 1% franchise consultant behind FranBridge Consulting, to break down everything most people get wrong about franchising. We talked about why "non-food franchising" is such an underrated path to business ownership, how to actually evaluate a franchise opportunity instead of just chasing passion, what it really costs and how long it really takes to get one off the ground, and why following the system matters more than being the smartest person in the room. Jon also walked me through what it takes to scale into multiple territories, how private equity is playing in this space right now, and the tax and exit benefits that come with owning a real asset instead of just a job. If you've ever thought about buying into a franchise, or even just wondered what's actually available outside of fast food, this conversation will change how you think about it. Grab Jon's free book: Want the full breakdown on non-food franchising? Jon is giving away a free copy of his book, Non-Food Franchising: The Better Path to Business Ownership.