FEATURED FRANCHISE CONSULTANT
Steve Smeal once worked as a corporate executive, but he admits he was always an entrepreneur at heart.
“Even during my corporate years, I owned side businesses,” Smeal said. “In 2019, I transitioned fully into entrepreneurship and currently own several other companies that operate passively.”
In 2023, he made the leap into franchise consulting.
“A friend and former colleague, Jason Blough, and I were working on a project together,” he explained. “When it came to an end, I asked what he planned to do next. He told me he was returning to franchise consulting and introduced me to FranServe. The idea immediately resonated with me – working remotely, owning my schedule, having meaningful conversations about entrepreneurship, and building a business with high revenue potential and low overhead. It checked all the boxes.”
Smeal founded the Franchise Success Development Group in affiliation with FranServe, offering a proven consultation process that helps clients identify and research franchise opportunities.
“With over 4,400 franchise concepts available in the United States alone, searching for the right franchise can be a daunting task,” Smeal’s website notes. “In addition, not all franchises are created equally and even the top rated franchises are not always the best fit for all individuals. Our process takes a close look at your goals, experience, strengths, weaknesses, desired lifestyle and more to help you find the opportunities that present a realistic opportunity for long term success and happiness.”
Smeal said he chooses to focus most of his time and energy on franchise consulting because of its impact, scalability, and the freedom it provides.
“The ability to run a home-based business with no employees and significant income potential made the decision an easy one,” he said. “Helping aspiring entrepreneurs explore business ownership is incredibly rewarding – especially those looking to exit corporate America, a path I know well.”
He’s also built strong relationships with fellow consultants, franchisors, and brand representatives along the way.
“Frankly, I love that the business is financially rewarding,” he added. “The income potential can be life-changing, and that allows me to work toward building a legacy for my family while helping others do the same.”
Smeal calls the process of consulting a high-energy, meaningful experience.
“I focus on engaging conversations that dig deep into a candidate’s goals and mindset,” he said. “My approach involves asking thought-provoking questions that help individuals discover if business ownership – and specifically franchising – is truly right for them.”
He believes his personal story resonates with many potential franchisees – leaving corporate America, building multiple businesses – adding a layer of credibility and relatability as he helps others do the same. He is proud to note that over the past several years, his results have outpaced others in terms of marketing investment, lead volume, and scheduled appointments, driving strong results for his business.
In the future, Smeal said he aims to be a perennial million-dollar producer who positively impacts lives.
“I want to continue helping people find the right business fit and build something meaningful for themselves and their families,” he concluded.
Jessica Petrucelli