In this episode of the Built to Shine Podcast, host Vanessa Yakobson sits down with Leanne and Brandon Anderson to unpack what the first year and a half of business ownership actually looks like. Leanne shares her journey from a 20-year corporate career in financial services and healthcare to her passion for hair and makeup. At the same time, Brandon draws on more than a decade as a franchise consultant to explain why the right system, executive team, and support structure make all the difference.

The conversation moves through the realities of opening day, the mindset shifts required when you’re the owner scrubbing floors before shift, and the deliberate work of building a team culture rooted in authenticity and care. Brandon and Leanne open up about how they divide responsibilities as married co-owners with four kids, how they’ve built a bench of builders ready for their next locations, and the systems they use to stay “on the business” rather than stuck in it.

What You'll Learn

Why franchising compresses the learning curve
How to evaluate a franchise brand before you sign
What the first six months of ownership actually feel like
How to build a partnership that works at home and at work
The 80% rule for aspiring entrepreneurs
How to build and protect team culture from day one

Episode Resources

Leanne Anderson on LinkedIn
Brandon Anderson on LinkedIn
Vanessa Yakobson on LinkedIn
Blo Blow Dry Bar Official Website
Blo Franchise Opportunities