Franchisee Spotlight

Who is Knute?

I have worked in the Human Service/Healthcare business for 40 years, the last 28 in Executive leadership roles. I have covered the gamut of human services including child welfare, juvenile justice, special education, people with disabilities, and behavioral health.

What inspired Knute to make a career change?

I was driven by a strong desire to embark on a new professional journey that would allow me to take charge of my own business again. After years of working within corporate structures with their complexities of managing employees and boards, I yearned for the freedom to run a business on my own terms. This career change stemmed from my aspiration to create something meaningful and impactful without the constraints that often come with larger organizations. The prospect of starting up and managing a venture that aligns with my vision and passions became the driving force behind this decision.

Why will Knute make a great franchise owner?

What sets me apart as an ideal franchise owner is my unwavering motivation to cultivate and expand this newfound opportunity. With a deep-seated passion for both entrepreneurship and senior care, I am uniquely positioned to channel my enthusiasm into driving the growth of this franchise. The senior care industry resonates profoundly with me, and this alignment of passion ensures that I'm not just running a business, but also contributing to a purpose that resonates deeply. By investing myself wholeheartedly into this venture, I will not only succeed as a franchise owner but also provide a level of dedication that will create a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

What were knute’s search criteria for finding the right franchise company?

Primarily, the work I would be engaging in needed to hold a purpose that resonated with me on a meaningful level. It was imperative that I could wake up every day knowing that my efforts were contributing to something greater than just profit. Additionally, the concept had to be locally relevant, allowing me to build a connection with the community and foster a sense of belonging. The decision to avoid franchises with employees was rooted in my desire to maintain a hands-on approach and a direct connection to the core of the business operations. By adhering to these criteria, I ensured that the franchise I chose would not only align with my values but also empower me to take ownership in a way that felt authentic and fulfilling.

Any tips on choosing the right time to take the leap into business ownership and leave the corporate world?

The decision to transition from the corporate world to business ownership is a momentous one that should be made with careful consideration. The right time to take this leap is when you've reached a point of readiness and confidence in your abilities to steer your own ship. It's crucial to have a clear understanding of the risks associated with entrepreneurship and be prepared to shoulder the responsibilities that come with being your own boss. Reflect on whether you possess the motivation, determination, and adaptability required to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. A strategic approach involves evaluating your financial stability, personal circumstances, and mental preparedness. Once you feel a strong sense of alignment between your aspirations and your capabilities, and you're willing to embrace the uncertainties of entrepreneurship, that's when you're poised to make the leap into business ownership and bid farewell to the corporate world.

In his words, here's what Knute had to say about working with Liz: 

“Liz was great! Super knowledgeable about franchising and was able to answer all of my questions and concerns as I journeyed through the process.”