This episode of Retail Intel explores how Back Nine Golf is reshaping access to the sport through a streamlined, tech-forward indoor model built for today’s avid golfer. Brian Sheehan sits down with co-founder and COO Brady Carlsen to discuss the disciplined choices behind their growth, including a small-footprint, no-restaurant approach that keeps operations simple and member-focused. Brady shares how Full Swing technology, automation, and a clear understanding of their core customer have fueled the brand’s rapid nationwide expansion. Together, they map out what’s next for indoor golf, from skill-based play to AI-driven coaching, and how these innovations are redefining year-round golf engagement.

A facial can be fast, luxurious, and accessible- and still scale nationwide. We sit down with FACE FOUNDRIÉ founder Michele Henry to unpack how an open-air, under-an-hour service became a franchisable engine powered by walk-ins, memberships, and a meticulously designed client journey. From the first location next to a Starbucks to a flagship on Austin’s South Congress, Michele explains why patience in Class A real estate and the right co-tenants can change a brand’s trajectory.

What happens when a chef treats a tortilla like a canvas and a restaurant like a community lab? Miguel Reyes, cofounder of Quesadilla Gorilla, shares how a tiny Fresno storefront grew into a franchise-ready brand rooted in scratch cooking, playful specials, and authentic connection. We unpack the systems behind consistent quality, the menu philosophy that balances tradition with experimentation, and the real estate strategy that favors grocery-anchored centers over drive-thrus. If you're curious about scaling with soul, Miguel’s transparent roadmap, from focused margaritas to franchisee-led marketing is packed with insights. 

Todd Gailor's journey from corporate banker to entertainment entrepreneur offers a masterclass in seizing opportunities others miss. After 20 years in commercial lending, a pandemic-induced moment of reflection led him to acquire Edder's Custom Golf Center, a rundown but beloved Cincinnati institution dating back to 1951.

What makes The Acres special goes beyond golf balls and putters. Gailor recognized that creating spaces where families disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other fills a crucial need in our digital age. "The kids and parents are playing miniature golf together," he explains. "There's this incredible family dynamic of unplugged." This philosophy guides every aspect of the business – from the four core revenue centers (driving range, miniature golf, restaurant, and bar) to seasonal innovations like their popular lighted forest walk.

Perhaps most remarkable is The Acres' relationship with Mill Creek, once North America's most endangered urban waterway. Rather than hiding this natural feature behind invasive honeysuckle, Gailor partnered with environmental organizations to showcase the creek's remarkable recovery. Today, visitors spot bald eagles, herons, and turtles along its banks – a stunning environmental success story integrated seamlessly into an entertainment business.

For entrepreneurs, Gailor's candid insights about delegation challenges, trusted business relationships, and community-building offer valuable lessons. His approach to merchandising – focusing on creating unique branded items rather than competing with big-box retailers – demonstrates strategic thinking in a competitive landscape. Whether you're a retail investor, aspiring business owner, or simply curious about innovative entertainment concepts, this conversation reveals how passion, vision, and community focus can transform a traditional business into something extraordinary.

Celebrating Retail Intel's 60th Episode! 👏✨

What happens when the son of a dishwasher transforms a small investment into a nationwide restaurant phenomenon? Eddie Flores Jr. reveals the remarkable journey behind L&L Hawaiian Barbecue's success in this captivating conversation about entrepreneurship, cultural authenticity, and the power of the Aloha spirit. 

What happens when a beach-loving journalism student discovers the transformative flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine? For Josh Wamsley, it sparked a journey from teaching English abroad to founding Mazunte. Join us to hear the inspiring story behind this beloved Midwest Restaurant. 

Join Brian Sheehan as he sits down with Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow,  Founders of Amber Waves. What happens when two aspiring professionals with backgrounds in economics and international relations stumble into farming? For Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow, it sparked the creation of Amber Waves Farm, a revolutionary nonprofit teaching farm that's redefining what farm-to-table truly means.

Join Brian Sheehan and special guest Michael Ruvolo, Co-Chief Executive Officer of X-Golf, on the latest episode of Retail Intel!  

Dive into an insightful discussion about the ins and outs of retail and uncover how X-Golf is redefining the game. Whether you're in the industry or simply curious about the innovative intersection of retail and sports, this episode is for you.  

🎧 Tune in now and elevate your understanding of retail today!  

This week on Retail Intel, host Brian Sheehan sits down with the amazing Amy Leclerc, Co-Owner and President of Franchising at Sit Still Kids Salon. 

🎧 Tune in as Brian explores how Sit Still is revolutionizing the niche kids' salon industry—creating inspiring and imaginative experiences for children and their families. Amy shares her insights on how their salons empower kids to express their unique personalities through their hair, turning every visit into a delightful adventure.  

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, innovation, and heart! 

This week on Retail Intel, host Brian Sheehan connects with Mike LaRue, Angry Chickz Franchisee, for an in-depth conversation about what makes Angry Chickz a standout brand. 🐓💥  

Discover their insights on balancing perfection vs. revenue.  Explore the unique philosophy behind their partnerships. Learn about their franchise development strategy and growth goals.  

PECO’s Brian Sheehan sits down for Part 2 with Sri Divel, the Principal of The Culinary CMO, to talk about what's new and exciting, affecting the restaurant world!  Sri’s profound insights and expertise shine through—showcasing the incredible connection between creativity and strategy in the culinary world.  Catch the full episode now and be inspired! 

What makes a physical store truly worth visiting in today's digital-first world? Melissa Gonzalez, founder of MG2 Advisory, reveals the evolution of retail design that's reshaping how brands connect with consumers through physical spaces. Listen now and join the conversation about creating spaces that deliver experiences digital simply cannot replicate.

Tune in to the latest episode of Retail Intel with host Brian Sheehan, our Director of National Accounts, and special guest Bennett Maxwell, Chairman of Dirty Dough. Discover how Dirty Dough is shaking up the cookie game with their super-stuffed cookie bombs! From unique processes to the sweet secrets behind their growth, you don't want to miss this episode!

Dive into the purest flavors of Mexico with our latest episode of Retail Intel! Join host Brian Sheehan and Bhagyesh Patel, co-founder and CEO of Taco Pros, as they explore the enticing world of Mexican market street foods.Inspired by the gastronomic art of Mexico, Taco Pros aims to transport you to the flavors of Mexican Tianguis (market) street foods. They take pride in investing in quality ingredients to ensure customers get the great taste they are famous for.

We're celebrating the 50th Retail Intel Episode! Ready for some shaved snow magic? Join Brian Sheehan as he sits with the Co-Founders of Vampire Penguin, Paolo & Leo San Luis! Discover the delicious story behind one of today's most unique and trending dessert brands. Listen now to get inspired by their incredible journey and see how they're redefining the dessert game.

In our latest episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan sits down with Dave Allee, founder of Almond Surfboards. Almond Surfboards isn’t just a surf shop — they're a custom board shaper, an apparel brand, a surf product collaborator, an eCommerce business, and a community hub all rolled into one. Tune in to hear about their dynamic, multi-faceted approach to serving their customers and creating a unique surf culture experience.

Dive into the latest episode of Retail Intel! Brian Sheehan sits down with Jasmine Chin, managing member of Happy Lemon USA, to discuss the art of serving refreshing, delectable beverages including their famous Cheese Foam Tea. Get ready to uncover industry secrets, brand stories, and inspiring tips.

Join our host Brian Sheehan as he chats with Nicole Tanner, the visionary Founder of Swig, home of the Dirty Soda. Discover how Swig is bubbling up across the country. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation filled with entrepreneurial wisdom and innovative ideas.

In this episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan sits down with Marisa Kochnover, a luminary in franchise development for sugaringLA and the Director of Franchise Development at REP'M Group along with Chadwick Brown, the Senior Project Manager at REP'M Group, as we explore the vibrant world of health and wellness in commercial real estate. SugaringLA is known for its organic sugaring studios and lasting hair removal service and earthly care.

On this episode of Retail Intel, Brian Sheehan is with Amrit and Prabhjot Nijjar, the owners and operators of Tandoori Pizza! They give us the saucy details on their unique Indian-style pizza creations that are guaranteed to make your mouth water! Their slogan, “a little heat, a lot of heart”, truly describes their mission when it comes to their food.

Welcome back to Retail Intel with your host, Brian Sheehan! In this episode, we're joined by Bretley Roche and Jim Jamerson from Segovia Partners, a goal-oriented, dedicated and solutions-based retail brokerage firm that leverages relationships to obtain results.

Retail Intel is back with a new episode led by your host, Brian Sheehan! Squeeze Massage prides itself on easy-to-make appointments and the perfect massage experience. We are joined by Kathrina Reyes, Director of Real Estate and Development, to share insights and forecast trends providing tools to understand and conquer the world of commercial real estate.

Welcome back to Retail Intel with your host, Brian Sheehan! Salon Republic is completely transforming and elevating the studio scene for today’s beauty professionals!✨Founded by Eric Taylor, Salon Republic's community of like-minded independent beauty professionals share their unique talents, creating an environment full of inspiration!

Join host Brian Sheehan with another exclusive episode with The Culinary CMO! Recognizing the need for marketing and exposure expertise from industry insiders, Sri Divel co-founded The Culinary CMO, a company that understands the intricate processes, creativity, communication and relentless effort it takes to open those restaurant doors each day. Through her work, Sri continues to make a significant impact, empowering the culinary industry through leadership, mentorship, and education.

Brian Sheehan is back with another exclusive episode with Perspire Sauna Studio! Their sauna combines the centuries-old healing practice of traditional sauna with the science-backed technology of infrared and red light therapy to optimize health and wellness.

Join Brian Sheehan, Director of National Accounts, as he talks to Jake Radeski, Senior Real Estate Manager from Modern Animal. In this podcast, more about Jake's history and career path as well as how Modern Animal is changing the way pet owners and veterinarians interact. Tune in and discover how Modern Animal is making veterinary care more convenient, affordable, and accessible for everyone.

We're back with an ALL NEW host, Brian Sheehan, Director of National Accounts! Check out our latest episode as he talks to Austin Diemer about all things Kids Empire.

We’re turning up the heat on this episode! Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Senior Vice President of Real Estate, Dannon Shiff, joins us to share the background and exciting future of this hot QSR. The concept was started in 2017 with only $900 and the quest to create perfect hot chicken. Today, the group has successfully opened almost 100 units with many more slated to open soon. Dannon shares his own journey in restaurants and real estate, the unique story behind Dave’s, where the company is today and how Dannon and the Dave’s team plan to grow even more.Dave’s Hot Chicken is on fire! The menu is simple, but watch out, you might have to sign a waiver to dig in. Listen to this spicy episode with Dannon and our host, Ashley Casey, to learn more.

As of July 2022, Phillips Edison (PECO) has been one year Nasdaq-Listed! In celebration, our host Ashley Casey, sits down with CEO and co-founder, Jeff Edison to discuss the past 12 months both at Phillips Edison and in the retail real estate industry. Since being founded in 1991, PECO has grown to be one the one of the nation’s largest owners and operators of omni-channel grocery-anchored neighborhood shopping centers -- and Jeff has the stories to reflect the ever-changing nature of the retail business. Jeff shares everything from his insight on market trends to his favorite iPhone apps! Tune in to the Retail Intel podcast for our chat with Jeff and subscribe to hear more conversations with leaders in commercial real estate and retail.

When you mix sandwiches, celebrities, and a secret sauce – you get a sub shop as all-star as the superstars that endorse it! Ike’s Love & Sandwiches’ fans include celebrities like Grammy-nominated Halsey, Super Bowl winner Marshawn Lynch, and Major League Baseball superstar Barry Bonds – with the selfies next to Ike himself to prove it. Listen as our host Ashley Casey takes a deep dive into Ike’s Love & Sandwiches with their Vice President of Real Estate and Development, Adam Rinella. This sandwich shop has grown from a single store to over 70 locations and growing, and Adam shares the strategy (and personalities) behind that success.

The capital A in Chick-fil-A’s name has a purpose – it means "grade A top quality.” Along with serving quality food, Chick-fil-A has gained a reputation for their outstanding customer service. What better company to hear from during PECO’s annual Customer Service Week? Recorded live from Atlanta, listen as Michael Calloway (Director of Launch Support) shares some nuggets of wisdom with our host, Ashley Casey. Learn about Michael’s dynamic background with Chick-fil-A, his mentality on what defines good customer service, and how pro-active gestures can make all the difference when it comes to showing people that you care.

Clean Juice is a USDA-certified organic juice bar and smoothie brand with over 100 locations open and 55 in development in 28 states. In this episode, Ashley Casey, PECO’s Director of National Accounts, is talking with Clean Juice’s Director of Development, Brennan Kerr. Listen as they discuss the origins of Clean Juice, the importance of transparency in products and operations, and their new brand ambassador (whose name you will recognize!).

They’re called Results for a reason. Recognized as one of the highest quality physical therapy organizations in the nation, Results Physiotherapy currently operates over 170 outpatient clinics. In this episode, we get to know David Bromfield, Vice President of Development. Learn more about the Results story and hear how the company is navigating the dynamic conditions that the pandemic has presented.

Urban Air Adventure Parks is the nation's leading indoor theme park franchise with more than 200 locations. In this episode, we hear how this fast-growing concept is providing a one-of-a-kind experience for thrill seekers of all ages. Listen as Ashley Casey chats with Josh Wall, Chief Franchise Officer for Urban Air, and learn how this innovative brand became the Top Entertainment Franchise of 2020.

HTeaO is taking over the southeast with their freshly brewed tea and family-driven friendly culture. In this episode, join Ashley Casey as she chats with Brad Williamson, Vice President of Real Estate Development for HTeaO, and get to know this Texas-based tea concept. You’ll be craving an iced tea after learning more about their unique flavors… and the secret menu.

Warm milk chocolate chip and chilled sugar cookies are always on the Crumbl menu, along with 120+ specialty flavors that rotate weekly. If you aren’t craving one now, you will be after listening to our newest episode of Retail Intel featuring Britnee Nuehring, VP of Marketing for Crumbl Cookies. Listen as Ashley Casey and Britnee discuss the Crumbl story and learn how it has become the fastest growing gourmet cookie concept in the country.

In our newest episode, we’re getting to know Grant Guidinger, Vice President of Real Estate for WellBiz Brands. WellBiz Brands is the powerhouse behind three well-known concepts: Amazing Lash Studio, Elements Massage, and Fitness Together. Listen as we explore the changing nature of retail real estate, the growth of WellBiz Brands, and what we’re most looking forward to in 2021.

We recently had the good fortune to chat with Kane Lester, Senior Real Estate Manager for Panda Restaurant Group. In this episode, we learn more about Panda’s corporate model, the evolution from mall locations to grocery-anchored centers, how the company has adapted to the current environment, and their continued focus on putting people first.

In this episode, we get to know Ken McAllister, President of MY SALON Suite. Listen as Ashley Casey, Director of National Accounts at Phillips Edison, chats with Ken about his background (spoiler: he had no prior salon experience!), the MY SALON Suite real estate model, what sets them apart in a competitive industry, and how the company creates a safe environment for Members and customers.

Blaze Pizza is fire’d up for expansion. The fast-casual chain was founded in 2011 with the goal to become “the Chipotle of pizza” and was recently named the #1 “Brand of the Year” in the Fast Casual Top 100. In this episode, we’re chatting with Robert Kluger, Senior Vice President of Development. Listen as we learn about the company’s aggressive expansion (with plans to double in size by the end of 2020!), their increased focus on customer convenience, and how this fast-fire’d franchise got started.

In our newest episode, we get to know Mark Thompson, CEO and Founder of GroceryAnchored.com. Mark, the “Grocery Guru,” worked as a broker for 10 years before building the website that he’d always wanted. This site has become a powerful resource in the grocery-anchored sector – providing industry professionals with a one-stop option to view deals on the market, sales comps, and daily news. Learn how it all began, along with Mark’s insights on the current state of retail in the grocery sector, the evolution of grocery delivery, and how grocers are effectively adapting to consumer demands.

Live from the Phillips Edison Annual Meeting – we get to know Don Barnett, Corporate Real Estate Manager at Kroger and seasoned grocery industry expert. Learn about Kroger’s community focus, new developments (including a food hall!), and innovations that have established the company as a major competitor in the grocery industry.

Freshly baked cookies delivered to your doorstep? That’s the foundation behind emerging concept, Tiff’s Treats. With 41 locations, the Austin-based company is bringing their delicious cookies to more and more homes each year. In this episode, we chat with their head of real estate, Mike Harris. Hear how the company was founded (with $20, a cell phone, and a dream!), expansion plans, and what sets them apart in the food industry. Warning: you will crave cookies and milk after listening!

Get to know one of the industry’s fastest-growing brands from Gerardo Flores, Head of Real Estate for Jersey Mike’s Subs. Learn about Gerardo’s rich history in retail real estate deal making, the Jersey Mike’s real estate wheelhouse, and how the company grew from humble beginnings to over 1,300 nationwide locations today.

“We wake up, we live, we eat, we breathe real estate.” In our newest episode of Retail Intel, we’re chatting with a dynamic group of dealmakers – The Palomar Group. The Palomar Group is a commercial real estate firm specializing in investment sales. We’re hearing from Steve Collins, Ryan McArdle, and David Rivers about their perspectives on the current state of retail – and these guys always bring the energy!

You’re probably familiar with Great Clips, but do you know how the company is using technology to differentiate themselves? In this episode we get to know Davis Bennett, Senior Director of Real Estate at Great Clips. We’re learning about their real estate sweet spots, online check-in app, and hearing insights about the current state of retail.

In our newest episode of Retail Intel, we’re talking boutique fitness trends with Richard Feinberg from Xponential Fitness. With five dynamic boutique fitness concepts included under Xponential’s brand, fitness enthusiasts can choose from Pilates, cycle, stretch, dance and rowing. Having all of these concepts included in one company also gives landlords the flexibility to execute on one or two concepts or combine all five in one location. In this episode, learn more about this fast-growing franchise and what makes their brand unique in the world of boutique fitness concepts.

Who let the dogs… in? With over 70 locations, Dogtopia is leading the dog daycare sector and continues to strengthen their stake in the 70 billion dollar pet industry. In this episode, we get to know Jesse Stiles, Vice President of Real Estate at Dogtopia. We’re learning about their real estate “sweet spots”, plans for expansion, and how they “treat every day like it's the most exciting day ever!”

In this episode of Retail Intel, we chat with Jeff Rubino, Vice President of Real Estate for Five Guys. As their third official employee, Jeff has played a large part in the Five Guys franchise explosion - from 8 stores in 2003 to nearly 1,500 today. Hear the Five Guys story, their secrets of success, and the family business mentality that made this company into the fast-growing retailer it is today.

The Domino’s story is all about reinvention and innovation. Join Mike Conway and his team on their visit to the Domino’s Pizza Headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan to learn more about this iconic brand. From “30-minutes-or-less” to “new and inspired”, the Domino’s brand continues to evolve, and serves as a great reminder to retailers the importance of listening to your customers and being willing to change.

Join Mike and the research team at Phillips Edison as they explore hot research trends from a popular Salt Lake City gastropub, the Beerhive. Learn about changing technology, the craft brew explosion, and the internet of things with a couple of industry experts (and overall fun-loving guys!).

In today’s podcast, we get to know Orangetheory Fitness creator and co-founder Ellen Latham, co-founder and CEO Dave Long, and the OTF real estate team. Learn how an entrepreneurial woman with a master’s in exercise physiology turned her vision into one of the hottest personal fitness brands in the world.