In this enlightening episode of the Emerging Franchise Brands Podcast, we sit down with Rob Flanagan, CEO and cultural co-founder of Houndstown USA. Rob’s passion for franchising and his dedication to helping franchisees achieve their dreams of freedom are at the heart of this conversation.
Houndstown USA, known for its innovative approach to dog daycare, traces its roots back to founder Michael Gould, a former member of the New York City canine unit. Rob shares the brand’s journey from its inception to its exponential growth, emphasizing the importance of preserving the core values and mission while scaling operations.
Rob’s franchising career began serendipitously and has been driven by his ability to balance the magic of founder-led innovation with the necessity of robust systems. He discusses key lessons for emerging brands, such as understanding the delicate balance between differentiation and brand identity, and the importance of hiring strategically to support growth.
For aspiring franchisees, Rob offers invaluable advice on what to look for in a franchise, emphasizing transparency, support systems, and alignment with personal values. He highlights the transformative journey that owning a franchise entails—not just as a business venture, but as an opportunity for personal growth.
Rob’s stories, from navigating early career missteps to forging lasting relationships in franchising, underscore his belief in the power of partnerships and the importance of honoring the human element in business. Whether you’re an emerging franchisor, a prospective franchisee, or simply interested in the dynamics of franchising, this episode offers a wealth of insights.
March 3, 2025
