Read what franchise owners and small business experts say about Joel Libava.

“When I found myself without a job and looking for something VERY different than I had done in the past, I attended a presentation given by Joel. When I heard Joel’s presentation, he inspired me! I knew I wanted to look at franchises and I had my mind set on a pet related franchise. Joel helped me narrow my choices, and with his coaching and support I proceeded in a methodical way.
Joel was very supportive and provided some practical guidelines. We also purchased his books. They became my road map and the rest is history. We now own Central Bark Doggy Day Care. ”
- Peggy Farrell-Kidd

“We first met Joel after I left the corporate world almost 10 years ago. We knew from the start that Joel was genuinely interested in helping us find an endeavor that would support the lifestyle we were looking for. We liked his process, and he was supportive and very professional, never too pushy. We are very happy with the success of our growing business, and often think back to those early, important discussions with Joel.”
- Margie Toombs, owner of Maid Brigade

“Joel did an excellent job of understanding my business and personal needs which resulted in him matching me up with a great business opportunity. He was very professional and thorough in his approach and takes his business on a very high and professional plane.”
- Mike Burzminski, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Batteries Plus

“Joel did a fantastic job by first taking the time to understand our needs & interests and then using that perspective to give us expert advice. In the vast world of franchise ideas it’s great to have Joel’s expertise as a guide.”
- Patrick McCoy, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Snap Fitness
“When people ask me the million dollar question would you do again, there is NO QUESTION that I would work with Joel Libava again. His advice to think longer term really helped me focus. “
- Dave Brewer, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner, Great Clips
“We attended a seminar on franchising at a local outplacement firm presented by Joel Libava. His introduction to franchising really opened our eyes about all the different avenues available. We launched our business May 1st, and we really want to thank Joel for making this happen.”
- Gerald Krause, owner of PuroClean
Learn How To Work With Joel Libava
Read what these business experts say about Joel Libava’s franchise business expertise;

“I’ve covered the world of franchising for a very long time and it’s rare to meet anyone with as much knowledge of and passion about it as Joel Libava. Joel is beholden to no one, and he’s one of the most honest voices in the industry.
Joel educates and advocates. Who can ask for more than that?”
- Rieva Lesonsky, CEO, President & Founder, GrowBiz Media, Former VP/Editor, Entrepreneur Magazine

“I’ve been working with Joel on blog posts and social media events and the like for a while now. I’ve referred to him often on my own blog and on Twitter because he’s a real expert in the area of franchising, a professional, easy to work with, and reliable. I trust his information on franchising a lot.”
- Tim Berry, President and founder, Palo Alto Software, Inc.

“Joel is the consummate professional and a joy to work with. In reading Joel’s excellent articles that he contributes as an expert on the site, I can tell that he knows what he’s talking about. His counsel is informed, practical and in his clients’ best interests.”
- Anita Campbell, CEO, Small Business Trends LLC

“For several years, Joel Libava has been an outstanding member of my Brain Trust, the largest community of small business experts in the world, representing the franchise industry. His perspectives and insights regarding this critical sector of the small business landscape have been invaluable to me and my audience. Clearly Joel is one of the top thought-leaders in the world of franchising and an important resource for anyone interested this business direction.”
- Jim Blasingame, President, Small Business Network, Inc.
“Joel is a fellow blogger at SBA,Gov, and there are quite simply no limits to the expertise and passion he brings to all things franchise-related. He is collaborative, committed to success and quite simply the best in the business. Oh yes, he wears a crown well too!”
- Caron Beesley, Blogger, SBA.gov
“As a business intermediary for over 15 years assisting business owners to sell their companies and business buyers to acquire companies, I would refer potential franchise buyers to Joel Libava because I knew that they would be assisted honestly, fairly and ethically in their business search. Because of his capabilities and integrity, I have invited Joel to be a guest lecturer on franchising for the entrepreneurial studies program at Ashland University. I confidently recommend that your family and you consider using Joel Libava as a professional advisor in your consideration of a franchise purchase.”
- Read Wakefield, Director, Morgan Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, Ashland University
“Joel is the go-to guy for information about franchising. He always provides reliable and interesting help about franchising and has his pulse on this sector of the economy. He’s also been very generous with his time and assistance to me as a small business owner. I highly recommend Joel.”
- Barbara Weltman, Author, Founder and Owner of Big Ideas for Small Business, Inc.
“I’ve been a fan of Joel’s for years. He’s picked a niche and made himself the undisputed expert. I’d recommend him to anyone looking to start a franchise or wanting to operate one more profitably.”
- Gene Marks, President, The Marks Group PC, Small Business Blogger, New York Times

“Joel tells it like it is. He is transparent, and doesn’t sugar coat the realities of franchise ownership, and the fact that it’s really not for everybody. Also, a social media guy to watch! Joel is always willing to help out!”
- Barry Moltz, Speaker, Author, Consultant,

“Joel is a fist-full of knowledge and energy. I love his style and his book. He’s taught me a thing or two about franchise businesses and he shares that generosity of knowledge with everyone else, too. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Joel speak and of getting to know him a bit on the circuit and I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have in front of the room educating folks about franchise businesses and social media than him.”
- Jason Falls, CEO, Social Media Explorer LLC
“Joel not only knows his stuff — but far more important — he knows how to communicate what he knows to the people he coaches, teaches and works with.
A man with his depth of knowledge is a valuable thing but a man of his character and passion is even rarer. Joel genuinely wants others to be successful and achieve their dreams and if he can help them get there — he will.
If you have the good fortune to work with Joel, you’ll not only learn from his wide range and depth of experience but from his work ethic, his commitment to excellence and his ethical outlook on business and life.”
- Drew McLellan, Top Dog, McLellan Marketing Group
“Not only is Joel a thought leader in the world of franchise and entrepreneurship, he is one of those rare people who practices what he preaches. Always willing to assist his clients and colleagues to achieve their business goals, Joel offers a powerful combination of business prowess and communications strategy that spurs successful business growth and development.”
-Laura Petrolino, Ignite VP
“Joel is candid and honest and will assess which opportunities are a good fit. He’ll also help you figure out if being a franchise owner and waking up every day to the trials and tribulations of a small business owner is something that you should do.”
- Steve Millard, President and Executive Director, COSE
“I met Joel online a year ago and he immediately impressed me with his refreshing approach and impressive knowledge of franchising.
Joel doesn’t just fork out lame general information about becoming a franchisee; he guides you to maximize your strengths when you enter this adventure. I have three words for you, listen to Joel.”
- John Falchetto, Business Coach
“I love Joel’s enthusiasm and his insight to people and business. Love his blogs. He is the real thing and I am blessed to have him as a friend and a business colleague.”
- Nellie Akalp, CEO and Founder CorpNet
“Joel is The Franchise King. I wouldn’t buy a franchise without Joel by my side!”
- John Warrillow, Entrepreneur, Author & Speaker
“When seeking advice and information about investing in a franchise you need someone who is knowledgeable; who is honest and straight with you; and, most importantly, who cares. Joel Libava is a rarity, as he has all of these qualities.”
- Lizette Pirtle, CEO, Abundancia Enterprises
“What I like best about Joel is that he’s not looking to push franchise sales. He’s a superior advocate for prospective franchise buyers, and shows total and fierce dedication to protecting their interests. Any potential buyer can consider him/herself in the best of hands when following his guidance.
Whenever any of my contacts talk about buying or creating a franchise, Joel has always been – and continues to be – my ‘go-to’ guy. IMHO there is no other in his class. He is, and will always be, the indomitable Franchise King.”
- Susie Sharp, Social Zense Media
“I’m recommending Joel Libava because he is one of the smartest people around when it comes to making a franchise work profitably. Joel absolutely knows the business and works his butt off to make sure people are going in the right direction. If I ever run a franchise he’s the first person I’ll be calling for advice.”
- John Sternal, Sternal Consulting
“Joel knows his stuff and manages to be everywhere at the same time. I’m still trying to figure out how that is possible. His work is second-to-none and he is a great guy to know. I highly recommended for everything except maybe becoming a professional athlete.”
- David Garland, President and CEO, The Rise To The Top℠
“If you wanted the right advise on Franchising and making sure that franchise buyers don’t make mistakes in which they’ll lose their money Joel Libava is the best suited person to talk to.He’s a great networker and very likeable. He is also helpful and not at all unselfish and Joel’s a true expert on franchising.”
- Shashi Bellamkonda, Network Solutions
“I’ve had the pleasure of ‘writing’ with Joel Libava as part of the Small Business Trends expert network. I’ve also seen Joel in action as a presenter at a variety of conferences. Joel is extremely knowledgeable about franchising and what it takes to be a successful franchise owner. He has already done the homework and can quickly and easily guide clients through the process.
As a presenter, he is engaging, entertaining and by the time you step out of the room you feel like you’ve really learned something quickly, easily and painlessly.”
- Ivana Taylor, DIY
“I’ve worked with Joel via Small Business Trends, a site focused on the small biz owner, and he is ever-ready with ideas and insights to help fellow biz owners. His approach in sharing information and serving first is also how I know he runs his franchise consulting practice. I have referred several people to him and can rest knowing he is taking good care of them. Extra good care.”
- TJ McCue, Founder, Sales Rescue Team
“Joel is an authority in the world of franchising, and he is a great networker, helping business leaders make valuable connections and build relationships. I am glad to be a part of his circle!”
- Adina Genn, Writer, Author, Editor, Adina Genn Inc.
“Joel has that rare combination of excellent business sense and a genuine passion to help others be successful. I have known him through his franchise business and sound financial advice. Few can equal his extensive knowledge of franchising and small business strategy. Joel is a good family man with a great sense of humor and absolute honesty. In his franchise business Joel takes the time to thoroughly understand his clients unique situation and make honest recommendations. I can recommend Joel without reservation for sound and honest business advice.”
- Vail Brown, CEO and Founder, SkilNet LLC
Before You Buy a Franchise, Talk To Joel Libava!
Not everybody that works with Joel ends up buying a franchise; Joel is 100% comfortable with that.
“Deciding to purchase a franchise is a huge decision and the key to making the right decision is doing the proper research. I tried to do that research on my own and I while I learned a lot, I knew I didn’t have enough information. What’s worse, I didn’t know the right questions to ask.
Joel Libava was invaluable in helping me determine if franchising was right for me. He’s truly an expert in this field. If you are thinking of franchising, don’t do anything until you have talked to Joel.”
-Susan K., Chicago, Illinois
“While performing my due diligence on a franchise I was interested in, I came across Joel’s website, contacted Joel and scheduled one of his franchise advisory sessions. Joel made several suggestions that helped me with my decision making process. I greatly appreciated his wealth of knowledge about franchises and his un-biased views.”
- Larry Nicholson, franchise buyer
People within the franchise industry appreciate Joel’s candor.
“My King is the best in the business at bringing news, opinion, and industry data to the marketplace. Without his diligence we would not have that information from which to make our decisions. He understands the business of franchising, and why it is so successful. Through his work, he institutes a wonderful service and I look forward to his weekly reports for actionable issues and new franchise business intelligence. Look to The Franchise King® for straightforward views of our industry.
- Jerry Wilkerson, Founder, Franchise Recruiters Ltd., and Former President of the International Franchise Association
“Joel is one of the few resources I can rely on to provide fair and accurate assessments of what is REALLY going on in franchising. My work with established and new brands sometimes requires that I spend extended periods of time in emerging markets and Joel’s Franchise King Blog provides me with valuable information on current topics, keeping me up-to-date on franchise development issues here at home. His tell-it-like-it-is approach is tempered with a sense of humor which makes for a good read. Keep up the good work!”
- Kathleen McDonald, International Franchise Development Consultant
“Joel is one of the biggest innovators in the franchising world. He a rare thing: an independent, authoritative and resourceful voice on the industry. He’s a good friend to anyone trying to figure out whether or not to invest in a franchise.”
- Donald Cranford, Editor, Franchise Direct
“Joel is one of the best in the franchise business. He is a trusted advisor, knows his industry well and is a great resource for those interested in learning about or pursuing franchise ownership. I highly recommend his services.”
- Todd Weiss, CFA, President of Sunshine Consulting Ltd, Franchise Brokerage & Consulting
“Joel is a straight shooter and definitely one of the good guys in franchising. His enthusiasm and energy are matched only by his experience and understanding of franchising. He’s conscientious and dedicated to helping individuals navigate the difficult waters of franchising to reach their goals of business ownership.”
- Sean Kelly, Owner, IdeaFarm
“Joel is EXTREMELY knowledgeable and very good at what he does. He has been in this business for years (and experience in this business matters a great deal) and has a great approach to working with clients. He has definite opinions…which are very helpful because his opinions are founded on years of research, experience, and really seeing the ins and outs of the industry.”
- Adrienne Leigh, Business and Franchise Broker
“Joel is a very creative and techno-savvy individual that serves his clients with excitement and enthusiasm. He is an expert on social media particularly as it relates to the franchise industry. I would highly recommend Joel to both franchisors and potential franchisees.”
- Anne Barr, CFE, Franchise Consultant
“Joel was instrumental with our entrance into social media for franchise development. The blog continues to help improve our SEO rankings and the content is always timely and informative. I would recommend Joel Libava for your social media content/marketing needs.”
- James Young, President, Spring-Green Lawn Care Franchise
Intelligent franchise buyers use attorneys that are familiar with business and franchising. A few of them are quite familiar with Joel Libava.

“In the franchising industry, it’s sometimes tough to know who you can trust. Joel Libava is one of the good guys. He has his clients’ best interests at heart and his passion, experience and honesty is invaluable for anyone interested in pursuing a franchise. I look to Joel as one of the true experts in the franchise industry.”
- Rush Nigut, Attorney / Shareholder, Brick Gentry, P.C.
“Joel literally wrote the book on becoming a franchise owner. He is very knowledgeable (and very forthcoming) about the ins and outs of buying into a franchise system. I recommend Joel for concrete advice on evaluating the business end of franchise opportunities.”
- Jeffrey Fabian, Attorney, Fabian, LLC
“Joel is very conscientious, professional, knowledgeable and thorough.”
- Jack Kurant, Wachter Kurant
“I have known Joel for a number of years both personally and professionally. Joel is not only extremely knowledgeable about business and franchises, but he’s a person of the highest integrity. I recommend Joel regularly and enthusiastically.”
- Jeff Nischwitz-Attorney/Entrepreneur
Career transition professionals need ethical referral partners. Like Joel Libava.
“Joel Libava is high energy, knows his stuff, and is easy to work with. I send all my retiree coaching clients who want to consider franchising directly to Joel. I highly recommend him!
- Dick Dawson, Career Curve
“Joel is a good friend and has been an excellent provider of franchise advisory services to a number of people that I know. He is extremely knowledgeable of the market and very honest and trustworthy. I highly recommend Joel and would be very comfortable using him personally.”
- Rick Taylor, Ratliff And Taylor Outplacement
“Joel is an expert in helping people explores franchise opportunities. He understands the process, and provides direction in the due diligence process.
I highly recommend working with Joel in the exploration of franchise opportunities.”
- Nada Norval, Sr. Vice President, Ratliff & Taylor Outplacement
“There are many people in the franchise business who claim to be experts in the field. Unfortunately many of them lack both knowledge and integrity.
Joel is, without question, one of the most qualified and principled people I know, in or out of his industry.”
- Greg Reynolds, Director of Client Development, Dise & Company
Click Here to Contact Joel!
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