The Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence in the College of Business at the University of Louisville is proud to announce the launch of a new video series, FranchiseU! in the 502, a storytelling-driven project that highlights the people behind the franchise businesses shaping Louisville’s local economy. The series explores the real experiences of franchisees in the 502 area code, offering practical business lessons alongside personal stories of leadership, purpose, and community impact.
The inaugural episode features Maggie Harlow, franchisee of Signarama Downtown and a well-known Louisville entrepreneur and civic leader. Hosted by Dr. Kathy Gosser, the episode goes beyond traditional business interviews to explore Maggie’s life philosophy, entrepreneurial journey, and approach to leadership, both inside and outside her franchise.
In the episode, Maggie shares her guiding belief in being a “student of life,” discusses how she balances business ownership with deep community involvement, and reflects on lessons learned from raising an independent, driven entrepreneur (Jack Harlow) while building her own ventures. Viewers also gain insight into her daily routines, decision-making mindset, and advice for students and aspiring professionals facing big career risks.
FranchiseU! in the 502 is designed to show that franchising is not just about brands, but about local owners running small businesses with big responsibility. Each episode will feature a Louisville-area franchisee, offering viewers an inside look at franchise operations, leadership strategies, and the realities of owning and growing a franchise.
The series is aimed at students, aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone interested in how franchising works at the local level, where national brands meet neighborhood roots.
New episodes of FranchiseU! in the 502 will be released twice a month, continuing to highlight the stories, insights, and business lessons of franchise leaders across Louisville.
