Great Lakes Wire

Michael Rogers recently interviewed Michael Cole from the Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes law firm on the SBAM Weekly Podcast. The firm, recognized as a VIP member of the Small Business Association of Michigan and listed among the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch for 2024, has grown significantly since its inception. From just four lawyers in 2008, it now boasts a team of 40.

Cole elaborated on the firm's wide range of practice areas which include business franchising, labor and employment, municipal law, and water resources. The firm aims to provide comprehensive legal services to small businesses throughout their lifecycle—from formation to sale—highlighting franchising as a viable growth strategy.

"The franchise model takes a lot of work," Cole stated. He emphasized the importance of discussing readiness with clients interested in franchising: "One of the things that we like to have a discussion about during initial meetings with clients who are interested in pursuing the franchise model is whether they are ready to start a franchise business because the business of franchising is necessarily different from the business that they’re currently operating."

The Small Business Association of Michigan's weekly podcast offers insights from experts on entrepreneurial success. Listeners can access tips and advice on becoming more effective small business owners by subscribing via iTunes or visiting SBAM’s Media Hub for past episodes.