Tyler Altenhofen

Chief Growth Officer and Co-Founder

I’m Tyler Altenhofen, Chief Growth Officer and Co-Founder of Franchise Sidekick. I’ve been an entrepreneur for the majority of my life. I started my first business at 14 and have been involved in several businesses over the last 20 years. I’ve owned restaurants, I’ve been a multi-unit franchisee, and have also been a part of several direct-to-consumer and ecommerce brands. I currently lead a team of extremely passionate and franchise-obsessed individuals whose singular focus is reducing our clients' risk when buying a franchise.

Anthony Hudson

Senior Franchise Advisor

I'm Anthony Hudson, Senior Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. I have spent 20+ years as a fitness professional, 18 years in franchising, and 10 years in banking. I have owned 6 different businesses with 4 of them being franchises. My wife and I just this year purchased a Pest Control franchise here in Omaha and plan to continue on adding to our portfolio of franchise brands while continuing to help my clients live life on their terms through franchise ownership.

Mike Silverman

Senior Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Mike Silverman. I'm a Senior Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. Before Sidekick, I was a multi-unit franchisee for 8 years. During that time I was a member of the franchise leadership committee to represent fellow franchisees in working with the franchisor. Later on, I consulted for a large national franchise chain to rebuild their franchisee training and operations. That's where I fell in love with coaching business owners and have continued to run my consulting company and independent businesses while helping clients find their next step in business ownership at Franchise Sidekick.

Ross Robertson

Senior Franchise Advisor

Hello, I'm Ross Robertson, Senior Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. Before joining the team, I dedicated 20 years to selling, leading, and developing teams in the healthcare industry. I spent nearly 13 years with a Fortune 500 company focused on medical and pharmaceutical wholesale distribution, where I held various roles, including "National Director of Learning Services" and "Regional Sales Director." I was honored multiple times as "Director of the Year" during my tenure. In 2010, my wife and I established Robertson Entertainment, which offered interactive sports simulation entertainment to our community through the rental and sale of TruGolf simulator technology. Additionally, in 2022, we opened Bloomin Blinds of Mid-Missouri, further expanding our entrepreneurial ventures.

Bobbi Conwell

Franchise Specialist

I'm Bobbi Conwell, Franchise Specialist at Franchise Sidekick! I bring over 24 years of progressive experience in Customer Service, Franchise Development, Training and Development, Sales, Marketing and IT Technical Support. I am currently working towards a degree in Business Marketing.

Demetrius Moring

Franchise Specialist

I'm Demetrius Moring, Franchise Specialist at Franchise Sidekick! I have experience as an independent insurance owner for 3 years, an independent franchise business advisor for 3 years, and was in franchise development and marketing for the last 10 years.

Todd Sutter

Vice President of Technology

Hi, I'm Todd Sutter and I'm the Director of Technology here at Franchise Sidekick. I was previously a Software Engineer to Project Manager to CTO over 8 years in startups, and meanwhile developed web and mobile applications on the side each year.

Michael Judkins

Chief Operating Officer

Hey there, I'm Michael Judkins, Chief Operating Officer at Franchise Sidekick. I'm all about making magic happen behind the scenes. My journey? Well, let's just say it's been one wild ride! With over a decade in the franchise world, I've worn many hats – from mastering franchise and people operations to rocking the multi-unit franchisee scene and even owning my own marketing agency. But what really gets me going? Helping aspiring entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. There's nothing quite like seeing the impact a successful business can have on its owners, their communities, and beyond.

Curt Anthony

Franchise Advisor

Hey there, I'm Curt, Franchise Advisor here at Sidekick. Prior to joining the team, my wife and I jumped into the franchise world in 2011 and purchased an Express Employment franchise. We moved our family from Las Vegas to Omaha for this new opportunity. We opened a second Express location in 2013 and eventually sold the business in 2019. We then purchased a Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa franchise and opened for business in late 2019. We currently own two Hand and Stone locations in Omaha. Now as a Franchise Advisor, I'm excited to help people throughout their own franchising journey.

Ryan Zink

Founder & CEO

Hi, I’m Ryan, Founder and CEO of Franchise Sidekick. I have 20+ years of franchise experience and my companies have awarded over 10,000 franchise locations. I’ve been a franchisee 20+ times, co-founded Complete Nutrition, a 200-unit franchisor, co-founded Franchise FastLane, the largest franchise sales company in the US, and am now focusing on my new entrepreneurial adventure, Franchise Sidekick.

Megan Stanek

Senior Franchise Specialist

I'm Megan Stanek, Senior Franchise Specialist at Franchise Sidekick! I bring over 14 years of progressive experience in the Franchising world, Consulting, Planning, and Communications, including 13 years of owning my own consulting business.

Timmy Vogel

Video Production Manager

Hi, I'm Timmy Vogel, the Video Production Manager here at Franchise Sidekick. I’m passionate about telling amazing stories through the use of video, motion graphics, and sound design. I started my career in video filming weddings, where I learned the importance of storytelling. I look forward to all the projects we will work on to help share the impact of franchise ownership.

Mike Flowers

Franchise Advisor

Hey there, I'm Mike Flowers, Franchise Advisor here at Franchise Sidekick. Prior to joining the Sidekick team, I spent 10 years as a top performer with a Fortune 500 sales organization where I worked to develop our field sales team as both a Trainer and a Mentor. I have also spent time on the corporate side of franchising, training and developing new franchise owners, and helping them get started on their journey as business owners. Now, as both a current Franchise Owner and Franchise Advisor, I am passionate about helping others find a way to live life on their terms.

Desiré Stephens

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Desiré Stephens. I'm a Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. I am a multi-unit franchisee owner and an independent business owner. Before franchising, I worked on the franchisor side in fitness managing multiple locations in Los Angeles. I have always been around business owners and in franchising developing and learning alongside my franchisee partners. I like to say I am a serial entrepreneur at heart. I owned my first vending machine at age 10 and haven't stopped working for myself since. I thrive in working with clients that are ready to live life on their own terms and want nothing but the best for themselves and their families. I have continued to run my franchise and independent businesses while helping clients find their next step in business ownership at Franchise Sidekick.

Colvin Akers

Franchise Advisor

Hello, I'm Colvin Akers. I'm a Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. My Franchise journey began in 2019 with a little-known brand called Crumbl Cookies. I started with Crumbl as their first Franchise Sales and Development representative. At the time, we had less than 15 employees, no defined sales or development process, and a little over 20 locations open and operating. Somewhat meager beginnings, but I was determined to contribute and make a lasting impact on the brand. Fast forward to 2021 when Crumbl was recognized as the fastest-growing franchise in the nation. In a little over two years I had the privilege of awarding over 250 franchise licenses while helping shape and define their sales and development process. My love for franchising took flight, and in 2021 I became a Crumbl Franchisee myself. Along with my brother and the help of a couple of amazing business partners, my dreams of business ownership became a reality. As a Sidekick Advisor, I'm able to share my experience with clients, guide them along their business ownership journey, and help them Live Life on their Own Terms.

Ed Johnson

Paid Traffic Specialist

Hi, my name is Ed Johnson, the Paid Traffic Specialist at Franchise Sidekick. I've been a Digital Marketer for over 15 years representing clients in the Entertainment, Education, and Insurance industries. I have been an entrepreneur since I was 21 years old and currently own 2 businesses. My passion is teaching others about entrepreneurship, especially in areas where many aren't afforded the opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

Travis Miller

Director of Partner Relations

I'm Travis Miller, Director of Partner Relations at Franchise Sidekick. I have been in Franchising for over 12 years and have been on all sides of franchising. I began my franchise career as the Director of Sales & Operations with a multi-unit franchise owner in the Health & Wellness space. We opened and operated 68 locations across the country over a 5-year period. I departed to become a multi-unit franchise owner and operated 8 locations for around 6 years, but eventually become an absentee owner. During that time, I joined a start-up Portfolio Franchisor Company in Home Services as the VP of Sales & Operations. Eventually, I became the Brand President of one Brand within that portfolio. My wife and I own and operate a photography business and multiple short-term rentals. Entrepreneurship and helping people have always been my passion and is eventually what landed me at Franchise Sidekick. Franchise and business ownership has changed my life and I joined Franchise Sidekick to help others do the same!

Jason Rutledge

Senior Franchise Advisor

With over 22 years of experience in franchising and business development, I am passionate about helping individuals like you become successful franchisees. Having owned and managed multiple multi-unit franchises, with over 120 doors, I fully understand the challenges and rewards of the franchise journey. My entrepreneurial roots began at 16 with a music education business, and I’ve spent my career helping others navigate the franchise landscape and build thriving businesses. I specialize in guiding new franchisees through every step of the process—from selecting the right franchise opportunity to reducing your risk. Whether you’re new to business ownership, an experienced empire builder, or part of a private equity group, I’m here to provide the expertise and support you need to achieve long-term success and reach your financial goals. Let’s turn your franchise dreams into reality and find the right opportunity so you can live life on your own terms.

Christian Dadulak

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I’m Christian Dadulak, Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. I have a strong passion for all things business, and it has been a guiding force throughout my career. Prior to my work in franchising, I built a book of business as a financial advisor, where I helped individuals, small businesses, and their employees. Eventually, I transitioned into selling a licensing opportunity, and after witnessing the success of the numerous people I awarded across the country, my family and I decided to open our own location in our local market in March 2020. In September 2020, I decided to start my own franchise consulting business, where I quickly became a top consultant, while also managing the back-end operations of our family business. I have been lucky enough to discuss franchising on Brad Lea's top business podcast "Dropping Bombs," and I co-host my own podcast, the "I Fired My Boss Franchise Podcast." Entrepreneur Magazine recognized our podcast as a top industry podcast in 2022. Today, I am continuing to pursue my passion by sharing my experience with my clients and helping them live life on their own terms through franchising.

Alexis Reed

Lifecycle Marketing Specialist

Hi, I’m Alexis Reed, Lifecycle Marketing Specialist at Franchise Sidekick. I help shape the customer journey by making sure every touchpoint feels clear, intentional, and easy to navigate. My goal is to create marketing that not only drives results but also builds lasting relationships. I’m excited to bring that approach to the franchising space and support entrepreneurs as they pursue their goals.

Arianna Rocco

Franchise Specialist

I'm Arianna Rocco, Franchise Specialist at Franchise Sidekick. I have over 15 years of Customer Service, Sales, and Marketing experience, as well as owning and operating my own business for over two years. I love helping others chase their daydream and I am here to make sure they succeed!

Madison Rimmer

Events Manager

I'm Madison Rimmer, Events Manager at Franchise Sidekick. Before joining Team Sidekick, I have been in the Events and Marketing industry since graduating with my BA in 2019 and have continually been inspired by the value that lies in human connection. Most recently I was an Event Coordinator at the CHI Health Convention Center and Arena where I had hands on experience with corporate conferences and events including the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting. While I am new to the Franchising Industry, I am passionate about helping others find a way to live life on their own terms and I understand how crucial our events will be in that process. In the words of Sally Hogshead, "I wholeheartedly believe that the lively exchange of ideas and solutions matters deeply in a world of sometimes overwhelming change and disconnection." Today I am continuing to pursue my creative passion for events by producing captivating and engaging experiences for Franchise Sidekick!

Erin Nelson

Operations Coordinator & Office Manager

Hey there! I’m Erin Nelson, Operations Coordinator & Office Manager at Franchise Sidekick, where I bring over 15 years of experience in guest services, administration, and event planning & coordinating. My passion lies in helping people succeed, whether by coming alongside them in business, creating and executing memorable events, or cheering them on as they discover how they can break out of their 9 to 5 to pursue a life on their own terms! On the entrepreneurial side, my husband and I owned and operated a kettle corn business for 8 years, where we enjoyed creating gourmet kettle corn for private and community events, as well as crafting customized gifts.

Avery Miller

Software Engineer

Hi, I’m Avery, a Software Engineer at Franchise Sidekick. Since 2017, I’ve gained professional experience ranging from designing advanced robotics to developing powerful websites. I specialize in building platforms that integrate software with various teams, and I help design the technology at Franchise Sidekick.

Tim Washburn

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Tim Washburn. I'm a Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. Before beginning here, I was a multi-unit franchisee for 10 years. During my time of being a franchise owner, I had the opportunity to be involved with leadership committees and to help offer assistance to other franchisees. I’ve also been privileged to work with business owners as a consultant. That, along with my years of business ownership and corporate leadership, is what inspired me to want to help future entrepreneurs to live life on their terms. Now, I get the chance to do that by working for Franchise Sidekick, with a mission to help reduce risk when buying a franchise and assisting others to achieve their goals.

Adam Benshoof

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Adam, Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. My journey in the franchise world began over 15 years ago when I joined a struggling print franchise, as an Operational Partner. By diligently implementing the franchisor’s systems, we were able to turn the business around and achieve profitability in less than a year. That experience turned into a passion of wanting to guide others into making the right decisions when purchasing a franchise and avoid early mistakes, such as my partner. With over a decade of experience leading brand development for a diverse range of franchisors—from emerging startups to established legacy brands—I'm able to leverage my background to help others live life on their own terms.

Suzanne Diefenbaugh

Graphic Designer

Hi, I'm Suzanne Diefenbaugh, the graphic designer here at Franchise Sidekick. I've worked in the graphic design field for over 14 years at local Omaha companies like Midtown Crossing, Omaha Performing Arts and most recently, Thrasher Foundation Repair. I enjoy the challenge of creating unique designs that grab attention and lead clients on a visual journey and I am excited to bring my talents to the Franchise Sidekick brand. I am new to the franchising industry, but I wholeheartedly believe in living life on your own terms and I am excited to be a part of helping others achieve that dream.

Leah Ratnofsky

Franchise Specialist

Hi, I'm Leah Ratnofsky, a Franchise Specialist here at Franchise Sidekick. My career has been all about making matches. I spent over 15 years as a successful agency and corporate recruiter and most recently worked as a Realtor on a top-producing team.

Steve Calascione

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Steven Calascione, a Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. Before Sidekick, I built and sold a successful property management business, worked in sales and marketing for over a decade, and ran multiple businesses, including construction and real estate development. As a franchise owner and consultant, I've been on both sides of the franchise world, giving me firsthand insight into what makes a franchise truly scalable and successful. I love helping entrepreneurs find the right business opportunity that aligns with their goals, and I bring a strategic, service-based approach to every conversation. When I’m not working, you’ll find me traveling, hiking, or chasing after my two toddlers.

Josh Booth

IT & QA Specialist

Hi, I'm Josh Booth and I'm Sidekick Franchise's IT & QA Specialist. I recently graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha with a degree in Management Information Systems, and I previously worked as a manager. I'm bringing my systems development knowledge and communication skills to Sidekick.

Amy Abraham

Franchise Advisor

I spent the first 20 years of my career in the corporate world of Financial Services, primarily in sales and sales leadership roles. I had the privilege of helping individuals and non-profit organizations create retirement investment strategies, and later to help Financial Advisors set up independent businesses. When my kids were little I made a major career change to be able to spend more time at home and moved into the world of Boutique Fitness where my focus shifted to helping people with their health and wellness goals. Over the past 10 years, I have started a studio from the ground up, led sales for a company that acquired 3 boutique fitness software brands, and currently am a multi-unit franchisee. I am so excited to be a Sidekick and help others find their path to living life on their own terms.

Garrett Sloup

Software Developer

Hey, I'm Garrett. I've been a professional developer since 2021, but have been making software for fun for well over a decade. I love building everything and anything involving software, hardware, carpentry, and automotive. I have experience running multiple companies on the side, which is why Franchise Sidekick appeals to me. The opportunity to forge my own path in different sectors of my life is both challenging and very rewarding, and I love watching people take the plunge and run their own business!

Amy Roberts

Vice President of Strategic Initiatives

Ben Wimer

Partnership Support Specialist

Hi, I'm Ben, a Partnership Support Specialist at Sidekick. I was introduced to franchising early on through my family’s business, which sparked a genuine and lasting interest in the industry. My own journey began two years ago as a Market Sales Intern and later as a Sales Intern Coach for a franchisor, where I gained valuable experience supporting franchisees and learning the operational and sales aspects of franchise development.

Michael Scheerer

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I’m Michael Scheerer, a Franchise Advisor with Franchise Sidekick. With a strong foundation in both the corporate world and as an entrepreneur, I’ve worked to develop a diverse skill set in business and franchise evaluation & development, business optimization, and client advisory. For most of my career, I've worked with many fortune 100 & 500 clients on optimizing their processes & minimizing their risk. I also founded Baseck Training, a fitness studio concept focused on helping people improve their health for good. Our mission is to simplify making health a sustainable part of your lifestyle, while giving back to a greater good—donating on your behalf to select charities based on your efforts, all at a fraction of the cost of alternatives. As we prepare for continued growth, we’ve built the essential franchise elements needed to scale and leverage the power of franchising. Additionally, I spent 10 years as a partner in a franchise coaching group, where I helped evaluate franchise businesses, create financial models, optimize lead generation, and develop marketing automation to drive scalable growth. Now, at Franchise Sidekick, I’m leveraging this unique blend of experience to help entrepreneurs find the right franchise opportunities for themselves. Whether they’re looking to expand their portfolio, transition from corporate life, or start a side business, I guide them in minimizing risk and identifying scalable, high-potential franchises that align with their goals. What excites me most is helping people find a career that brings not just financial success, but also freedom, purpose, and the ability to make a meaningful impact.

Courtney Mattern

Vice President of Marketing

Courtney Mattern is the Vice President of Marketing at Franchise Sidekick, where she leads strategic marketing initiatives to elevate the brand and expand its market presence. As a small business owner, Courtney brings a hands-on understanding of entrepreneurship and marketing to her leadership approach. With extensive experience in both tech and nonprofit marketing, she has developed expertise in brand development, creative leadership and integrated communications. Courtney holds a master’s degree in integrated media communications from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is a part-time lecturer at the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, where she shares her knowledge and insights with the next generation of marketers.

Haley Jacobson

Social & Community Manager

Hi, I'm Haley Jacobson, the Social & Community Manager at Franchise Sidekick. I'm passionate about branding, engagement and building community. My marketing experience started with an internship at a nonprofit while I pursued a degree in Advertising & Public Relations from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Reagan Clemensen

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Reagan Clemensen, a Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. Before joining the team, I spent 11 years leading franchise development at a wellness and nutrition company. My journey in business and entrepreneurship began more than 20 years ago, and over the years, I've owned and sold businesses, helped others launch ventures, and worked closely with leaders across the franchise space. My passion for franchising grew as I guided individuals through evaluating opportunities and helped lead growth at the brand level. Today, I use that experience to help aspiring business owners find franchise opportunities that align with their goals and interests. I’m committed to bringing honesty and integrity to every conversation—while helping clients navigate the process with confidence and minimize risk along the way. Outside of work, I enjoy time with my wife and our four kids. Whether it’s coaching youth sports, boating at the lake, golfing, or traveling together, we love being outside.

Augustus Svikhart

HubSpot Systems Specialist

Hey there, I am Augustus (Gus) Svikhart, HubSpot Systems Specialist for Franchise Sidekick. My professional journey has taken me from teaching swim lessons, to tech support, and now to systems. Regardless of what I am teaching or doing my goal is always to focus on the customer.

Scott Harrick

Franchise Advisor

Whether negotiating leases, creating targeted marketing campaigns, or mentoring business owners, I am motivated by a desire to help businesses and people thrive and achieve their full potential. What sets me apart is an entrepreneurial mindset and commitment to excellence with over 25 years of experience in business development, franchise operations, and strategic leadership. In my current role as CFO of KBIZ, Inc., I have successfully helped grow the Stretch Zone Kansas City market from inception to six locations in just four years. This achievement earned us the 2022 Franchisee of the Year Award and a seat on the Franchise Advisory Council. A strategic approach to lease negotiations, marketing initiatives, and recruiting has been pivotal in establishing a thriving multi-unit franchise operation. Additionally, I have a proven track record of successfully acquiring and selling franchise units in competitive markets such as Florida and Texas. Previously, as the President and CEO of P16-9, Inc. dba Smoothie King, we expanded operations from zero to four units within two years through acquisitions and new unit development. This role honed my expertise in client acquisition, expense management, and marketing strategies, resulting in consistent recognition, including the prestigious Kings Club Award for all four years it was available. Beyond my franchise experience, I have held key roles at Allstate Insurance Company and Brooke Franchise Corporation, where I was able to develop exceptional skills in recruiting, training, and developing new business owners.

Donna Danenhauer

Controller

Hello, I'm Donna Danenhauer, Controller at Franchise Sidekick. I am a dedicated, results-driven and detail oriented management professional (CPA) with extensive experience in audit, accounting, and financial management.

Luke Schulte

Franchise Advisor

Luke has spent the last 12 years helping people get into a variety of different franchises, primarily in the service sector of franchising. He has an affinity for businesses that are not so glamorous on the surface but can help change peoples lives.

Nick Trolian

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I’m Nick Trolian, Franchise Advisor at Franchise Sidekick. My career has been dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and franchise owners achieve success. I’ve worked with both national brands and boutique concepts, supporting the growth of hundreds of franchise locations by guiding people through every stage of the franchise journey—whether it’s exploring ownership, opening new locations, or scaling to greater profitability. I started in fitness franchising and quickly discovered my passion for the industry and the unique opportunities it creates for people to build businesses of their own. Since then, I’ve led franchise development pipelines, overseen sales and operations teams, and partnered directly with franchisees to drive meaningful results. I’ve also played a key role in expanding brand portfolios, helping integrate and grow new concepts within established franchise systems. What motivates me most is seeing people achieve their goals. I take pride in not just connecting people with the right opportunities, but also ensuring franchise owners have the tools, support, and strategies to thrive long after their doors open.

Ben Burnap

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I'm Ben, a Franchisee and Franchise Advisor here at Franchise Sidekicks. My career began in the fitness industry as a top personal trainer at Equinox in Boston before moving into medical sales, selling orthopedic trauma equipment to surgeons in San Diego. After years of real estate investing and multiple property deals, I went all in on franchising in 2024. I’m extremely passionate about the franchise industry and I love guiding people along the process of finding their perfect fit. Outside of work, I enjoy golf, tennis, pickleball, and spending time with family and friends.

Chelsea Cole

Content Strategist

I have over 11 years of experience in marketing, I bring a strong mix of creativity, strategic thinking and versatility to every role. Before joining Sidekick, I spent five years as a copywriter and content strategist for a construction tech company, where I developed a wide range of content — from blog posts and case studies to email campaigns and product copy — that engaged customers and highlighted the value of the software. I also led content efforts for a construction group purchasing company, supporting major partnerships with brands like Lowe’s and Kohler. I’m known for being a collaborative team player with a strong work ethic and a passion for impactful storytelling.

Chris Tate

Franchise Advisor

Hi, I’m Chris Tate. I’ve spent over 20 years in the fitness and franchise world, helping launch and scale Orangetheory Fitness studios and advising franchise owners as a consultant and partner. After two decades of building brands from the ground up, I transitioned into tech with Canva, where I worked with global enterprises to elevate their design and communication strategies. Today, I combine my background in franchising, consulting, and creative tech to help businesses grow with strategy, storytelling, and simplicity.

Junfeng Ou

Software Developer

Hi! I'm Jun. A software developer who enjoys creating things that live on the internet. Throughout my career, I have worked in various different industries with different technology stacks. I enjoy creating UI components, and tinker with server side business logics.