Episode 65: Selling Well and an 80 Location Cookie Franchise with Bennett Maxwell
Synopsis
Episode 65. In this Lifetime at Work podcast episode, Greg Martin interviews Bennett Maxwell, the founder and chairman of Dirty Dough, a booming gourmet cookie franchise.
Bennett recounts his transformative journey from being a Mormon missionary in Mexico to excelling in door-to-door solar energy sales, eventually leading to the creation and rapid expansion of Dirty Dough.
Listeners will gain insights into Bennett’s philosophies on living well, financial success, brand creation, and the profound impact of effective sales techniques. The discussion delves into the challenges and triumphs of building a scalable business in the food industry, raising substantial capital, and working with seasoned industry leaders.
It highlights Bennett's strategic approaches to franchising, the importance of organizational structure, and the emotional and financial ramifications of success. The episode also provides practical advice on connecting with advisors and emphasizes the pursuit of joy and fulfillment in business and life, over merely chasing financial goals.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:54 Bennett Maxwell's Early Life and Career Beginnings
01:27 The Journey into Door-to-Door Sales
03:26 Transition to the Solar Business
07:38 Investing in Dirty Dough
10:59 Challenges and Innovations in the Cookie Business
12:36 Franchising and Business Growth
16:50 Marketing Strategies and Owner Involvement
18:25 Doubts and Financial Challenges
21:44 Raising Capital and Leadership Changes
23:08 Equity Deal and Acquisition
25:12 Reflections on Money and Success
26:57 The Illusion of Financial Goals
32:58 Building a National Brand
42:14 The Importance of Advisors
46:32 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Background and Key Links
Started his career as a Missionary, pivoting that into a door to door sales jobs early in his career
Co-founded solar business Switch to Solar (since sold)
Chairman of Dirty Dough, cookie franchise
Find Bennett on all various platforms, linktree here or visit his personal website