
Free Agent with Meg Schmitz
Inspiring conversations with real people who took the leap into business ownership, franchising, and freedom. Hosted by franchise guru, consultant and trusted small business advisor, Meg Schmitz. If you're looking to make the next phase of your life the best phase, this podcast is for you. From corporate refugees and executives tired of the desk job life, to entrepreneurs and investors looking for more support in their business journey, you'll hear from real people who stepped into the unknown, took control of their destiny and became their own boss.
Show episodes

Ep 7:13 Built Not Born: How One Unemployable Veteran Became the CFO of His Own Life
Andy Weins is back- and he's not just talking business, he’s talking freedom. From franchise rookie to author and fractional CFO, Andy’s journey is proof that you don’t have to be “born” for entrepreneurship to master it—you build it, brick by brick, mindset by mindset. If you’ve ever wondered if you have what it takes
Everyone wants to go viral—but what happens next? In this episode, Meg and Thasia Williams unpack the reality behind viral moments, visibility, and the marketing moves that drive revenue. If you're a business owner, franchisee, or sales pro chasing attention, this convo will shift your focus from “likes” to lasting imp

Ep 7:13 Built Not Born: How One Unemployable Veteran Became the CFO of His Own Life
Andy Weins in back- and he's not just talking business, he’s talking freedom. From franchise rookie to author and fractional CFO, Andy’s journey is proof that you don’t have to be “born” for entrepreneurship to master it—you build it, brick by brick, mindset by mindset. If you’ve ever wondered if you have what it takes

Episode 7.12 The Truth About Marketing: Why Playing It Safe Is Killing Your Business
There's more to marketing than digital ads and social media. Meg and Karen Wenning unpack why marketing only works when it's integrated, intentional, and relentless—and how skipping steps like direct mail or brand strategy can stall your entire launch. If you want your franchise to thrive, not just survive, this episod

Ep. 7.11 Startup, Family Biz, or Franchise? The Wild Pivot That Rewrote Dan's Future
Dan Schauer had a family business in his back pocket and startup dreams in his head—but when layoffs hit, he chose a franchise. In this episode, we dig into the real-life pivot that gave him freedom, legacy, and an exit strategy all in one. If you're stuck between building, inheriting, or buying in—this story will shak
Think LinkedIn is just for job seekers? Think again. In this episode, Meg and Angela Dunz unpack why your profile may be silently sabotaging your credibility—and how small shifts can lead to big money moves.