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Franchise Growth Advisor Alex Yeater on Successful Franchising and Business Ownership

Alex Yeater shares his path from 3 Verizon stores to 32, selling the business, and now leading everbowl's growth across 13 states.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I sat down with Alex Yeater, a business growth advisor with over 20 years of experience in franchising, business ownership, and mergers and acquisitions.

Alex shares his journey from teaching and working at Cracker Barrel to scaling a Verizon dealership from 3 to 32 stores and eventually selling it.

Our conversation covers Alex's current ventures, including leading development for everbowl in 13 states and co-founding Bowls & Business, a rapidly growing entrepreneurial community in Indiana.

Alex also touches on the challenges and benefits of franchising, finding creative financing solutions, and the importance of community and people-first culture in business.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast

You are going to learn about:

  • Alex Yeater’s Journey in Franchising and Business Ownership

  • The Challenges and Benefits of Franchising

Check out these great clips from the show:
00:50 Guest Introduction: Alex Yeater, Business Growth Advisor
02:01 Alex’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
04:26 Transition to Wireless Industry
05:46 Building and Expanding Verizon Stores
07:24 Challenges and Strategies in Business Growth
16:16 Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
19:16 Decision to Sell the Business
23:05 Entering the Franchise World with everbowl
28:42 Franchising Insights and Strategies
36:01 Identifying Key Demographics for Franchise Success
36:34 Becoming an Expert Franchise Operator
37:02 Pros and Cons of Opening a Franchise vs. Independent Business
38:36 The Concept of Dirty Soda and Its Popularity
39:36 Supporting Local Businesses Through Franchises
39:54 Qualities of Successful Franchise Operators
42:19 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in the Family
46:41 The Dream of a Family Entertainment Center
48:52 Bowls & Business: Building a Supportive Community
51:04 Challenges and Advice for Small Business Owners
55:33 The Importance of Serving Others in Business
01:08:16 Hidden Gems and Future Business Concepts in Indiana
01:09:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Entrepreneurs

Guest(s)

Alex Yeater

Date Published

January 9, 2026

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.