3 Lessons In Leadership For Women In Franchising

Forbes

18-07-2025

Gigi Schweikert, CEO at Lightbridge Academy.
I never imagined that my time in a toddler classroom would be the foundation for a future in the franchise world, let alone as a CEO. But the lessons I learned while guiding young children in patience, adaptability and clear communication turned out to be the very skills I needed to lead a growing brand.
As women in franchising and entrepreneurship, we often underestimate how transferable our experiences are, especially those rooted in traditionally nurturing or service-based roles. My journey from early childhood educator to C-suite executive taught me that leadership isn't about fitting into a mold; it's about owning your voice, your values and your vision. Here are some key lessons that helped me grow, from the classroom to the executive level:
Confidence comes from competence and courage.
Confidence doesn't require perfection; it requires progress. In franchising and entrepreneurship, many women hold back, thinking they need to be fully prepared before taking the leap. But real confidence grows as you build competence, and it is courage that keeps you going when things feel uncertain. Whether it's learning financials, understanding operations or leading a team, every new skill gained strengthens your leadership foundation.
Mistakes aren't failures; they're lessons that sharpen your instincts and strengthen your decision making. Mentorship, continuous learning and asking questions without hesitation are powerful tools for growth. Leadership rewards those who are willing to move forward while still learning. Build confidence by investing in your development and trusting that experience will bring clarity and growth.
Your values are your brand.
In franchising, consistency is everything, but consistency starts with alignment on core values. Your core values should guide not only how you lead but also how your brand shows up across every location and interaction. Whether you're onboarding a new franchisee, supporting a team member or welcoming a family through your doors, your values shape the experience. They influence how decisions are made, how challenges are handled and how culture is maintained as your business grows.
I've worked with many entrepreneurs who entered franchising because the business aligned closely with their personal values. When those values remain at the core of how you lead and make decisions, both your professional success and personal fulfillment tend to flourish in tandem. When values are clear, they become a compass for your brand and a standard others can rally around. Take time to clearly define your core values and keep them simple and easy for others to understand.
Elevate others to build the best teams.
Leadership is about more than reaching your goals; it's about creating space for others to rise alongside you. In franchising and entrepreneurship, women are still underrepresented in executive roles, which makes it even more important to actively lift each other up. Fostering a culture where women feel supported, seen and empowered creates a ripple effect that strengthens teams and businesses alike. That can start with something as simple as mentorship, sponsorship or offering a seat at the table to someone with potential.
Finding a mentor, whether it's another franchisee, a seasoned business owner or someone on your franchisor's leadership team, can also provide you with the perspective, encouragement and real-world strategies needed to help you become a better leader. A great mentor will challenge you, cheer you on and remind you that growth is a process. Most importantly, they'll give you honest, constructive feedback and expert insight on areas for improvement. It's not just about encouragement, it's about access, opportunity and intentional support.
Share your knowledge freely, celebrate other women's wins both publicly and privately and advocate for their leadership behind closed doors. When one woman rises, she clears the path for many more to follow. Building a future where women thrive in franchising starts with how we show up for one another today.
In closing, leadership is a journey, not a destination, and the path to the C-suite is filled with valuable lessons along the way. As women in franchising, we have the power to redefine what leadership looks like—not just for ourselves, but for the next generation of women entrepreneurs. By leading with empathy, staying rooted in our values, continuously growing our skills and uplifting other women, we create businesses that can thrive and empower others to do the same.
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