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FORDIFY LIVE: The Business Growth Show with Ford Saeks

FORDIFY LIVE: The Business Growth Show with Ford Saeks

Written by: Ford Saeks
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 FORDIFY LIVE: The Business Growth Show with Ford Saeks is the go-to podcast for entrepreneurs, franchise leaders, and business executives who want practical strategies to accelerate growth, boost sales, and harness the power of AI innovation. Hosted by Ford Saeks—Hall of Fame keynote speaker, business growth accelerator, and author of Accelerate, AI Mindshift, and AI Alchemy—this podcast delivers real-world insights you can implement immediately. Ford has helped organizations generate over $1 billion in sales, and now he brings those same proven strategies to you. Each episode features in-depth interviews with top CEOs, franchise executives, marketing experts, and AI innovators, giving you actionable takeaways on: Business Growth Strategies: Learn how to scale faster and outperform competitors. Franchise Success: Discover tools to improve local marketing, sales, and franchisee performance. AI in Business: Cut through the hype to uncover practical ways AI can boost productivity, decision-making, and customer engagement—without losing the human touch. Sales & Marketing Mastery: Unlock proven formulas to attract, convert, and retain high-value clients. Leadership & Entrepreneurship: Build stronger teams, adapt to disruption, and lead with confidence. Customer Experience: Create remarkable experiences that drive loyalty, referrals, and repeat business. Whether you're a startup founder, small business owner, franchise operator, or corporate leader, you'll find the insights you need to future-proof your business and achieve measurable results. Tune in each week for FORDIFY LIVE: The Business Growth Show—where bold ideas meet proven strategies, and your next big breakthrough begins.(C) MMXX - MMXXV Economics Marketing Marketing & Sales
Episodes
  • S1Ep261 AI for Restaurant Operations with ClearCOGS CEO Matt Wampler

    S1Ep261 AI for Restaurant Operations with ClearCOGS CEO Matt Wampler
    Jan 8 2026
    AI for restaurant operations is no longer a future concept — it's becoming a present-day competitive advantage. In an industry where margins are tight and decisions must be made quickly, the ability to predict demand, optimize prep, and streamline labor is transforming how restaurants perform on a daily basis. Matt Wampler, CEO and Co-Founder of ClearCOGS, brings a unique perspective to the conversation. His career didn't begin in tech but behind the counter of a struggling sandwich shop he took over at just 21 years old. After successfully turning the business around and operating multiple locations, Wampler eventually sold his restaurants and taught himself to code during the pandemic. That experience led to the founding of ClearCOGS, a platform designed to translate complex machine learning into simple, actionable insights for restaurant teams. ClearCOGS functions as an AI operations manager for restaurants. Rather than focusing on static dashboards or complex analytics reports, the platform provides daily answers to real-world questions: how many trays of bagels to bake, how much brisket to smoke, what to prep before closing, or how to plan staffing for the next shift. By combining historical data with real-time inputs like weather and daypart trends, ClearCOGS gives managers the confidence to make decisions that reduce waste, improve staffing, and boost profitability. Restaurants have always relied on a mix of instinct and experience to guide their operations. But as chains expand and customer expectations grow, relying solely on gut feeling is no longer enough. AI for restaurant operations offers a path to consistency and control, especially for multi-unit operators who need scalable systems. The platform doesn't replace people — it frees them up. With less time spent on number crunching and reactionary problem-solving, leaders can focus on the human side of the business: coaching staff, enhancing guest experience, and driving culture. One of the key themes highlighted by Wampler is the growing disparity between available technology and the tools most operators are still using. Many restaurants continue to depend on outdated spreadsheets or disconnected systems that don't provide the foresight needed to make smart operational calls. ClearCOGS helps bridge that gap by offering AI-driven predictions based on the specific needs of each location — not just generalized models. Wampler also emphasizes the importance of simplicity. While AI can be complex under the hood, its impact should be easy to understand on the front end. The goal isn't to overwhelm restaurant managers with more data — it's to answer their questions clearly and help them stay ahead of their day. By embedding AI for restaurant operations into the daily workflow, ClearCOGS ensures that the technology adds value without requiring a steep learning curve. As the restaurant industry continues to adapt to rising costs, staffing challenges, and shifting customer patterns, operational intelligence is becoming a critical advantage. Businesses that embrace AI not as a buzzword but as a practical tool are seeing real improvements in efficiency, profitability, and team morale. Platforms like ClearCOGS are leading that shift — not by replacing what makes restaurants special, but by supporting it with smarter systems. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE! every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Matt Wampler Matt Wampler is the Co-Founder and CEO of ClearCOGS, a demand-based AI platform built specifically for restaurant operations. His background as a multi-unit restaurant operator informs the platform's mission to provide actionable, predictive insights that help restaurants reduce waste, improve labor planning, and operate with confidence. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with over two decades of real-world experience helping organizations scale smarter and faster. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., he's credited with generating over one billion dollars in sales for start-ups, franchise systems, and Fortune 500 companies alike. A serial entrepreneur, Ford has founded more than ten businesses, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and received multiple industry awards. Known for his strategic thinking and down-to-earth style, Ford helps brands expand awareness, attract loyal customers, and drive measurable results. His deep expertise in AI prompt engineering has positioned him as a go-to authority on leveraging artificial intelligence in sales, marketing, and operations. Most recently, he was featured at the "Unleash AI for Business Summit," where he shared insights on how tools like ChatGPT are transforming the customer experience. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and tune in to his TV show at Fordify.tv.
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    45 mins
  • S1Ep260 Making AI Made Simple and Accessible with Joel Comm

    S1Ep260 Making AI Made Simple and Accessible with Joel Comm
    Dec 18 2025
    AI Made Simple is more than just a theme—it's a mindset. As artificial intelligence continues to accelerate, there's a widening gap between those who feel empowered by the tools and those who feel left behind. For Joel Comm, the bestselling author, entrepreneur, and host of The AI for Everyone Show, that gap represents an opportunity. His mission is straightforward: to take away the fear, the jargon, and the hype, and replace them with confidence, curiosity, and practical action. When Ford and Joel sat down to talk, one thing was clear: both share a commitment to keeping AI approachable. Ford has been guiding audiences worldwide on how to adopt AI with a results-first approach, while Joel has been tailoring short, bite-sized lessons that show how anyone—regardless of background—can engage with artificial intelligence. Together, their perspectives reinforce why AI Made Simple isn't just a slogan, but a necessity. Joel has built his career on helping people adapt to new technology. From the early days of the internet to the rise of social media, live video, and even cryptocurrency, he has consistently found ways to translate complexity into opportunity. His new focus on AI is no different. Through his podcast, he breaks down topics into five- to ten-minute sessions, designed not to overwhelm but to empower. Whether it's turning a sketch into a polished piece of art or experimenting with voice and video tools, Joel's approach keeps AI Made Simple by spotlighting real-world applications that anyone can try. Ford echoed that same philosophy, emphasizing that the most important step is to focus on outcomes. It's not about knowing every tool or understanding every technical detail—it's about asking, "How can AI help me solve this problem, save this time, or improve this experience?" By framing AI as a tool rather than a mystery, both Joel and Ford remind us that it's meant to serve people, not intimidate them. What makes this conversation especially relevant is Joel's attention to an often-overlooked audience: adults who may feel disconnected from the rapid pace of technological change. By keeping his content light, practical, and even playful, he shows that innovation isn't reserved for the young or the hyper-technical. It's for anyone willing to stay curious. As Joel pointed out, technology is neither good nor bad—it's what we do with it that defines the outcome. Ford brought his own perspective from the business growth arena, warning that waiting too long to engage with AI is the real risk. The tools are here to stay, and those who hesitate could quickly fall behind. That's why the concept of AI Made Simple resonates so strongly: it offers a path forward that feels manageable, whether you're running a business, working within an organization, or simply exploring what's possible in your personal life. Both agree that the human element remains central. AI can generate, automate, and accelerate, but it cannot replace judgment, creativity, and authenticity. Keeping the "human in the loop" is what ensures AI enhances rather than erodes the quality of our work and relationships. The takeaway is clear: AI doesn't have to be overwhelming. By adopting a mindset of experimentation and curiosity, anyone can begin to integrate artificial intelligence into their life or business. And by following voices like Joel Comm and Ford Saeks, the journey toward AI Made Simple becomes not just accessible, but inspiring. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE! every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Joel Comm Joel Comm is a New York Times bestselling author, keynote speaker, and digital entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience at the forefront of online business and emerging technology. He has launched multiple successful ventures, from pioneering live video to co-hosting one of the world's most downloaded cryptocurrency podcasts. Today, as the creator and host of The AI for Everyone Show, Joel is focused on making AI Made Simple by delivering short, approachable insights that help people put artificial intelligence to work in their daily lives. Explore Joel's work and listen to The AI for Everyone Show. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has helped generate more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide, working with companies from start-ups to Fortune 500s. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., he specializes in helping businesses attract loyal customers, expand brand awareness, and spark innovation. An entrepreneurial powerhouse, Ford has founded over ten companies, authored five books, been awarded three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry honors. His expertise also extends into artificial intelligence, where he is recognized for his work in AI prompt engineering and training AI systems to create ...
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    34 mins
  • S1Ep259 Franchise Leadership and Turning Vision into Growth with Ally Van Iten

    S1Ep259 Franchise Leadership and Turning Vision into Growth with Ally Van Iten
    Dec 11 2025

    Franchise leadership is about more than systems and structure. It's about vision, culture, and the ability to bring people together around a shared mission. At the heart of every thriving franchise brand is a leader who understands how to balance growth with purpose, and few embody that balance as well as Ally Van Iten, CEO of House of Colour USA.

    Ally's journey began not in the boardroom but on the frontlines as one of the first franchise owners to introduce House of Colour to the United States. What started as a personal passion for helping others express themselves through color and style quickly grew into a nationwide movement. Her success as a franchisee, combined with her deep belief in the company's mission, positioned her to play a defining role in the brand's expansion.

    Today, as the CEO of House of Colour USA, Ally leads a rapidly growing organization that continues to empower individuals through confidence and personal expression. Her path from franchise owner to CEO is a powerful example of franchise leadership in action—a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, adaptability, and purpose-driven growth.

    Under her leadership, House of Colour USA has evolved into a recognized brand that brings together fashion, psychology, and empowerment. The company's focus on helping clients understand the science of color and style has built more than a business—it has created a community. Through education, training, and mentorship, Ally has fostered an environment where franchisees thrive, clients feel inspired, and the brand continues to grow with integrity.

    Strong franchise leadership requires vision and resilience. It means understanding that growth is not only about numbers but about people. Ally's approach is rooted in connection and collaboration, encouraging her teams to bring their authentic selves to their work. She has learned firsthand that the most effective leaders are those who lead through listening, invest in others, and build systems that support both individual and organizational success.

    The growth of House of Colour USA also underscores an important lesson for emerging franchise leaders: sustainable success comes from building a foundation that aligns purpose with performance. By prioritizing culture and empowering franchisees to operate with confidence, Ally has positioned the brand for continued innovation and expansion across the United States.

    Franchise leadership is not just about running a business—it is about creating opportunity. For Ally, that means helping others discover their potential, whether through entrepreneurship or personal growth. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder that great leaders don't wait for the perfect path; they build it, one decision at a time, with clarity, courage, and conviction.

    Watch the full episode on YouTube.

    Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom.

    About Ally Van Iten

    Ally Van Iten is the CEO of House of Colour USA. She began her career as one of the first franchise owners to bring the company to the United States, later joining the corporate team to lead recruitment and expansion. Under her leadership, House of Colour USA has grown into a thriving national brand built on empowerment, education, and confidence. Her passion for connecting people and helping them show up as the best version of themselves continues to shape the company's vision and success. Learn more at HouseOfColour.com.

    About Ford Saeks

    Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has helped generate more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide, working with companies from start-ups to Fortune 500s. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., he specializes in helping businesses attract loyal customers, expand brand awareness, and ignite innovation. Ford has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, and holds three U.S. patents. He is also recognized for his work in AI and marketing strategy, helping organizations use modern tools to drive engagement and results. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch his show at Fordify.tv.
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    46 mins
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