In this episode, Rich and Scott Abbott discuss:

• The unexpected mentorship that transformed his business journey
• The balance between ambition, leadership, and personal relationships
• Why intentionality is key in both family and business life
• How franchising can create value for entrepreneurs at scale
• The importance of perseverance and long-term vision in business

Key Takeaways:

• Every major opportunity starts with showing up. A simple decision—like entering a business plan competition—can lead to unexpected relationships, funding, and long-term impact.
• "You can go faster alone, but if you want to go far, you go together." Success isn’t just about individual wins; bringing people along for the journey makes it more meaningful.
• Leadership isn't just about hitting numbers—it's about investing in people. Whether through mentorship, hiring the right team, or helping someone transition to a better fit, people are the heart of every business.
• Some of the biggest breakthroughs come after years of grinding. Patience, consistency, and resilience often separate those who succeed from those who quit too soon.
• Creating "once-in-a-lifetime" experiences for others strengthens relationships in ways that go beyond business. Hosting, serving, and being intentional with time deepen connections that last.

"Never forget that the heart and soul of every business is people." — Scott Abbott

About Scott Abbott:

Scott Abbott is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and executive with a proven track record of building, scaling, and exiting businesses in the franchising and home services industries.

He is the CEO and Co-Founder of Five Star Franchising, leading its growth since 2005. Previously, he served as CEO of ProNexis (2012–2021) and Co-Founder/CEO of Five Star Painting (2004–2015).

Scott built Five Star Painting to become one of the world’s largest painting companies in franchising culminating in the successful sale of Five Star Painting to The Dwyer Group, one of the world’s largest home service brands, owned by the Riverside Company. From the sale of Five Star Painting, Five Star Franchising and ProNexis were formed.

Leveraging this success and established relationships with some of America’s top home services brands, Scott has given ProNexis the foundation necessary for explosive growth servicing over 60 of the leading home service brands' customer experience.

Scott’s tenacity and commitment to creating shareholder value has been evident through several business exits, and acquisitions in franchising.

In the Spring of 2021, Scott partnered with Princeton Equity Group making 6 acquisitions in home services. Today, Five Star Franchising has over 1500 territories in 6 home service brands with a team of 200 employees focused on the mission of empowering franchise partners in the home services industry.

Presently, Scott has interests as an investor in several Venture capital funds, Private equity funds, and direct investments in several early-stage ventures.

Connect with Scott Abbott:

Website: www.fivestarfranchising.com | www.pronexis.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dscottabbott

Connect with Rich Woo:

Website: www.catalyst.nm.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richwoo/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rich_woo/?hl=en

Book: The Relationship Recession - https://a.co/d/dXlXd71

Email: [email protected]