Demystifying Franchising: Busting Myths & Inviting Women Into Business - (Yes, You!)

What pops into your head when you hear the word ‘franchise’? Go on, be honest.

Before joining On Broadway® Dance Fitness, I asked my current franchisees this very question! I also asked my LinkedIN and social media followers the same thing. And their answers were all… eye-opening (and a little dramatic, in the best way):

  • “Controlled.”

  • “Like McDonald’s, but with more rules.”

  • “Micro-managed.”

  • “Feels like I’d be renting a business, not owning one.”

  • “Expensive. Like, really expensive.”

  • “Kind of scary.”

  • “They’ll take all my profit, won’t they?”

It’s no wonder franchising can feel like a corporate horror story.

There’s a lot of fear baked into these myths. But spoiler alert: the reality is so much better – especially when we’re talking about a community-focused, female-powered franchise like On Broadway® Dance Fitness. 

Where Do These Franchising Fears Come From?

Let’s be honest: most of us think of franchising as the domain of fast-food giants and retail empires like McDonalds and Subway. These are all great franchises, but if you’re here I bet you’re thinking ‘that’s really not my vibe’. 

Or when you hear ‘franchising’ many of us think of uniforms, men in suits, strict rules, massive buy-ins… and very little room for creativity or autonomy.

But here’s the twist – franchising has evolved. (3 cheers to that!!)

These days, many modern franchises (especially in industries like fitness, wellness, and education) are designed to be accessible, empowering, and way more flexible. They’re not about squashing individuality – they’re about supporting it.

In fact, we’ve made it our mission to flip the script here at On Broadway® Dance Fitness!

The Real Deal: Franchising in 2025

Let’s talk stats for a sec (bear with me – it’s good news).

Did you know that 99.5% of franchises succeed, while 50% of startups fail? That’s not just reassuring – it’s eye-popping.

Franchising offers a clear, proven path to success, with a safety net built right in. And no, that doesn’t mean selling your soul to the big brand gods.

A Business For Yourself, Not By Yourself

At On Broadway® Dance Fitness, we do franchising differently. Think of us as the supportive dance partner who lifts you up – not the one who steals the spotlight.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Your Business – We encourage you to build a business around the lifestyle YOU want. Want to quit your job to focus on your business full time? We’ve got you. Want to build a business alongside a part time job or a family? Great! You set your timetable, you run your classes, you build a team (if you want to) – all while benefiting from continuous support, proven systems, done for you marketing & choreography, and recognised brand.

  • You’re Never Alone – Starting a business can feel lonely, but with us, you’re part of a team and community of supportive franchisees. Expect training, coaching, and a community that’s cheering you on every step of the way.

  • It’s Affordable – We’ve built a model that’s financially accessible and totally scalable.

  • We Champion Women – Because the business world could use more female founders. We help women take control of their careers, tap into their passions, and create a life on their terms. We are proud ambassadors of Encouraging Women Into Franchising (EWiF). 

Who’s Our Ideal Franchisee?

Short answer? If you’re passionate about dance, fitness, and empowering your local community, you’re our kind of person.

A lot of our franchisees started out just like you might be right now – curious but cautious. They weren’t sure franchising was for them. And now? They’re thriving, doing what they love, and living a life they always dreamed of.

Let’s Change The Conversation

It’s time to reframe how we think about franchising.

That starts with real talk, real stories, and clearing away the myths that hold so many people – especially women – back.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own business but felt overwhelmed by the idea of doing it solo, franchising might be your answer. It blends independence with support, and creativity with a clear roadmap.

At the end of the day, a franchise isn’t a corporate cage. It’s a launchpad to the lifestyle you’ve always wanted!

So… what does ‘franchise’ mean to you now?

Want to find out if franchising is really for you?

If something in this blog has made you curious about what your life could be like as an On Broadway® Dance Fitness franchisee, I’d love to chat! But first, grab our FREE On Broadway® Dance Fitness prospectus to find out more about our franchise opportunity. One step closer to a life on your own terms could be just a tap away: