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Let’s throw it back to a time before float tanks, red light therapy, or even the words Altered States Wellness existed in our vocabulary.
We were just two people with big dreams, sweaty palms, and a signed franchise agreement in hand. No safety net. No roadmap. Just a gut feeling and a whole lot of hope that we were doing the right thing.
That first leap into franchising? It was messy. It was eye-opening. And it was one of the most important things we ever did.
Because it showed us what worked—and what really didn’t.
And when it came time to build our own franchise, we built it from that lived experience.
This post isn’t about bashing the past. It’s about helping you navigate your future—especially if you’re thinking about stepping into the world of business ownership, wellness, or franchising.
So here it is: the stuff we wish someone had told us before we signed on the dotted line.
1. The FDD is basically the franchise Bible. Highlight it like one.
The Franchise Disclosure Document (aka the FDD) is the holy grail of franchise decisions. It holds everything—fees, expectations, support details, financials, history. And while we did read it… we didn’t really study it.
The biggest mistake? We glossed over the most important sections.
Here’s what we wish we knew:
- Item 19 shows you actual or projected financial performance. Understand these numbers and do your own investigating in what your operating costs are going to be.
- Items 6 & 7 break down all the fees—initial investments, ongoing royalties, marketing costs, etc. Don’t get caught off guard with hidden expenses.
- Item 11 outlines the support you’ll receive. (Let’s just say we were expecting coaching calls and training… and ended up with a lot of “figure it out yourself.”)
If you’re looking at a franchise, don’t skim the FDD. Make it your best friend. Highlight it, annotate it, maybe even bring it on a weekend getaway with your partner. This document tells the truth—even when the sales pitch doesn’t.
2. Support isn't just a buzzword—it’s your lifeline.
You know that feeling when you get a new gadget and realize the instructions are in another language? That was us—except the gadget was a business, and the manual was... nonexistent.
We thought franchising meant step-by-step guidance. Instead, we were given branding and a logo, and the rest? Totally up to us.
There was no structured onboarding. No day-by-day, week-by-week launch plan. No coaching calls or check-ins unless we asked (and even then, responses were hit or miss).
It was like getting a puzzle with half the pieces and being told, “Good luck!”
That’s why onboarding and support became non-negotiables for us.
At Altered States Wellness, we give our franchisees what we wish we had:
- A centralized training hub with videos, checklists, and how-tos
- Weekly calls to keep you on track and answer real questions
- Launch timelines, SOPs, and a playbook you can actually follow
We want our franchisees to feel supported—not just at the beginning, but throughout their entire journey. Because building a business is already hard… support shouldn’t be.
3. Ask them: What’s next?
The franchise we joined was built around one trendy product. At the time, it felt exciting. But when regulations shifted and consumer behavior changed (which it always does), we were left scrambling.
What we didn’t ask:
- What happens if this product becomes harder to sell?
- Can we diversify the business model?
- Are we building something that’s future-proof?
We learned the hard way: your business needs room to evolve.
At Altered States Wellness, we made sure to build a flexible, diversified model. Our studios offer multiple services—float therapy, red light therapy, sauna, cold plunge, and more—so you’re not reliant on a single revenue stream. You can adapt to trends, regulations, and customer needs without starting over.
If you’re exploring a franchise, ask the hard questions:
- What’s the long-term vision?
- Can I add other services later?
- How does this business stay relevant over time?
Future-proofing isn’t just smart—it’s survival.
What We Got Right (And You Can, Too)
1. We talked to current franchisees (and you should too).
This was hands-down one of the best things we did.
We hopped on the phone with current owners, asked about their experience, and got the real story—not the polished version you get on the sales call.
They told us what they loved, what was lacking, and what they’d do differently. We listened. We took notes. And we paid attention to what no one was saying out loud.
If a franchise won’t connect you with current owners or discourages it? That’s your cue to walk away. Quickly.
2. We made the leap.
No, it wasn’t perfect. But saying yes to that first franchise was the start of everything.
It gave us structure. It gave us courage. It gave us a crash course in entrepreneurship—and honestly, it gave us the confidence to build something of our own.
Sometimes the leap is messy. Sometimes you fall a little before you fly. But the experience? It’s priceless.
So if you’re waiting for perfect timing, a crystal-clear sign, or every detail to be figured out… you’ll be waiting forever.
3. We found our people.
Even when the franchisor didn’t offer much support, the other franchisees became our lifeline.
Weekly calls. Group texts. Real friendships. People who understood what we were going through and showed up with encouragement, advice, or just a reminder that we weren’t alone.
That’s the magic of a strong franchise community. It makes the hard parts bearable and the good parts even sweeter.
When we built Altered States Wellness, we put community at the center—because support from people walking the same path? It’s everything.
So… how did this shape Altered States?
Simple. We built the franchise we wish we had.
We created a business that:
- Doesn’t rely on providers, so you don’t need a huge staff
- Offers multiple services so you’re never boxed in
- Has support systems baked into every step
- Prioritizes experience, connection, and revenue that’s recurring and reliable
Most of all, we designed it to empower people who want to do meaningful work—without burning out or drowning in uncertainty.
We didn’t want to just build a business. We wanted to build a life. And now we help others do the same.
Thinking about franchising but not sure where to start?
Start by asking questions. Get curious. Dig into the details that matter. And find a model that feels aligned with you.
And if Altered States Wellness feels like the kind of business you’ve been searching for… maybe it’s time we talk.
Click here to get more info and learn more about what it takes to bring wellness—and freedom—to your corner of the world.
And if this post sparked a little “maybe I could do this” moment? Forward it to a friend who’s dreaming big too.
The leap is scary. But it’s also where everything begins.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
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*We are not medical professionals, and the information provided in this blog and podcast is for informational purposes only. Wellness practices mentioned should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions about your health
