What does it take to build more than 160 McAlister’s Deli restaurants, lead nearly 8,000 employees, and still live by the motto “Have fun. No regrets.”? In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews David Blackburn, founder, former CEO, and current chairman of Southern Rock Restaurants, the largest McAlister’s Deli franchisee in the United States. From his humble start at Bonanza to leading one of America’s top restaurant franchise groups, David shares an inspiring story of growth, leadership, and purpose.

With over 45 years of restaurant industry experience, David’s career has taken him from busboy to executive leadership, including serving as vice president of operations and business development for O’Charley’s Restaurants during its peak years. In 2006, he made the leap into restaurant entrepreneurship, launching Southern Rock Restaurants and expanding it into a multi-state powerhouse with 164 locations across 13 states. Along the way, he also owned upscale steak and Italian restaurants, proving his ability to succeed across diverse dining concepts.

In this episode, David reveals his franchise leadership strategies, lessons in multi-unit operations, and the guiding principles that fuel sustainable success. He discusses the role of family involvement, the impact of trusted partners like Compel4 Accounting, and why he believes business should be as fun as it is meaningful. Now leading a growing multi-brand restaurant platform pursuing new acquisitions, David reflects on what it means to lead with purpose, grow with vision, and live with no regrets.

This episode of FranchiseU! is a must-listen for anyone passionate about franchise growth, restaurant leadership, and entrepreneurial inspiration.

Topics discussed include:

·     David Blackburn's Career Journey

·     Leadership Lessons from O'Charley's

·     The meaning of ‘Have Fun, No Regrets’

·     Family and Business at Southern Rock

·     Managing Multi-Unit Operations

·     Multi-Unit Operations Management Tips

·     Effective Communication and Daily Routines

·     Franchise Advisory Council Insights

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Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.

This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.