Forging New Paths: How Janice Durant Helps People Own Their Future Through Franchising
In an era where corporate burnout is common and more professionals are yearning for autonomy and purpose, Janice Durant offers a guiding hand out of the grind. As the founder of New Trails Business Consultants, Janice stands as a beacon for those ready to take control of their careers, offering not just a way out, but a way forward through business ownership.
Janice describes herself as a “chief franchise matchmaker,” and for good reason. Her mission is clear: to guide individuals toward business ownership that fits their skills, values, and lifestyle, and for the right entrepreneur, to help them transform their existing business into a franchise brand. With more than two decades of experience in the franchise industry, Janice has developed a keen sense for what it takes to succeed and the pitfalls to avoid.
Her clientele is as diverse as the opportunities she represents. Many are seasoned professionals with strong leadership, sales, or customer service backgrounds. They share a common thread: a growing dissatisfaction with the corporate world and a desire for something more meaningful. As Janice explained on a recent episode of the Buying Local podcast, “These are people who say, ‘I have all these skills, but I don’t know what I want to do.’ They want something they can build and be passionate about, perhaps even alongside family members. They don’t want to start from scratch, but they don’t want to stay stuck either”.
A Personalized Approach to Franchise Matchmaking
What truly sets Janice apart is her commitment to a personalized, consultative process. Every journey begins with a 30- to 40-minute exploratory call. Here, Janice understands investment amounts, work experience, ideal ownership model, and what their passions, interests, and industry experience are.
Janice is not there simply to sell franchises. Her role is to clarify, consult, and sometimes advise against franchising when it’s not the right fit. “Business ownership isn’t for everyone,” she says. “You need drive, ambition, and a willingness to follow a process. Franchising brings that process, but some people want to create their own business from scratch, and that’s okay too. They may build the next franchise system”.
Expanding the Franchise Vision
Beyond helping individuals become franchisees, Janice also supports successful business owners who want to expand by franchising their own operations. She guides them through evaluating if they are ready to franchise, not only from a business perspective, but also whether the founder is prepared to step back from day-to-day operations to focus on growing and supporting franchise owners.
“It’s not about duplicating your hustle, it’s about systematizing your success, finding and developing others who can take your business concept to other areas” Janice explains.
A Journey Rooted in Experience
Janice’s own story is a testament to the transformative power of franchising. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, she always knew she wanted to own a business, but didn’t see herself in the family’s excavating business, so she took the corporate route, climbing the ladder until it disappeared. At a crossroads, she explored franchises and settled on co-owning a Sandler Training franchise in Albany with her sister, Lorraine Ferguson, for over a decade until they sold it to Matt Scarchilli.
Developing a passion for franchising and how it empowers others to become business owners, Janice eventually led global franchise operations for Sandler Systems Inc.. This experience gave her a new perspective on how a franchisor supports the growth and development of its franchisees, providing clients with insights into what services and support can be expected from a franchisor, as well as familiarity with the required lega documents. Today, she operates New Trails Consultants in affiliation with FranServe, gaining access to a broad portfolio of franchise opportunities that span 70+ industries, from home services and pet care to senior assistance; sectors brimming with potential.
Overcoming Fear and Shifting Mindsets
Fear is often the most significant obstacle Janice observes in her clients as they consider franchise ownership. The decision to leave behind a steady paycheck, invest personal savings, and embark on a new business venture can feel daunting. Janice emphasizes that having the support of a reputable franchisor, a proven business model, and encouragement from loved ones can make this transition far less intimidating and set the stage for long-term success.
Another common challenge is overcoming preconceived notions about specific industries. Many prospective franchisees mistakenly believe that franchisors are seeking candidates with direct industry experience, when in reality, they are looking for strong business leaders who can manage teams and drive growth. Janice frequently encounters clients who hesitate to explore opportunities simply because they do not want to perform the hands-on work themselves. She reassures them: “You’re not sweeping floors or climbing a ladder – you’re building a team and a scalable business”.
A Partner for the Journey
Perhaps most importantly, Janice sees herself as a partner in each client’s journey. She doesn’t just find them a business; she helps them build a future. This includes involving spouses or partners in the decision-making process, connecting clients with financing options, and ensuring they are confident in their decision.
“It’s about creating a life and business that fits,” she says. “Every day, I get to talk to people about their dreams and help them get there. It doesn’t get much better than that”.
For those tired of the same old path, Janice Durant is ready to help them blaze a new trail, one franchise at a time.
Learn more about New Trails Business at newtrailsbusiness.com
