Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

In this episode of Escape and Empower, Dave and Pete dig into the explosive rise of the side hustle—and why it’s no longer just for Gen Z and gig workers. From rising costs to career uncertainty, executives across all life stages are adding a second (or third) income stream to stay ahead.

The hosts unpack recent insights from The Wall Street Journal and Forbes, share personal stories from their Ford days, and outline how executives can strategically use a side hustle to build wealth—not just offset bills. Whether you’re preparing for a career transition or just looking to diversify your income, this conversation offers a grounded look at how to do it smartly.

In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:

• Why Side Hustles Are on the Rise
  Over 9 million Americans hold multiple jobs—the highest level since 2008. Executives are waking up to the need for income diversification.
• It’s Not Just About Extra Cash
  Side hustles should go beyond beer money. The right one can build wealth, become an asset, and create long-term financial stability.
• How Executives Are Reframing the Hustle
  Smart leaders aren’t trading hours for dollars—they’re building leveraged businesses that generate income without constant effort.
• The Tech Stack Advantage
  From Airbnb to pool cleaning to property maintenance franchises, modern tools make side hustles scalable and manageable—even for busy professionals.
• What Dave and Pete Wish They Knew at 30
  They both reflect on blind loyalty to corporate life, and how starting a side business earlier could’ve built real freedom faster.

Key Takeaways:

• The side hustle economy is mainstream—and accelerating across all age groups
• Executives need income streams that build, not just buffer
• Today’s tools make managing a business on the side easier than ever
• A well-structured side gig can become a true asset—not just a job
• Planning now means protection later—especially during layoffs or downturns

“We used to think working 7 to 6 with 50% travel was loyalty. Now, we know better. A side hustle isn’t disloyal—it’s smart.” — David Greenberg

CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN

Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/
Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG

Meet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web
Website: https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/

Why do most corporate executives feel stuck chasing someone else’s dream? What happens when you finally stop renting your income and start building something that’s yours? And how do top-performing franchise experts build lasting legacy brands in a changing economy?

In this powerful episode of Escape & Empower, Pete and Dave sit down with franchise industry legend Lance Freeman, founder of Limitless Franchise Growth (LFG). With over 3,000 entrepreneurs launched and 7,000+ franchise licenses placed, Lance shares how he transitioned from fitness franchisee to leading national franchise developer—and why he’s on a mission to empower others to do the same.

About Lance Freeman

Lance Freeman is the founder of Limitless Franchise Growth, a top-tier Franchise Sales Organization (FSO) helping emerging brands scale nationally while connecting aspiring entrepreneurs to high-performing franchise opportunities. With over three decades of experience in franchising, Lance has worked across fitness, wellness, pet care, and executive-managed models—always with a deep focus on people, sustainability, and purpose.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• How Lance went from fitness entrepreneur to franchise mogul
• The rise and fall of the “master franchise” model
• Why FSO teams like LFG matter for serious brand growth
• What makes a franchise truly recession-resistant and scalable
• 5 emerging brands to watch—health, pets, food, and more
• The difference between timing and trend in franchise success
• Why franchising is thriving while corporate jobs are vanishing

Key Takeaways

• Success starts by following a proven plan—but grows with the right people.
• LFG isn’t just a business—it's a team-driven mission to help others succeed.
• Franchise growth isn’t slowing down—it's evolving to meet new demands.
• You’re not just buying a business. You’re buying leadership, community, and future-proof systems.
• If you’re still renting your income, it’s time to build something that belongs to you.

CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN

Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/
Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG

Meet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web
Website: https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter Gilfillan

In this episode of Escape and Empower, Pete and Dave dig into a hard truth for corporate executives over 50: retirement isn’t what it used to be. Layoffs are more frequent. Job searches take longer. And ageism is real.

Pulling insights from recent articles in The Wall Street Journal and Forbes, the hosts unpack the financial and emotional toll of late-career disruption—and why having a Plan B isn’t optional anymore. If you're counting on a traditional exit from corporate life, this is your wake-up call.

Whether you’re still working, in transition, or thinking about what’s next, this episode outlines why business ownership is becoming the smart play for experienced leaders who want control, cash flow, and long-term freedom.

In this episode, Pete and Dave discuss:

• The Surge in Late-Career Layoffs
  25% of Gen X and Boomers have been laid off—many unexpectedly and with no path back.
• The Job Search Gets Longer as You Age
  Executives aged 55–64 take at least 26 weeks to land a new job, often with reduced pay.
• Ageism in Corporate America
  It’s not just a feeling. Employers admit to bias—favoring younger, cheaper talent over seasoned leaders.
• The Shrinking Promise of the Golden Years
  That $2 million retirement target? It may not be enough for the lifestyle you’ve built—and replacing your income gets harder later in life.
• Why You Need a Parallel Plan
  Pete and Dave share how franchising and entrepreneurship offer a stable, scalable path to control and financial freedom—even if you’re not ready to stop working.

Key Takeaways:

• Retirement plans are being disrupted—and the risks grow after 50
• Corporate re-entry is slower, harder, and often comes with a pay cut
• Owning a business can rebuild income, equity, and optionality
• The best time to start preparing is before you get pushed out
• Planning now gives you control—waiting leaves you exposed

“You can’t afford to wait and hope. Executives over 50 need a real strategy—and a way to keep building wealth on their terms.” — Peter Gilfillan

CONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLAN

Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/
Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/

CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERG

Meet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web
Website: https://empoweredfranchisee.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/