Leading the Charge: How Women Are Shaping the Future of Franchising

The franchise industry, long dominated by male-led brands and executives, is experiencing a powerful wave of female entrepreneurs, proving that the future of franchising is diverse, innovative and community-driven. Women leaders are not only breaking barriers but redefining what it means to scale a brand, support franchisees and inspire the next generation of business owners.

As the industry evolves, more women are stepping into leadership roles and shaping the future of franchising. Women-owned franchises have increased by 83% in the past decade, with women currently owning 35% of all franchises. As that number continues to grow, Franchise FastLane, a leading franchise growth accelerator, is playing a key role in helping emerging brands scale, and many of its top brands are led by trailblazing women making a significant impact. These leaders are accelerating the franchising world by pioneering new business categories, making business ownership more accessible, and helping aspiring entrepreneurs take control of their futures.

Courtney Yeager: Pioneering a New Franchise Category

As the founder and CEO of The Tox, Courtney Yeager is a prime example of how women are disrupting the franchise landscape. The Tox, a brand that blends wellness and beauty through its signature lymphatic drainage method, is proving that an entirely new category of franchising is possible.

“We really don’t have any competition at all,” Yeager says. “We invented a space — not only in franchising but just in general.”

Her journey to franchising wasn’t immediate. Before deciding to scale, Yeager spent years ensuring the concept was viable in markets beyond Los Angeles and New York. Once she was ready, she took an intentional approach, growing steadily and partnering with Franchise FastLane to accelerate development. Today, with around 80 locations set to open within the next year, The Tox is an undeniable success story.

But even as she breaks new ground, Yeager recognizes the gender gap in her industry. “The health and wellness industry is very male-dominated, and even in beauty, there are very few female founders who have scaled brands to this size." She is proving that female entrepreneurs can — and will — disrupt industries and set new standards for success.

Amanda Lightcap: Leading with Purpose at Degree Wellness

Amanda Lightcap didn’t begin her career in the wellness industry, but a personal health journey led her to the forefront of Degree Wellness. Founded in 2018, Degree Wellness started as a single location in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and later expanded under new ownership. Amanda and her husband purchased the business in 2020, initially as an investment, but she soon found herself deeply involved in its operations.

Her transition into leadership came after a life-changing diagnosis. In 2021, Amanda was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, a battle that left her feeling drained both physically and emotionally. She turned to Degree Wellness for recovery, using infrared sauna sessions for detoxification, cryotherapy for energy, and red-light therapy for healing. Experiencing firsthand the benefits of these treatments, she became passionate about bringing wellness to others. By 2021, she fully stepped into the role of President, overseeing the brand’s expansion and mission to make holistic wellness accessible to all.

Lightcap’s data-driven leadership and commitment to inclusivity are reshaping how people approach wellness. By accelerating Degree Wellness’s expansion, she’s proving that purpose-driven leadership can lead to both business success and industry-wide change.

“We’ve created spaces that feel inviting, not intimidating. Whether you're an athlete or a busy parent looking to boost energy and improve sleep, our services are for you,” Amanda explains. Her commitment to inclusivity and wellness has positioned herself as a leader in the industry, redefining how people approach self-care.

Amanda Gingold: Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Franchising

For Amanda Gingold, co-founder of DonutNV, success isn’t just about responsible business growth — it’s about building something that changes lives. Since launching DonutNV in 2014, she’s helped countless entrepreneurs take control of their futures through franchising. But what drives her most is seeing the impact firsthand.

“The best part of what I do is helping people chase their dreams,” Gingold says. “Hearing franchisees say, ‘This business has changed my life’ makes every challenge worth it. It’s what keeps me pushing forward.”

For Gingold, being a leader goes beyond the numbers. As a mother and entrepreneur, she understands the constant balancing act women face — leading with strength in business while still making space for family. “No matter how chaotic things get, when I see my daughter’s face, I remind myself that these moments are fleeting. I want to be present for them.”

She believes a strong support system is key, both personally and professionally. “Women in leadership are expected to give 110% at work while never missing a beat at home. It’s not easy, but having the right people around you makes all the difference.”

Gingold looks up to fellow female entrepreneur Carey Gille, CEO of Franchise FastLane, who has built a thriving business while raising a family. “Carey proves that women don’t have to choose between career and family. She’s a reminder that we can create our own definition of success — and own it.”

A Future Fueled by Female Leadership

Women in franchising are accelerating change, leading with bold ideas, and breaking down barriers that have historically limited opportunities. Their leadership is shaping a more inclusive, diverse, and forward-thinking industry — one where success isn’t dictated by tradition but by the courage to innovate.

This Women's History Month, let’s celebrate the women who are taking action, reshaping industries, and creating lasting impact. Because when women accelerate, the entire franchise world moves forward.

Franchise FastLane, the #1 proven franchise accelerator focuses our mission on responsibly driving extraordinary growth to empower brands to thrive. We have vetted hundreds of brands and actively partner with over 35 of the best franchise brands in North America! To learn more about the brands we represent, explore our brands page today. If you are interested in learning more about the possibility of joining Franchise FastLane, please click here for more information.  To keep up with all the latest happenings, make sure you follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.