Why This Pizza Franchise Owner Walked Away to Do Voice Over!

Name: Why This Pizza Franchise Owner Walked Away to Do Voice Over!
Uploaded: 2026-01-28T02:15:18.000Z
Duration: 3 h 8 min 58 s

The Journey of Ike Coris: From Delivery Driver to Franchise Owner

Introduction to Ike Coris

Ike Coris is recognized as the "pinnacle pizza dude" in his community, reflecting his dedication and passion for the pizza business.

He emphasizes a mentality of pursuing what one wants, stating that losing passion for Domino's after 30 years was unfair to both himself and the brand.

Community Involvement

Ike became known for his involvement in local community projects, especially during events like the Fourth of July floods.

His candidness and straightforward approach impressed others, including city council members who appreciated his genuine interest in community service.

Career Beginnings at Domino's

Ike started working at Domino's in 1996 as a delivery driver and gradually advanced through various roles within the company.

By 2004, he received an opportunity to open a franchise location in Lago Vista, Texas, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Growth and Expansion

Over nearly two decades, he owned multiple locations and expanded his business by building new stores while selling others.

At one point, he managed four franchises simultaneously, showcasing his ability to juggle multiple responsibilities effectively.

Work Ethic and Experience

Ike attributes much of his success to gaining experience by helping out at various stores across Houston during his early career.

His willingness to work long hours and travel extensively for different store needs helped him build a strong network within the industry.

Personal Motivation

Driven by financial necessity at a young age, Ike worked hard to support himself after realizing he could earn as much as his mother did.

His journey reflects not only professional growth but also personal milestones such as meeting his wife while establishing roots in Marble Falls.

What Led to the Decision to Sell a Successful Franchise?

Early Career and Mindset

The speaker began working at Domino's at 18, took a year off to work for Cutco Knives, but returned due to enjoyment and success in the pizza business.

A coworker’s advice about being compensated well for being good at something resonated with the speaker, reinforcing their commitment to Domino's.

The speaker emphasizes that if one is skilled and enjoys their work, they can achieve financial stability and support their family.

Shift in Enjoyment and Corporate Discontent

The speaker experienced a decline in enjoyment of their role about a year and a half ago, attributing it to various factors including employee drama and corporate direction.

Disagreement with current corporate leadership led the speaker to become vocal about poor decisions made by Domino's management.

After years of successful ownership, the speaker felt disillusioned when they stopped aligning with corporate expectations.

Decision-Making Process Regarding Sale

A pivotal conversation with the speaker's wife prompted them to consider selling all four stores instead of just two; she noted they had lost passion for the business.

Following this discussion, the decision-making process was swift; from initial thoughts on selling to closing took only seven weeks.

Corporate Structure Concerns

The speaker expressed concerns that Domino's preferred larger franchises over smaller ones like theirs, which contributed to feelings of neglect from corporate.

They reached out only to larger franchisees in Austin during their sale discussions, indicating a strategic approach based on market dynamics.

Reflections on Business Ownership

Despite losing passion for running multiple stores, the speaker acknowledges that owning businesses initially stemmed from solving problems or pursuing passions.

They draw parallels between managing employees and coaching others in business; both roles can lead to frustration when personal motivations are overshadowed by external pressures.

Insights on Franchise Management and Personal Transition

The Importance of Experience in Franchise Operations

The speaker discusses the efficiency of a franchisee who managed to deliver within two and a half hours, highlighting the importance of experience in operational success.

Acknowledgment of being among the first to set clear expectations for clients regarding pickup times, emphasizing customer service as a priority.

The speaker's 12 years with Domino's provided them with deep knowledge of processes and customer service, which they leveraged to meet delivery promises accurately.

They mention their ability to manage time effectively, often disregarding computer-generated estimates in favor of their own understanding of order flow and timing.

The conversation touches on how empirical knowledge from working directly in the system can lead to better management practices than rigid adherence to standard procedures.

Training and Standards in Franchise Systems

Discussion about how many franchise systems fail to update their operational standards based on real-world data from employees actively engaged in daily operations.

Emphasis on the necessity for managers at Domino's to have hands-on experience before being considered for higher roles, reinforcing that practical knowledge enhances brand quality.

Mention that corporate positions at Domino's require training through pizza school, ensuring all employees understand product preparation and service standards.

Personal Reflections on Business Ownership

The speaker expresses dissatisfaction with current leadership at Domino’s as a primary reason for leaving the company after years of dedication.

They reflect on the emotional aspect of business ownership, noting that enjoyment is crucial; otherwise, it may lead to failure or forced transitions.

Future Aspirations Beyond Franchise Management

Transitioning away from Domino’s opens new opportunities; the speaker is exploring voice acting and sports talk radio as potential career paths aligned with personal interests.

They express enthusiasm for substitute teaching while also pursuing avenues related to sports commentary due to their passion for sports culture.

A close relationship with a corporate liaison helped facilitate their transition out of Domino’s by recognizing their lost passion for the brand.

Conclusion: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Franchising

The discussion concludes with an acknowledgment that personal fulfillment is essential when running a business; without it, one risks losing motivation and identity.

Recognition from peers about one's passion can significantly influence decisions regarding career changes or business sales.

Franchising Insights and Restaurant Success

The Concept of Merging Sports with Dining

The speaker suggests that small, local pizza shops could thrive by integrating sports events into their business model, creating a unique niche. However, this approach is not feasible for franchises.

Franchises can be built quickly and sold to interested buyers, allowing the original owner to focus on specific themes like sports.

Cautionary Tales from Experience

The speaker shares a personal anecdote about their stepfather's warnings against opening a restaurant due to high failure rates; many invest life savings only to close within a year.

Statistics reveal that 90% of mom-and-pop restaurants fail within three years, emphasizing the importance of having established systems in place before starting.

Challenges Faced by New Restaurant Owners

Many new restaurant owners lack sufficient funds and often listen too closely to customer feedback instead of sticking to a simple menu.

A successful strategy involves focusing on mastering one or two items rather than overwhelming customers with an extensive menu.

Importance of Simplicity in Business

The speaker advocates for simplicity in menus—having fewer items allows businesses to excel at what they do best.

They reference local favorites that maintain straightforward offerings, which helps ensure customer satisfaction without confusion.

Key Principles for Business Success

Emphasizing the "Keep It Simple" philosophy, the speaker highlights the importance of delivering quality products consistently.

They introduce the concept of Product-Service-Image (PSI), stating that success hinges on maintaining balance among these three elements across any industry.

Building Community and Brand Image

A strong brand image tailored to a specific audience can significantly enhance customer loyalty and engagement.

The speaker acknowledges that while not everyone will appreciate every brand (like Domino's), aligning product delivery with customer expectations is crucial for success.

Future Considerations Post-Franchise Ownership

As ownership transitions occur (e.g., selling Domino's), there are concerns about whether community efforts will continue under new management.

Reflecting on strategic decisions made during franchise development reveals insights into leveraging location advantages for long-term success.

What Contributed to Ike's Success in Loggo Vista?

Business Strategy and Community Engagement

Ike emphasizes the importance of anticipating future trends rather than reacting to current demands, showcasing his proactive business acumen.

He notes that his strategy involved positioning himself as a local figure in a community that valued mom-and-pop businesses, particularly when he moved to Austin in 2003.

To build relationships, Ike visited local businesses while wearing his uniform, introducing himself personally and establishing a connection with the community.

He aimed to differentiate his Domino's franchise from corporate entities by promoting it as "Ike and Michelle's Domino's," fostering a personal brand that resonated with locals.

Ike expresses his love for community involvement, stating that he rarely turned down sponsorship or donation requests, which helped him integrate into the fabric of Loggo Vista.

Community Contributions and Personal Fulfillment

Reflecting on nearly two decades in Loggo Vista, Ike shares that he will miss the community engagement aspect of owning Domino's the most.

He highlights specific contributions like sponsoring signs at the new high school and participating in local sports events through advertisements on Jumbotrons.

His commitment to giving back is evident; he finds fulfillment in being appreciated by others for his contributions to the community.

The discussion touches on human nature—successful individuals often enjoy appreciation and tend to give back more actively within their communities.

Marketing Philosophy: Image vs. Virtue Signaling

Ike critiques businesses that prioritize advertising over genuine community involvement, arguing that true image comes from active participation rather than mere words or virtue signaling.

He distinguishes between different types of advertising—product promotion versus service marketing—and emphasizes how authentic community engagement speaks volumes about a brand’s identity.

For effective branding, he believes businesses must engage directly with their communities instead of relying solely on operational procedures or technology for image management.

Personal Connection to Business Operations

Ike discusses how maintaining a positive image involves not just outward appearances but also deep-rooted connections within the community where one operates.

He mentions efforts made beyond Loggo Vista into nearby towns like Bernett and Lampasas, reinforcing his commitment to building a strong local presence wherever possible.

Acknowledging potential disillusionment with purely transactional business practices, he stresses the importance of enjoying one's work and maintaining an engaging public persona.

Future Opportunities Through Established Connections

The conversation hints at future opportunities for Ike based on established connections within the community and previous engagements in local events.

Career Path and Passion for Sports

Transitioning from Sports to Broadcasting

The speaker reflects on the challenges of "babysitting adults" while expressing a belief that pursuing sports broadcasting may be more straightforward than it appears, given their established passion and reputation in sports.

The speaker shares their background in sports, mentioning participation in football, basketball, and track during high school but realizing they wouldn't pursue professional athletics.

After playing D3 football at Trinity University, the speaker initially aimed to become a history teacher and football coach but shifted focus due to unforeseen circumstances leading to dropping out without a degree.

Coaching Experience

Despite not completing their education, the speaker has found fulfillment coaching little league baseball for several years and enjoys working with children.

A connection is made between finding like-minded individuals in various fields who share a passion for helping others, emphasizing trust built through shared experiences.

Networking and Opportunities

The conversation highlights the importance of networking within the sports community; connections can lead to opportunities that align with one's passions.

The speaker expresses confidence that leveraging existing networks from youth sports will lead to influential connections that could enhance their career trajectory.

Radio Show Involvement

The speaker mentions hosting a radio show called "Sport of Life" on 102.7 ESPN Radio Austin since February, indicating an active engagement in sports media.

They describe how listening to sports talk radio during work led them to connect with industry professionals and eventually join a show as a contributor.

Building Relationships in Media

The speaker recounts forming friendships with notable figures in Austin's sports radio scene through remote recordings and interactions at events.

An invitation from Trey Elling allowed the speaker to participate regularly on his show due to mutual respect for each other's knowledge of sports.

Commitment and Enjoyment

Discussing time commitment, the speaker notes that participating in the radio show requires about two hours weekly but emphasizes enjoyment derived from engaging discussions with friends.

They highlight how camaraderie enhances their experience on air despite focusing primarily on football topics during non-football seasons.

Discussion on Local Construction Issues and Community Engagement

Concerns About Road Construction

The speaker expresses frustration about ongoing construction on 1431, highlighting its negative impact on local traffic and safety.

There is a call for more efficient project management, suggesting that road improvements should be executed as comprehensive projects rather than fragmented into smaller segments.

The speaker criticizes the state’s short-term budgeting approach, arguing that long-term planning (5 to 10 years) is essential for effective infrastructure development.

Traffic Management and Safety

Emphasis is placed on the need for proactive planning in anticipation of community growth, urging authorities to act before issues arise.

The discussion includes a suggestion that if a section of road needs work, it should be completed fully rather than in phases over extended periods.

A sentiment is shared regarding the lack of experience among decision-makers in construction-related matters, questioning their understanding of practical implications.

Personal Experiences with Local Governance

The speaker recounts attending a meeting with Texas DOT officials where they advocated for necessary infrastructure changes like adding middle turn lanes due to safety concerns.

Frustration is expressed over delays in implementing these changes despite clear community needs being communicated years prior.

Community Involvement and Political Aspirations

A personal note reveals pride in family involvement in local governance; the speaker's wife has taken an active role by running for school board positions.

The conversation touches upon the challenges faced by individuals considering political office, including public scrutiny and past actions being brought up during campaigns.

Reflections on Campaigning and Influence

The speaker reflects on their own experiences with political candidacy offers but expresses reluctance due to potential negative campaigning tactics observed in others' experiences.

They highlight how influence can still be exerted from outside formal political roles while weighing the pros and cons of running for office against personal values.

City Council Aspirations and Community Commitment

The Nature of City Council Work

City council roles are purely volunteer-based, often surprising those unaware of the lack of financial compensation in small towns.

Genuine passion for community is essential; ulterior motives can lead to skepticism about candidates' intentions.

Personal Reflections on Running for Office

The speaker expresses uncertainty about running for city council but acknowledges the importance of aligning personal image with community values.

Confidence in winning a political position stems from established community presence and prior efforts in building a positive public image.

Political Landscape and Community Engagement

The speaker critiques the election process as a popularity contest, emphasizing that genuine commitment to the community should be prioritized over political ambition.

Acknowledges past experiences as a campaign manager, highlighting how personal connections and reputation influence electoral success.

Motivation Behind Political Ambitions

The desire to run for city council has been long-standing, driven by love for the community rather than seeking higher political office.

Discusses balancing business responsibilities with civic duties, indicating that selling businesses could free up time for public service.

Achievements and Goals in Governance

Reflecting on previous campaign slogans focused on transparency and accountability, which led to significant changes within local governance structures.

Emphasizes integrity in communication; having built trust means constituents believe in their honesty without question.

Communication Style and Effectiveness

Advocates direct communication methods over text or email, sharing personal anecdotes about successfully negotiating deals through phone calls.

Stresses the importance of clarity and straightforwardness in business dealings as applicable to all forms of communication.

How to Effectively Solve Problems in Community Engagement

Direct Communication is Key

The speaker emphasizes the importance of going directly to the source when addressing issues, rather than trying to fix problems independently.

In a small community like Log Vista, personal visits to city hall are preferred over emails for quicker resolutions.

The speaker encourages asking questions upfront; if you don't ask, you won't know if a solution is possible or not.

Embracing Rejection as a Learning Tool

Every "no" received can provide insights that lead to future "yes" answers; it's essential to view rejection as constructive feedback.

Engaging in conversations after receiving a no can often yield alternative solutions or suggestions from the other party.

Persistence and Adaptability

The speaker shares experiences of persistence in communication with local officials, highlighting that even if they initially say no, there may still be opportunities for collaboration.

When faced with unavailability at town hall, the speaker adapts by working on-site until they can meet someone who can help.

Building Relationships with Local Officials

The speaker plans to introduce themselves to the new superintendent of schools, indicating the importance of maintaining relationships for effective problem-solving.

Previous agreements made with former officials may need revisiting due to changes in leadership; this requires starting discussions anew.

Addressing Community Needs Through Collaboration

A specific example involves improving safety conditions at a local field used by children; collaboration with school district officials is necessary for progress.

The speaker recounts an initiative where they worked directly with school officials on field improvements, demonstrating proactive engagement in community welfare.

Discussion on Local Community Issues and Little League Challenges

School District Developments

The conversation begins with a discussion about the school district's plans to expand its recess area outside the right field fence, which would also provide more space for buses due to the district's growth.

The previous high school baseball field is described as an eyesore, indicating a need for improvement in local facilities.

Personal Connections and Offers of Help

One participant offers their skid steer or excavator to assist with improvements, highlighting community involvement and support.

A mention of losing the field maintenance director leads to discussions about potential help from a baseball commissioner who owns a construction company.

City Council Aspirations and Corruption Concerns

A participant expresses willingness to run for city council again if necessary, emphasizing concerns over corruption within the development office.

Reference is made to a scandal involving fundraising money related to little league activities, hinting at deeper issues within local governance.

Little League Coaching Controversies

The discussion shifts towards specific incidents involving coaching staff in little league, particularly focusing on Taylor Witchard and Justine Witchard.

An account is shared about Taylor being fired as a coach due to behavioral issues during the season, leading into his role as an all-star coach where further complications arose.

Behavioral Issues During Games

Concerns are raised regarding Justine's behavior during practices; she was reported by parents for inappropriate comments directed at children.

An incident is recounted where Justine yelled at young players after mistakes were made during practice, raising questions about appropriate conduct in youth sports.

Fundraising Misconduct

It’s revealed that Justine started her own fundraising efforts for the All-Star team without league approval, which led to significant tension among parents and coaches.

The speaker describes their role as an enforcer against these unauthorized fundraising activities while navigating their position as an assistant coach.

Fundraising and Mismanagement in Youth Sports

Snack Fundraising for Young Athletes

Discussion on fundraising efforts where family members contributed around $1,200 for snacks and travel expenses for young baseball players.

Suggested simple snack options include oranges, apple slices, Gatorade, and nut packages; however, there was skepticism about the appropriateness of certain snacks like sunflower seeds.

Concerns Over Financial Transparency

The speaker expresses confusion over the use of funds raised for snacks and travel expenses, questioning if parents would receive gas money for traveling to games.

Reports of a woman mismanaging funds by taking money from both a youth baseball team and a football league registration account.

Allegations of Theft

The speaker describes two incidents involving theft: one from parents during fundraising and another from the football league's registration fees.

Accusations arise regarding her involvement with the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), suggesting she may have taken money from that as well.

Community Response to Misconduct

A warning is issued to committee members about allowing this individual access to any financial resources due to past behavior.

The speaker recounts community concerns about her reputation as someone who could not be trusted with money.

Broader Implications of Trust Issues

Multiple individuals report issues related to unpaid wages or partial payments linked to poor management practices by those in charge.

Discussion on how deceptive practices can lead to significant consequences, including failed businesses and damaged reputations within the community.

Reflection on Leadership and Accountability

Commentary on how individuals who lie about their qualifications often face repercussions; highlights failures in leadership roles leading to broader community issues.

Emphasis on the need for vigilance in managing teams or organizations, especially when it comes to financial matters affecting families involved in youth sports.

How to Communicate Effectively in Leadership?

Understanding Different Perspectives

The speaker discusses the challenge of conveying a better decision when others may not be wrong but lack a broader perspective. This highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in communication.

The speaker notes that parents, particularly mothers, can be more vocal and passionate in community settings like little league sports, indicating the need for careful management of these dynamics.

Establishing Communication Protocols

Emphasizing "one word: communication," the speaker outlines their approach to coaching by setting clear expectations with parents during initial meetings.

The speaker establishes rules for interactions between coaches and parents, including who communicates with umpires and how concerns should be raised, ensuring clarity from the start.

Safety is prioritized; if a child's safety is at risk, decisions are made without parental interference. This reinforces the authority of coaches while maintaining open lines for questions.

Importance of Clear Guidelines

In business contexts, effective communication starts during interviews where all rules must be clearly outlined. If candidates disagree with these guidelines, they should not be hired.

After hiring, it’s crucial to ensure that all discussed protocols are followed. If discrepancies arise, retraining may be necessary to maintain consistency in leadership practices.

Modes of Communication

The speaker categorizes communication methods by effectiveness: face-to-face first, phone calls second, and text as a last resort due to its limitations in conveying tone and intent.

Summarizing key points on communication emphasizes its role across various fields—whether coaching or managing franchises—as essential for operational success and personal satisfaction.

Passion in Leadership

The discussion shifts towards passion in work; losing interest can negatively impact both personal well-being and team morale.

Reflecting on a long tenure at Domino's Pizza reveals that when passion fades, it becomes unfair to colleagues and family alike. Recognizing this loss is crucial for making career changes.

Final Thoughts on Career Transitions

Acknowledging support from family during transitions highlights the importance of having partners who understand professional struggles and encourage positive change.

The speaker humorously reflects on their radio sign-off phrase “my pleasure,” linking it back to their commitment to positivity in professional interactions.

A light-hearted comparison between Domino's Pizza and Chick-fil-A underscores potential regrets about career choices based on financial success within different industries.

Opportunities in Voice Acting

Introduction to Voice Acting Opportunities

The speaker expresses gratitude for being invited and mentions their eagerness to explore voiceover opportunities, indicating a proactive approach to career development.

They highlight their unique identity as "the only I Coronis in the world," suggesting a distinctive brand presence that can be leveraged in the industry.

Social Media Presence

The speaker shares their social media handles, emphasizing accessibility for potential collaborators or clients. They are active on platforms like Instagram and Facebook under the name "Iicor Coronis."

There is an acknowledgment of not having a dedicated website yet for their voice career, which indicates they are still in the early stages of establishing an online professional presence.

Learning and Development

The speaker mentions acquiring their first podcast kit, signaling a commitment to learning and improving their skills within the voice acting field.

A light-hearted exchange occurs where one participant appreciates the insights shared by the other, showcasing camaraderie and mutual respect in discussions about wisdom and experience.