📺 Stream EntrepreneurTV for Free 📺

How These Entrepreneurs Bounced Back From Unfathomable Loss Let the stories of these three franchise owners inspire you.

By Gwen Moran Edited by Frances Dodds

entrepreneur daily

This story appears in the January 2016 issue of Entrepreneur. Subscribe »

Shutterstock

Buying and running a successful franchise has many of the same demands as any other business. But the process becomes even more challenging when disaster strikes. Meet three franchisees who faced down the unthinkable and emerged stronger than ever.

1. How Secondhand Clothing Gave This Woman a Second Chance

Rita Cortese risked everything for her Plato's Closet franchise.

Rita Cortese
Image Credit: Illustration by Alexandra Compain-Tossier

2. How This Family Rebuilt Their Business After Devastating Losses

A personal tragedy and an economic downturn hit David Ogburn hard, but he staged a comeback.

David Ogburn
Image Credit: Illustration by Alexandra Compain-Tossier

3. How This Entrepreneur Coped With Tragedy While Running a Business

Barry Foot turned his passion for cruises into his profession. Then he used his profession to honor his late wife.

Barry Foot
Image Credit: Illustrations by Alexandra Compain-Tossier
Gwen Moran

Writer and Author, Specializing in Business and Finance

GWEN MORAN is a freelance writer and co-author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Business Plans (Alpha, 2010).

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Most Popular

See all
Business Solutions

Lock in a Microsoft Office Lifetime License for $25

Build your team's network of tools with this limited-time price drop on word processing, spreadsheet creation, email, and more.

By Entrepreneur Store
Management

Is Selling Your Business the Only Way Out of Burnout? Here Are Five Alternatives to Consider Instead.

When you're burning out as an entrepreneur or business owner, it can feel like selling your business to an outside buyer is your only escape — but I'm here to tell you there are other options. Here are a few to consider if you're unsure about handing over the reins.

By Mark Kravietz
By Mark J. Kohler
Growing a Business

'A Surprise Around Every Corner' How This Iconic Bookstore's Innovative Mix of New and Used Books Keeps Book Hunters Coming Back for More.

Here's how Powell's City of Books used its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility to create a landmark of literary passion.

By Emily Washcovick
Leadership

How to Harness the Power of Authentic Storytelling to Become a More Effective and Inspiring Leader

Storytelling enhances business leadership by inspiring a culture of authenticity and trust through sharing relevant personal stories.

By Michel Koopman
Leadership

I Quit! You Just Don't Know It Yet — How to Stop Disengagement and Ensure Your Employees Remain Vibrant and Productive

Disgruntled or disenchanted employees are giving up and doing the minimum at their jobs. Are people quiet quitting on you?

By Scott Deming