Angie Katsanevas, known to millions as a star of a popular television series, stepped into a different spotlight Thursday – testifying before a House committee on Capitol Hill.
Katsanevas, the founder and driving force behind a growing hair salon business, wasn’t there to discuss reality television drama. She was there as an expert witness, passionately advocating for the American Franchise Act and the vital role franchising plays in fostering entrepreneurship.
She challenged a common misconception, stating that franchises aren’t monolithic corporations, but rather the backbone of small business in America. Her own company, born from humble beginnings, exemplifies this point – a testament to the power of the franchise model to fuel growth.
This appearance marked a historic moment: the first time a cast member from the “Real Housewives” franchise has addressed Congress. Katsanevas joined other business owners in urging lawmakers to consider the impact of this legislation.
Lunatic Fringe, the salon she built with her husband, now boasts locations across Utah, Idaho, and Ohio. While she directly operates several locations, the majority thrive thanks to dedicated franchisees – individuals empowered to own and operate their own businesses.
Katsanevas emphasized the protective power of the American Franchise Act, arguing it’s crucial for safeguarding not just her business, but countless others like it. She saw this as a pivotal opportunity for the committee to champion small business owners.
The proposed Act aims to clarify franchise relationships, address the complexities of the “joint employer” rule, and ensure consistency in federal labor laws. Katsanevas believes these changes are essential for a healthy franchise ecosystem.
She powerfully stated that this legislation could impact 830,000 franchise businesses and the 9 million Americans they employ – the very heart of communities nationwide. It’s about preserving a pathway to prosperity for countless families.
Katsanevas’s personal story adds weight to her advocacy. As the daughter of a Greek immigrant, she understands the allure of the American dream and the challenges of building a life from the ground up.
The franchise model, she explained, democratizes entrepreneurship, offering a proven blueprint for success to those who might otherwise be hesitant to launch a business independently. It’s a chance to achieve business ownership and financial independence.
Her journey began as a hair stylist, alongside her husband. Their first salon wasn’t just a business venture; it was a testing ground, a laboratory for the systems and strategies they would later share with franchisees.
They meticulously refined their approach, learning from both successes and failures, before offering the franchise opportunity. This ensured that each new location was built on a solid foundation, maximizing the chances of success for their partners.
Katsanevas highlighted the benefits of provisions like bonus depreciation, which allowed her to rapidly improve her salons and reinvest in her employees. She also championed the idea of eliminating taxes on tips, putting more money directly into the hands of her hardworking staff.
The hearing wasn’t entirely devoid of playful references to her television persona. Several members of Congress acknowledged her reality TV fame, injecting a lightheartedness into the serious discussion.
Katsanevas herself opened her testimony with a memorable line, a witty retort from the show that perfectly encapsulated her message: “You do french fries, I do franchise.” It was a bold statement, and a clear indication of her passion for the franchise model.
Ultimately, her testimony was a powerful call to action, a plea to protect the American dream for a new generation of entrepreneurs. It was a story of hard work, innovation, and the transformative power of franchising.
