THE FATHERS OF FIREHOUSE
The Fathers of Firehouse Subs
In honor of Father’s Day on June 19, we’re recognizing some of our amazing Franchisee Fathers who’ve worked closely with their kids in their Firehouse Subs restaurants.
We asked several franchisees for their favorite part about being a dad, and what they want the general public to know about owning and operating a restaurant alongside their family members. Here are their answers:
What’s your favorite part about being a dad?
The best thing about being a dad is seeing my daughter Rachel grow into a smart, dependable and hardworking individual, who I couldn't be more proud of. She grew up in my restaurants helping out where needed, and worked her way up to her current position. There aren’t many things more gratifying as a parent than seeing your children succeed.
- Franchisee Matt Holmes (Tallahassee, FL)
Truthfully, just being called “Dad” by my daughters means so much to me. I think it has to do with how I felt when I called my dad. It was so rewarding for me that regardless of my demanding professions, I was completely involved with my wife, Tammy, in coaching, supporting and watching our two daughters grow personally and professionally… I am a strong believer that one of the most fun and effective ways to make a difference is by being a good father. I believe that is the most important legacy I hope to leave behind.
- Franchisee Omar Ghorbani (Spartanburg, SC)
I think my favorite part is seeing parenthood passed down to the next generation. My son and I are inseparable and he helps me out a lot. We’re more like friends than family.
- Franchisee Bobby Sahgal (Tampa, FL)
My favorite part is learning my kids' aspirations and helping them achieve success.
- Franchisee Eddie Byrd (Nashville, TN)
Everything. I always knew that when I grew up I would want to get married and have kids. The bond with your kids is unlike anything else in the world.
- Franchisee Tim Cobb (Little Rock, AR)
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about owning and operating a restaurant within a family dynamic?
When you run a restaurant within a family dynamic, you hold your coworkers and family members to the highest expectation. The great thing is that you can always count on them to give their best effort like you give yours.
- Franchisee Matt Holmes (Tallahassee, FL)
That it is a 24/7 job. We are constantly laser focused on customer satisfaction, financials of the business, human resources acquisition, training, etc. The list goes on! Even if we are not physically on location or have a day off, there’s a good chance we are doing something restaurant-related. It is great to have my daughter involved so we are able to spend lots of time together in and out of the business.
- Franchisee Omar Ghorbani (Spartanburg, SC)
Things are easier because that family trust is already there. You feel strong running a restaurant with the help of family because you know that you can always rely on them.
- Franchisee Bobby Sahgal (Tampa, FL)
Operating a family business can be tough, as far as the time that it takes and commitment from all involved. But at the end of the day, we are working together towards a common goal of running a business that is ours. It’s very rewarding to be doing this work with my family by my side.
- Franchisee Eddie Byrd (Nashville, TN)
That working with family can actually strengthen your bonds. My daughter and I are closer than ever since we started working together. We always have something to talk about.
- Franchisee Tim Cobb (Little Rock, AR)