What if the secret to business growth isn’t aggressive scaling or complex strategy?
What if it’s simply… support?
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Felice Parker — a 27-year U.S. Air Force veteran, mother of six, community servant, and franchise owner of PostNet in the Philadelphia area.
Her story is a powerful reminder that systems and service can coexist — and when they do, growth follows naturally.
Why Veterans Thrive in Franchising
Felice didn’t initially set out to become a franchise owner. Her journey began in the Air National Guard, where she joined to help pay for college. What followed was a 27-year military career rooted in discipline, structure, and leadership.
When she later entered franchising, she immediately recognized something familiar:
Systems.
Processes.
Clear expectations.
“Follow the rules, and it works,” she shared.
Franchising wasn’t restrictive to her — it was empowering.
Veterans often excel in franchise systems because:
- They understand chain of command.
- They respect proven processes.
- They know how to lead teams.
- They operate with accountability.
Felice emphasizes that highly independent, hyper-innovative personalities may struggle in franchise systems — but those who appreciate structure thrive.
From Childcare to Printing & Shipping
Before owning her PostNet location, Felice ran a childcare business for more than 16 years. That role — like her military career — centered on service.
Today, her PostNet location provides:
- Printing services (business cards, brochures, signage, promotional items)
- Shipping through USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL
- Support for local small businesses
She calls it a “one-stop shop.”
But what truly differentiates her store isn’t the services.
It’s the experience.
“Just Be Nice.”
When asked what customer service professionals most need to learn, Felice didn’t hesitate:
“Being nice. Just be nice.”
It sounds simple — but in today’s transactional world, kindness stands out.
She trains her team not through complicated manuals, but by modeling behavior:
- Greet customers warmly.
- Learn their names.
- Remember their preferences.
- Ask about their day.
- Go over and above.
Her employees “catch” her leadership style because she lives it daily.
And customers notice.
Her business grows largely through word-of-mouth — not aggressive marketing campaigns.
Support Is Contagious
The word “support” came up repeatedly in the conversation.
Felice’s life theme is service:
- Serving her country
- Supporting parents in childcare
- Helping women veterans through her sorority
- Feeding families during holiday turkey drives
- Supporting women in shelters
- Coaching her employees
- Encouraging fellow franchise owners
But here’s the twist:
She also believes in asking for support.
Many entrepreneurs struggle with that. They fear being a burden.
Felice reframes it:
When someone supports you, they experience joy.
Support is reciprocal.
Both people are blessed.
Leadership Through Modeling, Not Mandating
Felice doesn’t overcomplicate culture-building.
She models it.
When employees see her:
- Listening
- Coaching
- Supporting
- Encouraging
- Extending grace
They follow suit.
She views her employees as people she serves — not just people who work for her.
That mindset creates:
- Loyalty
- Positivity
- Emotional safety
- Strong team dynamics
And ultimately? Better business results.
Advice for Women Considering Franchising
When asked what advice she would give women entrepreneurs, Felice shared:
- Take your time.
- Do your research.
- Ask lots of questions.
- Talk to franchisees.
- Support one another.
She also emphasized that women need to collaborate, not compete.
“There’s room for all of us to do well together.”
A rising tide lifts all ships.
Boundaries and Balance
With six children, a husband who serves alongside her, community involvement, and business ownership, Felice’s life is full.
Yet she prioritizes:
- Family gatherings
- Vacations (Jamaica and the Caribbean are favorites)
- Time with her husband
- Supporting her children’s activities
She acknowledges she may sometimes overextend — but self-care and family time remain non-negotiable.
Final Takeaway: Growth Follows Service
Felice doesn’t wake up thinking:
“How can I grow revenue?”
She wakes up thinking:
“How can I help today?”
Ironically, that mindset is exactly what fuels growth.
Her business expands because:
- Customers feel valued.
- Employees feel supported.
- The community feels served.
In a world obsessed with scaling, Felice Parker reminds us:
Support is the strategy.