FranchiseU! Episode 100: Aaron Engler and Mollie Sommer (Border Foods)

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Kathy Gosser and co-host Isabel Botero speak with Border Foods President Aaron Engler and Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist Mollie Sommer. Engler and Sommer share their backgrounds, professional journeys and the roles they have undertaken in their large, family-owned Taco Bell franchise, which operates over 250 Taco Bell restaurants with 7,000 employees. Sommer details her transition from various positions in Chicago to a year-long stint at a Taco Bell restaurant, eventually moving into community engagement. Engler discusses his expansive journey from failing out of college twice to taking on multiple roles within Border Foods and eventually leading the business for nearly 20 years. They explore the entrepreneurial spirit, governance and family dynamics that define Border Foods. The discussion highlights key values like family, teamwork and accountability, and emphasizes the importance of communication in family businesses. They also discuss initiatives such as a unique two-story drive-thru Taco Bell named ‘Defy’ and their generous community outreach efforts.

Click below to listen to the episode and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts.