FranchiseU! Episode 117: From Combat Controller to Crumbl Cookies

The Journey of Nicholas Jewell

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Kathy Gosser welcomes Nicholas Jewell, a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee in the Louisville Metro area. Nick’s path to franchising is anything but ordinary—spanning military service, entrepreneurship, logistics and cookie domination.

Jewell served 11 years as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, earning two Bronze Stars before shifting his focus to business. He founded a logistics company during the pandemic, completed a Master of Science in Business Analytics at UofL, and was recognized as a Louisville Business First 40 Under 40 honoree. Today, he’s preparing to open his third Crumbl Cookies location, with plans for more growth on the horizon.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why franchising is not truly “passive income”—and the reality behind scaling a brand
• How Jewell’s military background shaped his approach to teamwork, resilience and leadership
• The unique appeal of Crumbl Cookies’ open kitchen, rotating menu and tech-driven customer experience
• Advice for veterans considering franchising or entrepreneurship.
• Jewell’s “3 C’s of Leadership”: Clear, Consistent and Caring
• The balance between corporate systems and local community engagement in franchising

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