I'm not a businessman, I'm a BUSINESS, man!

So… as some of you know, my wife and I are about to be business owners. We're going to buy a franchise called Learning Rx with Kim's parents.





In September the four of us traveled to Colorado Springs for a few "Discovery Days" of interviews to make sure we liked them (the family that owns and offers the franchise) and that they liked us.

Both sides seemed pretty pleased with each other and we were given their approval before we left the mountains.



We're pretty excited and a little scared. It's a big step for sure, but one we've prayed about and feel drawn toward.

We'll definitely covet your prayers during this time of business exploration and set-up. Your spiritual and emotional support will be much needed and appreciated as we embark on this adventure.

Photos, links, and more details are below. We'll keep you posted.

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Still have questions? Here's a little FAQ-type rundown that should provide some answers.

Q: What kind of business are you buying again?

A: LearningRx is a cognitive skills training company – one we believe can really change lives. It helps correct the underlying problems of those with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities as well as enhances the skills of those who want to have a competitive edge at work or school.

It's not subject specific and not tutoring. It's more thinking games and activities that build skills over time. If you've seen Nintendo's "Brain Age" video game commercials or ads lately you'll get an idea of what we'll be providing.

[And don't worry; this isn't a network pyramid deal where we're going to try and recruit you for our "team." This is real deal, Jay-Z business baby.]

Q: Who owns the franchise system? Probably a bunch of old, rich corporate "suits", right?

A: Actually, it's a nice family from Colorado Springs. I think all of the Gibson children work for the company in some capacity and they seem to have a solid foundation in their Christian faith.

Sure, they want to make money, but they also want to leave a larger legacy by their life's work. They share 50% (that's HALF) of their profits with their employees and encourage their franchises to give back in similar ways.

We got a really good vibe from them when we were there and think they have a good support system to put behind us.

Q: Who's going to run this joint?

A: Mostly Kim and her mom Beth.

They both taught at Austin Elementary here in Cut-N-Shoot last year. Beth decided not to return to public school and has been home schooling five children for two families that are friends of ours. Kim's still teaching 2nd grade this year but it will probably be her last one in the classroom.

I'll continue my job with The Integrity Group and Chuck, Kim's dad, will use his post-retirement "free time" as a Learning Rx all-around utility player.

Q: Didn't Kim and her mom already have something like this going?

A: Yes. For the past several months they've been running a smaller, "provider" version of the Gibson's PACE program through a business they've called Brain Trainers.

They graduated their first student in October and recently opened up an office space next to Lori's Lunchbox here at the Midway intersection of Hwy 105 and Walker Road. Lori's kids are some of Beth's homeschool students. They use the classroom for that and Brain Trainers. I designed the road sign.







Q: When are you opening?

A: If all goes will with the business plan, financing, location search, etc. we'll be up and going around the end of the school year.



Q: You guys live in Cut-N-Shoot. Why put your business in The Woodlands?

A: Learning Rx offers a protected territory and helps you identify your best market. The Woodlands seems to be the place. They tell us that our "target moms" are "Target moms" and there are plenty of them in The Woodlands. It's about a 30-minute drive from our house, which is about half the time of my commute.

Q: How was Colorado?

A: Stinkin' awesome. It was between 60-70 degrees with 0% humidity when we were there. They also have these really huge piles of earth and rock everywhere you look. I think they call them "mountains" or something. We don't really have those here in Texas.



We also enjoyed this really great restaurant called the Rock Bottom Brewery.

We found the food (ballpark pretzel appetizers) to be better than the beer(s), but definitely worth a stop if you ever visit.

Q: Are you hiring?

A: Actually yeah, we'll need some employees. Trainers need a college degree and have to pass a background check. We're told stay-at-home moms and those looking for a solid afternoon/early evening part-time gig are ideal. If you're interested in helping kids (and even adults) build confidence and increase learning skills let us know.

Q: Sketch, you've done and absolutely fabulous job with this blog and FAQ session but I have an unquenchable thirst for more info. Where can I find out more?

A: First of all thanks for all the glowing compliments.

Secondly, check out http://www.learningrx-franchise.com/. The Introduction Video on their site provides a great overview of the business.