Josh Rathweg: Leadership Redefined Through Resilience and Purpose

NATIONWIDE - OCTOBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) Josh Rathweg’s approach to leadership is refreshingly different. Where others see challenges, he identifies opportunities for growth. His story raises questions about whether traditional leadership models are still relevant in today’s evolving business landscape. Instead, his success shows how accessible, empathetic management can lead to impressive outcomes.

From Corporate Executive to Franchise Innovator

Rathweg spent sixteen years in the financial services industry, developing a strategic mindset and a deep understanding of business operations. During this time, he had the opportunity to learn from seasoned mentors, which shaped his leadership principles. In 2017, he made a bold move, transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship. His first franchise buyout involved an underperforming unit that required immediate attention.

Over the next few years, Rathweg grew his franchise network to include ten units across multiple states. His business generates over $25 million in annual revenue, with a conversion rate of 11.4% and a guest satisfaction score of 70%, placing him among the top 20% in revenue production. Rathweg’s success comes not only from strategic decisions but also from his hands-on involvement in mentoring his team.

In recognition of his leadership, Rathweg was named Franchise Partner of the Year in both 2021 and 2022. These accolades reflect his commitment to operational excellence and team development. His approach shows that growth and personal engagement can go hand-in-hand.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Rathweg faced a major financial challenge in 2019, when he invested over $1 million to launch his second franchise location. The opening was met with excitement, attracting a strong customer base. However, just after the launch, COVID-19 restrictions forced the business to shut down for 16 months.

The closure put immense pressure on his business model, forcing him to rely on unemployment compensation to keep his family afloat. Despite these hardships, Rathweg refused to give up. During the shutdown, he modernized equipment and streamlined operations, preparing the business for a stronger reopening.

When the country lifted lockdowns in 2022, Rathweg’s franchise flourished. It saw better revenue than pre-pandemic levels in its first quarter back. His ability to stay focused on long-term goals and avoid rash decisions during the crisis helped build a resilient business.

His ability to weather this storm was further tested by his daughter's battle with malignant brain cancer. Amid surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, Rathweg continued to manage his business, all while staying by his daughter's side at the hospital. Her recovery, which has become a symbol of resilience in its own right, deepened his empathy for others and reinforced his belief that vulnerability in leadership fosters strength rather than weakness.

Leadership Philosophy: Presence Over Position

Rathweg believes in leading through presence, not position. He rejects the isolation that often comes with executive roles, preferring to work directly with his team. “I get energy from working side-by-side with my team,” he says. This leadership style fosters trust, respect, and a culture of learning, where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than failures.

Rather than relying on traditional hierarchical structures, Rathweg champions a merit-based system. He promotes top performers based on their contributions, regardless of their past or background. This approach helps break down barriers and unlocks potential across his organization.

During the COVID-19 shutdown, Rathweg ensured his team remained connected and supported. He connected them to financial assistance programs, and his transparency and communication during this time cultivated deep loyalty. This loyalty was crucial when the business reopened, as his team remained committed despite the challenging times.

Rathweg’s leadership is also evident in his mentoring efforts. He currently mentors over 1,000 individuals seeking to develop authentic leadership skills. His leadership platform is quickly growing, aiming to reach thousands more. Mentees describe his impact as transformative, citing how his mentorship empowers them to lead with purpose and navigate crises effectively.

Building Systems for Sustainable Impact

Rathweg’s influence extends beyond his franchise operations. He served as chairman of the Franchise Advisory Council from 2022 to 2024, prioritizing operational improvements across the network. His data-driven approach addressed key concerns among franchisees, leading to better outcomes for the entire organization.

His contributions to the industry were recognized when he received the Franchise Brand Ambassador award in 2023, a testament to his ability to drive systemic improvements. Rathweg's leadership shows how individual excellence can elevate entire business ecosystems.

He is now working on creating a national leadership development platform that will empower emerging leaders. “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest—it’s about being present,” he says. His vision is to equip leaders with practical strategies for effective decision-making and to build resiliency through empathy and purpose.

The Future of Leadership

Rathweg’s leadership model signals a shift away from traditional, top-down approaches. By prioritizing connection, empathy, and presence, he demonstrates that effective leadership can thrive without the distance often expected of top executives. His commitment to sustainable growth and thoughtful decision-making ensures that leaders in his network are prepared for both personal and professional challenges.

As he expands his leadership platform, Rathweg’s goal is to build a community where leaders can learn from one another, grow in their roles, and leave a lasting impact on the world. His model offers a compelling alternative for today’s leaders, showing that success in business and leadership can be defined by authenticity, collaboration, and resilience.