Linda Saelee: Franchisee of the Year and Owner of Our First Concord, California Location

Linda Saelee is the proud current franchisee owner of the first-ever Uncle Sharkii location in Concord, California, which was originally operated by the corporate team. Her exceptional dedication to the Uncle Sharkii brand has earned her the prestigious title of Franchisee of the Year. Not only has Linda demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence, but she has also successfully made back her investment into the company, proving that hard work and passion truly pay off.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Linda to gain an inside look at her journey. She shared valuable insights into the strategies that have fueled her success, the importance of fostering a positive work environment, and her advice for future Uncle Sharkii franchisees who aspire to follow in her footsteps.

Interviewer: What strategies have you implemented to drive consistent growth and success at your location?

Linda: For us, the key to consistent growth has always been about providing excellent customer service. My husband and I are deeply involved in the daily operations, which means we're always present and consistent with our team. We ensure that freshness and quality are non-negotiable in everything we do, from start to finish. It's this hands-on approach that has helped us maintain a standard that our customers can rely on, which in turn drives our success.

Interviewer: How do you foster a positive and productive work environment for your team?

Linda: Leading by example is crucial. We believe in role modeling positive behavior, especially when it comes to listening and being supportive. Continuous coaching is a big part of our management style. We make it a point to check in with our employees often, not just to provide guidance but to ensure they feel valued and taken care of. When our team is happy and motivated, it reflects in their work, creating a positive and productive environment.

Interviewer: What does receiving the Franchisee of the Year award mean to you, and what do you attribute your success to?

Linda: Receiving the Franchisee of the Year award is incredibly meaningful to us. It validates all the time and hard work we've invested in our store. Although I’ve had a proven track record with my previous roles as a Store Manager, this is my first time receiving such an honor as a franchise owner. It shows that our dream of pursuing our passion for helping others has truly come to fruition. Our success can be attributed to our hard work, strong faith, and unwavering work ethic. Leadership is something that comes naturally to us, and this award tells the story of who we are as leaders. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of our family, parents, and everyone who believed in our decision to become owners.

Interviewer: What advice would you give to new franchisees looking to achieve the same level of success?

Linda: My advice is to be very clear about why you want to enter the business and what kind of leader you are—or want to become. It’s essential to be willing to elevate your leadership, train your team effectively, and be present in your business. Providing excellent customer service to both your customers and your team is fundamental. When you focus on these aspects, success will follow.

Interviewer: Looking back at your journey with Uncle Sharkii, what are you most proud of?

Linda: I’m most proud of my family. My husband and I always dreamed of growing a big family and becoming business owners who genuinely love what they do. To be able to serve others and create a positive impact through our work is something we hold close to our hearts. Seeing our journey come full circle, from our dreams to becoming Franchisee of the Year, is incredibly rewarding.