Discover how Franchise Sidekick helped this aspiring business owner to leave corporate tech for a meaningful career as a Soccer Stars franchisee.
After a decade in the tech world, working at Microsoft and later for a Microsoft Partner channel, Josh Herscheid knew deep down there was something missing.
“I've always been that side-hustle guy,” Josh said. “I was an eBay kid growing up. I just never had a compelling enough idea to make the leap full time.”
Josh had the drive – but not the right vehicle. He and his wife, both in tech, started exploring franchises as a way to bridge his corporate success and his entrepreneurial ambitions.
They initially looked to open a Scooter’s Coffee near their home outside the Twin Cities. But after a year of searching for real estate and running the numbers, reality hit.
“It was going to be over a million dollars and a lot more risk than we were anticipating,” Josh said. “That’s when we turned to Franchise Sidekick to help us find something with lower cost and lower risk, but still big potential.”
Finding the right fit: From coffee to community impact
Josh was introduced to Sidekick through a connection and paired up with his advisor, Desire Stephens.
“One of the things that impressed me most was just how clear and organized the Sidekick process was,” Josh said. “The technology, the automation, the step-by-step structure – it was all there. And Desiré brought real credibility as a franchise owner herself.”
Together, they explored brands that aligned with Josh’s goals and values. That’s when Soccer Stars stood out as the top contender.
“My wife is still in tech, and I wanted something that gave us flexibility for our family,” Josh said. “With Soccer Stars, we saw the chance to make a local impact and still have the lifestyle we wanted.”
The Sidekick difference: Creating confidence with process
Transitioning from a six-figure corporate career to entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart – but having a Sidekick with proven processes can make all the difference.
“I felt comforted knowing you guys had a process that worked,” Josh said. “Desiré also challenged me in the right ways – encouraging validation calls, digging into real numbers and making sure it truly fit.”
With our vetted brand recommendations and expert guidance, Josh could evaluate opportunities with confidence – without the guesswork and unnecessary risk.
“The structure that Ryan and the team built – vetting, validating and standing behind good franchises – it's huge,” Josh said. “There’s a lot of junk out there, but Sidekick helps you find the good ones.”
Living life on his terms: Success with Soccer Stars
Josh officially launched his Soccer Stars franchise in early 2025. Now, less than a year in, he’s already seeing both financial and emotional rewards.
“We’re profitable in our first year, which is huge,” he said. “But more importantly, I’m happier. My wife even said, ‘you’re not stressed out anymore.’ That’s what matters.”
Soccer Stars currently serves over 100 kids each week in Josh’s community, helping children build confidence, teamwork and joy through play.
“The feedback from parents is incredible,” Josh said. “Hearing that a kid is coming out of their shell or looks forward to class every week – that’s the kind of impact I was missing before.”
For Josh, franchising with Soccer Stars wasn’t just a career change – it was a life shift.
“I describe franchising as a bridge out of corporate America and into entrepreneurship,” he said. “Soccer Stars has been the perfect bridge for me. It’s giving me the confidence to take on whatever comes next.”
Ready to build your bridge to entrepreneurship?
Sidekick helps aspiring business owners like Josh find their perfect fit – brands that align with goals, lifestyle and risk tolerance. Our proven process takes the guesswork out of buying a franchise, so you can focus on what matters most: building a business and a life you love.
Schedule a free consultation call and start your business ownership journey today.
