Photo

Behind the Franchise

The builders behind the brands

Photo

Behind the Franchise

The builders behind the brands

Photo

Behind the Franchise

The builders behind the brands

Fred Hassen & Alfredo Rivera

Fred Hassen is the founder and originator of the Sit Means Sit dog training system – a studied, tested, proven, specialized approach that shows immediate results in the dog’s ability to maintain focus to the task at hand even around distractions in a non-confrontational way. Fred has presented seminars to pet owners, professional dog trainers and K9 handlers across the continent and abroad for many years, while building the largest U.S. based dog training franchise in the world. Fred is constantly pushing the bar higher and the Sit Means Sit system is in a constant state of flux continuously improving and providing handlers the ability to communicate more effectively with their canine partners. Fred believes “Talk is cheap” and has a library of over 1500 videos, in real time, showcasing the many benefits of the Sit Means Sit dog training system. Alfredo Rivera is the President and Owner of Sit Means Sit, Inc. – Las Vegas, a role he has held since May 2002. With over 23 years of experience leading the largest and most successful U.S.-based dog training franchise, Alfredo has built a nationally recognized brand known for its effective training methods and high-quality products, including waterproof, lifetime-guaranteed dog collars. He also previously served as Vice President of Las Vegas Auto Parts from 1990 to 2002, gaining valuable experience in automotive distribution and warehouse operations. His career reflects strong leadership in both the pet services and automotive industries.

Talk Is Cheap: Fred Hassen and Alfredo Rivera on Building a Dog Training Empire with Integrity

In this episode of Behind the Franchise, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Fred Hassen and Alfredo Rivera, the powerhouse duo behind Sit Means Sit, one of the largest dog training franchises in North America. From Fred’s unexpected entry into the dog world at age 40 to building a 170+ location business, they share an unfiltered look at the grit, growth, and guiding principles that built their empire.

Discover how integrity, authenticity, and a passion for dogs transformed a van-based hustle into a national brand. If you're interested in franchising, entrepreneurship, or just love a good underdog story (literally), this episode is packed with wisdom.


🔎 Topics include:

  • The origins of Sit Means Sit & their unique training philosophy

  • Why not having a background in dog training was a strength

  • Scaling with integrity and no business plan

  • How video marketing set them apart early

  • Lessons from top-performing franchisees


👉🏻 Whether you’re a dog lover, aspiring franchisee, or just love inspiring business journeys—this episode is for you.


#BehindTheFranchise #SitMeansSit #DogTrainingBusiness #FranchiseSuccess #TalkIsCheap #EntrepreneurJourney #FranchiseGrowth #StartupStory #BusinessWithIntegrity #DogTrainerLife #RagsToRiches #VideoMarketing #FranchisePodcast #FoundersStory #PassionToProfit

Powered by Flamel.ai

"Behind the Franchise" is brought to you by the great team at Flamel.ai - the AI-powered marketing hub for multi-location brands.

Powered by Flamel.ai

"Behind the Franchise" is brought to you by the great team at Flamel.ai - the AI-powered marketing hub for multi-location brands.

Powered by Flamel.ai

"Behind the Franchise" is brought to you by the great team at Flamel.ai - the AI-powered marketing hub for multi-location brands.