Tom’s journey into business leadership began with hands-on experience as the founder and current franchisee owner-operator of Class 101, Inc. His 26-year tenure as founder, franchisor, and president was marked by groundbreaking nationwide success in the college planning industry. Under his leadership, Tom and his team grew Class 101 into the largest college planning firm in the country. During this time, the company earned numerous awards, including recognition as a Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review in 2023 for franchisee satisfaction, the Children’s Silver Award from Franchise Help, and a spot on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 in 2020.

Known for his passion and enthusiasm for developing people and building culture first — and business second — Tom has carefully documented and compiled all of his leadership principles, franchise stories, and life lessons into one book, Squeezed.

Through Squeezed, readers — especially students, leaders, and business owners — can experience firsthand the strength and potential that emerge when you are squeezed.