In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Kristopher Stuart, co-founder of Bloomin’ Blinds, to unravel how a family-built window coverings business is rewriting the rules of franchising with AI, robotics, and a firefighter’s grit. But here’s the twist: their biggest innovation isn’t in the tech—it’s in the human connection the tech enables.

From repairing blinds as a 10-year-old to leading a franchise empire of 80 locations, Kristopher reveals how Bloomin’ Blinds is using AI to strip away everything except the irreplaceable moments of trust between their franchisees and customers. Think drone deliveries, robot installers, and coffee-fueled conversations—because the future of home services isn’t just automated; it’s intentionally human.

Stick around for a masterclass in resilience, the “deposits of grace” that sustain long-term partnerships, and why Kristopher believes we’re living through a once-in-history opportunity to redefine industries. By the end, you’ll rethink how technology serves relationships—not the other way around. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

• The AI-Human Paradox: How Bloomin’ Blinds uses AI to automate everything except the face-to-face customer experience—turning window coverings into a high-trust, high-tech service.
• From Firehouse to Franchise: Kristopher’s firefighting background shaped their management style: “Treat the office like a fire station—drop everything when the call comes in.”
• The “Deposits of Grace” Principle: Why building relational capital (and owning mistakes) is the secret to franchisee loyalty—even when tech rollouts hit snags.
• The Generational Tech Shift: “We went from changing TV dials to coding AI bots—this is the only time in history that’ll happen. If we’re even 10% right, we’re ahead of 97% of the market.”
• Redefining Success: Kristopher’s algorithm: Spearheading a movement + robust relationships + being of service—not just profits.

• [00:00] Introduction to Kristopher Stuart
• [09:22] AI and robotics in business
• [13:50] Leveraging AI for efficiency
• [20:06] Impact of technology on customer experience
• [21:29] Future of technology in home services
• [23:36] The origin of the franchise
• [24:10] Expanding beyond window treatments
• [24:27] The vision of robotics in installation
• [25:24] Human connection in technology
• [27:50] Challenges in the journey
• [29:05] Optimism in overcoming obstacles
• [33:34] Defining success
• [36:15] Personal success algorithm
• [40:31] Mutual understanding in leadership
• [43:15] Closing thoughts and connections

• (23:33) "Technology should enhance the human relationship, not replace it." — Kristopher Stuart
• (26:23 )"I think the haves and have nots going forward, because information is available to everybody. It used to be information, it's now going to be the creativity to apply it."— Kristopher Stuart
• (33:48) "I found my happy place. I'm successful as I'm joyful, have a happy, healthy family that loves and supports me."— Kristopher Stuart
• (40:58 )"Everybody in the company should have decision-making authority on behalf of the company. If they don't or shouldn't, they shouldn't be in the company."— Kristopher Stuart

Kristopher Stuart is the Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Bloomin’ Blinds, a family-owned franchise specializing in window coverings. From his early days as the company's first employee and field technician, he has played a pivotal role in its growth to over 80 locations nationwide. Kristopher also served as a career firefighter and paramedic, bringing his leadership and team-building skills to the business. Today, he focuses on coaching franchisees in growth and business development, emphasizing self-awareness and operational excellence.

Resources and Links

Kristopher Stuart

• Bloomin' Blinds
• LinkedIn

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Instagram