Empowering Wellness Through Franchising: The Story of Amanda Watts Lightcap and Degree Wellness

In the world of franchising, where innovation meets opportunity, few industries are growing as rapidly as health and wellness. At the forefront of this movement is Amanda Watts Lightcap, founder and president of Degree Wellness, a brand redefining self-care through cutting-edge therapies. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Amanda’s vision has propelled Degree Wellness into a thriving business, offering franchisees a scalable, high-margin model while delivering science-backed wellness solutions to communities across the country.
As we celebrate Women in Franchising, Amanda’s story stands as an inspiring testament to the power of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the ability to turn passion into a transformative business.
From Vision to Reality: The Birth of Degee Wellness
Amanda Watts Lightcap’s journey into franchising wasn’t just about business—it was about creating impact. Recognizing the growing demand for holistic wellness solutions, she saw an opportunity to bring advanced therapies—once reserved for elite athletes and celebrities—to the mainstream.
Degree Wellness launched with a mission: to provide accessible, science-backed self-care solutions that help people feel their best every day. The brand offers a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Cryotherapy – A favorite among athletes and wellness enthusiasts for muscle recovery and inflammation reduction.
- Infrared Sauna & Red Light Therapy – Known for boosting circulation, skin health, and overall relaxation.
- Cold Plunge & Compression Massage – Increasing circulation, reducing soreness, and aiding recovery.
- IV Drips & Vitamin Booster Injections – Supporting hydration, immune function, and energy levels.
Amanda’s ability to package these high-demand services into a seamless customer experience quickly set Degree Wellness apart. Within a few years, the brand expanded to four corporate-owned locations, proving its success in multiple markets.
The Leap Into Franchising
Recognizing the potential for nationwide expansion, Amanda partnered with Franchise FastLane in 2024 to bring Degree Wellness to entrepreneurs looking for a proven, profitable model in the booming wellness industry.
What makes Degree Wellness an attractive franchise opportunity?
- A Simple, Scalable Business Model – No specialized medical experience is required, making it accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs.
- Recurring Revenue Streams – Membership-based services drive predictable income and customer retention.
- Comprehensive Training & Support – Degree Wellness ensures franchisees receive top-tier operational guidance, site selection assistance, and marketing support.
- Booming Industry Growth – The wellness economy is valued at over $4.5 trillion globally, and consumers continue to prioritize health and recovery services.
Since launching its franchise program, Degree Wellness has already sold 61 territories, demonstrating the incredible demand for its unique wellness model.
Amanda’s approach to franchising reflects her deep commitment to franchisee success. “We’re not just selling a business model—we’re building a community of passionate entrepreneurs dedicated to changing lives through wellness,” she explains.
Empowering Women in Franchising
Amanda’s success is particularly significant in an industry where women franchise owners are increasingly making their mark. While franchising has traditionally been male-dominated, the tide is shifting—women now own or co-own over 35% of franchises in the U.S., with that number growing each year.
Degree Wellness presents a unique opportunity for female entrepreneurs who want to break into the health and wellness space without a medical background. The brand offers a low-barrier entry point into an industry that aligns with the passions of many women—helping others live healthier, happier lives.
For Amanda, this is about more than just business. “As a woman in franchising, I want to create opportunities where women feel empowered to build something meaningful—a business that aligns with their values while generating financial independence,” she says.
What’s Next for Degree Wellness?
With franchising now in full swing, Amanda has big plans for Degree Wellness. The brand aims to expand into key metropolitan markets, bringing science-backed self-care to more communities nationwide.
Additionally, corporate partnerships, strategic wellness collaborations, and continuous innovation will drive Degree Wellness to the forefront of the recovery and rejuvenation industry.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Wellness & Empowerment
Amanda Watts Lightcap’s journey from visionary entrepreneur to franchise leader is an inspiring example of what’s possible in the franchise industry. By creating a scalable, impactful business, she has not only built a powerful brand but has also paved the way for more women to step into the world of franchising with confidence.
As Degree Wellness continues to expand, Amanda’s influence in the industry will only grow, proving that wellness and franchising are a perfect match for the next generation of business owners.
For aspiring franchisees looking for a rewarding, high-growth opportunity, Degree Wellness offers the perfect blend of passion and profitability—and thanks to Amanda’s leadership, it’s just getting started.
About the Author
Steve Sparks is an award-winning franchise consultant and partner at The Franchise Consulting Company, helping entrepreneurs buy, grow, and scale successful franchises. Contact Steve at ssparks@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com.







