Episode 521: Brandon Trimyer, Owner, Duck Donuts Raleigh/Cary/Durham, NC

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

#Restaurant #Independent #Entrepreneur #Schedulefly #Hospitality Industry #Business #Industries #MBA #Restaurant Owners #IT Management

7:38

Last summer, something monumental happened. One of Uncuffed's founding producers, Greg Eskridge, came home after more than 30 years in prison. In this episode we’ll bring you back to that emotional day last summer when he walked out of the San Quentin gates, free at last. Our work in prisons is supported by the California Arts Council, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, independent foundations, and donations from listeners like you. Learn more, sign up for Uncuffed news, and support the program at www.weareuncuffed.org Follow us @WeAreUncuffed on Instagram and Facebook Transcripts are available within a week of the episode coming out at www.kalw.org/podcast/uncuffed…

hace un año 55:10

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****You can watch this episode on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsRDDzikEosoUrV-3_HxWNw
This episode sponsored by Popmenu. Popmenu specializes in transformative online and on-premise technologies that help restaurants increase brand visibility, guest engagement, revenue and profitability. We currently work with over 10,000 independent restaurants and hospitality groups and are helping them get the most out of their most powerful marketing tool: their menu.
It's also sponsored by Kickfin. Thousands of restaurants, bars and breweries use Kickfin to tip out their employees instantly — no cash required. With Kickfin, tips go directly to your employees’ bank of choice, the second their shift ends. It’s a really simple solution to a really big problem — because if you’re still paying out credit card tips in cash, it’s costing you. Time-consuming bank runs and cash counting take managers away from work that matters. Cash is hard to track, which leads to accounting headaches — and it creates the perfect opportunity for theft, human error, and compliance issues. Bottom line: there’s never been an instant, secure way to pay out tips — until Kickfin. It’s an easy-to-use software that sends real-time, cashless tip payouts straight to your employees’ bank accounts, 24/7/365. Kickfin gives managers hours back in their day, makes reporting a breeze and protects your business from risk. Most importantly: employees love it. Restaurants can have Kickfin up and running overnight. Employees can enroll in seconds. No hardware, no contracts, no setup fees. Visit kickfin.com for a personalized demo and see how restaurants across the country digitizing tips with Kickfin.
Giving Kitchen is a James Beard Award-Winning nonprofit that provides emergency assistance to food service workers nationally. GK has served over thirteen thousand food service workers and awarded over nine million dollars to food service workers in crisis.
Giving Kitchen helps food service workers that get hurt or sick, lose a family member or suffer a housing disaster like a flood or fire by offering financial assistance to cover rent and utilities. If you know someone that works in a bar or restaurant that is in crisis, tell them: Ask for help from Giving Kitchen by clicking here.

Want to get involved and support Giving Kitchen? Join Dining With Gratitude in October, Giving Kitchen’s month-long campaign, where the food service community pledges to raise critical funds and spread the word about their mission. Learn more by clicking here.

583 episodios

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

Episode 521: Brandon Trimyer, Owner, Duck Donuts Raleigh/Cary/Durham, NC

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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published hace un año

MP3•Episodio en casa

583 episodios

#Restaurant #Independent #Entrepreneur #Schedulefly #Hospitality Industry #Business #Industries #MBA #Restaurant Owners #IT Management

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Restaurant Owners Uncorked

1
Episode 576: The Future of Hospitality: AI + Human Connection, Cameron Long, Virnika 1:01:10

hace 6 días1:01:10

1:01:10

Summary In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley speaks with Cameron Long, co-founder of Virnika, about the challenges faced by restaurant owners, particularly regarding labor issues. They discuss how Virnika aims to leverage AI technology to improve operational efficiency in restaurants, allowing staff to focus on high-value tasks. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding the hospitality industry from the inside and how technology can enhance, rather than replace, human interaction in customer service. Cameron shares his journey in the hospitality sector and the motivations behind starting Vernika, emphasizing the need for tools that empower restaurant owners to compete effectively in a challenging market. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the transformative impact of AI on the restaurant industry, particularly in enhancing customer service and streamlining operations. They explore the shift from traditional dining experiences to off-premise dining, the challenges faced by startups in the tech space, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The discussion also highlights the importance of understanding customer needs and the potential of AI to improve restaurant efficiency and profitability. Takeaways Virnika was founded to address labor issues in restaurants. AI can automate tedious tasks, freeing staff for valuable work. Understanding restaurant operations is crucial for tech solutions. Voice AI is becoming essential for customer interactions. The hospitality industry requires a balance of tech and human touch. Cameron's background in hospitality informs Virnika's approach. Operational efficiency is key for small restaurant owners. Gen Z prefers voice communication over traditional methods. Virnika's AI learns from past interactions to improve service. The name Virnika reflects the importance of comprehension in communication. AI can enhance the dining experience by streamlining orders. Consumers are increasingly choosing convenience over experience in dining. AI can learn from customer interactions to improve service. Startups face significant challenges, including funding and self-doubt. The fear of AI taking jobs is a common concern among restaurateurs. Entrepreneurship is a difficult journey filled with risks and uncertainties. Understanding the restaurant industry's unique challenges is crucial for tech solutions. The ideal customer for AI solutions is one that relies heavily on off-premise orders. Building relationships and networking are key to acquiring customers in the restaurant industry. The restaurant industry is evolving, and technology is essential for survival.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 575: Unlocking Restaurant Profitability: Fred Langley, CEO, Restaurant Systems Pro 58:01

hace 10 días58:01

58:01

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Will interviews Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro. They discuss the challenges faced by restaurant owners, the importance of profitability, and the role of effective management systems in achieving success. Fred shares his journey from being a restaurant owner to helping others improve their operations through innovative software solutions. The conversation also touches on the significance of customer service, budgeting, and the development of a new point of sale system tailored for the restaurant industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the challenges and strategies of operating in the competitive restaurant industry, focusing on the importance of community, understanding payment processing, and the significance of building strong client relationships. They emphasize the need for transparency in pricing and the value of supporting fellow restaurateurs. The discussion also highlights the importance of hope and encouragement for those in the industry, advocating for a servant's heart approach to business. Takeaways Schedulefly offers simple web-based restaurant employee scheduling software. Fred Langley emphasizes the importance of understanding variable expenses in restaurants. The average client of Restaurant Systems Pro has been with them for over 11 years. Setting clear financial goals is crucial for restaurant success. Many restaurant owners operate without a clear understanding of their financials. Implementing systems can lead to significant profit increases. Customer service is a key differentiator in the restaurant software industry. Innovative accounting solutions can streamline restaurant operations. The new POS system aims to reduce hidden fees for restaurant owners. Building long-term relationships with clients is essential for success. Acquiring existing systems can enhance service offerings. Competing in a crowded market requires exceptional customer support. Understanding interchange fees is crucial for transparency. Building strong client relationships is key to growth. The restaurant industry thrives on community and collaboration. Hope and encouragement are vital for restaurateurs. Transparency in pricing fosters trust with clients. A servant's heart approach leads to business success. Navigating challenges requires focus and attention to detail. Investing in people creates a supportive work environment.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 574: Building a Brand Through Community: David Stuck, CEO, Tin Kitchen 56:32

hace 12 días56:32

56:32

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley interviews David Stuck, owner of Tin Kitchen, who shares his unique journey in the hospitality industry. David discusses his early experiences, the importance of customer service, and the challenges he faced while starting his food truck business. He emphasizes the significance of community and word-of-mouth marketing in building his brand, as well as the lessons learned in hiring and team management as the business grew. In this conversation, David shares his entrepreneurial journey in the catering industry, detailing the various ventures he explored before finding success in catering. He discusses the importance of trial and error, the focus on high-end wedding catering, and the growth of corporate events. David emphasizes the significance of community collaboration within the culinary scene and addresses the challenges of integrating technology into the catering business. Takeaways David Stuck is the owner of Tin Kitchen, splitting time between Brazil and the US. The importance of customer experience in the hospitality industry cannot be overstated. Word of mouth has been crucial for Tin Kitchen's growth and success. David's journey into hospitality began unexpectedly after a career in retail. Starting a food truck was a strategic move due to lower barriers to entry compared to a restaurant. Community engagement and collaboration with other food trucks helped boost visibility. The transition from serving a few customers to hundreds was a turning point for the business. Hiring talented individuals has been key to the growth of Tin Kitchen. David emphasizes the hard work and challenges behind the glamorous facade of the restaurant industry. Continuous learning and adaptability are essential for success in hospitality. Our path to get to a restaurant was filled with trial and error. Catering became the focus after exploring various business ventures. Winning a cooking competition opened doors for our restaurant. Community collaboration is essential in the culinary scene. We can only handle a limited number of events per day. High-end wedding catering is a significant part of our business. Corporate events are a growing focus for our catering services. Technology integration is a challenge in the catering industry. It's important to do a good job and build trust with clients. The culinary scene in Charlotte has grown significantly over the years.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 573: From Valet to Successful Restaurant Chain Owner: Joe Fontana, Owner & Founder, Fry the Coop 1:22:30

hace 23 días1:22:30

1:22:30

Summary In this engaging conversation, Joe Fontana, owner of Fry the Coop, shares his journey from working in hospitality as a valet and bartender to opening his own successful restaurant chain specializing in chicken sandwiches. He discusses the importance of finding one's purpose, the role of mentorship, and the challenges of starting a business. Joe emphasizes the significance of marketing and public relations in driving success, as well as the necessity of operational excellence to ensure customer retention. His story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and resilience in the restaurant industry. In this conversation, Wil and Joe discuss the realities of restaurant ownership, emphasizing the hard work and dedication required to succeed. They explore the transition from working in the business to working on it, the importance of growth through discomfort, and the audacious goals set for expansion in the Chicago market. The discussion also touches on, the choice between being great versus big, and the critical need for systems and processes as the business scales. Joe discusses the evolution of restaurant operations, focusing on the shift towards online ordering and the integration of AI technology to address labor shortages. He shares insights on the importance of finding passion in work and the benefits of using beef tallow for frying, drawing parallels to the historical practices of McDonald's. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the restaurant industry and the innovative solutions being implemented to enhance customer experience and food quality. Takeaways Joe's journey in hospitality began at a young age. Mentorship played a crucial role in Joe's career shift. Finding your passion can lead to a fulfilling career. The importance of treating customers with kindness. Marketing creates trial, but operations create sales. Public relations can significantly impact a restaurant's success. Joe's experience highlights the risks of entrepreneurship. Operational excellence is key to customer retention. The restaurant business requires a strong work ethic. Joe's story is a testament to resilience and hard work. Owning a restaurant is an absolute grind. Transitioning from working in the business to on it is crucial. Growth comes through discomfort and challenges. Setting audacious goals can drive business expansion. Choosing to be great instead of big can lead to sustainable success. Focus on a specific market to dominate. Implementing systems and processes is essential for scaling. Monitoring invoices and transactions is critical for financial health. Using technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Online ordering is increasingly popular, reducing phone orders. AI technology can help manage labor shortages in restaurants. Younger generations may prefer voice commands over typing. Labor costs necessitate lean staffing in restaurants. Finding passion can transform a person's work ethic. Beef tallow is healthier and tastier than seed oils. McDonald's fries were originally cooked in beef tallow. The shift away from beef tallow has impacted food quality. Educating customers about food quality is essential. Restaurants can thrive by embracing traditional cooking methods.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 572: The Importance of Customer Experience: Mykal Zangwill, Franchise Owner, Fuzzy Peach Frozen Yogurt Bar 44:12

hace 28 días44:12

44:12

Summary In this conversation, Wil Brawley and Mykal Zangwill discuss the journey of Mykal's family-owned frozen yogurt business, Fuzzy Peach, and the challenges and rewards of working in the hospitality industry. They explore the importance of a positive mindset, the essence of customer experience, and the nuances of managing a self-serve business. Mykal shares insights on hiring staff, the realities of running a frozen yogurt shop, and the significance of community involvement in hospitality. Brawley and Mykal discuss the therapeutic benefits of podcasts, the importance of embracing restaurant technology, and the significance of Google reviews in driving customer traffic. They emphasize the need for simplicity in operations, the creation of positive customer experiences, and the value of building community connections. Mykal shares personal anecdotes about his business and the relationships he fosters with customers, highlighting the impact of proactive customer service and community engagement. Takeaways Michael Zangmel owns two Fuzzy Peach locations in North Carolina. A positive mindset is crucial in hospitality. Overcoming daily challenges is part of the business. Customer experience is key to retaining customers. Hiring for personality over skills can lead to better service. Frozen yogurt business has unique challenges compared to traditional restaurants. Managing costs is essential in a penny business. Community involvement is important for hospitality businesses. Scheduling tools can improve staff management. Family time is a priority for Mykal amidst business responsibilities. Podcasts can serve as a source of therapy for listeners. Embracing technology can alleviate operational challenges in restaurants. Simplicity in operations leads to better employee experiences. Google reviews are crucial for attracting customers, especially in tourist areas. Positive customer experiences can lead to loyal patrons and community connections. Proactive customer service can prevent complaints and negative reviews. Building relationships with customers enhances their experience and loyalty. Staff training should focus on essential skills rather than complex systems. Community engagement is vital for the success of local businesses. Maintaining a positive work environment contributes to employee satisfaction.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 571: Innovating Compliance in the Food and Beverage Industry: Cliff Crider, CEO, Stinger Compliance 1:07:44

hace 4 weeks1:07:44

1:07:44

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Cliff Crider, CEO of Stinger Compliance and co-founder of Truck and Tap. They discuss Cliff's journey from working in fast food at Roy Rogers to becoming a real estate appraiser and eventually transitioning into the restaurant industry. Cliff shares insights on the challenges of running a restaurant, the importance of community engagement, and the creation of Stinger Compliance to help businesses stay legal with age-restricted products. The conversation highlights the resilience and dedication required in the hospitality industry. Crider also discusses the critical importance of compliance in the hospitality industry, particularly regarding alcohol sales. He emphasizes the need for effective policies and procedures to prevent underage sales and the innovative approach his company is taking to streamline the stinging process. The conversation also touches on the challenges of scaling a business in this sector and the balance between serving large clients and supporting local establishments. The two share insights on navigating the complexities of compliance and the importance of community engagement in the hospitality industry. Takeaways Schedulefly simplifies restaurant employee scheduling. Cliff started in hospitality at Roy Rogers. Real estate knowledge helped Cliff in restaurant ownership. Truck and Tap combines food trucks and beer gardens. Community engagement is vital for restaurant success. The Giving Kitchen supports hospitality workers in crisis. Stinger Compliance focuses on legal compliance for age-restricted products. Bartenders must be vigilant about carding customers. The hospitality industry faces numerous challenges daily. Slow and deliberate growth is key to sustainable business. Compliance is crucial for the hospitality industry. Innovative solutions can streamline the stinging process. Establishing clear alcohol policies is essential for staff training. Scaling a business requires careful planning and execution. Community engagement is vital for local businesses. Understanding the nuances of fake IDs can prevent costly mistakes. Regular compliance checks can help maintain standards. Slow and deliberate growth is a sustainable strategy. Technology can enhance compliance efforts in the hospitality sector. Building strong relationships with clients fosters loyalty and trust.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 570: Building a Poke Empire: The Pokeworks Story with Peter Yang, Co-founder 45:10

hace 5 weeks45:10

45:10

Summary In this conversation, Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares his journey from growing up in a family restaurant to establishing a successful poke restaurant chain. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in the hospitality industry, the importance of customer service, and the strategic decisions that led to the birth and growth of Pokeworks. The conversation also delves into the franchising model and the criteria for selecting franchise partners, emphasizing the need for alignment in values and vision. Yang discusses the essential elements of running a successful restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of hard work, core values, and the Aloha spirit. He addresses challenges in labor and training, outlines growth strategies focused on real estate selection, and highlights the significance of understanding customer demographics. He also shares insights on operational excellence, the role of customer reviews, and the support provided to franchisees, all while maintaining a focus on the active lifestyle market fit for his brand. Takeaways Peter Yang's family background in hospitality shaped his career. Hard work and operational excellence are key to success in restaurants. Customer service can transcend language barriers. The poke bowl concept was a response to changing consumer preferences. Franchising was not initially part of the plan for Pokeworks. Effective marketing relies heavily on word of mouth and social media. The importance of a strong franchisee support system. Selecting franchise partners requires alignment in core values. The restaurant industry is a long-term commitment with franchisees. Pokeworks aims to innovate while keeping operational costs low. Understanding that it takes hard work is crucial for success. Core values like attention to detail and positivity are essential. Labor challenges require innovative training solutions. Real estate selection is a key bottleneck for growth. Understanding customer demographics helps in site selection. Operational excellence is vital for customer retention. Customer reviews are a leading indicator of success. Franchisee support is crucial for brand consistency. Active lifestyle markets align well with healthy food offerings. Building a strong franchise network is essential for growth.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 569: The Power of Gratitude in Business: Veljko Pavicevic, SAILS Restaurant, Naples, FL 1:13:43

hace 6 weeks1:13:43

1:13:43

Summary In this conversation, Veljko Pavicevic shares his inspiring journey from Montenegro to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the hospitality industry in America. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude, humility, and hard work, as well as the value of community and teamwork. Veljko recounts his experiences at the Ritz Carlton, highlighting the lessons learned about exceptional service and the significance of treating every interaction as part of a legacy. In this conversation, Veljko Pavicevic and Wil Brawley discuss the mindset required for success in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the importance of resilience, leadership, and customer-centric practices. They share personal experiences and insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of writing and scheduling, and the value of building strong teams. The discussion also touches on the lessons learned from early successes and the pitfalls of ego, as well as the importance of community engagement and giving back. The also discuss the intricacies of building relationships in business, the importance of creating a legacy through employee ownership, and the critical role of training and recruitment in developing high-performance teams. They emphasize the need for clarity and focus in business endeavors, as well as the significance of understanding people to foster a successful work environment. The discussion culminates in life lessons about the importance of food and personal fulfillment in the restaurant industry. Takeaways Veljko's journey from Montenegro to America showcases the power of hard work and determination. Gratitude and humility are essential traits for success in business. Running a successful business requires carrying a heavy cross, but it is rewarding. The importance of community and teamwork in achieving success. Experiences at the Ritz Carlton taught Veljko about high-level hospitality. Ego can hinder personal and professional growth. True joy comes from seeing growth in others. Tunnel vision and focus are crucial for seizing opportunities. Behaving as if you already have success is key to achieving it. A legacy is built through every interaction with others. Every interaction must be exceptional to succeed. Manifesting success requires consistent positive thoughts. Writing down goals enhances memory and focus. Scheduling personal time is crucial for productivity. 40 hours a week is just the beginning of work. The U.S. offers unparalleled opportunities for success. Resilience is key; show up despite challenges. Building revenue is harder than buying it. Expertise is more valuable than money in business. Community engagement is essential for business success. Building relationships is key to entering the business world. Creating a legacy involves empowering employees through ownership. Training is essential for developing high-performance teams. Recruiting the right people is more important than just hiring. Understanding people is crucial for business success. Clarity and focus are vital for achieving business goals. Food is a fundamental aspect of the restaurant industry. It's important to want what you like in life. Respect and trust are foundational in team dynamics. A successful business reflects the values and character of its founder.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 568: The Journey of a Hospitality Tech Leader: Chrissy Ouelette, Touchpoint Restaurant Solutions 1:38:53

hace 8 weeks1:38:53

1:38:53

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Chrissy Ouellette, VP of Business Development and Enterprise Sales at Touchpoint. They discuss Chrissy's journey in the hospitality tech industry, the evolution of restaurant technology, and the importance of personal connections in the hospitality sector. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating corporate structures, the phenomenon of tech fatigue in the restaurant industry, and the need for tech audits to streamline operations. Chrissy shares insights into Touchpoint's unique approach to restaurant solutions, emphasizing the benefits of having a single vendor for multiple services. In this conversation, Chrissy and Wil discusses the innovations in fast casual dining, the challenges of tech debt in restaurant technology, and the potential impacts of mergers and acquisitions on the restaurant industry.. The discussion also touches on the significance of authenticity in sales and the launch of a new podcast, 'Bite Size and Bossy', aimed at empowering women in the industry. Takeaways Chrissy's journey began at a young age in hospitality. The restaurant industry is evolving with technology. Personal connections enhance customer experiences. Navigating corporate structures can be challenging. Tech fatigue is a real issue in restaurants. Auditing tech vendors can improve profitability. Touchpoint offers a holistic solution for restaurants. The importance of transparency in business relationships. Emerging brands benefit from Touchpoint's services. The fast casual dining space is evolving with innovative tech solutions. Tech debt can hinder growth and efficiency in restaurant tech. Restaurant owners are incredibly resilient despite industry challenges. Building a sustainable business is more important than chasing an exit strategy. Authenticity in sales fosters trust and credibility with clients. Women in the restaurant industry need a platform to share their stories. Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for working moms. The restaurant industry is facing significant regulatory pressures. Successful businesses focus on their strengths and target the right audience.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 567: From Immigrant to Entrepreneur: Shahpour Nejad, Founder & CEO of Pizza Guys 46:55

hace 8 weeks46:55

46:55

Summary In this conversation, Shahpour Nejad, the founder and CEO of Pizza Guys, shares his journey from an immigrant student to a successful entrepreneur in the pizza industry. He discusses the challenges and strategies involved in establishing and expanding Pizza Guys, emphasizing the importance of quality, customer interaction, and community engagement. Shahpour also highlights the significance of selecting the right franchisees and maintaining consistency in service and product quality to thrive in a competitive market. In this conversation, Shahpour Nejad discusses the growth and expansion of Pizza Guys, focusing on their strategic plans for entering the Texas market and the importance of location and operator success in the franchise model. He emphasizes the significance of quality control, community engagement, and the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, particularly in California. Nejad also shares insights on franchisee support, financial considerations, and the overall vision for the brand's future. Takeaways Shahpour Nejad's journey from Iran to the pizza industry is inspiring. Quality and customer service are key to success in the pizza business. Understanding local tastes is crucial for product development. Franchising was a pivotal step for Pizza Guys' expansion. Social media plays a significant role in brand awareness. Customer interaction enhances loyalty and satisfaction. Franchisees must be hands-on, especially in the early stages. Community engagement fosters brand loyalty and recognition. Consistency in product quality is essential for repeat business. Successful franchisees share a commitment to quality and customer service. Expansion into Texas is a key focus for Pizza Guys. Operator effectiveness is crucial for franchise success. Franchisees receive comprehensive support and training. Location selection is critical for restaurant success. Economic challenges in California impact operations. Quality of ingredients is prioritized in menu offerings. Community involvement enhances brand loyalty. Franchisees must have financial reserves for stability. SBA loans are becoming more accessible for franchisees. A strong team is essential for sustained business success.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 566: The Power of Operational Simplicity: Troy Hooper, CEO, Pepper Lunch 1:11:29

hace 9 weeks1:11:29

1:11:29

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley interviews Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palate and Pepper Lunch. They discuss Troy's unique background, including his experiences as a master diver and chef, and how these experiences shape his approach to business. The conversation delves into the challenges of the restaurant industry, the importance of remaining calm under pressure, and the growth trajectory of Pepper Lunch as it expands internationally. Troy shares insights on the franchise model, the selection of partners, and the realities of operating a franchise in the hospitality sector. In this conversation, Hooper discusses the intricacies of running a restaurant business, focusing on market dynamics, operational efficiency, real estate challenges, networking within the industry, and the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. He highlights the unique opportunities in various markets, the simplicity of operations that reduce labor costs, and the strategic approach to selecting real estate locations. Brawley also emphasizes the value of networking with industry peers and the significance of hospitality in all business sectors, while sharing his personal strategies for managing time and family life. Takeaways Troy Hooper emphasizes the importance of calmness under pressure in both diving and business. Diving experiences have taught Troy critical thinking and planning skills applicable to business. The restaurant industry requires a strong foundation of systems and processes for success. Troy's journey from culinary school to CEO showcases the importance of diverse experiences. Pepper Lunch is rapidly expanding, with a focus on the U.S. market for future growth. The franchise model at Pepper Lunch requires experienced multi-unit operators for success. Troy believes in a collaborative approach with franchise partners to ensure mutual success. The challenges of international growth include navigating different laws and regulations. Troy's philosophy is to invest in training and support for franchisees to mitigate risks. The selection process for franchise candidates is thorough to ensure long-term success. Running a restaurant varies significantly by location. The DC metro area presents untapped market potential. Operational simplicity leads to lower labor costs. Real estate selection is critical for long-term success. Networking with industry leaders is invaluable. Every business should prioritize hospitality. Time blocking helps manage a busy schedule. Maintaining work-life balance is essential for success. Data-driven decisions enhance market understanding. Franchise opportunities can be streamlined with the right systems.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 565: From Restaurant Worker to Entrepreneur: Ross McWaters' Journey 1:16:49

hace 10 weeks1:16:49

1:16:49

Summary In this conversation, Wil Brawley interviews Ross McWaters, the founder of a business news website focused on the restaurant industry in Florida and Georgia. Ross shares his journey from working in restaurants to starting his own business, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with restaurant owners and providing value through his services. The discussion covers the challenges of cold calling, the significance of focus in business growth, the complexities of the restaurant tech landscape, and the realities of restaurant ownership. Ross also touches on funding challenges for new restaurants and the dynamics of franchise relationships. The conversation concludes with a philosophical reflection on the purpose of entrepreneurship, illustrated by the parable of the fisherman and the MBA. Takeaways Ross McWaters has a background in restaurant work and journalism. His business focuses on connecting new restaurants with vendors and sponsors. Building relationships with restaurant owners is crucial for success. Cold calling can be challenging but is often necessary for outreach. Focus and deliberate growth are key to sustainable business development. The restaurant tech landscape is crowded and complex. Restaurant ownership involves many challenges and uncertainties. Funding for new restaurants can be difficult to navigate. Franchise relationships can limit vendor choices for restaurant owners. Building a business for greatness rather than for an exit can lead to more fulfillment.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 564: From Immigrant Roots to Restaurant Success: Jay Chung, Owner, Seoul Kitchen 1:15:12

hace 10 weeks1:15:12

1:15:12

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Jay Chung, a restaurant owner with a rich immigrant background. Jay shares his family's journey from Korea to Ghana and then to the United States, where they established their roots in the restaurant business. The conversation delves into the challenges of restaurant ownership, the importance of finding balance in life, and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Jay emphasizes the significance of creating emotional connections with guests, building a strong team culture, and the value of feedback and adaptability in achieving success. He also reflects on the importance of independent restaurants in fostering community and the lessons learned throughout his journey. Takeaways Jay's family background shaped his appreciation for the restaurant business. Cultural transitions can be challenging but rewarding. Finding balance in the restaurant industry is crucial to avoid burnout. COVID-19 forced many restaurants to adapt quickly to survive. Understanding customer demographics is key to success. Creating emotional connections with guests enhances their experience. Building a strong team culture is essential for operational success. Economic challenges require adaptability and resilience. Feedback from customers can lead to significant improvements. Independent restaurants play a vital role in community building.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 563: Jeff Brock, Founder and Managing Partner, Hargett Hunter 1:23:32

hace 11 weeks1:23:32

1:23:32

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031. Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.…

Restaurant Owners Uncorked

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Episode 562: Chris Deferio, Owner, Keys to the Shop 1:43:01

hace 12 weeks1:43:01