Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil chats with Justin Cucci, a seasoned restaurateur from Denver. They discuss Justin's early experiences in hospitality, the importance of passion in the industry, and the distinction between hospitality and service. Justin shares insights on implementing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in his restaurant group, highlighting its benefits for employee engagement and business sustainability. The conversation also touches on the current challenges facing the restaurant industry, including rising costs, labor shortages, and the impact of technology. Justin emphasizes the collaborative spirit among Denver restaurateurs and the resilience of the industry in the face of adversity. In this conversation, the speakers explore the profound impact of food on community and individual well-being, emphasizing the responsibility of restaurateurs to provide access to healthy food. They discuss innovative dining concepts like 'stealth health' that prioritize delicious yet nutritious meals. The dialogue shifts to personal dietary experiences, including the keto diet, and the importance of adapting to health needs as one ages. Music, particularly the Grateful Dead, is highlighted as a source of inspiration and philosophy in life and business. The speakers also reflect on the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, advocating for a positive mindset and the value of constructive criticism as a means of growth. 

Takeaways

• Justin grew up in a hospitality family, which shaped his career.
• Passion is essential for success in the restaurant industry.
• Hospitality is about making people feel welcome, not just providing service.
• An ESOP allows employees to have ownership and share in profits.
• The restaurant industry is facing significant challenges, including rising costs and labor shortages.
• Collaboration among restaurant owners is crucial for navigating challenges.
• The importance of community and local support for restaurants cannot be overstated.
• Technology can enhance efficiency but should not replace authentic hospitality.
• The restaurant industry is resilient and adaptive, often stepping up in times of crisis.
• Long-term commitment is necessary for success in the restaurant business. Don't underestimate the value of restaurants in a community.
• Food has a healing power that brings people together.
• Restaurateurs have a responsibility to provide healthy food access.
• 'Stealth health' allows for delicious yet nutritious dining options.
• Dietary choices can evolve with personal health needs.
• Music can influence creativity and business philosophy.
• Leadership can be informed by storytelling and character development.
• Challenges in the restaurant industry require a positive mindset.
• Constructive criticism is essential for growth and improvement.
• Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and innovation.

Summary

In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley speaks with Jeff Galletly, CEO of Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, about his extensive journey in the hospitality industry. Jeff shares insights from his corporate background at PepsiCo and Restaurant Brands International, his transition to entrepreneurship, and the rapid growth of Brooklyn Dumpling Shop. The conversation delves into the importance of hospitality in the restaurant business, the balance between technology and human interaction, and the current trends in consumer spending. Jeff emphasizes the significance of providing value and quality to customers while navigating the challenges of the restaurant industry. Jeff and Wil discuss the intricacies of leadership, brand integrity, and the entrepreneurial journey. They explore influential books that have shaped their perspectives, the challenges of maintaining brand identity during growth, and the importance of self-care for sustainable leadership. The dialogue emphasizes the need for resilience in the face of challenges and the significance of making thoughtful decisions in business.

Takeaways

• Jeff Galletly transitioned from corporate roles to entrepreneurship.
• Brooklyn Dumpling Shop has doubled in size rapidly.
• Hospitality remains a crucial aspect of the restaurant experience.
• Technology should enhance, not replace human interaction.
• Consumer confidence is currently declining in the restaurant industry.
• Franchising offers significant growth opportunities for operators.
• The brand focuses on quality and value for customers.
• Feedback from guests is essential for improving service.
• Real estate challenges are mitigated by flexible footprints.
• Networking with industry peers is vital for growth and learning. Influential books like 'Know What Matters' shape leadership.
• Focusing on core values prevents distraction from opportunities.
• Maintaining brand integrity is crucial for long-term success.
• Entrepreneurship requires prioritization and team cohesion.
• Burning the boats symbolizes commitment to growth.
• Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
• Resilience is key in navigating business challenges.
• Decision-making impacts the trajectory of a business.
• Learning from challenges fosters personal and professional growth.
• Community and support systems are vital for entrepreneurs.

Summary

In this conversation, Wil and Michael DePaolo explore the essence of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of empathy, connection, and community impact. Michael shares his personal journey in the hospitality industry, from washing dishes to running a nonprofit hospitality vertical. They discuss the challenges faced by the restaurant industry, especially post-COVID, and the lessons learned from working at Union Square Hospitality Group. Wil and Michael delve into the complexities of restaurant ownership, the vital role of restaurants in fostering community, and the cultural nuances of hospitality across different regions. Michael shares personal experiences and insights gained from working in various cities, including New York, Atlanta, and New Orleans, highlighting the importance of empathy.. The discussion emphasizes that success in the restaurant business is not solely about profit but about creating meaningful connections and providing a positive environment for both staff and customers.

Takeaways

• Hospitality is rooted in empathy and connection with people.
• Making guests feel welcome is the core of hospitality.
• Successful hospitality requires a genuine love for the industry.
• Community impact is a vital aspect of hospitality work.
• Hiring for cultural fit is more important than skills.
• Treating staff well leads to better customer service.
• Lessons from Union Square emphasize respect for coworkers.
• Southern hospitality offers unique insights into guest relations.
• The hospitality industry should be treated as a profession. The podcast journey deepened the speaker's respect for restaurant ownership.
• Empathy and a servant's heart are crucial in hospitality.
• Restaurants play a vital role in community socialization post-COVID.
• Independent restaurants are essential to the identity of cities.
• Cultural differences significantly affect staff motivation and guest interaction.
• Atlanta's food scene has evolved and improved over the years.
• New Orleans offers a unique education in cocktail crafting.
• Success in the restaurant industry can be achieved without compromising staff welfare.
• Building a positive work culture leads to financial stability.
• Following industry leaders can inspire better practices in hospitality.

Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil talks with Rick Gruber, CEO of Billy Bricks Restaurant Group. Ric hares insights into the pizza industry, the challenges of running a family business, and the impact of online reviews on restaurants. He discusses the unique styles of pizza offered at Billy Bricks, the evolution of the business over 20 years, and the importance of community in their restaurant experience. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of restaurant reviews, particularly the decline of Yelp's influence and the rise of Google reviews. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of building a successful business in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the importance of team loyalty, trust, and a competitive edge. They discuss strategic growth plans, the role of PR in enhancing brand visibility, and the significance of storytelling in connecting with customers. The dialogue highlights the challenges and triumphs of navigating the business landscape, particularly in the context of a family-owned enterprise.

Takeaways

• Ric Gruber is the CEO of Billy Bricks Restaurant Group.
• Billy Bricks offers unique styles of pizza, including Neapolitan and Chicago thin crust.
• Chicago style pizza is often misunderstood by outsiders.
• Yelp's influence on restaurant reviews is declining.
• Google reviews are seen as more authentic than Yelp.
• The restaurant industry has evolved significantly over the past 20 years.
• COVID-19 changed the business model for many restaurants, including Billy Bricks.
• Rick started working in the family business during college and law school.
• The importance of community character in restaurant locations.
• The competitive spirit from sports translates into business ownership. Building trust within the team is essential for success.
• Team loyalty is often rooted in shared values and beliefs.
• Emotional resilience is crucial in a competitive environment.
• A healthy amount of insecurity can drive motivation.
• Learning from failures can ignite a passion for improvement.
• Transitioning from a star player to a coach is vital for growth.
• Strategic expansion requires a focus on efficiency and profitability.
• PR plays a significant role in shaping brand perception.
• Storytelling is key to engaging customers and building loyalty.
• A strong business foundation prepares for future opportunities.

Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil interviews Jerome and Marc, the owners of Premium Loavess, the second largest Jimmy John's franchisee. They discuss their early experiences in hospitality, the unique culture of Jimmy John's, the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining that culture, and their journey to ownership. The conversation also covers acquisition strategies, financing transactions, and the importance of training and execution in the restaurant industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss their ambitious growth plans for their franchise business, aiming for 300 locations by 2030. They emphasize the importance of aligning new brand opportunities with their core values and the challenges of maintaining work-life balance while managing rapid growth. The discussion also touches on the need for strategic planning, learning from past experiences, and adapting to changing consumer habits, particularly with the introduction of new menu items like toasted sandwiches.

Takeaways

• Mark started working at Jimmy John's at 16 years old.
• Jerome's first job was as a dishwasher in a local restaurant.
• The culture at Jimmy John's emphasizes fun and customer service.
• Maintaining company culture is challenging during growth.
• Marc became an operating partner at 22 years old.
• The group has grown from 20 to 89 locations in three years.
• They focus on acquiring stores from retiring franchisees.
• Financing includes bank loans and seller notes.
• Training is a key focus for their business success.
• The restaurant industry is evolving and requires adaptability. Setting clear, ambitious goals is crucial for growth.
• Aligning new brands with core values is essential.
• Learning from past experiences helps in future planning.
• Work-life balance is challenging in fast-paced environments.
• Adapting to consumer trends is vital for success.
• Strategic expansion requires careful market analysis.
• Maintaining a startup culture can motivate teams.
• Innovations in the menu can attract new customers.
• Leadership involves navigating chaos effectively.
• Building a strong team is key to sustainable growth.

Summary

Brandon and Wil discuss the intricacies of the restaurant industry, focusing on the challenges faced by aspiring restaurant owners, the importance of financial planning, and the role of hospitality in ensuring success. They delve into the concept behind 'The Industry Standard,' a platform aimed at sharing valuable insights and strategies for navigating the complexities of running a restaurant. The discussion also covers the significance of capitalization, the realities of raising funds, and the lessons learned from experience in the field. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of financing restaurants, the importance of hospitality, and the challenges faced in the industry. They discuss various funding options, including SBA loans and equity investments, and emphasize the need for creativity in structuring deals. The conversation also highlights the essence of hospitality, focusing on making guests feel valued and appreciated. Additionally, they explore the mindset of overcoming obstacles and the significance of community in fostering a thriving restaurant culture. The discussion wraps up with insights into the podcast 'The Industry Standard,' which aims to provide valuable resources and knowledge for those in the restaurant business.

Takeaways

• The restaurant industry requires a deep understanding of various business aspects.
• Hospitality is crucial; service often outweighs food quality in guest satisfaction.
• Under capitalization is a common pitfall for new restaurant owners.
• Financial literacy is essential for managing a restaurant's operations.
• Creating a welcoming environment is key to customer retention.
• Planning for unexpected expenses is vital for financial stability.
• Investing in quality equipment can ease financial burdens.
• Networking with investors can provide necessary funding for new ventures.
• Transparency in sharing knowledge can empower the next generation of chefs.
• Understanding the importance of working capital can prevent business failure. SBA loans can be a viable option for restaurant financing.
• It's essential to shop around for the best loan terms.
• Equity investors expect returns through profit distributions.
• Payback timelines for investors can vary significantly.
• Creative deal structuring can benefit both owners and investors.
• Hospitality is about making guests feel welcomed and valued.
• Food quality is only part of the dining experience.
• Active listening and presence are crucial in service.
• Overcoming challenges can lead to growth and opportunity.
• Community support is vital for the success of local restaurants.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.