Afleveringen
-
Send us a text
Shaz Khan, co-founder of Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks, joins Zack to share how he's built a beloved multi-unit brand without losing the feel of a local favorite. With an engineering mindset and a passion for hospitality, Shaz breaks down the systems, tech, and transparency that drive guest loyalty and operational excellence.
Zack and Shaz discuss:
Building guest trust through transparency and truthfulnessBalancing scale with authenticity and community feelHow tech tools like Ovation and Marqii elevate guest feedback and insightsResponding to every online review with empathy and intentionWhy real conversations with local restaurant owners matter mostTune in to hear how Shaz’s integrity-first approach is shaping the future of fast casual hospitality.
Thanks, Shaz! -
Send us a text
Zack sits down with David Scott Peters, restaurant coach, speaker, and author of Restaurant Prosperity Formula, to break down how independent restaurant owners can create financial and operational freedom. He shares why delegation without documentation leads to failure, how to build a system that works without you, and why great guest experiences start with operational excellence.
Zack and David discuss:
Why most restaurant owners fail to delegate effectivelyThe simple way to document systems without extra workHow anticipating guest needs creates better hospitalityThe key to stepping back from daily operations and making more moneyFollow David Scott Peters:
DavidScottPeters.comRestaurant Prosperity Formula Podcast
YouTube -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Send us a text
Zack welcomes Stacey Kane, a fractional CMO for emerging and beyond brands, to discuss the importance of brand voice, guest experience, and tactical marketing strategies in the restaurant industry. With experience leading marketing efforts for multiple brands, Stacey shares how businesses can define their identity, engage guests, and use nostalgia to create memorable experiences.
Zack and Stacey discuss:
Why brand personality is the foundation of marketing successThe origin story approach to uncovering a restaurant’s mission and visionHow multi-generational guests demand more than a one-size-fits-all experienceTactical marketing ideas that can be implemented immediatelyThe importance of leveraging existing vendor capabilitiesFolow Stacey:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceylkane/
Thanks, Stacey!
-
Send us a text
On this episode of Give an Ovation, Johnathan Chen, CEO and Co-Founder of 5&5, joins Zack Oates to discuss how restaurants can optimize their technology stack to improve operations and guest experience. With years of experience in restaurant tech and digital services, Johnathan shares insights on streamlining systems, avoiding tech overload, and ensuring that technology serves the guest—not complicates their journey.
Zack and Johnathan discuss:
The biggest tech challenges restaurants face todayHow to reduce friction in the ordering processWhy simplicity is the key to a great guest experienceThe impact of too many disconnected tools in restaurant operationsHow top brands are using technology the right wayFollow Johnathan Chan & 5&5:
Website: https://5and5.com/LinkedIn: Johnathan ChenThanks, Johnathan! 🎉
-
Send us a text
On this episode of Give an Ovation, Zack Oates welcomes Michael Halen, Senior Restaurant and Foodservice Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence and host of Chopping It Up. Michael shares his insights on industry trends, value perception, and the impact of inflation on restaurant profitability. He discusses how brands like Texas Roadhouse and Wingstop are winning by delivering strong guest experiences. From operational excellence to marketing strategies, Michael breaks down what restaurants must focus on to stay competitive in 2025.
Zack and Michael discuss:
The role of a restaurant analyst and industry forecastingWhich brands are thriving vs. struggling post-pandemicWhy value perception goes beyond just priceHow operational excellence drives guest experienceThe importance of consistency in restaurant successFollow Michael Halen:
LinkedIn: Mike HalenTwitter: @mikehalenChopping It Up Podcast: Listen HereThanks, Michael! 🎉
-
Send us a text
Zack welcomes Julie Zucker, CMO and Partner at Branded Strategic Hospitality and producer of the Hospitality Hangout podcast. With years of experience in restaurant marketing and guest experience, Julie shares invaluable insights into building genuine guest connections, leveraging technology, and fostering a hospitality-driven culture.
Zack and Julie discuss:
The power of personalized guest interactionsHow technology enhances hospitality without replacing itThe role of staff engagement in brand growthWhy guest feedback is crucial for restaurant successJulie’s journey from restaurant marketing to industry leadershipFollow Julie and Branded Strategic Hospitality:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-zucker-41895b2/
https://brandedstrategic.com/ -
Send us a text
Mitch Baker, VP of Marketing at Robeks, shares his expertise on evolving marketing strategies in the hospitality industry. With a background spanning Hollywood entertainment, Disney, and more, he dives into the role of guest data, technology, and omnichannel marketing in shaping brand success. Mitch also discusses the vital relationship between marketing and operations, the power of consistency, and what truly drives a five-star guest experience.
Zack and Mitch discuss:
How Robeks leverages guest data for targeted marketing.The impact of technology on hospitality marketing.The importance of aligning marketing with operations.Best practices for omnichannel brand messaging.Why guest experience hinges on service and accuracy.Tune in to hear how Mitch’s insights on marketing, operations, and guest experience can help your restaurant thrive!
Thanks, Mitch!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Erin Levzow, a hospitality marketing and technology expert with nearly 20 years of experience at brands like Caesars, MGM, Wingstop, Freebirds, and Del Taco. Erin shares her insights on how to blend technology with human connection to create exceptional guest experiences.
Zack and Erin discuss:
Why brands often forget about the guest and how to refocus on their needs
The power of consistency in building customer loyalty
How technology can enhance emotional connections rather than replace them
The importance of meeting guests where they are—both digitally and in person
Why marketing and technology teams must work together for true success
How brands like Wingstop evolved their messaging to better connect with customers
Tune in to hear Erin’s expert take on guest experience, marketing innovation, and the future of hospitality tech!
Thanks, Erin!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Jennifer Dodd, a 30-year restaurant industry veteran and the CEO of Main Squeeze Juice Co. Jennifer has led in QSR, casual dining, and franchising, making her a powerhouse in restaurant operations and leadership.
Zack and Jennifer discuss:
Why hospitality is—and always will be—a people-first businessThe power of customization and how it impacts guest experienceHow technology can enhance service without replacing the human elementThe tragedy of disengagement in the workforce and how to fix itThe importance of employee trust, autonomy, and culture in driving successInnovative solutions Main Squeeze Juice Co. is rolling out to improve guest engagementTune in to hear how Jennifer’s insights on culture, leadership, and guest experience can help your restaurant thrive!
Thanks, Jennifer!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Joe Sample, President of Crave Management Group, the multi-unit, multi-brand operator behind top-performing Taco Bell locations and Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay. With over 22 years of experience, Joe shares his proven strategies for creating high-performing teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Zack and Joe discuss:
The key question every GM should ask to drive operational excellenceWhy having one standard is critical for consistencyHow autonomy and trust improve both team and guest experiencesHiring tactics to identify top-performing restaurant leadersSimple changes that elevate the guest experience, like redefining rolesTune in to hear how Joe’s leadership style and operational insights have helped Crave Management Group thrive in a competitive industry!
Thanks, Joe!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Seth Goldman, co-founder of Honest Tea and Just Ice Tea, chairman of Beyond Meat, and co-founder of PLNT Burger. Seth’s journey from government and activism to launching purpose-driven brands showcases his commitment to health, sustainability, and creating positive social impact.
How Seth transitioned from politics to entrepreneurship to drive lasting changeThe story behind Honest Tea, its evolution into Just Ice Tea, and the focus on transparency and qualityWhy PLNT Burger empowers customers to invest and participate in its growthThe importance of offering inclusive menu options to delight diverse guestsHow purpose-driven brands can make a real impact on health and the planet
Zack and Seth discuss:Tune in to hear how Seth’s vision and leadership continue to inspire and transform the food and beverage industry!
Thanks, Seth! -
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Ming-Tai Huh, Head of Food and Beverage at Square and a restaurateur with over a decade of experience through Cambridge Street Hospitality Group. Ming brings a unique perspective, blending his deep industry knowledge with cutting-edge restaurant technology to help operators thrive in an ever-evolving market.
Zack and Ming discuss:
The intersection of hospitality and technology—how to use tech without losing the human touchKey lessons from the restaurant world that translate into successful tech leadershipHow to approach restaurant technology with a problem-first mindset rather than a solution-first approachThe importance of feedback loops in creating an exceptional guest experienceStrategies to balance expansion and maintaining quality across multiple locationsTune in to hear Ming’s insights on how restaurants can leverage technology while staying true to their hospitality roots and delivering unforgettable guest experiences.
Thanks, Ming!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Andrew Dana, founder of Call Your Mother Deli and Timber Pizza Company. Andrew’s journey from the corporate world to building thriving restaurant brands is a testament to passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Zack and Andrew discuss:
The transition from corporate life to launching a food businessHow authenticity and community drive brand successThe key elements of delivering a memorable guest experienceWhy employee happiness is crucial for customer satisfactionThe strategies behind scaling without losing brand identityTune in to hear how Andrew’s bold moves and dedication to hospitality have turned his dream into a growing culinary empire!
Thanks, Andrew!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, Zack welcomes Amir Mostafavi, the Founder and CEO of South Block, a mission-driven smoothie and juice bar brand based in the DC area. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Amir shares his journey of creating a brand that’s not just about great products, but also about fostering connections and building better communities on every block they serve.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
From Passion to Purpose: How Amir turned his love for fruits and smoothies into a thriving 17-location brand with a purpose-driven mission. The Power of Guest Experience: Why focusing on guest feedback is Amir’s number one KPI and how it drives South Block’s success.Quality Without Compromise: How South Block maintains authenticity and premium quality in their açaí bowls and juices while scaling operations.Using Feedback to Innovate: The role of technology, pre-ordering systems, and smart workflows in improving guest experience.Leadership Through Culture: Amir’s commitment to creating meaningful career paths and fostering a supportive company culture.Tune in to discover how Amir Mostafavi is blending community-building, exceptional products, and heartfelt hospitality to redefine what it means to be a mission-driven brand.
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we’re joined by Abney Harper, CEO and Founder of Prima Après, a unique fast-casual concept combining fresh pasta and pavlovas with a focus on thoughtful design, quality ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality. Abney shares her journey from fine dining and fashion retail to creating a chef-driven brand that delivers a luxury dining experience in a fast-casual setting.
Zack and Abney discuss:
Transforming Fine Dining Into Fast-Casual Excellence
How Abney turned a $50 pasta dish into an accessible yet premium quick-service experience.The Magic of Details in Guest Experience
Why everything from custom bronze-cut pasta to perfect table heights makes a difference in how guests experience a restaurant.Hospitality Rooted in Human Connection
How kindness, warmth, and personal interactions build lasting customer loyalty.Design That Enhances the Brand
How Abney’s background in fashion and interior design inspired Prima Après' stylish, inviting spaces.Lessons in Restaurant Innovation and Growth
What it takes to blend creativity with operational excellence while scaling a restaurant concept.Tune in to learn how Abney Harper is redefining fast-casual dining by blending exceptional cuisine with intentional design and genuine hospitality!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we’re joined by Jason Sobocinski and Etkin Tekin, the co-founders of Haven Hot Chicken, who are on a mission to redefine the fast-casual dining space. From their roots as winners of the Perfect Pitch competition to expanding to nine locations, Jason and Etkin share the secrets behind their explosive growth and the passion for exceptional food that drives their brand.
Zack, Jason, and Etkin discuss:
Why training and empowering teams are the cornerstone of their successThe importance of pride in food quality and culture-buildingHow they use guest feedback to maintain consistency and create unforgettable experiencesTactics for handling guest recovery and exceeding expectationsTune in to learn how Haven Hot Chicken is bringing the heat and redefining the fast-casual dining experience!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, Rick Malir, founder of City Barbeque, shares his journey from selling John Deere tractors to building a nationally recognized barbecue brand. With 25 years in the business and 75 locations, Rick dives into what it takes to deliver top-notch barbecue and create unforgettable guest experiences.
Zack and Rick discuss:
How a love for barbecue sparked a fast-casual empireThe key role emotional connection plays in guest loyaltyWhy investing in your team leads to better guest experiencesBalancing technology with genuine hospitalityLessons from scaling a bootstrapped business to 75 locationsTune in to hear how Rick turned his backyard barbecue passion into a thriving brand loved by guests across the country!
Thanks, Rick!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Austin Titus, president of Cannoli Kitchen Pizza and a seasoned expert in the franchise industry. Growing up in a family of franchise entrepreneurs, Austin has developed a unique eye for brands that stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Zack and Austin discuss:
The story behind Cannoli Kitchen and how it differentiates itself in the pizza spaceWhat Austin looks for in franchise brands and the value of a proven categoryHow Cannoli Kitchen combines traditional flavors with a fresh approach to hospitalityStrategies for scaling and maintaining brand integrity across locationsTune in to hear Austin's insights on building a memorable brand that keeps guests coming back!
Thanks, Austin!
-
Send us a text
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Jim Knight, a former executive at Hard Rock Cafe who has transformed his experiences into a dynamic career as a speaker and author. Known for his engaging style, Jim blends the charisma of Guy Fieri with the motivational prowess of Tony Robbins.
Zack and Jim discuss:
The importance of building a rockstar team and cultivating a vibrant cultureHow to create a guest experience that truly resonatesThe significance of accountability and setting clear expectations for team membersWhy investing in talent leads to sustained success over timeTune in to discover how Jim's unique insights can help elevate your restaurant's guest experience!
Thanks, Jim!
-
Send us a text
Markus Pineyro is not just a restaurant owner—he’s a visionary reshaping how we think about dining experiences. As the co-founder of OOMI Digital Kitchen, Markus has created a food hall that operates almost entirely through digital interactions, yet still boasts a remarkable 4.9-star rating. On this episode of Give an Ovation, we dive into how Markus has built a successful, customer-focused operation without the traditional face-to-face hospitality we expect from restaurants.
In this episode, Zack and Markus discuss:
The innovative concept behind OOMI Digital Kitchen and how it's redefining guest serviceThe importance of creating a seamless digital hospitality experience for off-premise dinersHow Markus and his team turn guest feedback into loyal customers through technologyThe value of using customer data to optimize marketing strategiesWhy complaints can be the most valuable feedback for long-term successIf you’ve ever wondered how to elevate the guest experience in a digital-first world, this episode with Markus Pineyro offers insightful takeaways for restaurants of any size.
Thanks, Markus!
- Laat meer zien
