In this episode, we sit down with Chris Wizner, CEO of Vivid Candi, a leading marketing agency with over 20 years of experience specializing in the food industry. Learn about Chris's inspiring journey from a Taco Bell paycheck to spearheading Vivid Candi, and discover game-changing marketing tactics that can help your restaurant thrive. This episode covers the power of artificial intelligence in marketing, the common mistakes restaurants make, effective strategies for Google ads, and the incredible impact of influencer marketing. Don't miss out on essential tips and insights to supercharge your restaurant's growth!

05:15 AI in Restaurant Marketing

14:07 Common Marketing Mistakes in Restaurants

22:39 Year-Round Private Party Opportunities

23:43 Common Mistakes in Restaurant Marketing

24:20 Influencer Marketing for Restaurants

32:51 Effective Google Ads Strategies

In this episode, hosts sit down with Jason Radisson, CEO and founder of Movo. Jason shares his journey from blue-collar work to leading successful tech ventures like Uber and 99 Taxis, and how he’s now focusing on enhancing hiring, engagement, and retention for frontline workers in the restaurant and hospitality industry through Movo. They discuss the impact of technology on workforce management, the future of automation in hospitality, and how restaurant owners can streamline operations to drive growth and efficiency. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with practical tips for embracing technology in your business.

01:55 Improving Hiring and Retention with Technology

05:32 Scheduling and Workforce Management Innovations

15:10 Scaling Companies: Lessons from Uber and 99 Taxis

19:52 Creating a Motivated and Engaged Workforce

32:05 Future of Technology in Hospitality

In this episode, we are joined by Abhinav Kapur, co-founder and CEO of Bikky. Abhinav discusses his transition from finance to the tech startup scene, inspired by the challenges he witnessed in his mother-in-law's restaurant. He delves into how Bikky helps restaurants transform raw customer data into actionable insights to drive revenue growth. Abhinav explains the importance of understanding customer behavior, the impact of third-party data, and how AI is shaping the future of restaurant analytics. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable advice for restauranteurs looking to thrive in a digital-first world.

00:33 Abhinav's Background and Startup Journey

01:22 The Birth of Bikky

03:44 Impact of the Pandemic on Restaurants

05:01 Transition from Finance to Tech

10:18 How Bikky Helps Restaurants

12:47 Customer Data Insights and Analytics

16:55 Challenges and Opportunities in Restaurant Tech

31:35 Future Developments and AI in Bikky

In this episode we chat with Erika Wasser, CEO and co-founder of Prospr, a platform dedicated to optimizing restaurant team management. Erika shares invaluable insights into reducing employee turnover, enhancing team communication, and leveraging technology for operational efficiency. Drawing from her vast experience, she offers practical advice for restaurateurs on building stronger, more engaged teams. Learn about Prospr's innovative solutions such as flexible scheduling, automated task management, and celebratory features that boost morale. Discover how digital tools can support managers in deskless industries, improve retention, and the future landscape of workforce management technology. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and solutions of running successful multi-unit operations.

03:16 Challenges in Communication and Management

04:50 The Role of Technology in Workforce Management

06:11 Features and Benefits of Prosper

10:55 Automating Checklists with Prosper

11:33 Implementing Prosper in a Fast-Paced Environment

12:43 Enhancing Employee Satisfaction and Accountability

14:31 Handling Tech-Averse Employees

15:13 Comparing Prosper with 7 Shifts

16:30 Incorporating AI and Machine Learning

17:35 Future of Workforce Management Technology

19:13 Final Thoughts and Advice for Restaurateurs

In this episode, Jason E Brooks shares essential strategies for effective communication and feedback in training restaurant staff. Learn about the distinct training needs of front and back-of-house teams, the power of role-playing, and overcoming language barriers. Discover the importance of real-time feedback, positive reinforcement, and regular one-on-one meetings in boosting staff confidence and operational consistency. Get practical tips on leveraging digital tools and KPIs for training success across multi-location franchises and foster a culture of open feedback and continuous improvement. Tune in for valuable tips to elevate your leadership approach and enhance service quality in your restaurant.

01:27 Five Key Ways to Improve Communication

05:52 Adapting Training to Experience Levels

09:14 Tailoring Feedback for Different Roles

14:50 Overcoming Communication Barriers

18:18 The Importance of Real-Time Feedback in Food Safety

19:28 Differentiating Real-Time and Planned Feedback

20:25 Building Confidence Through Positive Feedback

22:37 Digital Training for Consistency Across Locations

27:49 The Role of Data in Effective Training

29:38 Creating a Culture of Feedback

In this episode, hosts are joined by MaryBeth Maskovas, a data expert with a decade of experience in the restaurant and QSR industry. MaryBeth shares insights on harnessing data to tackle challenges in data implementation, customer loyalty, and marketing technology. She emphasizes understanding unique restaurant challenges, the critical role of personalized customer experiences, and the importance of leveraging AI in the evolving MarTech landscape. The discussion also covers MaryBeth's contributions to the RTN deliverables like 'Winning the Customer' project and the Restaurant Technology Network Capabilities Framework, offering strategic guidance for businesses aiming to optimize their operations and marketing efforts.

02:28 Challenges in Data Implementation for QSRs

07:01 Effective Strategies for Customer Loyalty Programs

15:19 Marketing Technology Trends in QSRs

19:06 RTN Projects and Their Impact

25:41 Future of Data and Technology in QSRs

In this episode, cash flow expert Kirsha Campbell shares her extensive knowledge on managing restaurant finances. With 15 years of experience, Kirsha discusses key financial challenges such as food and labor costs, managing cash flow, setting up recession-proof systems, and the importance of financial literacy for restaurant owners. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tips to ensure your business's long-term success and growth.

01:58 Key Financial Challenges for Restaurants

04:26 Setting Up Recession-Proof Systems

08:32 Common Budgeting Mistakes and Solutions

13:42 Planning for Long-Term Growth

16:52 The Importance of Financial Literacy

22:25 Adapting to Industry Changes

In this episode, Chef David Burke shares his incredible journey through the culinary world, from starting in the 1970s to running over 20 successful restaurants. Burke discusses his unique Himalayan salt dry aging process, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and how he expanded his restaurant empire during that time. Known for his inventive approach to blending creativity with tradition, Burke also talks about the importance of giving back to the community and nurturing new culinary talent.

02:57 Balancing Tradition and Innovation

06:31 Expanding During the Pandemic

09:09 The Himalayan Salt Dry Aging Process

15:32 Embracing Culinary Diversity

18:13 Changing Trends in the Culinary World

19:01 The Role of Chefs in Community Support

19:47 Challenges and Joys of the Culinary Profession

24:10 Maintaining Consistency Across Multiple Restaurants

29:47 Future Projects and Expansion Plans

33:08 Advice for Aspiring Chefs

In this episode of the Restaurant Growth Show podcast, hosts Gordon and Jose are joined by Kirk Mauriello, founder of Profit Cookers. Kirk shares his journey from Staten Island to establishing a successful company that aids restaurants in increasing profits through virtual kitchens and innovative food delivery models. The discussion highlights the evolution of virtual kitchen technology, its impact driven by COVID-19, and the current consumer behavior of prioritizing convenience. Kirk provides insights on integrating virtual brands into existing restaurant models, strategies for improving profitability, and the benefits of dynamic pricing solutions. Kirk emphasizes the importance of selling more to grow a business while maintaining profitability through smart pricing and leveraging technology like consolidation tablets. This episode is packed with actionable advice for restaurant owners looking to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing industry landscape.

02:20 The Rise of Virtual Kitchens

03:58 Technology's Role in Virtual Kitchens

05:37 Strategies for Restaurant Success

06:59 The Power of Virtual Brands

11:13 Maximizing Restaurant Profitability

21:31 Future of Virtual Kitchens and Technology

26:41 The Cost of Marketing and Virtual Brands

27:07 The Power of Online Orders

29:05 Customizing Menus for Profit

In this episode, we chat with Naomi West, an award-winning email marketing strategist, about effective email marketing strategies for the hospitality industry. Naomi shares her impressive background in email marketing and explains how restaurant owners can utilize email campaigns to boost customer engagement and sales. We delve into the importance of clear subject lines, automated welcome messages, and personalized content for restaurant chains. Naomi also provides actionable examples and pro tips on how to maximize the potential of email marketing. Whether you're a small restaurant or a large hospitality group, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you grow your business. Don't miss out!

01:35 Naomi West's Background and Expertise
03:49 Importance of Email Marketing for Restaurants
08:15 Building and Growing an Email List
15:30 Effective Email Content and Subject Lines
20:37 Automated Email Campaigns and Retention Tactics 30:12 Personalizing Email Campaigns for Chains
34:54 Key Metrics for Email Marketing Success