Give an Ovation: The Restaurant Guest Experience Podcast

Strap in as we journey through an insightful conversation with Dan Simons, Founder and Co-owner of Farmers Restaurant Group. As a leader in the business world, he underlines the importance of striking a balance – pushing employees to achieve their goals while also ensuring their mental well-being is prioritized.

On this episode, you'll learn from Dan about:

• Mental health in the workplace
• Effective leadership and employee advocacy
• Farm-to-table concepts
• More!

Thanks, Dan!

Imagine dining in a world-class restaurant and, as an added bonus, enjoying a lively game of bowling or bocce right there. That's the winning recipe Dale Schwartz, Founder and CEO of Pinstripes, brings to the table. From his journey as a visionary entrepreneur to the inception of Pinstripes, Dale shares the ups and downs of his business adventure.

On this episode, you'll learn from Dale about:

• Crucial role of feedback
• Cueing the guest
• Entrepreneurial success
• More!

Thanks, Dale!

Experience a revealing conversation as we delve into the intricate world of diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DIB) in the restaurant industry with Dr. James Pogue. You'll gain a new appreciation for the importance of DIB and its role in enhancing productivity, igniting innovation, and strengthening collaboration.

On this episode, you'll learn from James about:

• DIBs
• Inclusive leadership
• Creating a sense of belonging across experiences
• Understanding but not limiting team members
• More!

Thanks, James!

Get ready to feast on some delicious insights as we sit down with Gus Malliaris, the genius behind Detroit Wing Company and its rise from a singular location to 31 thriving branches. We unwrap the secrets behind Gus's success underscoring the power of customer experience in the restaurant game.

On this episode, you'll learn from Gus about:

• Leader by example
• Handling multiple locations
• Instilling passion in employees
• More!

Thanks, Gus!

Meet Joe Fontana, the charismatic owner of a successful chicken sandwich restaurant, Fry the Coop. With an unwavering commitment to enhancing the guest experience, Joe reveals how he's carved out a successful niche within the bustling chicken industry. We tackle the tough topic of survival in a cut-throat market and the ever-changing restaurant industry trends.

On this episode, you'll learn from Joe about:

• Timeless menu items
• Nurturing strong community connections
• Tackling customer complaints head on
• More!

Thanks, Joe!

Join us as we sit down with Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Pallet America, the parent company of dining phenomenon, Pepper Lunch, and dive into the unique experience that sets them apart. Troy shares not only the intriguing locations of these restaurants but also his perspective on how to stand out in the food industry through exceptional hospitality, regardless of the restaurant type.

On this episode, you'll learn from Troy about:

• Setting clear expectations for customers
• Pursuit of Feedback
• Innovative approach to international brands
• More!

Thanks, Troy!

Ever wonder how top restaurant brands create a guest experience that keeps customers coming back for more? Prepare to be enlightened as we sit down with Donna Josephson, CMO of Shipley's Donuts, a seasoned marketer who has worked with big names such as Chick-fil-A, Applebee's, Wendy's, and McAllister's. Donna lays bare the common pitfalls marketers often stumble into in the restaurant industry and emphasises the vital role of a partnership between marketers and operators in delivering a memorable guest experience.

On this episode, you'll learn from Donna about:

• Addressing diverse needs of guests
• Importance of emotional connection
• Rapid innovation
• More!

Thanks, Donna!

Ever wondered about the inner workings of the restaurant industry? Sam Oches is an award-winning editorial director of Informa's Restaurant and Food Group. Sam Oches has had his eye on the industry for quite some time and has developed an eye for exploring the factors shaping this dynamic landscape.

On this episode, you'll learn from Sam about:

• Labor availability
• Rise of automation
• Tip culture
• More!

Thanks, Sam!

Get ready to uncover the mysteries behind the success of Groucho's Deli, an iconic restaurant that's stood the test of time for 80 years. Deric Rosenbaum, the president of this thriving chain, joins us on the show to share his insights on a two-fold approach to innovation and the significance of open platforms.

On this episode, you'll learn from Deric about:

• Customer engagement
• Using feedback to redirect
• Compatible traditional and progressive guest experience tactics
• More!

Thanks, Deric!

Are you ready to revolutionize the way you perceive restaurant marketing? Join us as we turn the tables with the brilliant author and consultant, Chip Klose. We pick his brain about his game-changing book, 'Restaurant Marketing Mindset.' This is not just another marketing guide; it's a deep dive into the psychology of your potential customers.

On this episode, you'll learn from Chip about:

• Word-of-mouth
• The triangle principle
• Rethinking your marketing plan
• More!

Thanks, Chip!