Restrocast

In this episode of Restrocast, Eric Slaymaker, the driving force behind Wingers Alehouse, shares his journey from the world of advertising to building a successful restaurant brand. With early roots in marketing for his father’s franchises, Eric developed a unique perspective on branding, which later inspired him to create Wingers. Eric dives into Wingers’ evolution, explaining how he adapted the concept into the popular Alehouse model to meet changing market demands. His conversation covers the balancing act between franchisee autonomy and brand consistency, Wingers’ feedback systems, and the importance of training in ensuring quality. Eric also reflects on leadership, sharing his commitment to sustainable growth and the continual effort to improve communication with his team. Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Eric Slaymaker- LinkedIn

In this episode of Restrocast, Phil Friedman, shares his remarkable journey over four decades. From his beginnings as a dishwasher to managing food distribution in Vietnam and scaling major brands like Panda Express and McAlister's Deli, Phil offers invaluable insights into leadership, innovation, and resilience. He discusses the challenges of navigating economic downturns, including the 2009 recession and the recent pandemic, and how adaptability has been key to his success.Phil emphasizes the importance of building strong support systems for franchisees and staying ahead with technology. His candid advice for aspiring restaurateurs focuses on mastering the fundamentals and being ready to learn in an ever-evolving industry. With his passion for the restaurant business, Phil inspires listeners to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Tune in to discover how one man's journey reflects the broader dynamics of the restaurant landscape and the lessons that can drive success in a competitive market.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Phil Friedman- LinkedIn

In this podcast episode, Saer Imad shares his unique career journey from corporate banking in Lebanon to becoming a key figure in Dubai's food and beverage industry. Saer discusses his early career advising entrepreneurs at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders, where he first gained insights into the F&B world. He then shares how he transitioned from an advisor to a hands-on operator, building and franchising brands like JJ Chicken and Derwendi. Saer reflects on the challenges of brand building, the importance of adaptability, and the lessons learned from his experiences in expanding F&B brands internationally.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Saer Imad- LinkedIn

In this podcast episode, Jerry Baldwin shares his remarkable four-decade career in the food and beverage industry. Starting from humble beginnings as a street food salesman, Baldwin shares how his early experiences in sales and distribution shaped his understanding of supply chain management. He delves into the challenges and opportunities within the restaurant industry, particularly in the post-COVID era, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies and strong vendor relationships.Baldwin also discusses the transformative changes at Steak 'n Shake, including the shift to a franchise partner model and the introduction of self-order kiosks. His insights into navigating supply chain complexities, managing vendor dynamics, and adapting to industry shifts provide valuable lessons for anyone in the restaurant business. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to understand the intricacies of supply chain management and the restaurant industry's challenges.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Jerry Baldwin- LinkedIn

In this episode of Restrocast, host Ashish Tulsian sits down with John Haggai, CEO of Burtons Grill & Bar, to explore his extraordinary career journey. From his humble beginnings as a high school busboy, Haggai shares how his initial part-time job evolved into a 30-year career in the hospitality industry. He discusses his transition from managing partner at Outback Steakhouse to founding Taza Kitchen, revealing the challenges and emotional shifts involved. Haggai also dives into the importance of blending technology with a personal touch and offers advice for future leaders in hospitality.Restaurateurs will gain valuable insights into Haggai's approach to navigating the industry's complexities, his philosophy on mentorship, and his vision for the future of hospitality. His story of resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication to core values is a powerful inspiration for anyone looking to make a mark in the business world. This episode is a must-list for those interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, and the evolving landscape of the restaurant industry.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn John Haggai- LinkedIn

In this episode of Restrocast, host Ashish Tulsian sits down with Nadine Benchaffai, a trailblazing entrepreneur with a rich background in the food and beverage industry. Nadine shares her journey from working in FMCG with global giants like Kraft and Nestlé to co-founding Tortilla Mexican Grills in the UK, which grew to over 60 stores. She also delves into her experience founding Taqado Mexican Kitchen in the UAE, discussing the challenges of introducing a niche cuisine in a competitive market.Nadine opens up about the personal and business factors that led to her decision to sell Taqado to Kitopi in 2021, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of exiting a brand she built from the ground up. She also talks about her current role as a venture builder in the agri-tech and food tech sectors, highlighting how she’s helping startups scale and innovate at the intersection of food, technology, and sustainability. This episode offers valuable insights into brand building, market adaptation, and the evolving landscape of the food industry, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Nadine Benchaffai- LinkedIn

Embark on an illuminating odyssey with Restrocast in the latest episode featuring Kevin Bentley, the Head of Technology at Jollibee North America, in an exclusive session. Join our host, Ashish Tulsian, as he delves into the riveting narrative of Kevin Bentley's extraordinary journey, transitioning from a formidable NFL linebacker to a tech luminary in the restaurant industry.In this captivating episode, Kevin unfolds his playbook for success, sharing insights into his strategic role at Jollibee. From setting a visionary tech stack to enhancing customer engagement and operational efficiency, Kevin wears many hats, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the intricate world of restaurant technology.Congratulations are in order for Kevin's recent appointment, and listeners are treated to an insider's perspective on what excites him the most about leading technology for Jollibee's expansive North America division. The conversation explores Kevin's educational journey, from inner-city Los Angeles to pursuing a doctorate, and how this commitment to learning shapes his leadership style.As the episode progresses, Kevin shares valuable lessons from his early days as an NFL player and draws parallels between team dynamics in sports and corporate environments. The discussion transcends the boundaries of technology, offering advice for aspiring leaders in the dynamic business landscape.Tune in to Restrocast for an enlightening conversation that unveils the playbook of Kevin Bentley's tech journey, a story of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to excellence. From the NFL gridiron to the forefront of restaurant technology, Kevin Bentley's narrative promises to inspire and captivate.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Kevin Bentley - LinkedIn

In this episode of Restrocast, Ashish Tulsian sits down with Craig Dunaway, the COO of Penn Station Subs. Craig shares his journey from a career in public accounting to leading a successful franchise brand. With over 24 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Craig discusses the evolution of his role, highlighting the importance of balancing operational details with strategic growth. He delves into the challenges of maintaining profitability, especially in the wake of COVID-19, and the critical role of effective communication with franchisees. Craig offers insights into the significance of building strong relationships and fostering a positive culture within the organization. He also touches on the impact of technology on the restaurant business and the delicate balance between adopting new innovations and maintaining core values. Throughout the conversation, Craig emphasizes the importance of understanding both numbers and people, providing valuable lessons for anyone in the restaurant industry. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and rewards of managing a franchise and the strategies that have driven Penn Station Subs' success.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Craig Dunaway- LinkedIn

In this episode of Restocast, host Ashish Tulsian sits down with Leon Davoyan, the CTO of Dave's Hot Chicken, to explore his remarkable career journey. Starting as a POS technician, Leon rose through the ranks to become a leading figure in restaurant technology. He shares insights from his early days at Universal Studios, where his fascination with tech began, to his significant roles at Baja Fresh, Santa Anita Racetrack, and Pinkberry, where he navigated global expansion challenges.Leon discusses his decision to pursue an MBA in Lebanon, a move that broadened his perspective and bolstered his leadership skills. He highlights the importance of situational leadership, the value of learning from diverse industries, and the ongoing challenges of integrating technology in the hospitality sector. Leon also delves into the culture and team dynamics at Dave's Hot Chicken, emphasizing the benefits of working with a mature, collaborative team.This episode offers valuable lessons on career growth, leadership, and innovation, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and the restaurant industry. Tune in to hear Leon's inspiring story and insightful perspectives.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Leon Davoyan- LinkedIn

In this engaging episode of Restrocast, Ashish Tulsian interviews Mazen Kanaan, CEO of House of Pops. Mazen shares his journey from Lebanon, where he studied economics and finance, to his 13-year career at Unilever. During his time handling Unilever’s ice cream business, Mazen identified a market gap for healthy yet delicious ice cream, sparking the creation of House of Pops.Mazen delves into the challenges and insights from his corporate experience, discussing how he transitioned from a secure job to entrepreneurship with a mix of excitement and calculated risk. He highlights the unique aspects of the ice cream business, emphasizing the importance of purity, wellness, and sustainability in House of Pops' products.Listeners will learn about the innovative strategies Mazen and his co-founder, his wife, employed to overcome early challenges, ensure consistent customer experiences, and maintain personal growth. The episode wraps up with Mazen’s vision for the future, including product expansions and geographical growth, aiming to establish House of Pops as a leading brand in the health-conscious ice cream market.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Mazen Kanaan- LinkedIn

In this captivating episode of Restrocast, Ashish Tulsian interviews Stratis Morfogen, the dynamic founder and CEO of Brooklyn Chop House and Brooklyn Dumpling Shop. Stratis Morfogen has been an innovator in New York City’s hospitality scene for decades. He brought New York’s famed Fulton Fish Market to the internet in 1997 with the creation of FultonStreet.com, and was the restaurateur behind many well-known New York establishments, including Club Rouge, Gotham City Diner, Hilltop Diner, The Grand, Philippe Chow, and Jue Lan Club, among others. He is the author of Be a Disruptor and Damn Good Dumplings.Stratis also discusses the highs and lows of his career, including the unexpected popularity of his nightclub, Rouge, and pioneering the Fulton Fish Market online in 1996. He unveils the inspiration behind Brooklyn Chop House's unique LSD (Lobster, Steak, Duck) menu and how he navigated the challenges of COVID-19 by supporting healthcare workers. Throughout the episode, Stratis emphasizes the importance of disrupting the status quo, embracing failure, and constantly reimagining concepts. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring restaurateurs and anyone interested in the fascinating world of the restaurant industry.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Stratis Morfogen- LinkedIn

In this captivating podcast episode, join us on a journey through the diverse chapters of Alaa Sayed's remarkable career, from the football fields of Egypt to the bustling kitchens of renowned global restaurants. Hosted by Ashish Tulsian, the interview unfolds Alaa's inspiring story of resilience and adaptation, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamic world of hospitality.Starting as a national football player, Alaa's trajectory took an unexpected turn after an injury, propelling him into the realms of tourism, hotel management, and ultimately the restaurant business. Delve into Alaa's experiences managing F&B in American Air Force bases, where he learned the art of adapting to diverse customer needs.The narrative deepens with insights from Alaa's tenure at Shake Shack, where a people-first philosophy and unique training approach set the stage for his subsequent ventures with BurgerFuel, Jollibee, and the latest chapter with ServQuest and Al-Baik. From challenges faced during the opening of Al-Baik's first drive-through to strategic expansion plans, Alaa shares anecdotes and lessons that resonate with aspiring professionals in the industry.Discover the secret ingredients behind Alaa's success – a commitment to quality, customer service, and the delicate balance between tradition and technology. This episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences, emphasizing the importance of passion, adaptability, and meaningful connections in the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant business.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Alaa Sayed - LinkedIn

Welcome to the latest episode of Restrocast, where host Ashish Tulsian sits down with Wade Allen, the EVP of Strategic Growth at Costa Vida, to unravel the intriguing story of a digital innovation veteran with over 22 years of experience. Costa Vida, under Wade's guidance, has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the restaurant industry.In this episode, dive deep into Wade Allen's diverse background, from coding websites in the late '90s to spearheading marketing technology and off-premise initiatives at Costa Vida. Wade shares how this eclectic mix has uniquely positioned him to lead strategic growth and drive sales in the dynamic landscape of the restaurant business.Explore Wade's transformative journey from Brinker International, where he played a pioneering role in introducing digital strategies during a less digitally advanced era, to his current leadership at Costa Vida. Gain insights into the evolution of loyalty programs, the intersection of marketing, technology, and statistics, and his perspective on the role of AI in the future of the restaurant industry.Join Ashish and Wade in a thought-provoking conversation about innovation, leadership, and the ever-evolving digital solutions in the restaurant space. Don't miss this compelling episode of Restrocast, where industry insights and personal stories converge to provide a comprehensive look into the strategic growth of Costa Vida and the visionary leadership of Wade Allen. Tune in for a captivating exploration of the digital frontier in the world of restaurants.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Wade Allen - LinkedIn

In this enlightening episode of Restrocast, host Ashish Tulsian engages with Joe Frem, the innovative Co-founder and CEO of Matbakhi, an F&B management company transforming hospitality services for 1-4 star hotels. Joe shares his inspiring journey from his early entrepreneurial endeavors at the age of 13 to his strategic academic pursuits in engineering and subsequent impactful tenure at McKinsey.He dives deep into the founding of Matbakhi, revealing the identified market gaps and the innovative strategies employed to enhance hotel dining experiences through technology and customized F&B solutions. Joe also discusses future trends in the hospitality industry, emphasizing the potential of AI and IoT to revolutionize service efficiency and guest satisfaction.Joe also imparts invaluable advice for entrepreneurs in the F&B and hospitality sectors, stressing the importance of understanding customer needs, embracing technology, and fostering strong team dynamics. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, hospitality, or business strategy.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian -  LinkedinJoe Frem- LinkedIn

In this captivating episode of Restrocast, host Ashish Tulsian engages in a deep dive with Ziad Kassabieh, the visionary CEO of Advanced Food Co. Starting his culinary journey at the tender age of 15 in a family-owned restaurant in Lebanon, Ziad shares how his early experiences ignited a passion that would shape his future. The episode traverses his decision to pursue hospitality management, his strategic relocation to Saudi Arabia, and his ascension from a multi-unit manager to a major influencer in the restaurant industry. With an impressive portfolio of 45 to 48 innovative restaurants under his belt, Ziad discusses the shift from hotel to restaurant management, advocating for more specialized educational programs to better prepare future leaders. His philosophy of servant leadership and his hands-on approach to business illustrate his deep commitment to his team and clientele. Looking forward, Ziad unveils his aspirations for expanding and innovating within Saudi Arabia's dynamic food scene, promising exciting new concepts from Advanced Food Co.. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of passion, leadership, and innovation in the hospitality industry.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashishtulsian/Ziad Kassabieh- https://www.linkedin.com/in/ziad-kassabieh-86019525/

In this episode of Restrocast, host Ashish Tulsian engages with Jim Bitticks, the COO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, in a profound discussion that charts Jim’s extraordinary ascent within the restaurant industry. From his humble beginnings as a teenage employee at a Jack in the Box to pivotal executive roles at major chains like Blaze Pizza and now Dave’s Hot Chicken, Jim’s narrative is one of remarkable progression and strategic innovation.Throughout the episode, Jim shares the critical turning points and the strategic decisions that propelled his career forward and shaped the growth trajectories of the companies he has been part of. His insights into the challenges of scaling operations, particularly his transformative work at Blaze Pizza which he helped grow from two to 372 locations, are both enlightening and inspiring. Jim also discusses his recent move to Dave’s Hot Chicken, emphasizing his passion for new challenges and the opportunity to work with familiar faces in new capacities.Jim's people-focused approach to operations, his strategies for employee engagement, and his philosophy on leadership underscore a career that’s as much about fostering growth in others as it is about operational success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of career growth within the competitive restaurant industry or the strategic intricacies of scaling a business successfully.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashishtulsian/Jim Bitticks- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bitticks-cfe-0bb37515

Welcome to the latest episode of Restrocast with your host, Ashish Tulsian. In this installment, we are thrilled to have Justin Skelton, the Senior Vice President and CIO at Dine Brands Global, as our special guest. Dine Brands Global operates a network of 3,700+ restaurants globally, featuring popular brands such as IHOP, Applebee's, and Fuzzy's Taco Shop.Join Ashish Tulsian as he delves into the fascinating journey of Justin Skelton, exploring the three peaks in his illustrious career as a tech leader in America's biggest brands across insurance, retail, and restaurants. Justin shares valuable insights into his upbringing as a military brat, highlighting how it shaped his ability to adapt to change and influenced his leadership style.The conversation takes us through key milestones in Justin's early career, from his unexpected start at Allstate Insurance Company to his roles in banking, technology consulting, and eventually leading technology divisions at major corporations. Gain insights into the challenges of managing technology in both the retail and healthcare sectors, and discover the crucial lessons Justin has learned throughout his career journey.Don't miss this riveting episode of Restrocast, where Ashish Tulsian and Justin Skelton engage in a thought-provoking conversation about technology, leadership, and the dynamic world of the restaurant industry. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and stories from one of the leading figures in the tech and restaurant space.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Justin Skelton- LinkedIn

Restrocast's latest episode brings to you the dynamic Prashanth Menon, Regional Director of PizzaExpress UAE, in a riveting conversation. Join host Ashish Tulsian as he unravels the layers of Prashanth's extraordinary 32-year journey, transforming PizzaExpress into a 14-outlet empire and earning him the prestigious PizzaExpress Worldwide Wonder Award 2023.Explore the day-to-day responsibilities of overseeing Pizza Express in the MENA region, where Prashanth shares strategic insights into the brand's expansion plans across 14 markets. From a South Indian upbringing and overcoming societal pressures to transitioning from hotels to standalone restaurants, Prashanth's narrative is a testament to perseverance and passion.In this exclusive interview, Prashanth reveals the magic behind PizzaExpress' success, emphasizing a people-first approach that weathered the pandemic's challenges and contributed to remarkable staff retention rates. Dive into his diverse experiences, from hotels to resorts, from airlines to standalone restaurants, and gain wisdom on leadership, employee growth, and maintaining excellence.Listeners will be treated to anecdotes of PizzaExpress' journey from two to seven restaurants, the pivotal role of an interfaith marriage, and Prashanth's dedication to creating a great workplace. As PizzaExpress looks to the future under Prashanth's visionary leadership, this episode promises a slice of inspiration for aspiring leaders in the hospitality industry. Tune in to Restrocast for a captivating narrative that transcends the world of pizzas, showcasing Prashanth Menon's unparalleled dedication, resilience, and passion for progress.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Prashanth Menon - LinkedIn

In this enlightening episode of Restrocast with Ashish Tulsian, we delve into the remarkable four-decade journey of Andy Holman in the hospitality industry. From his serendipitous start as a management trainee at Pizza Hut to achieving senior management roles globally, Andy shares the wisdom gleaned from his vast experiences. He discusses the critical importance of customer service and employee training, revealing how these core elements have evolved with technology while maintaining their essence. Andy reflects on the invaluable lessons learned through his career, emphasizing adaptability, the significance of systems and processes, and the pivotal role of leadership in driving success. With insights into the impact of working across diverse cultures and the challenges and opportunities presented by digital advancements, Andy offers profound advice to aspiring professionals. He also highlights the necessity of sustainability in shaping the future of hospitality.This episode not only explores Andy's illustrious career but also provides listeners with a masterclass in management, leadership, and the art of hospitality, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the industry's past, present, and future.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Andy Holman- LinkedIn

Discover the unconventional path to success in the latest podcast episode featuring Alexander Debare, founder and chief growth officer of Burger28. From aspiring pilot to law student, Debare shares his inspiring journey of creating a thriving business in the competitive restaurant industry. In this exclusive interview, delve into the inception of Burger 28, where Debare's entrepreneurial spirit and nostalgia for '90s UAE converge to form a unique burger chain.Explore the role of social media in Burger 28's success, from the early days of experimentation with Facebook ads to the evolution of a impactful Instagram presence. Debare sheds light on the challenges and responsibilities of running a restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of immediate customer feedback and maintaining composure in the face of adversity.Get insights into Debare's commitment to self-improvement, with recommendations for books and podcasts that have significantly influenced his personal and professional growth. As he shares anecdotes and experiences from the restaurant business, Debare provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, tackling topics such as dealing with failure, rejection, and the significance of a bootstrapped model for sustainable growth.Look ahead with Alexander Debare as he discusses his aspirations and goals, not only for Burger 28 but for his broader vision of merging media and technology. Learn about his ultimate goal of building a business with a monthly revenue of $1 million, involving minimal personnel and following a bootstrap approach. Discover the impact of the bootstrapped model on Debare's perspective on growth and financial sustainability.Join us in this insightful episode as Alexander Debare's journey unfolds, offering a wealth of lessons and inspiration for those navigating the unpredictable yet rewarding world of entrepreneurship.Find us online: Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn Alexander E. Debare- LinkedIn