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The Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast brought to you by Custom Business Solutions

The Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast brought to you by Custom Business Solutions

360 episodes — Page 1 of 8

California Pizza Kitchen

Aug 31, 202643 min

Building a Restaurant Brand People Love: Lessons from Surcheros

Aug 24, 202641 min

Big Biscuit

Aug 17, 202631 min

RTI Alissa

Aug 10, 202631 min

The Surprising Menu Item That Made Farmer Boys Famous

Aug 3, 202637 min

Inventory AI

Jul 30, 202610 min

The $30,000 Refund Nobody Caught

Jul 27, 202640 min

The Future of Sports Streaming for Bars and Restaurants

Jul 20, 202642 min

How One Founder Solved Restaurant Staffing Chaos

Jul 13, 202644 min

How Machine Learning Personalizes Guest Experience

Jul 6, 202641 min

How Berry AI Uses Computer Vision to Boost Restaurant Efficiency

Jun 29, 202635 min

The 5 Rules That Transform Grocery Teams and Can Elevate Any Business

Jun 22, 202641 min

Jeff's Journey from Law School to Acai Empire

Jun 15, 202642 min

The Future of Food Service: 15 Years of IoT Innovation

Jun 8, 202644 min

The Future of Restaurant Tech: Insights from Chris Hellmann

Jun 1, 202629 min

Inside Dog Haus: A Unique Blend of Casual and Fast Casual Dining

May 25, 202637 min

How Teriyaki Madness Manages Franchisee Tech Adoption

May 18, 202627 min

How AI Voice is Increasing Restaurant Revenue by 23%

May 11, 202638 min

How Handel’s Maintains Quality Across 150 Flavors

May 4, 202635 min

Innovative Hub and Spoke Model for Bagel Shops

Apr 27, 202634 min

How Data-Driven Menu Design Transforms Franchise Growth & Consistency

Apr 20, 202645 min

From Chevy to Franchise: The Timber Pizza Story

Apr 13, 202629 min

Navigating the Challenges of Restaurant Staffing

00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Technology Solutions02:39 Understanding Employee Benefits in the Restaurant Industry05:19 Challenges in Providing Employee Benefits08:27 The Importance of Employee Support11:16 Streamlining Employee Benefits Management14:16 Cost-Effectiveness of Employee Benefits17:19 The Business Case for Employee Benefits19:57 Measuring Success: Retention and Profitability21:27 The Challenges of Employee Turnover24:12 Understanding Insurance Logistics29:10 Revolutionizing Employee Benefits31:51 Engaging with ProTier: A Simple Process38:27 The Competitive Edge in Employee Retention

Apr 7, 202642 min

Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Restaurant Catering: Strategies for Success

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:58 Elias' Journey into Restaurant Technology01:51 The Value of Catering in Foodservice02:47 Challenges Unique to Catering Business03:47 Catering Menu Design and Customer Expectations05:10 B2B vs B2C Catering Dynamics06:36 Allergen Management and Food Safety07:43 Menu Structuring for Different Catering Types08:31 Bundling and Upselling Strategies09:33 Margins and Profitability in Catering10:15 Systematizing Catering Operations11:35 Digital Tools for Catering Management12:18 Enhancing Guest Experience and Satisfaction13:17 The Power of Follow-Up and Customer Loyalty14:18 Using Data and AI for Customer Insights15:12 Rally Catering’s System and Business Logic16:08 Operational Efficiency and Error Reduction17:12 Case Study: Rachel’s Catering Business18:08 The Role of Technology in Scaling Catering19:04 Repeat Business and Customer Retention19:52 Streamlining the Intake Process20:55 Pricing, Upselling, and Packaging21:52 Automation and Business Logic Layer22:53 Operational Challenges and Solutions23:41 Real-Time Order Management and Flexibility24:38 Ensuring Quality and Consistency25:42 Creating a Memorable Guest Experience26:27 The Importance of Presentation and Details27:22 Building Customer Loyalty Through Follow-Up28:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

Mar 30, 202637 min

Revolutionizing Restaurant Orders with AI: Reducing Abandoned Carts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian interviews Steven Klein, co-founder of a tech company focused on solving challenges in the restaurant industry. They discuss the importance of enhancing customer experience through AI, the challenges of abandoned carts in online ordering, and the transition from third-party to first-party orders. Steven shares insights on how AI can help understand customer intent and streamline the ordering process, ultimately improving sales and customer loyalty. The conversation also touches on case studies of successful implementations and the future direction of restaurant technology.00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Technology and Guest Background01:48 Identifying Challenges in Restaurant Ordering Systems05:30 The Role of AI in Enhancing Customer Experience11:09 Understanding Customer Intent and Order Customization17:07 The Importance of First-Party Orders and Customer Loyalty22:57 Case Studies and Success Stories in Restaurant Tech28:32 Future Directions and Engagement Opportunities

Mar 23, 202634 min

The Power of Digital Signage in Modern Business

00:00 Introduction to Atmosphere TV and Its Mission03:29 Content Strategy and Audience Engagement06:25 The Evolution of Atmosphere's Offerings09:22 The Role of Digital Signage in Business12:15 Live Sports and Real-Time Content14:59 Advertising and Driving Customer Behavior17:36 Installation and User Experience21:38 The Impact of AI on Advertising24:06 Conclusion and How to Get Started with Atmosphere TV

Mar 16, 202632 min

Unlocking Customer Insights in Restaurants

00:00 Introduction to Identity Resolution in Restaurants01:22 The Journey to Data-Driven Marketing03:26 Challenges in Capturing Customer Data05:16 Understanding the Identity Graph07:51 The Importance of Customer Insights10:56 Data Silos and Their Impact12:48 Making Data Actionable15:50 Deep Dive into Identity Resolution19:22 Bridging the Gap in Customer Engagement20:55 Personalized Marketing Strategies23:05 Data Privacy and Security24:50 Differentiating from Loyalty Programs26:05 Engagement and Implementation with Bridge28:02 The Role of AI in Data Utilization29:30 How to Engage with Bridge

Mar 13, 202633 min

Navigating the $150 Billion Delivery Market with Loop AI

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background06:36 What is Loop AI?09:07 The Necessity of Delivery in Restaurants15:32 How Loop AI Helps Restaurants Optimize Delivery21:37 Data-Driven Decision Making with Loop AI31:31 The Future of Loop AI and AI in Restaurants

Mar 13, 202639 min

Community and Custard: The Rita's Expansion

00:00 Introduction to Rita's and Lawrence's Background02:54 The Unique Offerings of Rita's05:35 Signature Flavors and Product Quality08:50 Innovative Location Strategies for Growth11:23 Franchisee Success and Sales Growth14:24 Supply Chain and Product Consistency17:12 Community Engagement and Marketing Strategies20:21 Year-Round Appeal of Rita's23:03 Franchise Opportunities and Incentives26:18 Conclusion and Future Growth Plans

Mar 13, 202633 min

Revolutionizing Restaurant Costs with AI Solutions

00:00 Introduction to Cost Reduction in Restaurants03:02 Understanding Spend Management and AI Solutions05:39 The Importance of Anomaly Detection in Cost Savings08:32 Overcoming Common Objections in Cost Management11:20 Identifying Hidden Costs and Vendor Relationships14:19 Engagement Process with Clients16:55 Exploring Non-Core Costs and Their Impact19:33 The Role of Waste Management in Cost Reduction22:28 Client Engagement and Onboarding Process25:17 Benchmarking and Data Privacy in Cost Management28:05 Conclusion and Future of Spend Intelligence

Mar 13, 202638 min

How Detroit-Style Pizza Grew from a Trailer to 25 Locations in Just Seven Years

In this episode, Jeremy Julian sits down with Kiplen Welsh, President of Via 313, to explore the incredible journey of building a rapidly expanding restaurant brand rooted in Detroit-style pizza. They discuss strategic growth, innovative menu development, off-premise excellence, and the value of thoughtful partnerships in scaling a restaurant business sustainably.00:00 - Welcome to the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast00:41 - Introduction of Kip Welsh and Via 313’s origin story01:54 - Background of Kip’s career in casual dining03:01 - Overview of Detroit-style pizza and brand concept04:25 - Detroit style pizza history and what sets it apart05:54 - The trailer beginnings and early challenges07:06 - Growth milestones and multiple locations in Texas and Utah08:50 - Partnership with Savory Restaurant Fund and brand protection09:22 - Rapid expansion and future pipeline through 202610:11 - Why Detroit-style pizza is gaining more recognition11:47 - Unique flavor profile and competitive landscape12:23 - How Detroit-style pizza creates a different culinary experience14:23 - On-premise vs. off-premise strategy and travelability of product15:44 - Packaging innovations for delivery and takeout success16:17 - Digital ordering, third-party partnerships, and mini brick-and-mortar models17:55 - The potential of food trucks for market testing and expansion18:39 - Balancing growth with quality and responsible operations19:50 - Creative menu development and guest-driven innovation21:30 - Launching limited-time offers and new flavor experiments23:38 - Future menu strategies, including salads and desserts24:36 - Importance of staying inventive and not relying solely on staples25:37 - Personal favorite menu items and flavor combinations27:19 - The partnership with Savory Fund: how it fosters responsible growth28:57 - How to maintain brand integrity while scaling33:02 - Connecting with customers through loyalty programs and marketing36:54 - Exciting new initiatives like the food truck launch and market expansion38:16 - The value of sustainable, responsible growth over rapid, unchecked expansion39:09 - Closing remarks and encouragement for restaurant owners to consider strategic partnerships

Mar 13, 202639 min

Innovating Mexican Cuisine: Costa Vida's Journey

00:00 Introduction to Costa Vida and Alan Beck02:44 Costa Vida's Unique Approach to Mexican Cuisine05:33 The Importance of Operational Buy-In for Off-Premise Success08:16 Strategies for Successful Catering Operations11:04 Innovations in Off-Premise Dining and Delivery16:36 The Role of Packaging in Food Delivery20:24 Competitive Analysis and Learning from Others23:01 Personal Favorites and Customer Engagement

Mar 9, 202633 min

Navigating Tech Debt in the Restaurant Industry

00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Technology and Ken's Background03:39 Understanding Winbrands and Its Evolution07:55 Commonalities Across Industries: Insights from IT12:37 Navigating Change Management in IT16:30 Addressing Shadow IT: Definitions and Challenges19:42 Building Relationships to Manage Shadow IT24:02 Collaborative Problem Solving Across Departments

Jan 26, 202641 min

The Future of Authentic Marketing in Restaurants

00:00 Introduction to Scale Social AI03:20 The Birth of Scale Social AI05:50 Authenticity in Marketing09:33 AI in Content Creation12:28 Data-Driven Marketing Strategies17:46 User Experience and Content Quality19:50 Leveraging User-Generated Content21:13 Targeting and Localized Marketing Strategies25:28 Hyper-Personalization in Advertising30:54 Quality Control Through User-Generated Content33:28 The Future of Influencer Marketing

Jan 19, 202637 min

Revolutionizing Retail: Linga's Unified Platform

00:00:15 Introduction to the Episode00:00:24 Guest Introduction: Hardy Singh00:00:42 Linga's Unified Platform00:02:32 Hardy's Role at Linga00:05:28 Linga's Mission and Expansion00:07:20 Linga's POS Platform00:14:00 Retail Transformation00:16:11 Technology and Innovation00:27:18 Linga's Product Evolution00:28:57 How to Learn More About Linga

Jan 12, 202631 min

The Future of Restaurant Technology: Insights from Livelytics

00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Technology and Data Intelligence02:57 The Challenges of Fragmented Restaurant Data05:36 The Role of AI in Restaurant Management08:31 Real-World Applications of Livelytics11:17 Leading vs. Lagging Indicators in Restaurant Analytics13:56 Integrating Multiple Data Sources for Insights17:08 The Importance of Quick Implementation19:56 Ad Hoc vs. Canned Reporting in Restaurant Analytics22:48 Ensuring Data Accuracy and Trust in AI25:44 Competitive Advantage through Data Intelligence28:21 Conclusion and Call to Action

Jan 5, 202631 min

Top 10 Restaurant Technology Episodes of 2025: Insights and Innovations

In this episode, we highlight the top 10 most loved and impactful episodes of 2025, based on both personal enjoyment and audience engagement on YouTube and audio podcasts. Featuring industry experts and groundbreaking companies, we discuss technological advancements and strategic insights in the restaurant industry. Highlights include Bill Lindsay from Cogswell on AI-driven inventory management, EveryBite's smart menu technology for dietary preferences, House of Giants' digital ordering innovations, and more. The episode celebrates the successes of 2025 and looks forward to more exciting content and innovations in 2026, encouraging listeners to subscribe and suggest future guests.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:52 Episode 1: Bill Lindsay from Cogswell04:42 Episode 2: EveryBite's Innovative Solution07:52 Episode 3: House of Giants' Digital Transformation10:45 Episode 4: Matt's Human-Centric Leadership13:44 Episode 5: Mellow Mushroom's Guest Experience16:49 Episode 6: Poke Works' Hawaiian Cuisine19:16 Launching Hawaiian Hot Plates19:29 Explosive Growth of Rewards Program20:21 Pollo Campero's US Expansion23:21 RTI's Energy Management Innovations26:30 TechRyde's Seamless Integration29:57 Wisetail's Learning Management33:48 Wisk's Inventory Management Solutions36:23 Conclusion and Future Episodes

Dec 29, 202537 min

"From Legacy to Innovation: The Pizza Inn Story"

In this episode, Jeremy Julian and Yvonne Lara discuss Pizza Inn's innovative marketing strategies and community engagement efforts. They explore how the brand has revitalized its image through local ownership and creative campaigns, such as the I8 promotion, which successfully increased sales and customer engagement. The conversation highlights the importance of operational excellence and the role of franchisees in maintaining brand consistency and customer satisfaction.00:01:40 Introduction to Pizza Inn00:03:17 Legacy and Community Connection00:04:41 Signature Offerings and Local Ownership00:05:57 Brand Consistency and Community Involvement00:11:09 Marketing Strategies and Campaign Success00:15:07 Operational Excellence and Future Plans

Dec 22, 202537 min

Harnessing Technology and Marketing for Explosive Growth: The Hothead Burritos Story

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Peter Wiley, co-founder and marketing IT mastermind behind Hothead Burritos. They discuss the company's innovative use of technology and marketing strategies which have fueled their rapid growth. Peter shares insights on the importance of integrating marketing with IT, streamlining operations through digital ordering, and leveraging loyalty programs. The conversation also covers Hothead Burritos' unique offerings, including their variety of sauces, and their approach to catering and delivery. Listeners get a deep dive into how tech-savvy practices can lead to a more efficient and customer-focused restaurant experience.00:00 Hot Head Burritos01:13 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:41 Hothead Burritos: Brand Overview04:18 Expansion and Locations05:18 Customer Experience and Menu Customization09:32 Digital Integration and Online Ordering13:23 Third-Party Delivery and Integration17:36 Catering and Large Orders18:46 Creating an Online Ordering Menu for Catering20:03 Evaluating Menu Offerings for Online and Catering21:26 The Importance of Loyalty Programs22:24 Incentivizing Catering Orders27:19 Converting Customers Across Channels30:35 Leveraging AI and Data Analytics32:33 Popular Menu Items and Personal Favorites34:39 Staying Engaged with Hothead Burritos

Dec 15, 202535 min

Building a Coffee Empire: The Success Story of Mokas Coffee and Eatery

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Jason Ingermanson, the founder of Mokas Coffee and Eatery. Jason shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting a $30,000 coffee shop in a Kansas mall to growing multiple successful brands, including Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers. Celebrating Mokas 20-year anniversary, Jason discusses the development and franchising of Mokas, his focus on quality and community involvement, and the core values driving the brand's success. He also shares insights on local store marketing, guest loyalty, and support systems provided to prospective franchisees. Tune in for an inspiring story of passion, discipline, and dedication in the restaurant industry.00:00 Mokas Coffee & Eatery00:14 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:05 Jason's Journey: From Coffee Lover to Entrepreneur03:02 The Birth and Growth of Mokas Coffee and Eatery04:01 Navigating Challenges and Expanding During the Pandemic05:21 Mokas' Unique Brand and Customer Experience06:59 Commitment to Quality and Community10:39 Franchising and Future Plans18:13 The Story Behind the Name 'Mokas'22:29 Franchisee Success Stories23:14 The Importance of Transparency23:41 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry24:26 Expanding to New Markets29:13 Local Store Marketing Strategies32:06 Franchise Application Process34:06 Discovery Day Experience37:17 Master Franchise Opportunities40:57 Connecting with Jason Ingram Manson

Dec 8, 202542 min

Scaling Success in the Restaurant Franchise World with Paul Tran

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian converses with Paul Tran, a seasoned entrepreneur and franchise expert. With a 20-year journey in the restaurant industry, Paul shares his story of turning a student loan into a successful Cajun crawfish restaurant and subsequent experiences scaling major brands like Halal Guys and Pepper Lunch. Paul discusses the importance of selecting the right franchisee, maintaining operational consistency, and building strong relationships between franchisees and franchisors. He also offers insights on effective marketing strategies and operations that contribute to franchise success. The episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to scale in the restaurant industry or seeking entrepreneurial inspiration.00:00 Paul Tran of Pepper Lunch01:39 Introduction and Welcome01:50 Meet Paul Tran: A Journey in the Restaurant Industry02:35 Paul's Early Ventures and Lessons Learned05:44 The Halal Guys and Franchise Experience07:05 Pepper Lunch: A New Venture09:27 Insights on Franchising and Finding the Right Franchisees14:59 Challenges and Success in Scaling a Franchise24:16 California Brands in Texas24:54 Franchisee and Franchisor Relationships26:02 Choosing the Right Franchisee26:47 Healthy and Unhealthy Tensions31:21 Marketing and Community Outreach37:10 Pepper Lunch Concept Explained42:36 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Dec 1, 202543 min

Unlocking Hidden Revenue in Restaurants: A Conversation with Geoffrey Toffetti of FPG

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian welcomes Geoffrey Toffetti, CEO of Frontline Performance Group (FPG), to discuss how restaurateurs can unlock hidden revenue, improve staff performance, and elevate guest experience without additional advertising costs. Geoffrey shares insights from his extensive career in hospitality and corporate consulting, detailing FPG's innovative solutions that utilize real-time analytics and AI-powered training. The conversation highlights the importance of systemized training for frontline employees, focusing on maximizing revenue through service-based sales techniques. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on making meaningful investments in staff to drive up to 10% revenue growth, improve tips, and enhance overall restaurant performance. The episode also covers the practical steps for implementing and measuring success in these initiatives.00:00 Frontline Performance Group01:26 Introduction and Welcome01:59 Guest Introduction: Geoffrey Toffetti02:08 Geoffrey Toffetti's Career Journey03:18 Current Role at Frontline Performance Group03:47 Focus on Hospitality and Restaurant Industry05:21 Identifying and Solving Industry Problems10:44 Service-Based Sales Philosophy14:29 Training and Technology Integration20:27 Measuring Success and Analytics24:56 Engaging Different Demographics27:46 Results and Success Stories29:34 How to Engage with Frontline Performance Group32:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Nov 24, 202536 min

Innovations and Growth Strategy in Fast Casual: Featuring Jason Morgan of Original ChopShop

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian welcomes Jason Morgan, the CEO of Original ChopShop, to discuss the brand's unique fast casual offerings and growth strategy. Jason shares his journey from accounting to hospitality, his experience with Zoe's Kitchen, and how he's leveraging those lessons at Original ChopShop. They delve into the restaurant's diverse and healthful menu, the importance of technology in maintaining quality and consistency, and the challenges of scaling a company-owned business. Jason also discusses the brand's focus on customer feedback and its efforts to expand in strategic markets while highlighting their catering program. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in restaurant innovation and growth.00:00 Original ChopShop01:21 Introduction and Guest Background01:59 Jason's Journey in the Restaurant Industry03:37 Original ChopShop Story05:54 Unique Menu and Concept08:16 Menu Development and Technology Integration15:26 Breakfast and Expansion Strategy17:55 Revealing Industry Insights18:21 Company-Owned vs Franchise Models20:23 Strategic Market Expansion23:40 Challenges and Achievements28:09 Signature Dishes and Personal Favorites31:27 Catering and Off-Premise Strategies33:11 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Nov 17, 202534 min

Revolutionizing Digital Signage with Eli Chmouni of Neon

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, Jeremy Julian discusses the transformative journey of digital signage with Eli Chmouni, CEO of Neon. Eli shares his unique path to founding Neon, a company that simplifies digital signage for restaurants and retail with a plug-and-play approach. From his stint working at a Burger King drive-through for research to creating a solution that increases sales by up to 17%, Eli's dedication to solving customer problems is evident. The episode dives into the integration of Neon's software with POS systems, the benefits of digital signage in both customer-facing and employee-facing environments, and how Neon's ease of use and customer support set it apart in the market. Tune in to learn how digital signage can enhance operations and boost sales across various industries.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:22 Meet Eli, CEO of Neon00:36 The Birth of Neon01:06 Neon's Impact on Digital Signage01:28 Jeremy's Introduction and Disclaimer02:07 Eli's Background and Early Ventures02:59 Spotlight and the Digital Signage Problem04:14 Creating Pixie and the Birth of Neon05:05 Neon's Growth and Market Impact10:43 The Importance of Convenience and Support12:51 Eli's Burger King Experience14:04 Neon's Drive-Through System15:19 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Menu Boards19:48 Flexibility and Efficiency of Digital Signage21:02 Focusing on the Restaurant Space21:26 Dynamic Menu Integration with POS Systems22:24 Addressing Out-of-Stock Items23:02 Maximizing Digital Signage Impact23:54 Reliability of Digital Signage Systems25:01 Handling Internet Outages28:37 Drive-Through Innovations33:19 Expanding Beyond Quick Service Restaurants33:52 Innovations in Music and Loyalty Programs37:28 Final Thoughts and Contact Information39:02 Comprehensive Digital Solutions for Various Industries

Nov 10, 202542 min

Building Restaurant Empires with Scott Taylor: From Law School Dropout to Industry Leader

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian sits down with Scott Taylor, CEO of R&R Brands. Scott shares his fascinating journey from being a law school dropout to becoming a successful restaurateur. He provides insights into his experiences growing brands like Walk-Ons and Party Foul, discusses the structure and purpose of R&R Brands, and outlines his vision for helping other restaurant groups succeed. Scott also delves into common pitfalls for new restaurateurs, how to create value in casual dining, and the role of technology in enhancing customer experience. Listeners interested in franchising, restaurant growth, and brand building will find this episode particularly enlightening.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:33 Meet Scott Taylor: From Law School to Restaurant CEO03:19 Scott's Journey: From Marriott to Beef O'Brady's05:50 Building Walk-Ons and Party Foul07:38 The Birth of R&R Brands13:14 Strategic Partnerships and Future Plans18:35 Common Pitfalls for Restaurant Founders21:26 Exploring R&R's Restaurant Concepts24:16 Exploring Nashville Hot Chicken and Boozy Slushies24:56 Expanding to College Campuses and Airports25:33 Walk-Ons: The Ultimate Sports Bar Experience27:09 The Future of Casual Dining29:10 Enhancing Restaurant Experiences with Technology31:32 Creating Value and Unique Dining Experiences35:41 The Story Behind Rhythm and Rooster36:59 R&R's Unique Approach to Restaurant Partnerships39:40 Cultural Alignment and Future Growth43:37 Staying Connected and Future Plans

Nov 3, 202545 min

Transforming Restaurant Operations with Smart Energy Management: Insights from Powerhouse Dynamics

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian hosts Jay Fiske, President of Powerhouse Dynamics. They discuss the impact of smart energy management on restaurant operations, with insights on how IoT and AI technology are revolutionizing areas from HVAC systems to fryers. Jay explains how these technologies reduce costs, waste, and maintenance issues. He dives into the specifics of HVAC and refrigeration management, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance and data-driven decision-making. The discussion also covers cooking equipment, particularly fryers, and how data can optimize oil use and quality. Jay shares the importance of automating repetitive tasks to allow restaurant staff to focus on more value-added activities. Additionally, the potential for AI in predictive maintenance and energy demand management is highlighted. The episode concludes with a call to restaurant operators to consider IoT solutions for efficiency and cost savings.00:00 Power House Dynamics00:14 Introduction and Welcome01:24 Meet Jay Fiske: Background and Career Journey03:10 Powerhouse Dynamics: From Energy Sensors to Food Service Solutions05:49 Revolutionizing Restaurant Operations with IoT07:12 Deep Dive: HVAC and Refrigeration Management11:01 Automation and Efficiency in Food Service13:33 Real-Time Data and Predictive Maintenance17:07 Retrofitting Existing Equipment with IoT19:26 Balancing Oil Usage with Data19:56 Importance of Filtration in Fryers20:36 Sophisticated Metrics in Frying Operations22:28 Monitoring Water Usage24:48 Energy Management in Food Service37:00 The Role of AI in Energy Management38:53 Conclusion and Contact Information

Oct 27, 202539 min

Revolutionizing Restaurant Operations with AI-Powered Video Analytics

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian sits down with Brock Weeks, CEO of Savvy, to discuss groundbreaking AI video analytics transforming multi-site restaurant operations. Brock explains how Savvy helps brands unlock valuable insights from video data, covering speed of service, guest experiences, staff performance, and delivery efficiency. They delve into the evolution of video systems from liability tools to essential business intelligence assets, emphasizing the importance of integrating video data with other business systems for full operational visibility. By addressing common challenges such as fragmented data and leveraging AI for actionable insights, the episode provides a comprehensive guide for restaurant operators looking to enhance their operations with technology.00:00 Savi00:14 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:18 Brock's Background and Savvy's Mission03:18 The Evolution of Video Technology03:40 Challenges in Offline Retail05:50 The Power of AI and Video Data09:55 Current State of Video Systems in Restaurants17:30 Business Use Cases for Video Data21:24 Understanding Data Centralization21:50 Identifying and Solving Operational Issues22:55 Enhancing Guest Experience with AI24:30 Revolutionizing Store Operations with AI26:26 The Future of AI in Retail30:08 Implementing AI Solutions in Your Business36:11 Connecting with Savvy for AI Solutions

Oct 20, 202538 min

Unlocking Restaurant Profitability with Chip Klose

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian dives into the intricacies of restaurant profitability with special guest Chip Klose, a bestselling author and host of the Restaurant Strategy Podcast. Chip shares his journey from theater to fine dining and emphasizes that profitability is the key measure of success in the restaurant business. He discusses the biggest challenges in achieving profitability, including managing revenue, cost of goods sold, and labor—all moving targets. Chip provides practical insights into operational strategies, marketing techniques, and customer retention methods to help restaurant owners enhance their profit margins. Listeners will learn how to implement effective systems, evaluate menu items, and ensure repeat business to drive overall growth and stability in their restaurants.00:00 Restaurant Strategy01:05 Introduction and Guest Background01:53 The P3 Mastermind Program04:13 Ideal Audience for P3 Mastermind07:15 Challenges in Restaurant Profitability13:53 Understanding Revenue Growth18:22 Marketing Strategies for Restaurants22:22 Engaging Customers from the Start23:23 Creating Repeat Customers24:16 Data Acquisition Importance26:21 Personal Touch in Hospitality30:43 Managing Prime Costs34:29 Optimizing Menu and Labor37:56 Final Thoughts and Free Gift

Oct 13, 202542 min

Empowering Restaurants with Foodini: A Deep Dive into Allergen and Dietary Management

In this episode of Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian sits down with Dylan and Erica, co-founders of Foodini, a groundbreaking tech solution aimed at addressing food allergies, dietary needs, and ingredient transparency in the restaurant industry. They delve into how Foodini's platform helps restaurants seamlessly document ingredients and recipes, ensuring safety for consumers with dietary restrictions while streamlining operations. Discussion includes real-world applications, the importance of meticulous documentation, and the increasing legislative push towards allergen transparency. Also covered are benefits such as increased consumer loyalty and operational advantages gained through integrated software solutions. This episode emphasizes the value of technology in making dining experiences safer and more inclusive.00:00 Foodini01:09 Introduction and Guest Backgrounds01:46 Erica's Journey in Restaurant Tech03:56 Dylan's Unique Perspective05:31 Introducing Foodini: Solving Menu Transparency06:35 Challenges in Menu Transparency07:24 Consumer and Restaurant Perspectives13:26 Leveraging AI for Ingredient Transparency17:49 Future of Menu Transparency and Legislation19:41 Leveraging Consumer Data for Marketing19:59 European Allergen Labeling Practices20:51 California's SB 68 Bill and Its Implications22:18 The Value of Allergen Transparency for Restaurants25:29 Consumer Experience with Allergen Information26:56 Technological Solutions for Allergen Management34:35 Benefits of Documenting Recipes for Restaurants36:06 How to Get Started with Our Service

Oct 6, 202537 min

Unlocking Restaurant Growth with Newk's Eatery CEO Frank Paci

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, Jeremy Julian, Chief Revenue Officer at CBS Northstar, interviews Frank Paci, CEO of Newk's Eatery. Frank shares insights from his extensive career in the restaurant industry, detailing Newk's history, menu innovations, operational strategies, and the brand's response to COVID-19. They discuss the importance of simplifying operations for consistency, leveraging technology like digital ordering and kiosks for customer convenience, and the significance of catering and delivery services. Frank also provides an overview of Newk's franchise opportunities and future growth plans.00:00 Newks01:17 Meet Frank Paci, CEO of Newk's Eatery01:35 The Origin and Growth of Newk's Eatery02:39 Dining Experience at Newk's04:25 Menu Highlights and Innovations06:39 Operational Simplifications and Quality Control17:01 Adapting to COVID-19 and Evolving Business Strategies20:21 Catering Business and Its Challenges24:44 Technology and Future Growth29:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sep 29, 202532 min