Episódios
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In this episode of Restrocast, Chad Mackay, CEO of Fire & Vine Hospitality, shares his journey from growing up around restaurants run by his father to stepping away into the corporate world, only to return with renewed vision and a commitment to do things differently.
He talks candidly about the pivotal moments in his leadership journey—surviving the 2008 financial crisis while building a flagship restaurant, learning from failed concepts, and the power of integrity and honoring commitments. Chad also reflects on the importance of a people-centric culture, his evolution into a servant leader, and how empowering others became the key to scaling sustainably.
From using technology to enhance the human experience to building teams that stay longer, this episode is packed with accurate, hard-earned insights for anyone in hospitality—or any people-driven business.
Find us online:
Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn
Chad Mackay- LinkedIn
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In this episode of Restrocast, Wing Lam, co-founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, shares the secrets behind building a thriving restaurant brand for over 35 years. From starting small to scaling smart, Wing reveals how his unique approach to marketing, customer engagement, and business resilience has kept Wahoo’s relevant in an ever-changing industry.
He dives into influencer marketing before social media, his strategy of partnering with athletes and musicians, and how Wahoo’s became a hotspot for action sports communities. Wing also discusses the impact of delivery and ghost kitchens, why dine-in still drives restaurant profits, and the evolving landscape of the post-pandemic restaurant business.
With humor and real-world insights, Wing shares why experience-driven dining is the future, how he balances family and business, and the importance of building relationships with vendors, employees, and customers. He also talks about his California Love Drop initiative, which is giving back to the community while strengthening brand loyalty.
Find us online:
Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn
Wing Lam- LinkedIn
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In this episode of Restrocast, Ashish Tulsian sits down with James Walker, a seasoned leader with over three decades of experience in the restaurant industry. Known for thriving in chaotic environments, James shares his journey from managing restaurants to leading transformative initiatives in hospitality.
He recounts memorable stories, like working with Chris Elliott at Cinnabon, and highlights the importance of honesty and decisive leadership in challenging situations.James delves into his decision to pursue an MBA at Duke, discussing how it enhanced his understanding of finance and data-driven decision-making. The conversation explores the role of private equity in shaping restaurant brands, with James offering a nuanced perspective on balancing profitability with preserving a brand’s identity.
He emphasizes the value of collaboration, franchisee support, and maintaining respect in high-pressure environments.Find us online:
Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn
James Walker- LinkedIn
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In this episode of Restrocast, Samer S. Hamadeh, the visionary entrepreneur behind unique hospitality concepts like Akiba Dori and Stereo Arcade.
From organizing a music festival at the age of 15 to designing industry-defining dining and nightlife experiences, Samer shares his journey of relentless creativity and risk-taking.Discover how Samer transitioned from nightlife to the dining scene, building Akiba Dori, a Japanese-inspired street food concept with a modern twist. He delves into the challenges of expanding into Saudi Arabia and the importance of understanding local markets.
Samer also opens up about his love for the “zero-to-one” phase of entrepreneurship, his aversion to traditional operations, and how video games inspire his creativity.Find us online:
Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn
Samer S. Hamadeh- LinkedIn
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In this episode of Restrocast, Ashish Tulsian sits down with John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands Global, to discuss his remarkable journey through consulting, hospitality, and franchising.
John shares how mentorship at Starwood Hotels shaped his understanding of leadership and operational excellence, highlighting pivotal moments like implementing Six Sigma and navigating the leap from operations to brand leadership.John delves into the challenges of becoming a first-time CEO at Dine Brands Global, managing iconic restaurants like Applebee’s and IHOP, and balancing strategy with execution. He offers invaluable advice on adapting to change, fostering collaboration, and staying grounded in a fast-evolving business landscape.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of John Peyton’s leadership journey and the insights that have driven his transformative impact across industries.
Find us online:
Ashish Tulsian - LinkedIn
John Peyton- LinkedIn
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 - Linkedin
Joe Frem- LinkedIn
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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/ - Mostrar mais
