In this episode we host Brenton Thomas, Founder of Twibi, in a conversation about effective digital marketing strategies for restaurants. Brenton advises starting with Google and Facebook ads due to their high return potential and suggests focusing on conversion tracking and consistent messaging across platforms. He recommends search campaigns and performance max campaigns for targeting high-intent customers and emphasizes the importance of optimizing Google My Business for local SEO. Brenton also touches on the value of high-quality photography and the challenges of adapting to algorithm chan ..read more

In this quick hit episode, Jason Brooks, Founder & CEO of HospiVation and author of the new book "Every Leader Needs Followers" provides a guide for conducting effective one-on-one meetings with team members. Brooks stresses the importance of listening over speaking, recommending a 35% speaking to 65% listening ratio for managers. Meeting should be divided into three parts: the first for the team member to share freely, the second for the manager to follow up on previous discussions, and the third for the team member to talk about their development and challenges. The approach aims to buil ..read more

This is a short snippet from a recent webinar we hosted with Roger Beaudion of Restaurant Rockstars. Roger discusses how he used his "Difference Dollars" program to creating a culture of appreciation. Used in his restaurants for two decades, Difference Dollars rewarded employees for exceptional performance, fostering a positive culture. It encouraged a culture where excellence was recognized, motivating employees and naturally filtering out those who did not align with the restaurant's ethos. Episode Highlights: - Impacting a restaurant culture - Nomination process - Recognition ceremony - Pow ..read more

In this episode RunningRestaurants.com Founder Jaime Oikle hosts Jason Brooks, Founder & CEO of HospiVation who shares his expertise on leadership in the restaurant industry from his book "Every Leader Needs Followers." Brooks discusses the importance of understanding KPIs, the benefits of systematic leadership, and the need for effective delegation. He emphasizes the value of an "owner-like orientation" for new employees and the significance of one-on-one reviews for building team relationships. Brooks also highlights his goal to support Giving Kitchen by selling 10,000 copies of his book ..read more

In this episode RunningRestaurants.com Founder Jaime Oikle interviews Tony Smith, CEO and Co-founder of Restaurant365. They discuss the state of the restaurant industry, touching on concerns about a potential recession, the impact of inflation, and the ongoing labor challenges. They delve into the role of AI and data intelligence in restaurant management, including forecasting, inventory, and employee scheduling. They explore how technology can give managers time back by automating administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on guest experience and operate more like owners. The conversation a ..read more

This is a short snippet from a recent webinar we hosted with Roger Beaudion of Restaurant Rockstars. Roger discusses the vital role of job descriptions in the restaurant business. He explains that clear, detailed job descriptions are crucial for setting expectations and ensuring employee accountability. Roger highlights the lack of comprehensive job descriptions in many restaurants, leading to employee confusion and poor performance. He details the components of an effective job description, including "key success factors" and precise responsibilities, and advocates for employee acknowledgment ..read more

This is a short snippet from a recent webinar we hosted with Roger Beaudion of Restaurant Rockstars. Roger tells an almost unbelievable story of poor service that should open any operator's eyes. The clip highlights the fact that what your employees say & do can absolutely sabotage your business - so hire and train accordingly... More from Roger & Jaime at https://restaurantrockstars.com/?ref=jaimeoikle & https://www.runningrestaurants.com ..read more

In this episode of the Running Restaurants.com podcast Jaime Oikle interviews Ashley Bray about the Bar and Restaurant Expo in Las Vegas this upcoming March. They discuss the expo's events, education, exhibit floor, and networking parties. Ashley highlights several trends including: culinary cocktails with savory and functional ingredients, the rise of non-alcoholic beverages for wellness, as well as the importance of loyalty programs and employee retention for restaurants. The expo promises great industry educational and networking opportunities -- don't miss it! Be sure to check out the epis ..read more

In this episode of the Running Restaurants.com podcast Jaime Oikle interviews Jonathan Rosa, president at Moura CFO. Jonathan shares his experience growing up in a restaurant family and working at Burger King headquarters. He discusses the financial challenges restaurant owners face and offers strategies to improve profitability, such as reviewing financial reports, managing costs, and calculating waste. He also emphasizes the importance of cash flow forecasting and exit planning. Other highlights include... - Differences between big corporate operations and independent restaurants - Slim prof ..read more

In this episode of the podcast, Jaime Oikle of RunningRestaurants.com interviews Tom Rutledge, Managing Partner at RDMS Group. Tom is a former chef turned restaurant consultant. They discuss the challenges of restaurant management, including balancing costs, utilizing data, and adapting to the digital world. Rutledge emphasizes the importance of prime cost management, effective use of data, and creative menu planning. He also highlights the need for excellent customer service and effective management in driving revenue. The impact of the delivery economy on the restaurant industry is also disc ..read more