Chicago Sam's Franchise GPS

André Vener, managing partner at DogHaus and founder of The Absolute Brands, has demonstrated a unique approach to business that combines staying true to the company’s DNA, strategic growth, and a strong emphasis on keeping the people first. His philosophy has helped Absolute Brands thrive in a competitive market, particularly through the challenging dynamics of the virtual brand space.

Listen now to learn about keeping the brand DNA intact through growth, giving up control to scale, and prioritizing people.

Chapters:

[04:44] - Customer-Driven Innovation

[06:31] - Franchisee Success and Support

[11:06] - Handing Over Leadership for Growth

[20:51] - Virtual Brands Approach

[22:55] - Balancing Data with Emotional Connection

[27:40] - Conclusion and Future Plans

Episode Links:

The Absolute Brands Online: https://www.theabsolutebrands.com/

Dog Haus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doghausdogs/

André Vener LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrevener/

Maintaining a Brand DNA Culture - When Andre Vener decided to create virtual brands, he wanted to maintain the foundation of who they were as a company. He has successfully done so by staying true to the company's DNA.

Trading Control for Growth - It is difficult to give up control, but Andre Verner says it is necessary to scale. 

Two Words: People Matter - Employee retention is extremely important in today’s climate. For Andre Vener, they have managed to have a low employee turnover rate due to them placing an importance on their longstanding mission statement: People Matter.

ABOUT ANDRÉ VENER

André Vener co-founded Dog Haus in April 2010 with his two business partners, aiming to transform stadium food classics into gourmet delights. Over the past decade, Dog Haus has grown from its roots in Pasadena, California, to nearly 50 locations nationwide. Vener and his partners have driven the brand's expansion through strategic alliances with top ghost kitchen networks, a partnership with Live Nation, and the creation of The Absolute Brands—a collection of virtual restaurant concepts featuring popular Dog Haus menu items like the Bad Mutha Clucka.

Before Dog Haus, Vener was the executive producer at Pasadena Entertainment, organizing events at notable venues such as The Rose Bowl and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. He also founded redwhite+bluezz, an acclaimed restaurant and jazz club, and served as CEO and president of the California Philharmonic for a decade, leading performances at venues like the Walt Disney Concert Hall. As a recognized restaurant industry expert, Vener has been featured on CNN, FOX News Channel, and MSNBC, and his work with Dog Haus has been highlighted in Entrepreneur magazine and Food & Wine.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand
• Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/ 
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY - https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://content.calibbq.media

Engage with Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media/

“Every business needs to be a media company” 

Gregg Majewski, Founder and CEO of Craveworthy Brands, recently shared his insights on The Restaurant Strategy Podcast with Chip Klose. Reflecting on a valuable lesson from his father, Majewski emphasized the importance of listening to everyone. This approach has significantly shaped his leadership style and helped him build a strong network of friends who contribute to his personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

1. The Value of Listening - Gregg Majewski learned the power of listening from his father early in life. He has taken that lesson into his leadership at Craveworthy Brands and has created a reliable network of friends that help improve himself personally and professionally.
2. Building a World-class Restaurant Management Team - Leadership requires followers. Gregg Majewski believes that effective leaders are able to teach gracefully. Building a positive environment that is conducive to success will inevitably lead to more buy-in from staff.
3. Focus on the Food - It’s no secret that standing out in the fast-casual industry can be difficult. For Gregg Majewski, since food is the most important piece to creating a consistent customer base, it needs to be available for people to try. For him, having potential customers sample good food is the greatest marketing strategy.

Episode Links

• Restaurant Strategy Podcast Website
• Restaurant Strategy Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Restaurant Strategy Podcast on Spotify
• Chip Klose on LinkedIn
• Chip Klose in Instagram

ABOUT CHIP KLOSE

Chip Klose is a New York City-based restaurant coach as well as the host of the Restaurant Strategy podcast. He has amassed more than two decades of operational experience in the hospitality industry, opening Michelin-starred restaurants and collaborating with numerous James Beard Award-winning chefs. He is a contributing writer for Bar & Restaurant and travels the country as a noted public speaker, giving presentations on marketing, operations, technology, and more. He earned his MBA in food marketing from Saint Joseph’s University, where he frequently teaches as a guest lecturer.

As a coach he’s worked with dozens of companies, helping them with everything from menu costing and payroll to developing a framework for how to position their restaurant in the market.

His goal — both in the work he does with his clients as well as on the podcast — is to help chefs and operators build more profitable restaurants. Guests on his podcast have included New York Times bestselling author Martin Lindstrom, Wharton professor Peter Fader, Founder of Cali BBQ Media, Shawn Walchef, and many, many more. The show is consistently listed on Apple’s Top 100 Marketing Podcasts and was recently voted as a Top 20 Restaurant Podcast by Feedspot. (courtesy of Restaurant Strategy Podcast)

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two-plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram
• Craveworthy Online
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media | Engage with Cali BBQ Media

“Every business needs to be a media company” 

On this episode of Room for Seconds, Craveworthy Brands CEO Gregg Majewski sat with Wow Bao Founder Geoff Alexander at the National Restaurant Association Show 2024.

Drawing from his extensive experience in various sectors, Alexander, a seasoned veteran in the restaurant industry, has masterfully bridged the gap between fine dining and Quick Service Restaurants (QSR).

Watch now to learn about lessons learned from fine dining, the responsibility of leadership, and being forward thinking.

Episode Links:

• Wow Bao Online
• Wow Bao Dark Kitchens
• Geoff Alexander on Twitter
• Delivering the Digital Restaurant Authors Interview

Takeaways:

Bringing Fine Dining Lessons to Fast Casual - Geoff Alexander has been in the restaurant industry for a while. Spending time in various sectors has given him the unique ability to take lessons from the fine dining space and implement them into the Quick Service Restaurant space.

The Responsibility of Leadership - Leadership has its obligations. For Geoff Alexander, the biggest, most awesome responsibility is that there are people who rely on him and trust to play a role in their livelihood.

Forward Thinking and Early Adopters - Wow Bao is not afraid to be first to market. Geoff Alexander’s willingness to take risks and be an early adopter of technology and new items has helped open doors and provide opportunities for Wow Bao to receive publicity on a larger scale.

ABOUT GEOFF ALEXANDER

Geoff Alexander joined Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) shortly after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1993. Rising to the position of Managing Partner in 2006, he took the reins of Wow Bao in 2009, expanding it into NFL and MLB stadiums, university campuses, and airports. He also launched a frozen product line now available at over 200 Midwest grocers. Under his leadership, Wow Bao became a tech innovator with fully automated locations, self-service kiosks, mobile and desktop online ordering, and a strong social media presence. A sought-after speaker on restaurant technologies and social media, Alexander has presented at numerous industry conferences. His foresight and expertise have earned him roles on several industry and civic boards, including Chairman of the National Restaurant Association’s Fast Casual Industry Council (FCIC) and an Executive Board Member for Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Association. He has been recognized as one of the Top 25 Fast Casual Executives by Fastcasual.com for three consecutive years.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand/
• Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY: https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media | Engage with Cali BBQ Media

“Every business needs to be a media company” 

Craveworthy Brand’s CEO Gregg Majewski joined host Paul Barron on The Fast Casual Nation Podcast for a candid conversation that included topics, such as acquiring brands like Wing It On!, staying top of mind with a younger audience, and having hospitality at the forefront of all business despite increased technology implementation in the industry.

Watch now to learn about effective brand acquisition, remaining relevant in the restaurant industry, and keeping classic hospitality as a priority.

Episode Links:

• Fast Casual Nation Show: https://www.savor.fm/fast-casual-nation
• Fast Casual Nation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1R3WUgEmOSrtYfMowG_MHw
• Savor Network Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savornetwork/
• Paul Barron LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/viapaul/

Takeaways:

1. Brand Acquisition Strategy - Craveworthy Brands has seen extreme success with their restaurant portfolio due to their visionary approach to the company’s they acquire.
2. Staying Relevant in the Restaurant Industry - As the consumers change, restaurants will need to adapt to ensure they remain competitive. The positive, according to Gregg Majewski, is that power industry titans have successfully done so. Therefore, it is possible to remain relevant during shifting times.
3. Hospitality as the Common Thread - Gregg Majewski has built Craveworthy Brands with a litany of restaurant brands that are different from each other. However, under the company umbrella, each brand is charged with keeping classic hospitality principles as a priority during times of technological advancement.

About Fast Casual Nation Podcast

The Fast Casual Nation Podcast is the longest-running and most influential podcast in the fast-casual restaurant industry. Hosted by Paul Barron, the visionary founder of fastcasual.com, the Fast Casual Top 100, and the Fast Casual Executive Summit, this weekly podcast offers unparalleled insights into the latest trends and future direction of the fast-casual sector.

As the author of "The Chipotle Effect" and a featured expert in the Amazon Prime documentary on the fast-casual revolution, Paul delivers invaluable knowledge and foresight, making this podcast a must-listen for anyone passionate about the fast-casual restaurant business.

About Gregg Majewski

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram
• Craveworthy Online
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY
• NOMINATE A GUEST

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands 

Produced by Cali BBQ Media | Engage with Cali BBQ Media

“Every business needs to be a media company”

In a recent appearance on A Deeper Dive podcast powered by Restaurant Business, Craveworthy’s Gregg Majewski shared his vision for creating a platform that upholds high standards of food quality and hospitality. 

#Roomforseconds #craveworthybrands #restaurantbusiness #adeeperdive

Chapters:

[03:31] - Acquiring a Brand

[10:12] - Going in on Ghost Brands

[13:50] - Current State of Franchise Sales

[14:55] - Gregg Majewski v. Artificial Intelligence

[16:57] - The Effect of the Increasing Cost of Living 

Episode Links:

A Deeper Dive Podcast: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/article/deeper-dive

A Deeper Dive Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiRVThlmGoUz3sIApHzPGcv90jnvHFa7X

A Deeper Dive Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7FmXOZ5Tx70vRgmYFMRQfV

Restaurant Business Online: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/

Starting with Good Food & Hospitality - Craveworthy Brands was formed from Gregg Majewski’s idea of having a place where franchisees can do good work, make good food, and maintain high standards of hospitality through growth.

Leveraging Ghost Kitchens for Franchise Revenue - Craveworthy Brands was in its beginning stages when COVID paused the world. Being the savvy industry vet that he is, Majewski was able to adapt to a new model of “ghost kitchens” to help his franchisors have another revenue stream.

Commitment to Greatness - Gregg Majewski doesn’t take having employees lightly. He has made it a mission to create an environment where a positive work ethic is instilled and can be implemented regardless of the long term career choice of employees.

ABOUT A DEEPER DIVE PODCAST

“A Deeper Dive” is a weekly podcast by Restaurant Business that thoroughly examines the most critical challenges and opportunities in the restaurant industry. Every Wednesday, listeners can tune in to hear insights from industry leaders. The podcast covers a wide range of hot topics, such as delivery, discounting, marketing, and menu development, providing operators with up-to-date information and actionable solutions to enhance their businesses. Additionally, Restaurant Business collaborates with data partner Technomic to offer expert analysis of industry trends and sales, alongside debates and insights from Restaurant Business editors.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski

Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand

Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/

Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/ 

CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising

CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands

INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY - https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

***

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://content.calibbq.media

Engage with Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media/

“Every business needs to be a media company” 

Genghis Grill was one of Gregg Majewski’s initial projects when starting Craveworthy Brands. As this mini documentary, which took place during the Genghis Grill Conference in Fort Worth, TX, depicts both Craveworthy and Genghis have come a long way.

Having extensive experience in the restaurant industry, Majewski is a hands-on leader that isn’t afraid to get in the service line and lead by example.

Episode Links:

• Genghis Grill Online: https://www.genghisgrill.com/
• Start a Genghis Grill Franchise: https://franchise.genghisgrill.com/
• Genghis Grill Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genghisgrill/

Growing People and Business - Bobby Musser is a Regional Director at Genghis Grill. He knows firsthand how impactful Gregg Majewski’s leadership can be.

True Teamwork at Craveworthy Brands - Kim Decarolis is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth at Craveworthy Brands. In just a year with the company, she has already immersed herself into the hands-on culture at Craveworthy Brands.

Craveworthy’s Commitment to Excellence - Robert Kabakoff is an amazing partner with Craveworthy Brands and serves as their creator chef. He works in a capacity that allows him to take part in a system that helps perpetually push people to be successful.

ABOUT GENGHIS GRILL

Since 1998, Genghis Grill has been the leader in fresh bowl creations, offering over 80 premium proteins, unique spices, sauces, and freshly cut vegetables for you to build your perfect bowl. If you prefer to leave it to the experts, choose from more than 20 top-notch bowl recipes, easily orderable at the table or online. Every bowl is grilled-to-order and sure to satisfy – that's the Genghis Grill promise.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski

Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand

Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/

Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/ 

CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising

CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands

INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY - https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

Zack Oates, the CEO of Ovation, is pioneering a new approach aimed at benefiting both businesses and their patrons. With a focus on simplicity and revenue generation, Ovation's innovative platform seeks to revolutionize the traditional survey model and reshape the landscape of customer feedback in the hospitality industry.

Watch the interview on Rooms for Seconds to learn about Ovation as the “anti-survey” tool, not serving customers, and how to elevate your ordinary.

Episode Links:

• Ovation Online
• Zack Oates Instagram
• Zack Oates Twitter
• Ovation Podcast
• Dating Never Works . . . Until It Does: 100 Lessons from 1,000 Dates (Book)

Chapters:

[00:43] - Ovation as an Anti-Survey Tool

[03:32] - The Two Question Survey

[14:27] - Lessons in Leadership

[16:13] - Zack Oates' Secret Book

[27:30] - Focusing on People for Success

Takeaways:

Ovation: The Anti-Survey Survey Tool - As CEO of Ovation, Zack Oates is on a mission to make feedback mutually beneficial for the customer and the business. The premise of Ovation is to drive revenue through short, concise feedback tools, as opposed to the traditional long surveys.

“We Don’t Serve Customers” - For Ovation, an elevated customer experience means creating a relationship with customers that leads with serving the human first. By doing this, Zack Oates is creating an elevated customer experience.

Elevate Your Ordinary - Zack Oates has started many businesses with varying levels of success. Through all his endeavors, he has realized the worst case scenario wasn’t as bad as he had thought. That realization has increased his confidence to “take the jumps”.

ABOUT ZACK OATES

Zack Oates is a multifaceted entrepreneur, consultant, and author renowned for his diverse accomplishments and contributions. With a background spanning from the tech startup realm to international NGO initiatives, Oates has left an indelible mark on various industries. His journey includes notable achievements such as ringing the NASDAQ bell, earning recognition as one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs by Vspring Capital, and being voted as one of the top 50 most influential vendors in the restaurant space by Nation's Restaurant News readers. Combining his early experiences in the restaurant industry with his passion for technology, Oates founded Ovation, America's leading guest feedback tool. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Oates has authored a book, penned over 350 articles, and traveled extensively to over 50 countries across six continents. Additionally, Oates shares his insights on relationship-building with customers through speaking engagements across the hospitality, tech, and startup sectors regularly on podcasts and shows, including his own Ovation podcast .

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram
• Craveworthy Online
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY

***

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://content.calibbq.media

Engage with Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media/

“Every business needs to be a media company”

Craveworthy Brands has grown quickly, but it took a ton of work. Craveworthy CEO Gregg Majewski sat down with Hospitality Hangout hosts Michael Schatzberg and Jimmy Frischling, also co-founders of Branded Hospitality Ventures to discuss his journey from Jimmy John’s pioneer to thriving as a hospitality mogul.

Listen now to learn about finding success in dumpster fires, partnering for success, and having an evolving tech stack while growing.

#craveworthybrands #roomforseconds #hospitalityhangout

Chapters:

[07:57] - Gregg Majewski’s Background

[12:32] - Transitioning from Jimmy John’s to Craveworthy Brands

[20:47] - Majewski’s Brand Acquisition Strategy

[27:09] - The Importance of Human Capital

[30:16] - Building an Effective Tech Stack

Episode Links:

• Hospitality Hangout Online - https://thehospitalityhangout.com/
• Hospitality Hangout Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hospitality_hangout/
• Jimmy Frischling LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesfrischling/
• Michael Schatzberg LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-schatzberg-9a16ba5/
• Branded Hospitality Ventures Online - https://brandedstrategic.com/
• Branded Hospitality Ventures LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/branded-ventures/

1. Finding Success in “Dumpster Fires” - Gregg Majewski jumped into the franchise business by taking on three failing restaurants. The self described “dumpster fires” presented themselves as opportunities for Majewski and he quickly found success by turning them around.
2. Partnering for Success - As a franchisor, Gregg Majewski sees his franchisees as partners. He believes it is his personal responsibility that they are successful.
3. Evolving Tech Stack While Growing - Gregg Majewski is infamously against trying to implement the latest and greatest technology. He does, however, preach knowing what is necessary for the business to survive, and if it’s necessary - finding the best, tried and true, solution available.

ABOUT HOSPITALITY HANGOUTS:

Branded Hospitality is the brainchild of Michael “Schatzy” Schatzberg, known as The Restaurant Guy, and Jimmy Frischling, The Finance Guy. Their collaboration bridges the worlds of hospitality, technology, innovation, and capital investment. Through their podcast, The Restaurant Guy and The Finance Guy engage with top CEOs and Founders, delving into the latest trends, developments, and breakthroughs in hospitality technology, innovation, and food & beverage. Schatzberg and Frischling are co-founders of Branded Hospitality Ventures as well, an investment and advisory platform at the intersection of food service, technology, innovation and capital.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand
• Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/ 
• CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising
• CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands
• INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY - https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

***

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW  – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://content.calibbq.media

Engage with Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media/

“Every business needs to be a media company”

In a world obsessed with being number one, Gregg Majewski advocates for the power of being number two. Drawing from his experience at Jimmy John's, he spoke to Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media about the importance of focusing inward to perfect products and services. 

Listen now to learn about the power of not being first, prioritizing hospitality, and not diminishing customer experience in the digital era.

Episode Links:

• Cali BBQ Media Online
• Cali BBQ LinkedIn
• Cali BBQ Media Instagram
• Cali BBQ Media YouTube
• Shawn Walchef Instagram

Takeaways

1. The Power of #2 - While working for Jimmy John's, Gregg Majewski knew there was stiff industry competition. Majewski knew that there wasn't much he could do to overtake the top spot, but the company could continue to focus inward to bring forth a consistently better prospect. That narrowed focus allowed them to perfect their product, find their niche, and carve their own space in the industry, and set forth his vision for Craveworthy Brands
2. Hospitality is the Number One Thing - Hospitality is the top priority for Gregg Majewski and Craveworthy Brands. Treating people kindly, regardless of demographic, is a precursor for that treatment to be returned.
3. No Place for Kiosks - Gregg Majewski is outspoken, specifically when it comes to things he is passionate about, such as the elimination of humans at the front of the house. For him, the customer experience with robots doesn't match that of human interaction

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

• Gregg Majewski Instagram
• Craveworthy Brands Instagram
• Craveworthy Online
• Gregg Majewski LinkedIn
• Craveworthy Franchising
• Craveworth Brands
• Invest in Craveworthy

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Superbowl Champion Ndamukong Suh Highlights Journey from NFL Superstar to Business Entrepreneur

Ndamukong Suh, celebrated NFL Superbowl Champion, has seamlessly transitioned from the gridiron to the world of business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence.

Watch now to learn more about the transition into entrepreneurship, learning from mentors, and lessons from Warren Buffett.

Click here to view the full write-up

Chapters:

01:23 - Transitioning Out of the NFL

03:53 - Ndamukong Suh's Restaurant Concepts

07:05 - How Work Ethic has Translated from Sports to Restaurants

12:29 - Possibly Returning to Football

14:50 - Considering Business After Football

16:29 - Connecting with Warren Buffett

19:41 - Biggest Lesson Learned from Warren Buffett

21:02 - Suh's Goals as a Restauranteur

23:25 - Being Big on Family Values

Episode Links:

Ndamukong Suh Online - https://www.ndamukongsuh.com/

Ndamukong Suh Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ndamukongsuh

Ndamukong Suh Business Portfolio - https://www.ndamukongsuh.com/business-holdings

Takeaways:

1. Indulging in High Quality Treats - Kinnamōns is a high quality, one of a kind cinnamon roll experience that Ndamukong Suh has invested in. For Suh, the quality of ingredients is what sets this establishment apart from others like it.

2. Learning from Mentors and Experiences - Ndamukong Suh has been coached for the majority of his life. As a budding entrepreneur, he also sought quality coaching, mentoring, and experience from the likes of Stephen Ross and Warren Buffett.

3. Lessons from Warren Buffett - Being a former star at University of Nebraska, Ndamukong Suh has built a fruitful relationship with Nebraska’s most famous alum, Warren Buffett. Through many conversations and ongoing mentorship, Suh has learned valuable lessons in patience and choosing the right people.

ABOUT NDAMUKONG SUH

Ndamkong Suh is a household name for sports fans across the country. His tenacious approach and domination on the defensive line both in college at the University of Nebraska and the NFL afforded him a 13 year career that saw him reach five Pro Bowls, named to the All Pro team five times, win Defensive Player of the Year, a member of the 2010s All Decade team, and a Superbowl. As a youngster in Portland, Oregon, Suh knew early that he wanted a life beyond football. Now, as a businessman, he is the Founder of House of Spears Management and the Generals Restaurant Group. Suh currently resides in Portland with his wife and twin boys.

ABOUT GREGG MAJEWSKI:

Gregg Majewski has a vast amount of experience as a corporate executive in the restaurant industry. As the former CEO of Jimmy John’s, he played a major role in expanding the franchise from 33 to 300+ stores in just 5 years by surrounding the company’s marketing strategy around the innovative approach of delivering sandwiches and being “freaky fast”. Majewski has worked to develop restaurant concepts over the last two plus decades, before starting Craveworthy Brands in 2023, which currently includes a growing portfolio of restaurant brands.

Gregg Majewski Instagram: www.instagram.com/greggmajewski

Craveworthy Brands Instagram: www.instagram.com/craveworthybrand

Craveworthy Online: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/

Gregg Majewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggmajewski/

CRAVEWORTHY FRANCHISING - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/franchising

CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS - https://www.craveworthybrands.com/our-brands

INVEST IN CRAVEWORTHY - https://invest.profitandsense.com/craveworthy-brands

***

NOMINATE A GUEST — Do you know someone who would be great on this show? Let us know by emailing us EMAIL or sending a DM on social media @craveworthybrands

SIGN-UP FOR CRAVEWORTHY UPDATES – https://www.craveworthybrands.com/contact-us

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW – https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrands

Produced by Cali BBQ Media - https://content.calibbq.media

Engage with Cali BBQ Media - https://betheshow.media/

“Every business needs to be a media company”