Digital Hospitality

By Shawn P. Walchef

Digital Hospitality is an interview podcast series that explores the ways successful people have harnessed the power of the Internet and social media. The show is hosted by Cali BBQ Media Founder Shaw... more

4.7

102102 ratings

Download on the App Store

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

FAQs about Digital Hospitality:

How many episodes does Digital Hospitality have?

The podcast currently has 648 episodes available.

Digital Hospitality episodes:

February 10, 2025How Ric Gruber Jr. is Driving Billy Bricks’ Success with Mobile Expansion and a Brand-First Approach
Ric Gruber Jr., owner of Billy Bricks Pizza, is proving that mobile expansion isn’t just an add-on—it’s essential for restaurant growth. By integrating food trucks and catering into his business model, Gruber ensures Billy Bricks reaches more customers while maintaining profitability. His strategy prioritizes pre-booked events over risky vending, creating a sustainable revenue stream. Beyond mobile, Gruber embraces personal branding and digital content, using social media to amplify his restaurant’s presence. With a focus on efficiency, adaptability, and smart tech tools, he’s showing how independent restaurants can scale like corporate giants while keeping their unique identity intact.

Interview Takeaways:
Learning From Our Failures – Mistakes are inevitable in the restaurant industry, but learning from them is what truly matters. Ric Gruber Jr. emphasizes the importance of embracing past experiences in the moment, using them as fuel for future success.
Keeping The Passion – One of the biggest challenges for business owners is realizing they can’t do everything themselves. For Ric, his passion for making pizzas is what drew him to the industry. However, letting go of control and trusting others with key responsibilities can be difficult.
Need To Keep Things Mobile – Ric Gruber emphasizes that food trucks and mobile operations aren’t just an add-on—they’re a necessary part of a modern restaurant business. He sees mobile as an “and,” not an “or”, meaning brick-and-mortar restaurants should leverage mobile operations to increase brand awareness and reach more customers.
Episode Links:
Ric Gruber on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricgruber/

Billy Bricks Online: https://www.billybrickshq.com/

Billy Bricks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/billy-bricks/

Billy Bricks on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@billybrickshq

Hitting The Bricks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billybrickshq/reel/DFgfTYnJ5P_/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
33min
February 06, 2025Rising Tides Live: Never Again In Business
In this episode of Rising Tides Live, the conversation dives into the invaluable lessons learned from mistakes in business—those defining moments that make us say, never again. Host Shawn Walchef is joined by a dynamic group of business owners, entrepreneurs, and hospitality leaders who share their hard-earned wisdom on avoiding costly missteps. From partnerships gone wrong to contracts overlooked, they explore how learning from failure can lead to smarter decision-making, stronger businesses, and long-term success. Together, they discuss the challenges, red flags, and pivotal shifts that come from experience, leaving listeners with actionable takeaways to navigate their own entrepreneurial journeys with confidence.

Interview Takeaways:
Trust Your Gut and Learn from Red Flags – Many business owners shared stories of ignoring early warning signs, whether it was working without a contract, partnering with the wrong people, or saying yes to everything. The key lesson is to listen to instincts and recognize when something feels off before it leads to a costly mistake.
Know Your Value and Protect Your Time – A common mistake discussed was giving away too much knowledge or work without clear agreements. Business owners need to charge for their expertise, set boundaries, and avoid clients or partnerships that don’t respect their time and effort.
Plan Ahead and Define Expectations Clearly – Whether it’s securing deposits for catering, avoiding unclear equity deals, or ensuring contracts cover all details, the discussion highlighted the importance of thorough planning and clear communication in business dealings.
Episode Links:
Cali BBQ Media: https://content.calibbq.media/

Join Our Next Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
57min
February 05, 2025David Meltzer on the Rise of Media as a Service and Its Impact on Business
In this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef discusses "Media as a Service" (MaaS) and how it is transforming business, branding, and community engagement. Drawing from his extensive experience in media, entrepreneurship, and mentorship. David explains how the evolution of media parallels the growth of Software as a Service (SaaS). With a global audience at our fingertips, the key to success in the digital age is not just content creation but content capture and distribution.

Interview Takeaways:
More Than Enough – David Meltzer’s More Than Enough philosophy comes to life in his No Po’ Boy sandwich—double the meat, cheese, sauce, and veggies. More than just a meal, it’s a metaphor for abundance and limitless opportunity. Just as he champions MasS Media as a Service to give everyone visibility, he urges people to be the show, not the commercial—to create, lead, and provide value rather than stay in the background.
The Power of Radio Row – The parties bring excitement with bright lights and energy, but the real connections and business deals happen on Radio Row. For David Meltzer, it’s the true highlight of Super Bowl week, where meaningful relationships are built, opportunities arise, and impactful conversations take place.
Maximizing Value Through Post-Production Content – David Meltzer emphasizes that post-production content holds greater value than in-person events. While networking and business development are important, the real impact comes from capturing these moments and amplifying them through content. He believes that creating engaging material, rather than relying solely on live experiences, ensures lasting value that benefits everyone involved.
Episode Links:
David Meltzer Online: https://dmeltzer.com/

Join The Rising Tides Live Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
19min
February 04, 2025Rising Tides Live: The Accountability Club
In this episode of Rising Tides Live, the conversation explores the power of accountability in the restaurant industry and beyond. Featured guest Jason Berkowitz, a seasoned restaurateur, partner, and founder of Arrow Up Training—shares his journey of harnessing accountability to enhance employee engagement and guest experiences. Jason joins host Shawn Walchef to delve into how establishing accountability clubs, focusing on small, achievable wins, and cultivating a culture of mindful decision-making can reshape team dynamics, boost profitability, and create lasting value for businesses and their customers. Together, they address the opportunities, challenges, and practical nuances of integrating accountability into everyday operations, leaving listeners with actionable insights for thriving in a competitive marketplace.

Interview Takeaways:
Accountability Requires Community – The session highlighted that staying accountable is easier when you have a group or an accountability buddy. Jason Berkowitz shared how the Accountability Club started with the help of Matt Wampler, demonstrating that having a support system keeps us on track with our commitments.
Small Wins Build Momentum – Instead of aiming for perfection or overwhelming goals, Jason emphasized the importance of hitting singles—focusing on small, achievable steps. The discussion on James Clear’s Atomic Habits reinforced that incremental progress leads to long-term success.
Saying No Strengthens Your Yes – Shawn Walchef spoke about being intentional with time and learning to say no to distractions or unnecessary commitments. By setting clear priorities, we can deepen our focus and produce higher-quality work.
Episode Links:
Cali BBQ Media: https://content.calibbq.media/

Join Our Next Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

Arrow Up Training: https://arrowuptraining.com/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
1h 25min
February 03, 2025How KidsMenus.com is transforming the dining experience for Kids and Parents
KidsMenus.com is transforming family dining by making restaurant experiences more enjoyable for kids and stress-free for parents. Co-founders Crissy Saint and German Wegbreit saw the lack of engaging options for children and created a platform that provides customizable, high-quality activity menus. Restaurants using KidsMenus.com benefit from happier families, longer visits, and increased customer loyalty. With themed menus, interactive puzzles, and easy customization, the platform helps businesses create memorable experiences for young guests. As family-friendly dining evolves, KidsMenus.com is leading the way in making restaurants more welcoming for children while boosting profitability and guest satisfaction.

Interview Takeaways:
Not Enough For Families – At a time when restaurants are focused on keeping customers in their establishments, why isn’t there more emphasis on families and children? German Wegbrait, CEO of KidsMenus.com, doesn’t have all the answers, but he knows it’s a problem that needs to be solved.
Time To Focus On Families – In 2025, restaurant owners are focused on attracting customers but often overlook the importance of hospitality for families and children. Crissy Saint, COO of KidsMenus.com, believes that by engaging families and kids, restaurants can create lasting memories—and foster repeat business.
Bringing Smiles To Kids Faces – At the end of the day, bringing joy to children is what matters most. Sharing a great restaurant experience as a family strengthens that bond, and offering diverse kids’ menus is a key step in making it happen.
Episode Links:
German Wegbrait on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/german-wegbrait-6a189230/

Crissy Saint on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/csaint/

KidsMenus Online: https://kidsmenus.com/

KidsMenus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kids-menus/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
30min
January 30, 2025Rising Tides Live: British Takeover!
Welcome to this special edition of Rising Tides Live—the British Takeover! With Shawn Walchef in NYC today, we’re handing the reins over to the UK's finest: Adam Forman, Scot Turner, and Richard Liverman. In true British fashion, expect sharp wit, lively banter, and plenty of insight as they dive into the world of hospitality—both in the UK and beyond. From world-class service to unforgettable guest experiences, they’ll share stories, lessons, and maybe even a few surprises along the way. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s get started with this Rising Tides Live British Takeover!
Interview Takeaways:
The Impact of Personalized Hospitality – The speakers highlighted how memorable experiences in hospitality often come from personalized service. A great example was Adam’s story about visiting a hotel in Soho, where a staff member remembered his name and previous visit, despite him only having been there once before.
Cultural Differences in Hospitality – The conversation emphasized the varying approaches to hospitality across different countries. The speakers compared British hospitality to experiences in the U.S., Thailand, and Lebanon, discussing how different cultures prioritize service, warmth, and attentiveness in unique ways.
The Role of Storytelling in Hospitality – Several anecdotes, including Scott’s experience serving Queen Elizabeth II, reinforced how storytelling enhances the hospitality experience. Whether it’s creating a sense of exclusivity or connecting with customers through shared narratives, great hospitality is often intertwined with compelling storytelling.

Episode Links:
Join The Rising Tides Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
1h 29min
January 29, 2025David Meltzer’s Master Class on Social Selling In 2025
In this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef discusses "Social Selling in 2025" and how technology is reshaping the intersection of media, sales, and community building. Shawn and David dive deep into strategies for leveraging media as a sales tool, the importance of credibility and consistency, and the evolving landscape of content and commerce integration. Drawing from David’s extensive experience as a mentor and entrepreneur, the conversation provides actionable insights for leaders and businesses navigating the digital age.

Interview Takeaways:
The Truth Will Help You Thrive – To master being a great teacher, mentor, coach, or parent, you can’t be afraid to annoy people with your authenticity and self-confidence. Embracing your truth and earning trust with your audience will help you build and amplify content that lasts into the future.
Number One Problem In Sales Processes – When it comes to driving sales success, even high-revenue businesses often overlook their most crucial asset: their people. David Meltzer highlights how empowering and engaging a team is the cornerstone of scaling effectively. Without a clear focus on developing their staff’s ability to articulate value and connect with others, companies risk stagnation despite having a scalable model in place.
Learning The Stage Theory – In a world where content creation often feels like a race for perfection, the stage theory flips the script entirely. It’s not about creating; it’s about capturing—the raw, unfiltered essence of your skills, knowledge, and desires as they unfold in real time. Inspired by Shakespeare’s notion that “the whole world is a stage,” this approach emphasizes seizing every moment as an opportunity to connect and amplify your reach.

Episode Links:
David Meltzer Online: https://dmeltzer.com/
Join The Rising Tides Live Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
19min
January 28, 2025Rising Tides Live: Hooked On Hospitality
In this special episode of Rising Tides Live, Jordan Silverman, CEO of Starfish, steps in for Shawn Walchef to host a compelling conversation about the journey into the hospitality industry and what makes it so captivating. Jordan is joined by his special guest, Matt Hardoon, VP of Sales at Sauce, for an engaging discussion centered around people's first jobs in hospitality and how they got hooked on this dynamic and demanding industry.
Interview Takeaways:
Hospitality as a Calling: Many participants emphasized how their first jobs in hospitality sparked a lasting passion for the industry. From memorable early experiences like working in restaurants, bars, or even selling supplies, these foundational roles fostered an appreciation for the dynamic and people-focused nature of the field.
Empathy is Essential: Several speakers, particularly those in restaurant technology and sales, highlighted the importance of empathy and firsthand experience in hospitality. Understanding the challenges of restaurant operations is crucial for building trust and creating effective solutions that truly resonate with industry professionals.
Adaptation and Encouragement in Hiring: A recurring theme was the challenge of finding and nurturing young talent today. Participants discussed the importance of encouraging curiosity, embracing new technologies, and creating environments where employees feel supported to grow, ensuring the next generation thrives in the hospitality industry.
Episode Links:
Find The Show Online: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

Jordan Silverman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordansilverman/

Starfish Online: https://www.usestarfish.com/

Matt Hardoon On Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hardoon/

Sauce on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getsaucedelivery/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
1h 9min
January 27, 2025How Omar Zebi and A-Team Delivery Are Redefining Restaurant Logistics with Innovation and Trust
Omar Zebi, Co-Founder of A-Team Delivery & Logistics, has transformed restaurant delivery services. Since launching in 2017, A-Team has grown to manage 24,000 monthly deliveries, supported by Shipday advanced logistics platform. Partnering with Shipday in 2019 enabled A-Team to scale operations by 300-400%, expand into cities like Los Angeles and New York City, and improve accountability for drivers and service quality. Known for its strong relationships with restaurant partners, A-Team helps clients save money and retain control through self-delivery models. Omar's leadership and Shipday technology have elevated restaurant delivery, setting a global benchmark for efficiency and reliability.

Interview Takeaways:
Don’t Be Scared To Post – Push yourself and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. That’s Shawn’s powerful message to Omar Zebi about the importance of posting consistently and embracing the challenge, shared in this lighthearted yet meaningful moment.
Making The Switch to Shipday – Recognizing that things can be easier is a valuable skill, and with Shipday, it becomes possible. Letting go of outdated methods and embracing new options is key. Over time, that realization clicked for Omar.
Self-Delivery Matters – The world of food delivery is constantly evolving, making it crucial for businesses to optimize their internal delivery processes. This is where Shipday steps in to help. Omar recognizes this and understands the value Shipday brings to the table.
Episode Links:
Omar Zebi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-zebi-7a16bb18b/

A-Team Delivery and Logistics Online: https://a-teamdelivery.com/

A-Team Delivery and Logistics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ateamdelivery/

A-Team Delivery and Logistics TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ateam.delivery?_t=8oljEDRVBio&_r=1

Shipday Online: https://www.shipday.com/

Shipday LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shipdayinc/

Shipday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shipdayinc/

Shipday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShipdayInc/

Moin Islam LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moinislam/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
25min
January 24, 2025Rising Tides Live: Google For Restaurants
In this episode of Rising Tides Live, the conversation explores the evolving role of digital tools and strategies for restaurants and small businesses, featuring insights from Mike Nagy. Mike joins host Shawn Walchef to discuss practical ways businesses can optimize their digital presence. From leveraging Google Business Profiles and maximizing online reviews to connecting social media channels for enhanced visibility, the episode unpacks actionable strategies for improving customer engagement and driving growth. Together, they dive into the latest industry trends, the power of accurate data, and how businesses can prepare for a digitally connected future, leaving listeners with valuable takeaways to stay competitive in an ever-changing marketplace.

Interview Takeaways:
Regular Updates and Accuracy Are Critical: Google Business Profile attributes, such as website links, menus, and specific features (like whether a restaurant allows pets), should always be accurate and updated. Neglecting these can lead to missed opportunities to attract customers searching for specific attributes or services.
Leverage Visual Content and Attributes for Visibility: Restaurants should ensure their food images are appealing and accurately uploaded to their Google listings. Adding descriptive attributes like dietary options (e.g., gluten-free) or menu specifics can help with visibility in searches tailored to those needs.
Engagement and Responses Matter: While responding to customer reviews on Google may not significantly improve SEO, it contributes to brand hygiene and customer trust. Authentic engagement helps reinforce relationships and can be a marker of professional and customer-focused operations.

Episode Links:
Join The Show! https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:

Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn more
Where to find Cali BBQ Media
Visit our Website
Follow Restaurant Technology Substack
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on LinkedIn
Learn About our Media Services
...more
1h 32min

FAQs about Digital Hospitality:

How many episodes does Digital Hospitality have?

The podcast currently has 648 episodes available.