In this episode of Take-Away with Sam Oches, Sam talks with Edmond Barseghian and Brian Simowitz, the founder and president, respectively, of Houston TX Hot Chicken, aka HHC. This brand has opened 24 locations in less than four years, and a big reason why is Edmond and his massive social media following. From the jump Edmond had big plans for the brand, and with strategic executive hires like Brian — along with an investment from Savory Fund — HHC is well on its way to opening potentially hundreds of locations. Edmond and Brian joined the podcast to talk about how HHC was designed for a social media generation and how they plan to rise above a crowded hot chicken field.

In this conversation, you’ll find out why:

• Big goals can be the spark you need to drive growth
• Don’t be surprised if we see more influencer-led restaurants
• Your restaurant experience should hit all five senses
• Big marketing stunts can get the customer’s attention — and the investor’s
• The right experts can turn your good brand into a great one
• No matter how good you are on social media, you have to convert new guests into loyalists
• You shouldn’t have to pay someone to say your restaurant is great

Have feedback or ideas for Take-Away? Email Sam at [email protected].