Join Kieron Bailey as he sits down with Jim Harris of Western Computer, a seasoned expert in food and beverage software, to explore the evolving role of technology in the hospitality industry. From the impact of smartphones to the rise of AI and robotics, Jim shares insights on how technology is reshaping customer expectations and business operations.

Key Topics:

The transformation of technology in hospitality over the past 25 years. Building trust with operators through technology. The role of AI and robotics in enhancing customer experience. The importance of seamless tech integration in business operations. Future trends in technology and their potential impact on the industry.

Join Rachel Smalling and Susan on the Restaurant Talk podcast by Save Fry Oil as they delve into the realities of running small businesses, from managing customer expectations to the intricacies of partnerships. Rachel is the owner of 1854 Cocktail Bar & Lounge (a Cookeville TN Speak easy), a Dale Hollow Tn fishing lodge, and an Inn on Dale Hollow Lake, TN as well. Discover how they balance personal and professional lives, the importance of setting boundaries, and the value of hiring based on character over experience.

Key Takeaways:

The impact of customer reviews and how to handle them. Differences in managing motels versus restaurants. The importance of clear communication in partnerships. Strategies for hiring and retaining the right team. Balancing work-life dynamics in the hospitality industry.

Join Kieron Bailey on the Restaurant Talk Podcast as he sits down with David Burton, a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years at Hard Rock Cafe. From Cardiff to Amsterdam, David shares his experiences, the challenges of kitchen life, and the camaraderie that makes the restaurant industry unique. Discover the stories behind the scenes, the evolution of kitchen technology, and the unforgettable memories from Hyde Park Calling.

Key Highlights:

David's journey from Cardiff to Amsterdam The impact of consistent training in hospitality Memorable experiences at Hyde Park Calling Innovations in kitchen technology The importance of music in the kitchen

Join us on the Restaurant Talk by Save Fry Oil as we dive into the inspiring journey of Jae Lee, a visionary chef and restaurateur who has successfully opened multiple restaurant locations. Discover how Jae's passion for Korean-American cuisine and his relentless drive have fueled his expansion from New York to Boston.

Key Highlights:

Jae's early beginnings and the inspiration behind his first restaurant, Nowan. The challenges and triumphs of opening three locations amidst a global pandemic. Insights into Jae's unique approach to blending Korean flavors with American classics. Jae's philosophy on leadership and maintaining a motivated team.

Hosted by Kieron Bailey on Restaurant Talk by Save Fry Oil

Jamie Henderson - Food Development Chef at Wagamama

"If you walk past them and that's wrong, you're basically saying, yeah, that's fine then, just keep doing it."

"Everyone knows they're in the same boat together and will help each other to get through it."

In this candid conversation, Chef Waymond Wesley II (Chef Way), a chef influencer and soon-to-be restaurant operator, speaks with Susan Tung, owner of Hanoi House, a Vietnamese restaurant in Peterborough, Ontario. They discuss growing up in the restaurant industry, transitioning from traditional family operations to modern restaurant management, balancing work and family life, and the importance of systems, personnel management, and financial awareness in running a successful restaurant.

Susan Tung is a restaurateur with years of experience in the food and beverage industry. She currently owns Hanoi House, a Vietnamese restaurant, and previously owned a Japanese restaurant. Susan also runs Electric City Catering and hosts the Table 13 podcast. Follow her on Instagram at @susantung.

Chef Waymond Wesley II (Chef Way) is a chef influencer, lawyer, and first-time restaurant operator preparing to open a restaurant in 2026. He specializes in techniques combining Japanese, Italian, and French culinary traditions. Follow him on Instagram at @chefway__ and @chefsquirehospitality, or visit his website at chefsquire.com.

This episode is sponsored by Save Fry Oil, featuring their product Frylow, which helps reduce oil absorption and increase heat transfer in commercial fryers, allowing restaurants to use cooking oil more efficiently.

If you're even in Peterborough, Ontario, you should know that her restaurant's best-selling dishes are:

Restaurant Talk by Save Fry Oil is all about real conversations with restaurant owners and managers about what it takes to succeed. We ask direct questions about their challenges, missed opportunities, and biggest wins.
We also break down commercial kitchen efficiency, from layout and workflow to cost-saving equipment, hardware, and ordering processes. With a rotating lineup of industry experts, we deliver practical insights for those serious about running a successful restaurant.