#10. Shawn Walchef is not only a restaurateur but an expert in digital media and storytelling. During the episode, he emphasizes the importance of taking time, making mistakes, and consistently learning. According to Shawn, storytelling is crucial in creating an emotional connection with customers, and he believes that technology can make barbecue more accessible to people.

The podcast touches on the importance of connection in digital marketing and the long-term approach to building relationships. Shawn advises entrepreneurs to focus on being authentic and raw in their online presence, rather than trying to be commercial, believing that personal stories can add value to one's online presence and that privacy and storytelling can coexist.

Where to find Shawn Walchef: 

• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Cali BBQ Media
• Digital Hospitality
• Restaurant Influencers

Where to find host Josh Sharkey:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

In this episode, we cover:

(2:47) Shawn’s background

(6:31) Why Shawn is so interested in storytelling

(9:35) Shawn’s framework for telling stories

(10:06) The difference between digital marketing and social media

(14:45) The importance of learning new things

(18:37) Balancing personal and business storytelling

(22:15) The importance of understanding your audience

(25:34) Digital marketing is like the tortoise and the hare

(29:18) Simplifying your message

(32:34) Partnering with Entrepreneur 

(38:37) Restaurants using PR

(41:34) What’s next for Shawn?