In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian speaks with Adam, the founder of CaptiveWiFi. The discussion delves into the ways CaptiveWiFi is revolutionizing the use of WiFi in the hospitality industry by providing cloud-based, low-cost, high-value solutions that enhance guest engagement, loyalty, and revenue. Adam explains how their platform creates a seamless customer experience through beautifully designed splash pages, efficient data capture, and intelligent loyalty integration. The episode also covers security measures, feedback collection, and the importance of leveraging guest data to create personalized and valuable interactions. Adam emphasizes the importance of a cohesive customer journey and shares insights on how businesses can make the most of their WiFi to drive customer engagement and retention.

00:00 CaptiveWifi

01:10 Introduction to Today's Episode

01:32 Meet Adam: Founder of CaptiveWiFi

02:44 The Problem with Traditional WiFi Systems

03:59 CaptiveWiFi's Innovative Solutions

07:27 Importance of Capturing Guest Data

10:55 Enhancing Guest Experience with WiFi

14:28 Managing WiFi Infrastructure and Security

15:59 Touchless Loyalty and Future Innovations

23:26 Innovative Customer Tracking Solutions

24:15 Maximizing Footfall Data

25:04 Optimizing Store Layout and Staffing

26:43 Advanced Kiosk Analytics

29:51 Integrating WiFi and Reservation Data

35:42 Enhancing Customer Feedback Systems

39:19 Agile Solutions for Businesses

40:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy interviews industry veteran Bill Lindsey, founder of COGS-Well, a company specializing in cost of goods sold software for restaurants. Bill shares insights from his long career in the restaurant industry, which began in 1974 as a restaurant manager and evolved into developing restaurant management software. The discussion covers the basics of back office systems, the importance of managing cost of goods and labor, and strategies for improving profitability, such as menu engineering, waste reduction, and leveraging AI for inventory management. Bill also highlights the unique features and methodologies of COGS-Well, designed to set up inventory systems quickly and efficiently while maintaining high data quality through auditing teams. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the importance of partnering with vendors, leveraging rebates, and making data-driven decisions. For more information and a demo of COGS-Well's solutions, listeners are encouraged to visit their website and dedicated landing page.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Meet Bill Lindsey: Industry Veteran

01:44 Understanding Back Office Systems

03:16 Labor and Food Costs: A Balancing Act

07:09 Impact of Tariffs and Volatility on Food Costs

13:18 Strategies for Managing Costs

26:55 Boosting Sales with Desserts and Appetizers

28:06 Leveraging Rebate Programs for Extra Income

30:58 Reducing Waste with AI and Donations

35:38 Introduction to Cogswell's Unique Approach

37:00 Setting Up and Managing Inventory Efficiently

44:01 Optimizing Menu and Labor Costs

52:03 The Importance of Partnering and Data-Driven Decisions

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian sits down with Sandeep, the founder of TechRyde, to discuss how his innovative middleware solutions are transforming guest engagement and connectivity in the restaurant industry. Sandeep shares his journey from being a technology and POS installer to creating a comprehensive middleware that integrates various apps with POS systems to streamline kitchen operations, reduce labor costs, and ensure on-time deliveries. They delve into the benefits of kitchen automation, real-time data analysis, AI integration, and the impressive ROI achieved by clients using TechRyde's systems. The episode concludes with success stories and insights into the future of restaurant technology.

00:00 Techryde

00:14 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:33 Sandeep's Background and Journey

03:22 Tech Ride: Concept and Evolution

05:11 Kitchen Automation and Middleware Solutions

08:06 Real-Time Data and Machine Learning in Restaurants

14:37 Importance of Kitchen Automation Systems

24:46 Future of AI in Restaurant Technology

27:07 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian speaks with co-founders Lucy Logan and Sid Conklin from Every Bite. They discuss their innovative solutions for restaurant menus focused on personalization and food safety to better cater to a growing population with dietary restrictions and allergies. The smart menu technology offers a seamless, low-effort integration into existing restaurant systems, improving guest experiences and driving higher conversion rates. This episode dives deep into the impact of personalization in the dining industry, the technology behind Every Bite, and how simple it is for restaurants to implement these changes while enhancing guest satisfaction and loyalty.

00:00 Everybite

01:18 Introduction and Welcome

01:47 Meet the Entrepreneurs: Lucy and Sid

04:03 The Problem with Static Menus

05:06 The Birth of Every Bite

05:58 The Scale of Dietary Restrictions

08:08 Personalization in the Digital Age

09:41 Smart Menus: A Game Changer

14:54 Mobile and In-Store Experience

16:36 The Power of Customization

19:35 Seamless Integration for Restaurants

20:55 Introduction to PDF Import and Smart Menu

21:44 AI and Machine Learning in Menu Personalization

22:14 Simplifying Menu Updates for Restaurants

23:41 Real-Time Menu Sync and Automation

25:46 Enhancing Staff and Guest Experience

27:53 Onboarding and Personalization Process

29:48 Marketing and Customer Engagement

35:39 Voice Search and Future Innovations

38:14 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, hospitality leadership coach Matt Rolfe discusses the challenges faced by the industry, particularly surrounding the alignment of strategy and execution. He emphasizes the importance of co-creating strategies with operational teams and understanding guest experience to optimize average checks. Addressing the role of culture, resilience, and the need for clear, guest-focused strategies, Rolfe provides actionable insights for restaurant operators to navigate turbulent times and achieve sustainable success.

00:00 Introduction and Meet Matt Rolfe

00:05 Matt's Background and Approach to Leadership

00:21 Creating and Executing Strategies

02:02 The Importance of Culture in Strategy

03:07 Facing Uncertainty and Building Resilience

05:05 Focusing on Guest Experience

06:21 Tailoring Service to Different Guest Types

07:06 Getting in Touch with Matt Rolfe

07:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by Christian, the President of Love My Point. They discuss the innovative strategies Love My Point is employing to enhance franchise success through technology automation. Christian shares his background in the restaurant industry, the concept behind American-style pubs, and how they integrate customer feedback into menu innovation. They delve into the substantial investments made in technology, including a robust learning management system and customer loyalty programs, aimed at supporting franchisees and improving overall operations. The episode highlights the importance of scalable business models and continuous improvement in the restaurant industry.

00:00 Love my Point

00:56 Introduction and Welcome

01:17 Meet Christian: President of The Point Pub and Grill

01:47 Christian's Background in the Restaurant Industry

02:46 Defining the American Style Pub

05:44 Menu Innovation and Upscale Dining

09:41 Utilizing Technology for Menu Feedback

11:08 Franchisee Support and Training Systems

15:20 Learning Management System Explained

17:00 Managing Digital Training in Restaurants

19:50 Guest Loyalty and Recidivism

21:39 Investment in Technology and Systems

24:13 Franchise Expansion and Opportunities

28:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Jeremy interviews David Greschler, CEO and co-founder of Nomad Go, about their innovative inventory management technology. David explains how Nomad Go utilizes spatial vision and augmented reality to eliminate the tedious manual inventory counting process. The technology, leveraging the computational power of devices like iPads and iPhones, offers highly accurate and instantaneous inventory counts, mitigating the inefficiencies associated with traditional methods. By enabling more frequent and precise inventory checks, Nomad Go helps businesses reduce waste, avoid stockouts, and reallocate labor more effectively, ultimately improving bottom and top-line performance. The episode concludes with David providing insights on how to learn more about Nomad Go and their upcoming appearances at industry trade shows.

00:00 Introducing Nomad Go

00:17 How Nomad Go Works

05:46 Benefits of Using Nomad Go

07:37 Future of Inventory Management

08:54 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, Chief Revenue Officer for CBS Northstar, interviews Ahsan from Mellow Mushroom. They discuss the unique aspects of Mellow Mushroom, a casual dining brand based in Atlanta that offers a distinct spin on pizza. Jeremy shares his love for the brand, and they delve into topics around restaurant industry success, choosing technology partners, and competing both digitally and in-restaurant as they approach 2025. Ahsan shares his atypical journey from management consulting to his current role, highlighting his focus on customer and employee experience, the importance of technology and data, and the brand's response to digital transformation accelerated by COVID-19. The episode also explores Mellow Mushroom’s efforts in franchise development, menu innovation, maintaining a balance between in-dining and off-premise services, and creating a cohesive brand experience.

00:00 Mellow Mushroom

00:14 Introduction to the Episode

01:09 Guest Introduction and Background

01:45 Journey to Mellow Mushroom

03:54 Role and Responsibilities at Mellow Mushroom

04:46 Brand Evolution and Refresh

05:35 Core Values and Guest Experience

14:42 Digital Transformation and Challenges

21:01 The Goldilocks Zone of Pizza

21:23 Enhancing Off-Premise Experience

21:51 Profitability and Food Quality Challenges

23:21 Innovative Menu Offerings

23:59 Unique Flavor Profiles and LTOs

30:06 Local Favorites and Customization

32:32 Franchising Opportunities and Expansion

35:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, host Eric interviews Erin Levzow, a versatile consultant with extensive experience in digital marketing for various industries, including technology, retail, and hospitality. They discuss the evolution of marketing from traditional to digital, the importance of data analytics, and effective strategies for managing both online and offline retail environments. Erin also shares insights into overcoming common marketing challenges like tech consolidation and maintaining brand identity. Additionally, Erin introduces her podcast, 'Bite Size and Bossy,' aimed at empowering women in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the need for women to actively seek opportunities and share their stories.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:13 Erin Levzow's Background and Experience

00:44 Modern Marketing Challenges and Strategies

01:48 Digital Transformation in Restaurants

02:13 Offline Retail Tactics and Data Utilization

03:43 Navigating Market Uncertainty

06:22 Engaging with Erin for Marketing Solutions

07:43 Promoting the 'Bite Size and Bossy' Podcast

10:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Alexandra from FeedCheck, a reputation management solution for restaurants and brick-and-mortar locations. They discuss the importance of managing online reputation from a single platform, the challenges businesses face without such solutions, and how FeedCheck helps streamline the process by aggregating reviews from multiple platforms like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and Yelp. Alexandra shares insights on how the AI-driven platform categorizes reviews, generates customized responses, and highlights trends to improve customer engagement and business operations. They also cover the global reach of FeedCheck, the benefits of responding to both positive and negative reviews, and how the platform can drive top-line sales and customer loyalty.

00:00 Feedcheck

00:53 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:17 Alexandra's Background and Career Journey

02:17 Introduction to FeedCheck

02:40 How FeedCheck Works

03:23 Challenges and Solutions in Review Management

06:41 Importance of Responding to Reviews

08:22 AI in Review Management

22:36 Global Reach and Client Engagement

23:22 Onboarding Process and AI Benefits

29:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts