Turning the Table

"Don't focus on the PNL to manage the PNL; focus on your people." ~ Jaime Mansour

Do you want to create a thriving restaurant business with a motivated and loyal staff?

Are you searching for a proven solution to improve employee retention and boost your business performance?

Look no further!

In this session, we have a special guest, Jaime Mansour, VP of Operations at True Food Kitchen, who will be unveiling the key to achieving this desired outcome. Jaime will be sharing a powerful strategy to enhance communication, foster trust, and establish accountability within the restaurant industry, leading to a highly efficient and successful business.

Get ready to unlock the secret to building a strong team and achieving exceptional results in your restaurant!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Delve into the importance of company culture and investing in employee development for business advancement.
• Decode the dynamics of effective communication, trust-building, and responsibility within the restaurant industry.
• Investigate the correlation between granting workplace freedom and workforce retention.
• Recognize the significance of employee benefits and mental health initiatives, especially in the hospitality industry.
• Unravel the best practices for assessing and managing workloads for a productive and stress-free environment.

To dive deeper into this episode, click here.

Scot Turner | Why Investing in Training and Development Leads to Greater Employee Satisfaction

"We're in an amazing period now, where the workforce is more creative than ever. It's time to embrace technology and different values and unleash our industry's potential for the next level of success." ~ Scot Turner

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the constant turnover in your restaurant staff, despite your efforts to provide training and development opportunities, then you are not alone!

Despite investing time and resources into onboarding and skill-building programs, you may find that employees still choose to leave, resulting in a revolving door of new hires.

This constant turnover can lead to a lack of team cohesion and a decrease in customer satisfaction, ultimately hindering the growth and success of your establishment.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Realize the impact that smart personnel choices can have on the success of your food and beverage enterprise.
• Learn how to harness the power of creativity and technology for tangible business outcomes.
• Recognize the urgent necessity to overhaul traditional training systems in the industry.
• Get a unique insight into the potential of short-form video training to revolutionize the industry.
• Become aware of why retention is the cornerstone for carving out a successful future in the industry.

Our special guest is Scot Turner

With a dynamic background in the hospitality world spanning continents and decades, Scot Turner is a thought leader uniquely positioned to discuss the pressing issues dominating industry conversations today. While his profound expertise was first forged amidst the hustle and bustle of high-profile establishments in both England and the Middle East, it's his passion for innovation that truly sets Scot apart. As the current CEO of Auden Hospitality, Scot champions creative thinking and forward-facing strategies to elevate the hospitality sector's status beyond business as usual.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction,

00:04:49 - Exciting Opportunities,

00:08:12 - Low Retention Rates,

00:10:36 - Attracting the Right Staff,

00:11:43 - Short Form Video Training,

00:14:51 - The Power of Real-Time Training,

00:15:59 - Embracing Authenticity and Technology,

00:17:51 - Promoting Soft Skills and Hospitality,

00:19:58 - The Connection between Training, Retention, and Labor Costs,

00:24:20 - The Importance of Budgeting for Training,

00:28:51 - Impact of Personalization on Attendance,

00:29:34 - Personalized Communication for Operator Attendance,

00:30:22 - Affordable Video Platform for Hiring and Vetting,

00:31:05 - Personal Development Scorecard for Associates,

00:34:02 - Importance of Work in Work-Life Balance,

00:42:09 - Hiring Right and Planning Ahead,

00:43:24 - Making Difficult Decisions for Long-Term Benefits,

00:44:20 - Unleashing the Superhero Within,

00:45:05 - Building Connections and Appreciation,

00:45:52 - Conclusion and Call to Action,

For a deeper dive into this conversation, click here for the episode web page

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out the videocast on

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

Support for The Hospitality Industry:

Chowco.org

I Got Your Back

The Burnt Chef Project

Chef Life Coaching

If you'd like to sponsor this show and get your company in front of 5,000 of the most progressive food and beverage operators, email us at [email protected]

Tomas Stephensen at Podlike co-produced this episode.

If you'd like your podcast to sound as good as mine, click this link to get 15% off regular production costs.

The titles, show notes, social media, and blog content powered by Capsho

This is a production of Realignment Media

Discover the shocking truth behind employee care and retention in the hospitality industry as Michael Lennox shares his revolutionary approach.

But when faced with the mounting pressure of high turnover rates, will his methods withstand the test or crumble under unfulfilled expectations?

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Decode the landscape of the evolving restaurant industry during the current boom.
• Understand the profound impact of aligning passion with a hospitality career.
• Grasp the transformative power of open-air spaces in shaping restaurant atmospheres.
• Uncover the survival tactics and modifications instigated by restaurants during the COVID-19 crisis.
• Fathom the direct correlation between employee welfare and success in the hospitality ecosystem.

My special guest is Michael Lennox, President of Electric Hospitality.

Meet Michael Lennox, an individual whose drive to actualize his imaginative concepts led him to abandon a professional law career, harness his passion for food, and turn it into acclaimed restaurants under the Electric Hospitality banner.

His locations, such as Ladybird and Muchacho, embody his love for originality and outdoor enjoyment. Michael is passionately committed to finding innovative alternatives to the industry's recurrent obstacles.

His conviction that listening to the 'silent language of the space' can shed light on crafting unique, inviting spaces is a refreshing approach for restaurant owners and managers.

Through his own experience, he exemplifies Turning the Table's essence and offers invaluable insights related to employee retention and improving the hospitality industry.

To learn more about this episode, click here.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Current State of the Hospitality Industry,

00:02:48 - Introduction to Electric Hospitality,

00:09:43 - Transition from Law to Hospitality,

00:13:16 - Vision and Creativity in Space Transformation,

00:13:40 - Listening to the Space,

00:15:36 - The Need for Change in the Restaurant Industry,

00:19:06 - Going Above and Beyond to Support the Industry,

00:23:12 - Shifting Focus to Workforce Development,

00:26:46 - Compensation and Benefits at Electric Hospitality,

00:29:14 - Setting a New Standard in the Industry,

00:31:59 - Taking Care of Your Team,

00:33:31 - Investing in Skills and Career Development,

00:34:23 - Listening to Employee Feedback,

00:35:14 - The Importance of Growth,

00:35:48 - Fostering Creativity and Core Values,

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out the videocast on

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

Support for The Hospitality Industry:

Chowco.org

I Got Your Back

The Burnt Chef Project

Chef Life Coaching

This show is sponsored by: Evocalize

Tomas Stephensen at Podlike co-produced this episode.

If you'd like your podcast to sound as good as mine, click this link to get 15% off regular production costs.

The titles, show notes, social media, and blog content powered by Capsho

This is a production of Realignment Media

Witness the astonishing journey of TJ Schier, whose path took an unexpected turn, propelling him to the forefront of the competitive socializing industry.

From his humble beginnings at Chuck E. Cheese Pizza, TJ's relentless drive and sharp business acumen led him to unimaginable heights.

But a surprising twist in his story set him apart, forever changing the game.

Brace yourself for an inspiring tale of transformation as TJ's unwavering passion continues to pave the way for a future filled with endless possibilities.

Prepare to embark on a journey that will leave you hungry for more.

In this episode:

• Discover how the blend of sports, entertainment, and hospitality creates a distinctive customer experience.
• Uncover the unforeseen growth of the golf industry during COVID-19 due to its natural alignment with social distancing requirements.
• Dive into the trend of competitive socializing and its role in heightening food and beverage experiences.
• Understand the critical role of tailoring guest experiences and simplifying menus in the restaurant industry.
• Gain insights on the secrets of hiring and efficiently managing powerhouse teams in the hospitality realm.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:03 - Introduction,

00:01:04 - TJ's Background,

00:04:02 - The Concept of Big Shots Golf,

00:07:57 - Competitive Entertainment,

00:11:27 - Relevance and Future,

00:13:13 - Leadership Tips and Business Crushes,

00:15:51 - Anthem as a Separate Dining Space,

00:18:01 - Simplifying the Menu,

00:20:21 - Dealing with Turnover and Labor Costs,

00:24:28 - The Future of the Labor Challenge,

00:26:30 - The Importance of Structure and Technology in the Restaurant Industry,

00:27:28 - Smart Restaurant Guides for Better Operations,

00:28:11 - The Power of Networking and Learning,

00:28:36 - Leadership Lessons from the Driving Range,

00:29:42 - Business Crushes and Industry Reputation,

Click here for more information about this episode.

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out the videocast on

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

Support for The Hospitality Industry:

Chowco.org

I Got Your Back

The Burnt Chef Project

Chef Life Coaching

This show is sponsored by: Evocalize

Tomas Stephensen at Podlike co-produced this episode.

If you'd like your podcast to sound as good as mine, click this link to get 15% off regular production costs.

The titles, show notes, social media, and blog content powered by Capsho

This is a production of Realignment Media

Do you want to enhance your culinary career and unlock greater growth opportunities?

Are you searching for a solution that can bring you improved career clarity and advancement in the culinary industry?

Then look no further!

By enlisting the expertise of a specialized career coach in the culinary field, you can achieve exactly that.

They hold the key to guiding you towards a more fulfilling and successful culinary journey, helping you reach your goals and aspirations.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how career coaching can drastically enhance your culinary career journey.
• Delve into the profound impact of experience and knowledge on culinary success.
• Appreciate the unique advantage a specialized culinary career coach offers.
• Explore the significance of curiosity and humility in both personal and professional advancement.
• Understand how fostering a supportive culinary culture can boost the growth of industry professionals.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction,

00:00:32 - The Need for Career Coaching,

00:01:58 - Relatability of Career Coaches,

00:04:39 - Adam's Culinary Career Path,

00:10:43 - The Importance of Community and Belonging,

00:14:42 - Coaching and Mentoring in the Culinary Industry,

00:17:36 - Shifting Focus from Mission to People,

00:20:21 - The Difference Between Management and Mentorship,

00:23:58 - Choosing Consciously in the Culinary Industry,

00:25:15 - Changing the Culinary Industry Culture,

00:29:11 - The Coaching Process,

00:30:09 - Long-Term Growth,

00:30:33 - Changing Relationships,

00:35:09 - Identity and Purpose,

00:37:52 - Reconnecting with Guidance,

00:44:37 - Join the Chef Life Brigade,

00:45:00 - Contact Information,

00:45:25 - Immediate Help and Continuous Improvement,

00:45:54 - Pleasure and Key Takeaways,

00:46:37 - Connect and Support,

Click here for more information about this episode.

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out the videocast on

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

Support for The Hospitality Industry:

Chowco.org

I Got Your Back

The Burnt Chef Project

Chef Life Coaching

This show is sponsored by: Evocalize

Tomas Stephensen at Podlike co-produced this episode.

If you'd like your podcast to sound as good as mine, click this link to get 15% off regular production costs.

The titles, show notes, social media, and blog content powered by Capsho

This is a production of Realignment Media

Get ready to be inspired by the extraordinary journey of Geoff Alexander, a true pioneer in the restaurant industry.

His story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will leave you in awe. From humble beginnings to now standing in about 2,000 grocery stores, Geoff's path is a testament to the power of innovation.

But what unexpected twist propelled Wow Bao to such incredible heights?

Stay tuned to discover the surprising secret that unlocked Geoff's success.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Decode the benefits of infusing innovation into your restaurant business operations.
• Utilize partnerships as a powerful tool to propel growth and geographic spread.
• Explore the art of storytelling as a driving force in building a successful brand.
• Delve into the importance of adaptive thinking and unconventional strategies for progress.
• Learn how exceptional customer service can be your secret weapon in achieving customer satisfaction.

Our special guest is Geoff Alexander, President of Wow Bao and Managing Partner of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant Company.

Meet Geoff Alexander—someone who's continually pushed culinary boundaries.

A New York native who planted his roots in Chicago, Geoff's swift rise in the restaurant industry can be attributed to his unique and innovative approach leading "Wow Bao," a delicious dough treat filled with hearty fillings, started small but has grown exponentially under his vision.

Geoff's fearless pursuit of novel ideas, complemented by his knack for evolving technology integration within his business, has allowed him to carve a distinct path in a fiercely competitive industry.

His story is a potent reminder that success results from relentless innovation and relentless hard work.

The key moments in this episode are:

(00:00:00) - Introduction,

(00:01:04) - Slow Adoption of New Ideas,

(00:03:11) - Background of Lettuce Entertain You and Wow Bao,

(00:06:58) - Growing the Brand with Limited Resources,

(00:09:39) - Innovating to Expand,

(00:14:03) - The Journey to Success,

(00:15:37) - Small Actions Lead to Growth,

(00:18:05) - Finding Opportunties in Unexpected Places,

(00:19:13) - Scaling and Delegating,

(00:21:03) - Thriving with Limited Resources,

(00:27:58) - Importance of Treating a Business Like a Business,

(00:29:33) - The Importance of Hospitality in the Restaurant Industry,

(00:31:14) - Balancing Technology and the Human Element,

(00:34:04) - Maintaining Brand Awareness and Packaging,

(00:36:59) - Personal Touch during the Pandemic,

Links Discussed During the Show

• Wow Bao

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out the videocast on

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

This show is sponsored by Evocalize, they make complex restaurant marketing push button simple.

Jim Taylor at Benchmark Sixty

Adam Lamb at Chef Life Coaching

Copyright 2023 Realignment Media

Does this sound familiar?

You've been told to offer higher salaries or bonuses to improve employee retention, but it's not working. The pain of losing valuable team members and struggling to create a satisfying work environment is real.

In this episode, we'll explore a more effective approach - the power of mentorship in fostering loyalty and a fulfilling workplace.

Our special guest is Jeff Jamieson of Hangry Panda Hospitality in Calgary, Canada.

He's a passionate trailblazer in the hospitality industry, with deep roots that started at the age of 16 in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Now an industry veteran, Jeff has accumulated vast experience through various roles, eventually leading to him co-owning award-winning restaurant ventures. From humble beginnings as a dishwasher, Jeff's commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, and his emphasis on teamwork and integrity, can be attributed to insights from his mentors.

These values, combined with his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, make Jeff an excellent resource for those eager to harness the power of mentorship and create a fulfilling work environment.

Your Key Takeaways Will Be:

● Decipher the influential value of mentors in forging a successful hospitality environment.

● Break down the essence of enduring flexibility and resilience amidst obstacles.

● Comprehend the importance of employee mentoring and guidance in forging a gratifying work atmosphere.

● Acknowledge Gen Z's emphasis on work-life balance and the quest for job fulfillment.

● Unravel the significance of teamwork and independence in facilitating employee enhancement and business supervision.

To check out this episode in detail, including links to all of our research, resources we spoke about on the show, and more, click here.

Subscribe to our weekly Linkedin Newsletter and join over 2K other hospitality professionals, just like you at: https://bit.ly/3rrb6nX

Key Moments in the Conversation:

(00:00:02) - The Importance of Mentors

(00:02:19) - Celebrating Mentors

(00:06:00) -Jeff Jameson's Journey

(00:09:59) - Growth and Opportunities

(00:10:59) - The Resilience of Calgary Operators

(00:15:51) - The Intimacy of a Small Bar

(00:16:18) - Christmas Pop-Up Magic

(00:18:01) - The Importance of Mentors

(00:21:39) - Creating a Supportive Work Environment

(00:25:19) - Work-Friendship Balance

(00:32:32) - Good Retention in the Business

(00:33:38) - Mentorship and Finding Meaning

(00:35:43) - Gen Z's Impact on the Restaurant Industry

(00:38:10) - Shift in Perspective on Gen Z

(00:39:59) - Naming the Restaurants Collaboratively

(00:48:49) - Importance of Addressing Performance Gaps

(00:49:19) - Empowering Others Through Work

(00:49:56) - Managing Expectations

(00:51:55) - Importance of Mentors

(00:53:51) - Conclusion and Gratitude

Turning the Table is the most progressive podcast for today's food and beverage industry featuring staff-centric operating solutions for restaurants in the #newhospitalityculture.

Join Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and Adam Lamb as they "turn the tables" on the prevailing operating assumptions of the restaurant business in favor of innovative solutions to our industry's most persistent challenges.

Check out our Live videocast and be part of the show, every Thursday at 12 N ET on these channels.

Youtube

Linkedin

FB

This episode is made possible by Evocalize.

To learn more about how they make complex food and beverage marketing "push-button simple, check them out by clicking here.

Turning the Table is a production of Realignment Media.

Unleash the Power of AI: Join Adam Lamb and Jim Taylor as they navigate the tantalizing potential and cautionary pitfalls of AI in the restaurant industry, aiming to empower operators while preserving the essential human touch.

But here's the unexpected twist: what if AI could also solve one of your biggest challenges?

Stay tuned to discover how AI can transform your restaurant and your entire approach to success.

"Specialization is so important because it's what you get known for, and people will start talking." - Jim Taylor.

Delve into the profound impact of AI on the restaurant industry, and why ignorance of it can be your business's pitfall.



The key moments in this episode are:

(00:00:00) - Breaking News: FTC Opens Investigation into Chat GPT Maker

(00:01:02) - AI Already in Our Lives

(00:03:09) - Hallucination and the Risks of AI

(00:07:20) - The Power of AI in Responding to Yelp Reviews

(00:08:28) - Exploring Chat GPT Capabilities and Applications

(00:15:25) - Understanding ROI and Budgeting for AI Technology

(00:16:09) - Customization and Engagement with AI Platforms

(00:19:19) - AI for Labor Shortages and Automation

(00:22:34) - Opportunities and Challenges of AI in Scheduling

(00:25:09) - AI in Customer Interaction and Service

(00:31:32) - Focusing on Hospitality with AI

(00:32:30) - Technology and Data Overload

(00:33:09) - Technology as a Solution

(00:33:35) - Thanking the Listeners

(00:34:09) - Call to Action

To learn more about this episode, including bonuses, links mentioned in the show and additional resources, click here.

This show is sponsored by Evocalize.

Turning the Table is a production of Realignment Media.

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Picture yourself behind the wheel, exhausted and frustrated after a grueling day at your restaurant.

Buzzing notifications on your phone remind you of the endless tasks you haven't had time for. As you drive past a competitor's place, envy grips your heart.

Everything seems perfectly smooth with their bustling activity and the absence of waiting customers.

What's their secret, you wonder, as frustration and curiosity intertwine.

But little do you know, the answer lies not in money or location. Brace yourself for an unexpected twist that will forever change your perspective on running a restaurant and building a community of happy, motivated employees.

To learn more about this episode, click on the link for show notes and more.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking here.

Grab the FREE Leader in Development Templates, by clicking here.



This show is sponsored by: Evocalize

Are you tired of spending hours on marketing campaigns that seem to fall flat?

Have you heard these myths about localized marketing and personalized campaigns?

Let's debunk them together.

Myth #1: Localized marketing is only for big businesses with unlimited resources.

Myth #2: Personalized campaigns are too time-consuming and require advanced technical skills.

Myth #3: These strategies are only effective for online businesses.

Join our guest speakers, JR Hopwood and Shannon Gewinner, as they reveal the truth behind these myths and how localized marketing and personalized campaigns can transform your restaurant's customer engagement and drive better business growth.

In this episode, you will be able to:

1.) Discover how combining data and AI can revolutionize your restaurant's marketing approach.

2.) Uncover the convenience of Evocalize's platform when launching marketing campaigns for restaurant operators.

3.) Delve into the benefits of real-time personalization and locality for a more impact marketing campaign.

4.) Recognize the indispensable role brand consistency and control over messaging play in your marketing longevity.

5.) Learn about the transformative power of localized marketing and personalized campaigns for restaurants.

Our guests for today’s session are the powerhouse duo, JR Hopwood Jr., a savvy solutions consultant at Evocalize, who is instrumental in decoding the mysteries of localized marketing.

With a natural ability to steer businesses towards high-converting strategies, his reputation is undoubtedly high-powered.

On a similar note, Shannon Gewinner lends her expertise as the Vice President of Marketing at Smoothie King and works magic with her data-centered branding techniques. She's known for her stellar strategies and innovative problem-solving skills. Whether your enterprise needs a marketing revamp or a strategic boost, Shannon is the woman for the job.

Learn more about our guests:

Jr Hopwood on Linkedin

Shannon Gewinner on Linkedin

Evocalize

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

Visit the Evocalize website to learn more about the AI-driven platform.

Sign up for a demo or consultation with a Solutions Consultant from Evocalize.

Consider implementing Evocalize if you have a distributed marketing system with multiple locations that are difficult to manage.

Explore the potential of using Evocalize for hotel companies with multiple locations and data points.

Start by identifying the data points you can access and how they can impact your business.

Click here to go to the website for more information, show notes, and links.

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Jim Taylor: Benchmark 60

Adam Lamb: Chef Life Coaching

Sponsored by:

Evocalize

Turning the Table is a production of Realignment Hospitality