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Explore every episode of the podcast Fast Casual Nation

Dive into the complete episode list for Fast Casual Nation. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
2026 AI & Tech Trends | Special Series24 Dec 202500:43:29
Join Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler on Fast Casual Nation as they dive deep into AI's transformation of the restaurant industry with Kerry Leo, VP of Technology at Shipley Donuts, and restaurant tech consultant Paul Molinari. Discover how Shipley achieved 24% higher average order values through AI-powered ordering, learn why traditional Google search is becoming obsolete, and understand how data unification is creating the "single pane of glass" operators need. From voice ordering in mobile apps to agentic AI solving integration challenges, this episode reveals practical strategies for implementing AI in your restaurant operations. Whether you're just starting your AI journey or looking to accelerate adoption, this conversation provides actionable insights on everything from choosing the right tech partners to measuring real ROI.

00:00 - Why AI in restaurants is hitting a turning point
01:44 - Shipley Donuts launches AI powered ordering
02:39 - AI boosts average order value through smart upselling
04:59 - The exact moment Shipley committed to AI
07:01 - How AI mimics top performing cashiers
11:42 - Voice ordering and mobile app AI roadmap
16:42 - OpenAI vs Google Gemini and the AI platform battle
25:45 - Domino’s AI case study and massive efficiency gains

#RestaurantTech #AIinRestaurants #FastCasual


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
The Hopdoddy Effect: Leading the Charge in the Modern Burger Evolution17 Dec 202500:23:13
Join Paul Barron on Fast Casual Nation as he sits down with Jeff Chandler, CEO of Hopdoddy Burger Bar, to discuss how the Austin-based brand is winning in the crowded burger category with 50 locations and 2% traffic growth. Discover their hybrid fast casual-casual dining model, premium protein strategy including bison burgers, the accidental success of burger bowls, and why they're betting on hospitality over discounting in 2026.

#FastCasualNation #HopdoddyBurgerBar #RestaurantIndustry


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Blaze Pizza's HR Strategy: Building Culture in a Competitive Fast-Casual Landscape15 Oct 202500:22:53
Stacey Gelber, VP of Human Resources at Blaze Pizza, joins hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler live from the Fast Casual Executive Summit to discuss the evolving challenges of building teams in today's restaurant industry. With 270 locations across three countries, Blaze is navigating the complexities of a multigenerational workforce dominated by Gen Z employees who demand work-life balance, mental health support, and authentic culture. Gelber shares how Blaze is revolutionizing training with microlearning modules, leveraging TikTok for recruitment, and opening "Ignite by Blaze"—an innovation incubator restaurant. From managing vocal Gen Z staff to scaling culture across hundreds of franchises, this conversation reveals the HR strategies that are shaping the future of fast-casual dining.

#FastCasualNation #BlazePizza #RestaurantHR



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
88. Worthington: Vegan Barbeque Chicketts Pizza16 Apr 202100:15:38
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Jon Fish, the vice president of marketing for Worthington, to provide a hands-on look at some of the latest innovative plant-based products on the market today.

Worthington is a plant-based or “plant powered” brand that specializes in providing clean, healthy alternatives to meat products. The company’s products are packed with protein, and offer vegetarians, vegans, and health-conscious consumers a number of delicious meal options.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
87. How Aloha Poke Built a Franchise | CEO Chris Birkinshaw06 Apr 202100:28:01
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Chris Birkinshaw, the chief executive officer of Aloha Poke, to explore franchising a poke bowl concept during a pandemic.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
86. Focusing on Virtual Restaurant Brands | C3 CEO Sam Nazarian10 Mar 202100:25:27
Fast casual must diversify in order to stay afloat after the delivery bubble bursts, according to Sam Nazarian, CEO of C3, the company behind Umami Burger, Krispy Rice and Sam’s Crispy Chicken. During Covid, Sam’s virtual restaurant company – a subsidiary of sbe – jumped from $20 billion to $40 billion in online sales. Now faced with the reality of a reopening economy, C3 is aggressively diversifying through the rapid development and expansion of virtual restaurant brands, the opening of over 300 ghost kitchens and digital food halls, and the introduction of a proprietary delivery app launching in 2021.

Guest: Sam Nazarian, CEO - C3
C3 sbe Website ➜ https://t2m.io/C3sbe​

#GhostKitchens​ #VirtualRestaurants​ #FoodDelivery​
~CEO Sam Nazarian interview | Focusing on Virtual Restaurant Brands & Ghost Kitchens~
⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺

Get the latest restaurant and hospitality insider tips and education on saving your restaurant business in our FREE Virtual Event Platform 🎓 https://t2m.io/VirtualEvents​

Subscribe on YouTube ✅ https://t2m.io/YoutubeSubscribe​
Facebook 📱 https://t2m.io/FoodableFacebook​
Twitter 📱 https://t2m.io/FoodableTwitter​

───────────────────────────
Want to start your own virtual event or education series? Try our pro-level virtual event services 🎬 https://t2m.io/VirtualServices

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
85. Scaling Restaurant with Zero Venture Capital | Crisp & Green's Plant-Based Success08 Mar 202100:25:17
Steele was the entrepreneur, founder, & CEO of STEELE Fitness, which was successfully sold to Lift
Brands Global in 2017. CRISP & GREEN is a fast-casual restaurant that combines delicious and sustainable chef-crafted menu featuring salads, grain bowls, and smoothies. They are committed to providing wellness resources and events to create healthier, happier and stronger communities. CRISP & GREEN’s second largest expansion with 10 stores set to open in the Florida
market with zero venture capital backing.

Guest: Steele Smiley, Founder & CEO of STEELE BRANDS
Crisp & Green website ➜ https://t2m.io/CrispGreen​
Steele Brands website ➜ https://t2m.io/Steele​

#VentureCapital​ #FastCasual​ #Restaurants​
~Scaling Restaurant with Zero Venture Capital | Crisp & Green's Plant-Based Success~
⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺⎺

Get the latest restaurant and hospitality insider tips and education on saving your restaurant business in our FREE Virtual Event Platform 🎓 https://t2m.io/VirtualEvents​

Subscribe on YouTube ✅ https://t2m.io/YoutubeSubscribe​
Facebook 📱 https://t2m.io/FoodableFacebook​
Twitter 📱 https://t2m.io/FoodableTwitter​

───────────────────────────
Want to start your own virtual event or education series? Try our pro-level virtual event services 🎬 https://t2m.io/VirtualServices

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
84. Del Taco's Fresh Flex Prototype | New Restaurant Design12 Feb 202100:24:22
Del Taco, the iconic Mexican-American concept, debuted its highly-anticipated new restaurant design prototype. The new "Fresh Flex" design focuses on: restaurant accessibility, speed of service and brand transparency. The latest design features third-party delivery pick-up stations, double drive-thru lanes dedicated to mobile orders or delivery driver pickups and dedicated parking lot areas for those who want to park, eat and go.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
83. Restaurant Reviews & Ratings Software | Birdeye Customer Experience Management10 Feb 202100:26:08
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Travis Bickham, the vice president of marketing for Birdeye, to explore how restaurant operators can grow their businesses online in 2021.

This content brought to you by Birdeye.
Birdeye is an all-in-one customer experience platform that provides 60,000+ businesses with tools to deliver great experiences at every step of the customer journey. Businesses use Birdeye to be found online, chosen through listings and reviews, be connected with customers, and deliver the best end-to-end experience with surveys and insights tools.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
82. BurgerFi's Massive Growth Plan | The Next Big Burger Chain?08 Feb 202100:29:53
Better-burger chain BurgerFi is plotting a massive expansion strategy. With plans to add 30-35 new locations this year, expanding ghost kitchen operations and the brand’s first drive-thru it has been a tremendous year of growth for BurgerFi as they have just gone public (BFI). The company's new CEO also has nearly three decades of experience in various positions at Burger King. The 125-unit chain credited “significant increases” in delivery and app sales for the small revenue boost in 2020. Given the aggressive growth plan, BurgerFi could be an undervalued stock to own within the hard hit restaurant industry.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
81. Birdcall Restaurant Built It's Own First-Party POS System04 Feb 202100:25:25
Birdcall, a contemporary take on a retro chicken restaurant is the third restaurant concept and venture for the group that is lead by chef Jean-Philippe Failyau along with his partner Peter Newlin. Customers witness the birdcall experience by ordering from custom designed kiosks. Built from the ground up, Newlin and his team have developed their very own user-friendly, customer facing, POS system that allows the guest to feel completely immersed in the brand experience from start to finish.

Guest: Peter Newlin - CEO of Birdcall

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
80. Wildflower's New Virtual Restaurant Brand | Nobana02 Feb 202100:23:58
Nobana, Arizona’s newest Asian-inspired ghost kitchen, is now open for business via DoorDash, UBER Eats and Postmates. Created by the owner of Wildflower, Nobana offers flavor-packed bone broth and gluten-free noodle bowls, salads and wraps. The virtual restaurant is operating as a ghost kitchen out of the Sonora Village Wildflower location, with plans to expand to additional Wildflower locations around the Valley later this year.

Guest: Louis Basile - President/Founder at Wildflower

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
79. Fastest-Growing Restaurant Chain in Texas | Sweet Paris Crêperie01 Feb 202100:21:40
Sweet Paris Crêperie founded in 2012 by Allison and Ivan Chavez, Sweet Paris is one of the hottest and fastest growing restaurant brands in Houston, Texas with its Instagram-worthy, French-inspired interiors and delicious food and drinks made with high-quality ingredients and bold flavors.

Guest: Allison Chavez, Founder of Sweet Paris Crêperie

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
BRIX Holdings CEO Shares Vision for Multi-Brand Growth and Digital Transformation09 Oct 202500:36:10
BRIX Holdings CEO Sherif Mityas joins Fast Casual Nation hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler to discuss managing eight restaurant brands including Friendly's, Red Mango, and Orange Leaf. Learn how BRIX is using AI for personalized marketing and operations, why nostalgia marketing is driving double-digit growth, and what trends will shape the restaurant industry through 2030. Mityas shares insights on multi-brand strategy, technology adoption, regional brand growth, and the power of strategic collaborations.

This episode is brought to you by KRAFT Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Visit https://bit.ly/Kraft-FCN

#FastCasualNation #RestaurantIndustry #BRIXHoldings

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
78. How Drive Thru Pickup Lane Increased Throughput 20% | Velvet Taco26 Jan 202100:26:25
Half of new Velvet Taco restaurants will be outfitted with a drive-thru pickup lane, where customers can retrieve digitally placed orders boosting $1,800 in tacos to $3,200. Velvet Taco realized that it needed a dedicated system for producing and distributing off-premise orders. Velvet Taco’s make line was reconfigured as a double line, with one side producing orders for on-site consumption and the other handling delivery and takeout orders. The technology and addition of a pickup lane have raised the cost of a unit by $75,000 to $80,000.

Guest: Clay Dover, CEO & Taco Maker at Velvet Taco

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
77. Building a Pandemic Proof Model | Fajita Pete's22 Jan 202100:24:03
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Pete Mora, the founder of Fajita Pete’s, to explore how to build and bolster your business so it can survive future recessions, pandemics, and other disaster scenarios.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
76. MOD Pizza Brand Analysis | Fast Casual Restaurants19 Jan 202100:20:58
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron provides a deep dive into the latest consumer data, financial evolution, and leadership developments from MOD Pizza.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
75. sweetgreen Brand Analysis | Fast Casual Salad Chain15 Jan 202100:18:42
Analysis of the fast casual salad chain sweetgreen using FoodableLabs brand sentiment data. We're breaking down all the wins and loses of sweetgreen; new menu options, their digital forward brand, drive thru, and more.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
74. Using All Service Models to Position Your Brand | Jenis Splendid Ice Cream12 Jan 202100:25:10
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry.

In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with John Lowe, the chief executive officer of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams. Barron and Lowe explore how operators can use multiple strategies and service models to help their businesses succeed.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
73. The Digital-Forward Service Model | Pancheros Mexican Grill08 Jan 202100:17:08
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry.

In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Shannon Krauss, the director of design and construction at Panchero's Franchise Corporation. Barron and Krauss explore the benefits of implementing a digital-forward approach at your business.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
72. Chipotle Stock Analysis | Could CMG Hit $5,000 ?22 Dec 202000:13:21
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron explores why, in terms of the stock market, Chipotle has become one of the winners of the fast casual sector.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
71. Brand Diversity and Vertical Integration Strategies | Bluestone Lane14 Dec 202000:26:51
In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Nick Stone, the founder and chief executive officer of Bluestone Lane. Barron and Stone explore how some fast casual brands are successfully using an omni-channel marketing approach.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
70. 100 Burgers in 100 Square Feet | Copenhagen's Gasoline Grill is Small & Flexible10 Dec 202000:26:09
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry.

In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Klaus Wittrup, the founder of Gasoline Grill. Barron and Wittrup explore how businesses can leverage small spaces with the right processes and flexible equipment.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
69. Tamper Proof Food Packaging Solutions | Guarantab Tamper Evident Containers04 Dec 202000:18:50
We're discussing food packaging strategies and solutions with Southern Champion Tray. In a recent study 31.3% of delivery drivers admitted that they eat customers' food. Also, the majority of consumers (76%) hold the restaurant at least partially responsible for any errors or tampering. To combat this growing issue Southern Champion Tray is introducing it's new Guarantab line of tamper evident containers. The easy-to-pack container is strong and stackable, saving space. The extended sidewalls and unique closure design provides a tightly sealed, leak-resistant box.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Multi-Brand Mastery Meets AI Innovation01 Oct 202500:34:12
Norman Wu of Conscious Hospitality Group reveals how he manages nine fast-casual brands across the Pacific Northwest, from Just Poke's 40 franchise locations to community-focused concepts like Haps burgers. Wu discusses his regional growth strategy, sustainability commitments from day one, and why operations must come first in multi-brand management. Plus, Won Jeong from Smart Trainer demonstrates how AI is transforming restaurant operations—from three-second schedule generation to sales predictions that factor in weather, events, and traffic patterns. Learn why going deep in your home market beats wide expansion, and how AI can enhance (not replace) your team's capabilities.

FastCasualNation #RestaurantTech #RestaurantAI

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
68. Virtual Food Hall Powered by Ghost Kitchens | Zuul Kitchens24 Nov 202000:32:33
Zuul Kitchens empowers restaurateurs and chefs to grow their business by utilizing the use of Ghost Kitchens in their space. Zuul Membership offers Kitchen Infrastructure, Consultative Services, Kitchen Equipment Installation Support, Delivery Fulfillment, Porter Services, Zuul Market Demand Generation, Virtual Brand Consulting. Users can gain access to our exclusive Zuul Market platform to reach new groups of customers with zero effort. Guest: Kristen Barnett, Director of Strategy for Zuul

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
67. Native vs Third-Party Ordering | Figure 8 Logistics20 Nov 202000:35:26
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Scott Landers, the co-founder and systems engineer for Figure 8 Logistics. Barron and Landers discuss and debate native versus third party delivery, and consider the future of delivery for fast casual.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
66. Creating A Ghost Kitchen | Oath Pizza16 Nov 202000:22:39
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Drew Kellogg, the chief executive officer of Oath Pizza. Barron and Kellogg explore the future of ghost kitchens and virtual brands.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
65. Souvla Streamlines Self Pick-Up Ordering | Fast Casual Restaurant Podcast15 Sep 202000:35:38
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Charles Bililies, the founder and chief executive officer of fast-fine Greek restaurant group Souvla. Barron and Bililies explore restaurant survival strategies amidst the pandemic.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
64. Pay With Your Face - PopID Contactless Payment | Fast Casual Restaurants Podcast09 Sep 202000:24:33
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Yale Goldberg, the chief of staff for software company PopID. Barron and Goldberg discuss implementing facial recognition service in drive-thrus, kiosks, and even tableside.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
63. Shake Shack Unveils New Design with Drive-Thru03 Sep 202000:20:25
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Andrew McCaughan, the chief development officer of Shake Shack. Barron and McCaughan discuss Shake Shack’s first drive thru, curbside pickup, and the “Shack Tracks” initiative.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
62. Urban City Real Estate Meltdown | Fast Casual Restaurants Podcast26 Aug 202000:32:42
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with frequent Foodable guest Andrew Horowitz, the president and founder of Horowitz & Company, a registered investment advisor. Barron and Horowitz discuss how urban developers and architects are reworking their real estate vision amidst the coronavirus crisis.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
61. Loyalty Programs Driving Returning Customers with Vitality Bowls19 Aug 202000:24:10
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with David Malinowski, the chief operating operator of Vitality Bowls. Barron and Malinowski explore building a customer database and cultivating consumer loyalty during COVID-19.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
60. Kiosks & Drive-Thru On-Demand With Urban Wok07 Aug 202000:20:13
The Fast Casual Nation Podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Mark Toth, the founder of Urban Wok. Barron and Toth discuss how technology is changing the landscape of fast casual.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
59. MOD Pizza's Takeout, Curbside, and Delivery Technology22 Jul 202000:26:17
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Kevin Flaherty, the vice president of digital marketing for MOD Pizza. Barron and Flaherty explore technology integration, guest service changes, packaging, and meal kits.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Building the World's Largest Mobile Empire: Tony Lamb's Blueprint for Multi-Brand Success25 Sep 202500:50:48
Tony Lamb, CEO and founder of Kona Ice, reveals how he built the world's largest mobile food empire with 2,200 franchise trucks across three brands: Kona Ice, Traveling Tom's, and Beverly Ann's. In this Fast Casual Nation episode, Lamb breaks down his unconventional flat-fee royalty model ($3,000/year vs. percentage-based), vertical integration strategy that includes in-house truck manufacturing, proprietary technology platform, and event-based business model that has generated over $200 million in community giveback. Learn how this mobile concept achieves $250,000 average unit volumes with 6-8% food costs through complete operational control, from supply chain to insurance, and why Lamb believes the future lies in platform-based multi-brand expansion.

#FastCasualNation #FoodTruckFranchise #MobileRestaurants


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
58. Fast Casual Service Model Change and Future With Honeygrow17 Jul 202000:27:55
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Justin Rosenberg, the founder and chief executive officer of Honeygrow. Barron and Rosenberg explore how the fast casual model has already shifted in response to coronavirus, and how fast casual may evolve post-pandemic.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
57. Future Operation Tactics For Fast Casual With Velvet Taco06 Jul 202000:26:21
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Clay Dover, the chief executive officer of Velvet Taco. Barron and Dover discuss the evolution of technology and operations in the fast casual industry.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
56. Save Your Restaurant From Failure With Technology Tactics22 Jun 202000:23:51
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Sastry Penumarthy, the co-founder and head of strategy for Punchh. Barron and Penumarthy explore the interconnectivity between technology and consumer loyalty post-pandemic.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
55. Top Burger Stocks To Watch15 Jun 202000:23:08
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Andrew Horowitz, the founder and president of Horowitz & Company. Barron and Horowitz discuss burger stocks to watch and recent industry news.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
54. PLNT Burger Changing the Way We Eat Fast Casual09 Apr 202000:19:32
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Seth Goldman, the founder of Honest Tea and PLNT Burger. Barron and Goldman discuss his mission for providing quality fare and his entrepreneurial spirit over the last few decades.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
53. Allset Offers No-Contact Pickup to Combat Coronavirus26 Mar 202000:16:41
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Stas Matviyenko, the co-founder and chief executive officer of Allset. Barron and Matviyenko discuss implementing no-contact pickup techniques during the coronavirus crisis.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
52. DeliverThat on Reformatting the American Restaurant Industry25 Mar 202000:17:50
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Darien Terrell, the president of courier service DeliverThat. Barron and Terrell discuss the future of the industry in light of the coronavirus crisis.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
51. Clover Food Lab: Revolutionizing the Plant-Based Menu19 Mar 202000:20:42
Clover Food Lab is a cult-favorite restaurant chain founded by MIT alum and environmentalist Ayr Muir. Clover’s mission is to address global warming by building a better food future.

Guest: Ayr Muir - Clover Food Lab
Founder & CEO

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
50. Farm Burger: Expanding Choice in the Better Burger Segment13 Mar 202000:23:57
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with George Frangos, the co-founder and senior adviser at Farm Burger. Barron and Frangos explore expansion challenges and the better burger segment.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
49. Just Salad: Healthy Fast Casuals Driving The Future of Food05 Mar 202000:24:10
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with Nick Kenner, the founder and chief executive officer of fast casual concept Just Salad. Barron and Kenner discuss sustainability, brand innovation, and recent technological shifts in the industry.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Fast Casual Growth Playbook: How Chicken Salad Chick Built a 309-Unit Empire17 Sep 202500:45:29
Discover how Chicken Salad Chick CEO Scott Deviney transformed a 32-location startup into a 309-unit fast-casual empire in under a decade. In this Fast Casual Nation episode, Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler dive deep into the brand's franchise growth strategies, operational advantages, and expansion secrets. Learn about their "category of one" positioning, market adaptability across demographics, and future growth plans targeting 1,000+ locations.

#FastCasual #FranchiseGrowth #RestaurantIndustry



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
48. Voodoo Doughnut on Expansion, Authenticity, and Competition27 Feb 202000:23:28
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Chris Schultz, the chief executive officer of quick-service doughnut shop Voodoo Doughnut. Barron and Schultz explore expansion challenges and market targeting strategies.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
47. Nékter Juice Bar: The Marriage of Food, Technology, and the To-Go Business20 Feb 202000:27:56
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron chats with Steve Schulze, the co-founder and chief executive officer of Nékter Juice Bar. Barron and Schulze discuss franchising, selecting real estate, and technology.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
46. Seoul Taco on Transforming a Food Truck Into a Fast Casual Restaurant13 Feb 202000:25:00
The Fast Casual Nation podcast offers exclusive interviews with experts ranging from top chefs and brand makers to executives and restaurateurs who work in one of the fastest-growing segments of the restaurant industry. In this episode, host Paul Barron sits down with David Choi, the founder of the fast-casual restaurant Seoul Taco. Barron and Choi discuss the evolution of the fusion category, consumers today, and what lies ahead for Seoul Taco.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.

Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/

Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.

Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
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