Explore every episode of the podcast Give an Ovation: The Restaurant Guest Experience Podcast with Zack Oates
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operational Clarity Wins with Sebastian Stahl | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:15:48 | |
Sebastian Stahl, former hospitality operator and now founder of Breadth, joins the show to talk about how restaurants can build marketing systems that actually work. As the host of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, Sebastian shares how guest experience starts long before a diner walks through the door—and how to align your team, tech, and messaging to make every touchpoint count. Zack and Sebastian discuss:
Tune in to hear Sebastian’s operations-first take on restaurant marketing and how structure creates standout experiences. | |||
| What Truly Creates Restaurant Magic with Troy Guard | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:18:37 | |
Chef Troy Guard, founder of TAG Restaurant Group, joins the show to share how creating a vibe, embracing the unexpected, and mentoring talent have helped him grow multiple restaurant concepts across states. From dishwasher to executive chef, Troy reflects on his journey and how guest experience is driven by feeling—not formulas. Zack and Troy discuss:
Tune in to hear how Troy’s people-first philosophy creates lasting guest impressions and sustainable growth. | |||
| Lessons from a Hospitality Marketing Veteran with Mitch Baker | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:17:47 | |
Mitch Baker, VP of Marketing at Robeks, shares his expertise on evolving marketing strategies in the hospitality industry. With a background spanning Hollywood entertainment, Disney, and more, he dives into the role of guest data, technology, and omnichannel marketing in shaping brand success. Mitch also discusses the vital relationship between marketing and operations, the power of consistency, and what truly drives a five-star guest experience. Zack and Mitch discuss:
Tune in to hear how Mitch’s insights on marketing, operations, and guest experience can help your restaurant thrive! Thanks, Mitch! | |||
| Behind the Scenes of a Successful Restaurant Experience with Donna Josephson | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:18:17 | |
Ever wonder how top restaurant brands create a guest experience that keeps customers coming back for more? Prepare to be enlightened as we sit down with Donna Josephson, CMO of Shipley's Donuts, a seasoned marketer who has worked with big names such as Chick-fil-A, Applebee's, Wendy's, and McAllister's. Donna lays bare the common pitfalls marketers often stumble into in the restaurant industry and emphasises the vital role of a partnership between marketers and operators in delivering a memorable guest experience.
Thanks, Donna! | |||
| Emerging Trends and Challenges in the Restaurant Industry With Sam Oches | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:24:54 | |
Ever wondered about the inner workings of the restaurant industry? Sam Oches is an award-winning editorial director of Informa's Restaurant and Food Group. Sam Oches has had his eye on the industry for quite some time and has developed an eye for exploring the factors shaping this dynamic landscape.
Thanks, Sam! | |||
| A Slice of Superior Customer Service With Deric Rosenbaum | 09 Nov 2023 | 00:18:19 | |
Get ready to uncover the mysteries behind the success of Groucho's Deli, an iconic restaurant that's stood the test of time for 80 years. Deric Rosenbaum, the president of this thriving chain, joins us on the show to share his insights on a two-fold approach to innovation and the significance of open platforms.
Thanks, Deric! | |||
| Rethinking Restaurant Marketing With Chip Klose | 06 Nov 2023 | 00:16:24 | |
Are you ready to revolutionize the way you perceive restaurant marketing? Join us as we turn the tables with the brilliant author and consultant, Chip Klose. We pick his brain about his game-changing book, 'Restaurant Marketing Mindset.' This is not just another marketing guide; it's a deep dive into the psychology of your potential customers.
Thanks, Chip! | |||
| Keeping The Human Touch with Andrew Simmons | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:15:39 | |
Ready for a story of resilience and innovation in the restaurant industry? Join us as we sit down with Andrew Simmons, the dynamic CEO of Mama Ramona's Pizzeria. Andrew shares his rollercoaster journey, from buying the business right before the pandemic, navigating through the crisis, to coming out stronger. He gives us insights into how he has revolutionized the restaurant's operations by integrating tech and reducing labor costs without compromising the human touch in the business.
Thanks, Andrew! | |||
| Leading and Evolving Successful Restaurant Brands with G.J. Hart | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:22:11 | |
What does it take to lead successful brands like Red Robin, Torchy's Tacos, California Pizza Kitchen, and Texas Roadhouse? G.J. Hart, current CEO of Red Robin, breaks it down for us, stressing the importance of remaining true to the essence of the brand while testing changes to keep it attractive to customers. G.J.'s insights are a treasure trove for anyone involved in the restaurant business so tune in and hear about his extensive experience and knowledge.
Thanks, G.J.! | |||
| Reimagining the Future of Food with Benjamin Kaplan | 26 Oct 2023 | 00:25:25 | |
Have you ever wondered how plant based food can serve the growing global demand for burgers? Join Zack Oates as he sits down with Benjamin Kaplan, co-founder and CEO of Plant Burger, who shares his fascinating journey into the world of plant-based cuisine. From his personal switch to a flexitarian diet to the creation of Plant Burger, a food haven designed for all food enthusiasts irrespective of their dietary preferences, Benjamin’s story is both intriguing and inspiring.
Thanks, Benjamin! | |||
| Transforming the Restaurants of Tomorrow with Andy Freivogel | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:19:46 | |
Andy Freivogel is the Co-Founder and CEO of Science On Call, a restaurant tech platform that provided 24/7 support with either a call or text. On this episode, Andy unveils the magic of technology - from POS to delivery platforms - that simplifies restaurant operations and paves the way for a smoother guest experience. Tune in and explore the tech that is shaping the restaurants of tomorrow!
Thanks, Andy! | |||
| Unlocking the Secrets of Customer Loyalty with Danny Snow | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:18:26 | |
Danny Snow is part of a Disney-centric family with extensive experience at Walt Disney World perfecting his customer loyalty expertise. After earning an MBA in Business, he became the Director of Marketing at Snow & Associates, Inc., contributing to its growth as a leading customer service speaking/training company globally. He's known as a "customer service champ" and advises leaders on decisions affecting their organizations.
Thanks, Danny! | |||
| Trailblazing Restaurant Tech With Priyam Saraswat | 16 Oct 2023 | 00:18:29 | |
Priyam Saraswat stands as the Co-Founder of Voosh, a testament to his innovative spirit and commitment to revolutionizing the restaurant industry. His relentless drive to push the boundaries of what's possible in the restaurant industry, combined with his strong technical acumen, has set him apart as a trailblazer in the realm of restaurant technology.
Thanks, Priyam! | |||
| The Future of Hospitality Marketing with Erin Levzow | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:18:46 | |
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Erin Levzow, a hospitality marketing and technology expert with nearly 20 years of experience at brands like Caesars, MGM, Wingstop, Freebirds, and Del Taco. Erin shares her insights on how to blend technology with human connection to create exceptional guest experiences. Zack and Erin discuss: Why brands often forget about the guest and how to refocus on their needs The power of consistency in building customer loyalty How technology can enhance emotional connections rather than replace them The importance of meeting guests where they are—both digitally and in person Why marketing and technology teams must work together for true success How brands like Wingstop evolved their messaging to better connect with customers Tune in to hear Erin’s expert take on guest experience, marketing innovation, and the future of hospitality tech! Thanks, Erin! | |||
| Cutting Deep Into Restaurant Concepts With Mark Brezinski | 12 Oct 2023 | 00:23:38 | |
Mark Brezinski has been a longstanding expert in the restaurant industry for over 40 years with experience working with industry giants such as YUM! Brands and Pei Wei. Now with his book, ForkFight, Brezinski opens up about his successes and failures in the restaurant world, by chronicling the stories collected through traveling the globe to create great restaurants and working alongside some of the most dynamic personalities.
Thanks, Mark! | |||
| Bottom Line Boosting With Mark Kelnhofer | 09 Oct 2023 | 00:28:36 | |
Mark Kelnhofer has spent 20+ years in managerial cost accounting and an additional seven years in restaurant cost management refining his methods. Now as President and CEO of Return on Ingredients, Mark has successfully combined these two methodologies to create an air tight strategy for increasing profits and mitigating loss.
Thanks, Mark! | |||
| Proactive Retention Strategy With Hamed Mazrouei | 05 Oct 2023 | 00:21:59 | |
We are kicking off our 250th episode with Hamed Mazrouei, the Founder and CEO of Milagro Corp, a customer acquisition and retention platform for multi-location restaurants. With expertise in the telecommunications, software, and restaurant industries, Hamed excels in driving revenue growth, optimizing operations, and achieving outstanding results.
Thanks, Hamed! | |||
| How to Connect Rather Than Transact With Lisa Miller | 02 Oct 2023 | 00:21:12 | |
Lisa Miller has 30 year of experience under her belt working in consumer insights and innovation for industry giants such as Quaker and Pepsi Co.. Now as a President of LWM & Associates, Miller focuses on providing integrated strategic insights and plans to unlock and activate business growth.
Thanks, Lisa! | |||
| Redefining Customer Loyalty With Ken Bott | 28 Sep 2023 | 00:22:31 | |
Ken Bott is the definition of an expert in customer loyalty. Having worked for top brands such as Darden Restaurants, Bloomin’ Brands, Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), and Continental Airlines, Ken has perfected his approach to developing strategies, organizations, and integrated marketing plans, focused on driving the bottom line. How does Ken do it? By not losing sight of the guest experience.
Thanks, Ken! | |||
| "Thinkking" Up Digital Marketing Strategies With Jennifer Kaminski | 25 Sep 2023 | 00:21:38 | |
Jennifer Kaminski is a seasoned marketing pro with over 20 years under her belt underscored by her trendsetting work in social media for over 15 years. As Founder and Managing Director of Social Thinking, Kaminski works with businesses to create and execute marketing and branding strategies utilizing Digital Marketing, Social Media, and PR.
Thanks, Jennifer! | |||
| Hospitality Sliced Right With Brandon and Zane Hunt | 21 Sep 2023 | 00:20:02 | |
Brandon and Zane Hunt are brothers who have shaken and shaped the pizza industry since they opened Via313 in 2011. Brandon and Zane began Via313 out of a trailer in Detroit determined to expand and serve everyone up a slice. Now as a multi-unit brand, Via313 continue to serve delicious deep dish pizza all while perfecting their guest experience.
Thanks, Brandon and Zane! | |||
| Brand Empowerment Through Ad Building With Patrick Pleiss | 18 Sep 2023 | 00:20:30 | |
Patrick Pleiss is the Co-Founder and Head of Operations at Hyperlocology. Hyperlocology is a a marketing platform that enables franchise brands to centrally control local advertising, across the most powerful digital channels, for their hundreds or thousands of locations.
Thanks, Patrick! | |||
| Clearing Up Demand Planning With Matt Wampler | 14 Sep 2023 | 00:20:14 | |
This week's episode welcomes on Matt Wampler, CEO and Co-Founder of ClearCOGS, a company utilizing AI to automate demand planning. If you've ever wondered how to balance profitability and the guest experience, tune in to Matt's expertise on predictive analytics.
Thanks, Matt! | |||
| Marketing Strategy: The Mediterranean Way With Julie Wade | 12 Sep 2023 | 00:25:47 | |
Julie Wade is the Senior Director of Marketing at Taziki's, a cafe with a fresh take on the Mediterranean diet. On this week's episode of Give an Ovation, Julie brings her extensive marketing expertise (strategy, product development, brand, etc.) to the table. Tune in to hear how her marketing utility belt has helped her master the food and beverage industry.
Thanks, Julie! | |||
| People-First Hospitality with Jennifer Dodd | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:17:14 | |
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Jennifer Dodd, a 30-year restaurant industry veteran and the CEO of Main Squeeze Juice Co. Jennifer has led in QSR, casual dining, and franchising, making her a powerhouse in restaurant operations and leadership. Zack and Jennifer discuss:
Tune in to hear how Jennifer’s insights on culture, leadership, and guest experience can help your restaurant thrive! Thanks, Jennifer! | |||
| Augmented Restaurant Reality With Mike Snow | 07 Sep 2023 | 00:23:04 | |
Mike Snow is a 14 year entrepreneur whose most recent venture, Ocavu, is shaking up the restaurant industry. Ocavu has changed the way we approach ordering a menu item in a restaurant by placing a true to life size, high-fidelity scan in the consumer's life. This creates a better experience for the customers by aligning their expectations with reality. Tune it to learn more about this groundbreaking innovation!
Thanks, Mike! | |||
| Off The Charts Off-Prem Tactics With Nick Petrocci | 05 Sep 2023 | 00:24:03 | |
This week's episode of Give An Ovation welcomes on Nick Petrocci, current Director of Off Premise for the fast-casual brand, Zaxby’s. Nick lead an Off Premise Growth team focused on the health of digital ordering channels including the custom-built, proprietary Zaxby’s mobile apps and website alongside the 3rd party delivery marketplaces.
Thanks, Nick! | |||
| Putting Discipline and Dedication in the Ring With Diamond Dallas Page | 31 Aug 2023 | 00:43:54 | |
Many of you know him from the wrestling ring, but whether he's delivering a total smackdown or instructing a DDP Yoga course, Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) is a prime example of transforming and chasing your passions. Now as the Founder and CEO of DDPY (Diamond Dallas Page Yoga), Diamond continues who help others achieve their true potential and rebound from life's blows.
Thanks, Diamond! | |||
| Leaps and Bounds in Business Development With Dan Posner | 28 Aug 2023 | 00:28:39 | |
Dan Posner is the VP of business development at Big Leap. Big Leap is an award-winning digital marketing agency founded on trust, focused on relationships, and motivated by your long-term success. While Dan is unarguably well versed in SEO and reputation management, his passion for sales and connection is evident throughout this week's episode. Tune in to learn how it can benefit your brand.
Thanks, Dan! | |||
| Increasing Orders on Autopilot With Gary Chaglasyan | 21 Aug 2023 | 00:21:01 | |
Gary Chaglasyan is a restaurateur and serial entrepreneur with over 25 years experience launching 65+ hospitality projects. Gary is an expert in automation and helping businesses becomes more efficient while still maintaining a sense of control over those critical tech touchpoints.
Thanks, Gary! | |||
| Communication and Crisis Management With Tim McIntyre | 14 Aug 2023 | 00:31:03 | |
Tim McIntyre is the former EVP of Domino's and current Founder of T/M Communications LLC. McIntyre has 35 years of experience under his belt in communications and public relations. His expertise in communications enables him to advise on optimizing internal and strengthen external communications.
Thanks, Tim! | |||
| Franchising Fundamentals With Ray Titus | 07 Aug 2023 | 00:34:32 | |
Ray Titus is the CEO of United Franchise Group and its affiliated companies. Ray has elevated franchising from a career to a calling. His philosophies on growth, positive attitude, and family, influence the core values that have driven success within the brands he has developed from conception to international expansion. Tune if to hear his keys to success and how they apply to you.
Thanks, Ray! | |||
| Technology Stack Expertise with Tamy Duplantis | 31 Jul 2023 | 00:27:28 | |
After 27 years of delivering restaurant tech transformations for iconic brands including Friday's, Applebee's, Potbelly, CrunchTime, US Foods, Main Event, and Le Duff America, Tamy Duplantis is now the Founder and CIO of Return on Information. Return on Information helps to define and implement integrated technology stacks catered to your brand that enables you to excel in competitive digital environments.
Thanks, Tamy! | |||
| Magicking Up Memorable Brand Experiences With Christine Staley | 25 Jul 2023 | 00:14:23 | |
This week's episode welcomes on Christine Staley, Founder and CEO of Magic City Hoagies. Magic City Hoagies is all about bringing a new and exciting approach to sandwiches. Christine does so effortlessly with her passion for spreading positivity and creative eye. One of her many strengths is her ability to align clients with the most suitable promotion/entrepreneurial campaigns needed to showcase their focused initiatives. With her wealth of content creation experience in home, culinary, lifestyle, branded media and medical arenas Christine excels at any creative challenge.
Thanks, Christine! | |||
| Ovation Launches Call-to-Text Feature with Derek Morgan | 17 Jul 2023 | 00:15:32 | |
This weeks episode of Give An Ovation welcomes on our very own Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Co-Founder, Derek Morgan. Derek's expertise in product engineering and customer success enables him to speak as to why Call-to-Text is the most requested feature addition and how it helps our customers continue to win in the restaurant tech space.
Thanks, Derek! | |||
| The Secret to Consistent Success with Joseph Sample | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:17:12 | |
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Joe Sample, President of Crave Management Group, the multi-unit, multi-brand operator behind top-performing Taco Bell locations and Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay. With over 22 years of experience, Joe shares his proven strategies for creating high-performing teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Zack and Joe discuss:
Tune in to hear how Joe’s leadership style and operational insights have helped Crave Management Group thrive in a competitive industry! Thanks, Joe! | |||
| Given an Inch Yet Making a Mile With Ed Baklor | 10 Jul 2023 | 00:23:55 | |
Ed Baklor is a former Disney/WestJet/JetBlue Executive with a solid business foundation focused on Operational Excellence and Guest Experience. Ed is skilled at curating an excellent guest experience from very little. Learn from his experience as a service expert in taking whatever is given you and crafting an experience that will leave your guests wanting more.
Thanks, Ed! | |||
| Perfecting Your Niche With Amir Hudda | 03 Jul 2023 | 00:27:00 | |
Amir Hudda is a technology entrepreneur who has founded and grown four startups in the past 20 years. Amir’s passion has been to create and bring new technologies and products to market, his technology depth and business skills have helped launch innovative solutions that address critical business problems. Currently, Amir is the CEO of Qu (formerly Gusto POS), an enterprise-scale POS company focused on the fast-casual and quick-service restaurant industry.
Thanks, Amir! | |||
| Winning in the Digital Space with Sterling Douglass | 26 Jun 2023 | 00:24:58 | |
Sterling Douglass is the Co-Founder & CEO of Chowly, a leading restaurant technology company helping restaurants optimize off-premise sales and operations.
Thanks, Sterling! | |||
| Taking Digitalization Seriously With Meredith Sandland & Carl Orsbourn | 20 Jun 2023 | 00:44:47 | |
On this week's edition of Give An Ovation, Carl Orsbourn and Meredith Sandland join us for another forward thinking and innovative episode. With the publication of their second book in the Delivering The Digital Restaurant series, The Path to Digital Maturity, Carl and Meredith impress the importance of taking your tech seriously. From interface to optimization, their expertise within the digital space is far reaching!
Thanks, Carl and Meredith! | |||
| A Slice of Pizza Industry Expertise With Nick Bogacz | 12 Jun 2023 | 00:23:58 | |
Nick Bogacz is the President/Founder of Caliente Pizza and Draft House. With over 20 years experience within the restaurant industry, Nick has held many positions has grown a business from the ground up. If you are an entrepreneur who enjoys the restaurant industry and are looking to build an enterprise, this episode is for you.
Thanks, Nick! | |||
| Strategy That Transcends Industry With Jeff Fenster | 05 Jun 2023 | 00:25:22 | |
Jeff Fenster is the Founder and CEO of Everbowl, a superfood bowl that encourages consumers to "unevolve™" - to live actively and eat "stuff that's been around forever™". Fenster is serial entrepreneur whose expertise in curating real relationships has driven a strategy for success across his many business ventures/industries. Not afraid to fill the gaps and self assess, Fenster emulates purpose and progress within whichever industry he chooses to tackle.
Thanks, Jeff! | |||
| The Restaurant Industry Uncut With Mike Bausch | 29 May 2023 | 00:27:43 | |
Mike Bausch is Owner at Andolini's Worldwide Restaurant Group, a Guinness World record holder, and Author of Unsliced. Mike Bausch strives to keep giving back within the restaurant industry and has accomplished just that through his experience as a restauranteur, thought leadership, and more! Tune in to this week's episode to discover how to apply his experience as a restauranteur and eye for growth.
Thanks, Mike! | |||
| A Culture of Dissatisfaction With Blaine Hurst | 22 May 2023 | 00:26:46 | |
Blaine Hurst, former CEO of Panera Bread, has an extensive 40 year long career working with the likes of Boston Market and Papa John's. Now as an advisor, Blaine believes that a strategic mindset is developed rather than inherent. Blaine helps restaurateurs to develop the ability to see what needs improvement and how to execute such improvement.
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| Next Level Quality In Restaurant Solutions With Jeremy Julian | 15 May 2023 | 00:20:58 | |
Jeremy Julian is the COO of CBS Northstar, an industry leader in hospitality POS technology, helping restaurants maximize efficiency and profitability. With its software, hardware, and portfolio of services, CBS offers thousands of restaurants the peace of mind that comes with a smooth POS experience. Jeremy is in touch with the challenges and issues facing restaurant operators in the area of technology systems all while keeping the human touch at the forefront.
Thanks, Jeremy! | |||
| Building A Business Vs An Organization With Ryan Thorman | 08 May 2023 | 00:16:48 | |
Ryan Thorman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Bango Bowls, a growing health food and quick services chain. Ryan knows how to develop the fundamentals of your business, bur more importantly, maintaining a "bigger picture" perspective. Ryan's expertise on transitioning from a business to an organization is something you won't want to miss on this week's episode.
Thanks, Ryan! | |||
| Building Purpose-Driven Brands for a Sustainable Future with Seth Goldman | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:20:49 | |
In this episode of Give an Ovation, we welcome Seth Goldman, co-founder of Honest Tea and Just Ice Tea, chairman of Beyond Meat, and co-founder of PLNT Burger. Seth’s journey from government and activism to launching purpose-driven brands showcases his commitment to health, sustainability, and creating positive social impact.
Tune in to hear how Seth’s vision and leadership continue to inspire and transform the food and beverage industry! | |||
| Finding the Balance Between Branding and Performance With Carolyn Walker | 01 May 2023 | 00:25:27 | |
Carolyn Walker has curated an esteemed and well rounded career having worked for the likes of Fritos Lays and Saatchi & Saatchi advertising. Now at Response Marketing, Carolyn started as a freelance consultant but quickly advanced to her current position as CEO and Managing Partner. Carolyn has an eye for internal and external development and has proven her ability to help small brands punch above their weight.
Thanks, Carolyn! | |||
| Aligning Purpose and Profit With Andrew Glantz | 24 Apr 2023 | 00:15:13 | |
Andrew Glantz is the Founder & CEO of GiftAMeal, a local marketing program that helps provide a meal to a family in need each time a guest takes a photo at a partner restaurant. Over 500 restaurants currently participate and over 1,300,000 meals have been given so far! Andrew believes that profit and purpose can be consistent goals hence his expertise in brand alignment. On this episode, you'll learn from Andrew about:
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| Forging Better Labor Management With Audrey Hogan | 17 Apr 2023 | 00:16:10 | |
Audrey Hogan in the COO of TimeForge, a single dashboard service capable of mainstreaming and optimizing HR and Operations. Audrey is a Swiss army knife of talent that can teach you how to optimize labor management and boost your team. With an eye for and education in technical communication, Audrey is an expert on the crossroads of software and insights.
Thanks, Audrey! | |||