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Explore every episode of the podcast Give an Ovation: The Restaurant Guest Experience Podcast with Zack Oates

Dive into the complete episode list for Give an Ovation: The Restaurant Guest Experience Podcast with Zack Oates. 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
Operational Clarity Wins with Sebastian Stahl23 Apr 202500:15:48

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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:

  • Why systems are the foundation of strong marketing
  • How to plan campaigns instead of winging them
  • The role of tech in enhancing guest experience
  • Why every touchpoint shapes brand perception
  • How to scale hospitality with the right people
  • The connection between employee and guest experience

Tune in to hear Sebastian’s operations-first take on restaurant marketing and how structure creates standout experiences.
 Thanks, Sebastian!

What Truly Creates Restaurant Magic with Troy Guard16 Apr 202500:18:37

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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:

  • Why “vibe” is the first thing he notices in a restaurant
  • How to scale a brand while staying true to its soul
  • The power of mentorship and opening doors for others
  • Why hospitality is more than food—it’s emotion
  • How to keep concepts fresh without losing consistency
  • Why feedback and change go hand in hand

Tune in to hear how Troy’s people-first philosophy creates lasting guest impressions and sustainable growth.
 Thanks, Troy!

Lessons from a Hospitality Marketing Veteran with Mitch Baker24 Feb 202500:17:47

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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:

  • How Robeks leverages guest data for targeted marketing.
  • The impact of technology on hospitality marketing.
  • The importance of aligning marketing with operations.
  • Best practices for omnichannel brand messaging.
  • Why guest experience hinges on service and accuracy.

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 Josephson16 Nov 202300:18:17

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Donna about:

  • Addressing diverse needs of guests 
  • Importance of emotional connection 
  • Rapid innovation
  • More!

Thanks, Donna!

Emerging Trends and Challenges in the Restaurant Industry With Sam Oches13 Nov 202300:24:54

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Sam about: 

  • Labor availability
  • Rise of automation 
  • Tip culture
  • More!

Thanks, Sam!

A Slice of Superior Customer Service With Deric Rosenbaum09 Nov 202300:18:19

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Deric about:

  • Customer engagement 
  • Using feedback to redirect
  • Compatible traditional and progressive guest experience tactics
  • More!

Thanks, Deric!

Rethinking Restaurant Marketing With Chip Klose06 Nov 202300:16:24

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Chip about:

  • Word-of-mouth
  • The triangle principle
  • Rethinking your marketing plan
  • More!

Thanks, Chip!

Keeping The Human Touch with Andrew Simmons01 Nov 202300:15:39

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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.

Listen to this episode to learn about:

  • The economics of pizza subscription services
  • Using tech in non-tech-savvy neighborhoods
  • The importance of listening to customers
  • How to use transparency to your advantage
  • More

Thanks, Andrew!

Leading and Evolving Successful Restaurant Brands with G.J. Hart30 Oct 202300:22:11

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from G.J. about:

  • The hospitality model
  • Investing in the right people
  • Critical balance between consistency, differentiation, and authenticity 
  • More!

Thanks, G.J.!

Reimagining the Future of Food with Benjamin Kaplan26 Oct 202300:25:25

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Benjamin about:

  • Accuracy and taste
  • Importance of an omnichannel presence 
  • What it means to be plant based
  • More

Thanks, Benjamin!

Transforming the Restaurants of Tomorrow with Andy Freivogel23 Oct 202300:19:46

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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!

On this episode, you'll learn from Andy about: 

  • Back of house support
  • Reducing guest frustration
  • Creativity in improving guest experience
  • More!

Thanks, Andy!

Unlocking the Secrets of Customer Loyalty with Danny Snow19 Oct 202300:18:26

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Danny about: 

  • Creating true loyalty
  • External factors to trust
  • Organizational culture
  • More!

Thanks, Danny!

Trailblazing Restaurant Tech With Priyam Saraswat16 Oct 202300:18:29

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Priyam about:

  • Managing third party
  • Off-Premise Business
  • Consistency in Hospitality
  • More!

Thanks, Priyam!

The Future of Hospitality Marketing with Erin Levzow 17 Feb 202500:18:46

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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 Brezinski12 Oct 202300:23:38

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Mark about: 

  • Preferred communication channels
  • Perfecting traditional guest experience tactics
  • Bouncing back from failure
  • More!

Thanks, Mark!

Bottom Line Boosting With Mark Kelnhofer09 Oct 202300:28:36

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Mark about:

  • Understanding total costs
  • Reacting to cost changes
  • Inventory management 
  • More!

Thanks, Mark!

Proactive Retention Strategy With Hamed Mazrouei 05 Oct 202300:21:59

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Hamed about: 

  • Loyalty as a subset of retention
  • Boosting your top line
  • Importance of understanding customers
  • More!

Thanks, Hamed!

How to Connect Rather Than Transact With Lisa Miller02 Oct 202300:21:12

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Lisa about:

  • How connection is a two way street
  • The business of creating joy
  • Customer retention skills 
  • More!

Thanks, Lisa!

Redefining Customer Loyalty With Ken Bott28 Sep 202300:22:31

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Ken about:

  • Customer loyalty and advocacy 
  • Establishing a connection digitally 
  • What it takes to get a repeat customer 
  • More!

Thanks, Ken!

"Thinkking" Up Digital Marketing Strategies With Jennifer Kaminski25 Sep 202300:21:38

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Jennifer about: 

  • Making digital personal
  • Importance of marketing strategy in startups 
  • Sharing culture through food
  • More!

Thanks, Jennifer!

Hospitality Sliced Right With Brandon and Zane Hunt21 Sep 202300:20:02

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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.

On this episode you'll learn from Brandon and Zane about:

  • Unique in-house hospitality tactics
  • Transparency around the realities of starting your own business
  • Connection and consistency
  • More!

Thanks, Brandon and Zane!

Brand Empowerment Through Ad Building With Patrick Pleiss18 Sep 202300:20:30

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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.

On this episode you'll learn more about: 

  • Helping locations help themselves
  • First impressions (digital and face-to-face)
  • Localized advertising
  • More!

Thanks, Patrick!

Clearing Up Demand Planning With Matt Wampler14 Sep 202300:20:14

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Matt about:

  • Forecasting and customer satisfaction
  • Welcoming change back of house
  • Wonders of AI
  • More!

Thanks, Matt!

Marketing Strategy: The Mediterranean Way With Julie Wade12 Sep 202300:25:47

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Julie about:

  • Loyalty programs
  • Ordering experience
  • consistent strategy (from menu to decor)
  • More! 

Thanks, Julie!

People-First Hospitality with Jennifer Dodd10 Feb 202500:17:14

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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:

  • Why hospitality is—and always will be—a people-first business
  • The power of customization and how it impacts guest experience
  • How technology can enhance service without replacing the human element
  • The tragedy of disengagement in the workforce and how to fix it
  • The importance of employee trust, autonomy, and culture in driving success
  • Innovative solutions Main Squeeze Juice Co. is rolling out to improve guest engagement

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 Snow07 Sep 202300:23:04

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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!

On this episode, you'll learn rom Mike about:

  • Augmented reality
  • Meeting guest expectations
  • Consistency is key
  • More!

Thanks, Mike!

Off The Charts Off-Prem Tactics With Nick Petrocci05 Sep 202300:24:03

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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. 

On this episode you'll learn from Nick about: 

  • Managing third party dynamics
  • Future of off-prem
  • Where off-prem goes wrong
  • More!

Thanks, Nick!

Putting Discipline and Dedication in the Ring With Diamond Dallas Page31 Aug 202300:43:54

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from DDP about:

  • Importance of believing in yourself
  • Taking care of your wellness
  • Transitioning from the ring to the studio
  • More!

Thanks, Diamond!

Leaps and Bounds in Business Development With Dan Posner 28 Aug 202300:28:39

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Dan about:

  • Trusted connection
  • Digital marketing tactics
  • SEO expertise 
  • More!

Thanks, Dan!

Increasing Orders on Autopilot With Gary Chaglasyan21 Aug 202300:21:01

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Gary about:

  • The evolution of off-prem
  • Utilizing ghost/dark kitchens
  • Importance of post-service checkins
  • More!

Thanks, Gary!

Communication and Crisis Management With Tim McIntyre14 Aug 202300:31:03

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Tim about: 

  • How to humanize a brand
  • Establishing positive culture across franchise locations
  • Benefits of employees who love the company/work environment
  • More!

Thanks, Tim!

Franchising Fundamentals With Ray Titus07 Aug 202300:34:32

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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.

On this episode you'll learn from Ray about:

  • Effective communication
  • Lifelong learning
  • Strategic planning 
  • More!

Thanks, Ray!

Technology Stack Expertise with Tamy Duplantis31 Jul 202300:27:28

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Tamy about:

  • Importance of adaptation and change in tech
  • Building your technology stack - layer by layer
  • Role of POS in franchising
  • More!

Thanks, Tamy!

Magicking Up Memorable Brand Experiences With Christine Staley25 Jul 202300:14:23

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Christine about:

  • Catering success
  • Building your brand image through social media 
  • Growing into a multi unit business
  • Effective follow ups 
  • More!

Thanks, Christine!

Ovation Launches Call-to-Text Feature with Derek Morgan17 Jul 202300:15:32

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Derek about:

  • What is Call-to-Text
  • The power of an omnichannel approach
  • Creating consumer connection
  • How to sign up for call-to-text
  • More!

Thanks, Derek!


The Secret to Consistent Success with Joseph Sample03 Feb 202500:17:12

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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:

  • The key question every GM should ask to drive operational excellence
  • Why having one standard is critical for consistency
  • How autonomy and trust improve both team and guest experiences
  • Hiring tactics to identify top-performing restaurant leaders
  • Simple changes that elevate the guest experience, like redefining roles

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 Baklor10 Jul 202300:23:55

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Ed about:

  • Low cost exceptional guest experience
  • Optimizing margins
  • A culture of caring
  • More!

Thanks, Ed!

Perfecting Your Niche With Amir Hudda03 Jul 202300:27:00

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Amir about:

  • The importance of specializing
  • Role of operations in order accuracy
  • Loyalty solutions and builders
  • More!

Thanks, Amir!

Winning in the Digital Space with Sterling Douglass26 Jun 202300:24:58

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Sterling Douglass is the Co-Founder & CEO of Chowly, a leading restaurant technology company helping restaurants optimize off-premise sales and operations. 

Sterling began his career in data analytics as an actuary before founding Chowly. 
His entrepreneurial spirit drove him to make it simpler for small and mid-sized restaurants to leverage best-in-class technologies. Sterling currently serves on the President’s Club of FSTEC, Advisory Council of RTN, Venture Partner at Emerging Venture Capital, and is an active angel investor in early-stage restaurant technology startups. He’s also co-hosted and frequently appears on the Hospitality Hangout, Tech Chef, and Kitchen Obsessed podcasts. And was recently named one of QSR Magazine's “21 Digital Disruptors Shaping Restaurants in 2022.”

On this episode, you'll learn from Sterling about:

  • Building a digital connection
  • Off prem POS integration
  • Fixing up online ordering
  • More!

Thanks, Sterling!

Taking Digitalization Seriously With Meredith Sandland & Carl Orsbourn20 Jun 202300:44:47

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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!

On this episode, you'll learn from Carl and Meredith about:

  • Is third party for you?
  • Tech resolving off-prem issues
  • Internal processes that aid digital channels
  • More!

Thanks, Carl and Meredith!

A Slice of Pizza Industry Expertise With Nick Bogacz12 Jun 202300:23:58

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Nick about: 

  • Finding space to grow within your industry
  • How to grow and empower your internal team 
  • Pre-COVID service
  • More!

Thanks, Nick!

Strategy That Transcends Industry With Jeff Fenster05 Jun 202300:25:22

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Jeff about:

  • Filling the gaps in your skill
  • Importance of strong consumer relationships
  • What proper coaching can do for you
  • More!

Thanks, Jeff!

The Restaurant Industry Uncut With Mike Bausch29 May 202300:27:43

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Mike about:

  • The worst response you may receive from a guest/why
  • Knowing your ideal customer
  • Managing SEO and the initial search
  • More!

Thanks, Mike!



A Culture of Dissatisfaction With Blaine Hurst 22 May 202300:26:46

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Blaine about:

  • A culture of dissatisfaction
  • Preparing for external factors (recession, pandemic, etc.)
  • Getting direct feedback with consumers at scale
  • More!
Thanks, Blaine!

Next Level Quality In Restaurant Solutions With Jeremy Julian15 May 202300:20:58

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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. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Jeremy about: 

  • Interacting with guests keeping retention in mind
  • Ensuring efficient and effective operations
  • The importance of connection
  • More!

Thanks, Jeremy!

Building A Business Vs An Organization With Ryan Thorman08 May 202300:16:48

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Ryan about: 

  • Understanding your business structure
  • Fixing common restaurant missteps
  • The benefits of being "instant"
  • More!

Thanks, Ryan!

Building Purpose-Driven Brands for a Sustainable Future with Seth Goldman30 Jan 202500:20:49

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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.

Zack and Seth discuss:

  • How Seth transitioned from politics to entrepreneurship to drive lasting change
  • The story behind Honest Tea, its evolution into Just Ice Tea, and the focus on transparency and quality
  • Why PLNT Burger empowers customers to invest and participate in its growth
  • The importance of offering inclusive menu options to delight diverse guests
  • How purpose-driven brands can make a real impact on health and the planet

Tune in to hear how Seth’s vision and leadership continue to inspire and transform the food and beverage industry!

Thanks, Seth!

Finding the Balance Between Branding and Performance With Carolyn Walker01 May 202300:25:27

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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.

On this episode, you'll learn from Carolyn about:

  • Remembering the "forgotten" members of the industry 
  • Empowering your staff
  • The importance of branding
  • Simplifying operations
  • More!

Thanks, Carolyn!

Aligning Purpose and Profit With Andrew Glantz24 Apr 202300:15:13

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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:

  • Aligning social impact and business values
  • Growing your business is a sustainable/profitable way
  • The impact of giving/service on your business
  • More!
Thanks, Andrew!

Forging Better Labor Management With Audrey Hogan17 Apr 202300:16:10

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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.

On this episode you'll learn from Audrey about:

  • Knowing what tasks to prioritize
  • Turning goals into action
  • The positive shifts in guest review sentiment
  • The ingredients of a good culture
  • More!

Thanks, Audrey!

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