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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
Making AI Practical in Restaurants with Carl Orsbourn of Invisible20 Jan 202600:21:31

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Carl Orsbourn of Invisible joins Zack Oates to unpack what AI really means for restaurant operators and guest experience. Rather than chasing hype, Carl explains how AI can be used practically to support teams, reduce friction, and create better outcomes for both guests and employees.

Zack and Carl discuss:

  •  Why AI should support people instead of replacing them
  •  How operators can use AI to remove busywork from teams
  •  Where AI can improve consistency and execution
  •  What restaurant leaders often misunderstand about automation
  •  How thoughtful AI adoption can elevate the guest experience

Thanks, Carl!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlorsbourn/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/invisible-technologies-inc-/about/
https://invisibletech.ai/

How Investors Really Evaluate Restaurant Brands with Brian Fauver of Hargett Hunter Capital Management12 Jan 202600:17:38

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Brian Fauver, Partner at Hargett Hunter Capital Management, joins Zack Oates to share how investors evaluate restaurant brands through the lens of guest experience. With nearly two decades of experience investing in hospitality, Brian explains why authenticity, hospitality, and emotional connection matter just as much as unit economics when building brands that last.

Zack and Brian discuss:

  •  Why restaurants create powerful guest loyalty
  •  What investors look for beyond unit economics
  •  The difference between service and true hospitality
  •  Why authenticity cannot be manufactured
  •  How guest feedback protects brand trust as concepts scale

Thanks, Brian!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-fauver-1639471/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hargett-hunter/about/
https://hargetthunter.com/

From Brand DNA to Guest Love with Melissa Richards-Person of Third Arm Consulting24 Nov 202500:21:48

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Zack sits down with Melissa Richards-Person of Third Arm Consulting to unpack brand DNA and why it is the root of lasting guest experience. From Papa John’s transformation to creating signature moments guests remember, Melissa shares how clear voice, authentic behavior, and fast service recovery turn problems into loyalty. Zack and Melissa discuss brand DNA, founder led brands, garlic sauce lessons, the peak end rule, and how real time feedback can coach teams while winning back guests. Practical, specific, and immediately usable.

 Zack and Melissa discuss: 

  •  Authenticity and brand DNA
  •  Founder-led brand evolution
  •  The power of small gestures like garlic sauce
  •  Behavioral science behind peak and end moments
  •  How feedback turns into training opportunities
  •  Why clarity in tone beats friendliness every time 

Thanks, Melissa!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-richards-person-3rdarm/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/third-arm-consulting/
https://www.getathirdarm.com/

Unlocking the Power of Relationships with Patrick Ewers01 Jul 202400:24:13

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In this episode of Give an Ovation, we sit down with Patrick Ewers, CEO and founder of MindMaven, an executive coaching firm that has transformed leaders from top companies like Reddit, Roblox, and Sequoia Capital. Patrick shares his insights on the importance of investing in relationships, leveraging time efficiently, and the powerful role of engagement managers. Tune in to learn how to enhance your guest experience and build stronger connections with your team and customers.

Thanks, Patrick!

How Staffing and Efficiency Drive Restaurant Performance with Joe Guszkowski27 Jun 202400:17:01

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In this episode of Give an Ovation, we turn the mic around to interview Joe Guszkowski, a Senior Editor at Restaurant Business covering technology and casual-dining chains. He also hosts RB Daily, a restaurant news podcast.

Joe shares his unique insights on the current state of the restaurant industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by operators today. We dive into the importance of staffing, how efficiency can be a game-changer, and practical tactics for enhancing the guest experience. Tune in to hear from someone who not only reports on the industry but helps shape it with informed perspectives and actionable advice.

Thanks, Joe!

Healthy Eats, Happy Guests: Darden Coors on Salad Collective's Success24 Jun 202400:16:24

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In this episode of Give an Ovation, host Zack Oates sits down with Darden Coors, the CEO of Salad Collective. With over a decade of experience, Darden has been a driving force behind better-for-you fast-casual brands like Mad Greens, Snappy Salads, and Tokyo Joe's. As a fifth-generation Coors and a former lawyer, Darden shares her unique insights on building a successful restaurant brand, the importance of guest experience, and how to balance cautious legal strategies with entrepreneurial spirit.

Thanks, Darden!

Honoring Solomon Choi: Lessons from the 16 Handles Founder18 Jun 202400:26:08

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Note: This episode was recorded before the recent passing of Solomon Choi. He was a dear friend to Zack and the Ovation team, and though we are saddened and shocked by his passing, we were grateful to share this conversation with him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

In this episode of Give an Ovation, Zack Oates sits down with the remarkable Solomon Choi, founder of 16 Handles and CEO of Jabba Brands. Solomon shares his journey of building and scaling 16 Handles, insights on the importance of customer obsession, and innovative strategies like the Oatly partnership that revitalized his brand during the pandemic. This episode is a tribute to Solomon's enduring legacy his invaluable contributions to the restaurant industry, and his bright mind.

Today's Ovation goes to you, Solomon!

Building a Winning Team with Andrew Smith of Savory Fund17 Jun 202400:16:33

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In this special episode of Give an Ovation, host Zack Oates chats with Andrew Smith, Managing Director and Co-Founder of the Savory Fund. Andrew shares invaluable insights into building a successful team, the importance of decisive action, and the current state of the restaurant industry. Tune in to learn how Andrew and his team have navigated turbulent times and emerged stronger than ever. From personal anecdotes to professional strategies, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice for anyone in the restaurant business.

Thanks, Andrew!

From Core Menu to LTOs: How Slim Chickens Keeps Guests Coming Back13 Jun 202400:12:53

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Today, we're thrilled to welcome Tom Gordon, CEO of Slim Chickens. With nearly 22 years at the helm, Tom has been instrumental in transforming Slim Chickens into a beloved brand known for its innovative LTOs and consistently delicious offerings. We discuss how Tom balances staying true to the core menu while continuously introducing exciting new options. He shares his philosophy on creating a frictionless guest experience, from the moment customers drive onto the lot to the time they leave.

Thanks, Tom!

From Shark Tank to Sweet Success: Jeremy Carlson’s Journey with Crispy Cones11 Jun 202400:14:02

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In this Crispy episode of "Give an Ovation," Zack Oates sits down with Jeremy Carlson, founder and CEO of Crispy Cones, to talk about the rollercoaster journey from starting a business to appearing on Shark Tank and beyond. Jeremy shares the highs and lows of building his brand, the importance of guest experience, and the innovative strategies that have helped Crispy Cones thrive. Tune in to hear firsthand insights from an entrepreneur who went from the tank to the bank, landing a deal with Barbara Corcoran and expanding to 50 franchise units.

Thanks, Jeremy!

From PepsiCo to Blaze Pizza: Jim Mizes on Restaurant Growth06 Jun 202400:19:12

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In this episode of "Give an Ovation," Zack Oates welcomes Jim Mizes, a restaurant industry legend with an impressive track record, including roles as VP of PepsiCo, President of brands like Einstein Bros and Blaze Pizza, and various advisory roles. Jim shares his insights on scaling restaurant brands, the importance of aligning founders and financial partners, and the timeless principles of guest experience. Learn how to eliminate operational boulders and focus on what truly matters—developing people and serving guests.

Thanks, Jim!

Next Level Loyalty with Olga Lopategui03 Jun 202400:23:10

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In this 300th episode of "Give an Ovation," host Zack Oates welcomes back Olga Lopategui, a seasoned restaurant marketing consultant and the Founder of Restaurant Loyalty Specialists. Olga shares her expertise in setting up and optimizing loyalty programs for restaurant chains, offering insights into the importance of process optimization and the role of technology in enhancing guest experiences. Tune in to learn about the best practices for maintaining customer loyalty, the impact of effective guest communication, and the strategies Olga recommends for improving guest satisfaction.

Thanks, Olga!

Pioneering Poke: How Seth Cohen Built Sweetfin30 May 202400:15:52

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In this episode of "Give an Ovation," host Zack Oates sits down with Seth Cohen, President and Co-founder of Sweetfin. Seth shares the inspiring journey of Sweetfin's inception, its innovative approach to fast-casual dining, and the emphasis on guest experience that has driven their success. From mastering the art of poke in a market that had never heard of it to building a robust digital ordering and loyalty platform, Seth has some pretty sweet takes.

Thanks, Seth!

Bringing Brazilian Flavor to NYC with Pedro Uchôa of TAP20 Nov 202500:16:09

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Zack sits down with Pedro Uchôa, founder and CEO of TAP, the Brazilian fast casual bringing bold flavor and genuine hospitality to New York and Miami. They discuss TAP’s Perfect Pitch win, the importance of culture-driven leadership, and how small personal touches create big loyalty.

Zack and Pedro discuss:

  •  Authenticity that guests can feel
  •  Personalization at the counter and beyond
  •  Fast casual speed in a New York minute
  •  Feedback loops that level up managers
  •  Storytelling inside the four walls

Thanks, Pedro!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/uchoapedro/
https://www.instagram.com/uchoa__pedro/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/eat-tap/
https://www.instagram.com/eat_tap/?hl=en
https://www.eattap.co/

Juicing Up Operations: Natalie Green’s Strategies for Success28 May 202400:15:02

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In this episode of "Give an Ovation," Zack Oates sits down with Natalie Green, the dynamic COO of Nekter Juice Bar. With over 200 locations, Natalie shares insights from her 12-year journey at Nekter, focusing on the importance of supply chain management, consistency in guest experience, and leveraging technology to enhance customer loyalty. Discover how Natalie's strategic approach to operations and her dedication to a transparent and guest-centric philosophy have propelled Nekter Juice Bar to success.

Thanks, Natalie!

Fan-first Fun: The Savannah Bananas' Playbook with Emily Cole23 May 202400:22:08

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Today we're joined by Emily Cole, the visionary owner of the viral sensation, the Savannah Bananas. Emily shares her journey of transforming the traditional baseball experience into a lively, fun-filled event that captivates fans of all ages. From introducing all-you-can-eat tickets to choreographed player entrances, Emily discusses the innovative strategies that set the Savannah Bananas apart in the sports world. 

Restaurant owners will gain valuable insights into adopting a fan-first mentality, the importance of constant innovation, and how embracing uniqueness can drive a brand to success. Tune in to discover how Emily Cole is redefining baseball and creating unforgettable experiences for her fans.

Back to Basics with Susie Sarich of SusieCakes21 May 202400:16:37

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Susie Sarich created SusieCakes for two reasons: 1) to make it easier for women to work in hospitality, and 2) to bring back classic desserts recipes to the culinary wild west she was witnessing in San Francisco. With her Grandmas' timeless recipes and a focus on each guest, SusieCakes has grown to 26 locations and is poised to continue rising. 

Thanks, Susie! 

Sponsored by Ovation - Actionable Guest Feedback. Visit ovationup.com. 

Brewing Up Customer Loyalty with Nick Newbill of 7 Brew Drive-thru Coffee17 May 202400:16:14

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Join Nick Newbill, Marketing Director of 7 Brew Coffee, as he shares his journey from shift lead to marketing leader. At 7 Brew Coffee, great guest experiences are as important as the perfect brew. He highlights the brand's core values: kindness, authenticity, and community engagement, which have built a loyal customer base.

Nick also discusses the company's ethos, innovative loyalty programs, and franchisee onboarding process. 

Thanks, Nick!

Selling A Feeling with Scott Lawton13 May 202400:20:14

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At the beginning, Scott Lawton didn't know what food he was going to sell at his restaurant concept - but he knew how he wanted it to feel. The rest figured itself out.

On this episode, we explore the art of creating an exceptional guest experience with Scott Lawton, CEO of bartaco and Uncle Julio's Restaurant Group. Scott shares how bartaco cultivates a unique atmosphere, blending concepts from lifestyle retail with dining to offer guests a memorable escape. He discusses the origins of bartaco, inspired by food trucks, and its focus on light, healthful fare.

We also delve into how Scott's team uses customer data to enhance guest satisfaction. Through incentivized surveys and a focus on welcoming first-time guests, they prioritize the emotional experience over sales numbers. Learn how technology plays a key role in making every visit to bartaco special. 

Thanks Scott!

Dave's Playbook for a Hot Brand with Jim Bitticks09 May 202400:24:34

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Joining us today is Jim Bitticks, President and COO of Dave's Hot Chicken! Have you ever wondered how Dave's became the phenomenon that it is? 

On this episode, we explore the brand's formula for success, starting with their rise from a humble pop-up to a thriving franchise. Jim shares how a single review ignited their growth, highlighting the importance of a standout product. He discusses strategic celebrity endorsements, like Drake's, which boosted the brand's visibility, and much more.

Also tune in for some great insights on getting the most out of store openings.

We hope you enjoy - thanks, Jim!

Leading with Authenticity with Ricky Richardson of Eggs Up Grill06 May 202400:18:08

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Today we talk with Ricky Richardson, a seasoned pro from TGI Fridays who is now leading Eggs Up Grill. Ricky shares practical insights on authentic leadership and managing high-energy environments while fostering emotional connections with teams and guests. He emphasizes the importance of passion and effective communication in the guest experience.

We also discuss integrating systems like Toast and kitchen displays to meet evolving customer expectations, alongside trends like upscale dining with vibrant atmospheres and off-premise dining. 

Today's Ovation goes to you, Ricky!

The Golden (Chick) Rule with Brian Loescher29 Apr 202400:16:19

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Join us as we chat with Brian Loescher, President of Golden Chick Franchising, about the secrets behind a stellar restaurant experience. Drawing from his background at Rally's Hamburgers and Arby's, Brian shares practical insights for standing out in customer service and technology. 

Learn about the importance of order accuracy, responsive service, and affordable tech solutions. Tune in for real-world advice on fostering a culture of genuine apologies and staff recognition. Get ready to elevate your guest experience and boost your bottom line.

Thanks, Brian!

Continuous Innovation with Craig Dunaway of Penn Station East Coast Subs22 Apr 202400:18:21

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Today's guest is Craig Dunaway, COO of Penn Station East Coast Subs, who shares insights from his 25 years in the restaurant industry. Learn how to spot lasting trends, adopt new technologies wisely, and use a 'fast follow' approach to stay ahead without breaking the bank.

We'll dive into how third-party delivery services are changing the way customers interact with restaurants and why building personal connections is crucial. Discover how brands like Chipotle keep customers loyal despite challenges like rising labor costs and changing preferences.

Thanks, Craig!

Mastering Marketing in the QSR Industry with Sergio Pérez15 Apr 202400:19:01

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It's Bo time! Today's episode is with Sergio Pérez, Senior Director of Omnichannel at Bojangles, who takes us through his journey from an intern to a strategic executive in the world of restaurant marketing. 

We also talk through the 3 C's: Convenience, Consistency, and Connection, and how you can use them to acquire new guests and keep them coming back for a lifetime.

This one's a marketing must-listen. 

Thanks, Sergio!

Detect, Then Train: Rachael Nemeth of Opus Training on AI Interventions that Stick17 Nov 202500:18:11

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Zack Oates sits down with Rachael Nemeth, CEO of Opus Training, to talk about turning frontline training into real-time performance. Rachael explains why most brands don’t have a completion problem — they have an adoption problem — and how Opus makes training inclusive with instant mobile access and automatic translation. She shares how Opus pairs with Ovation to detect issues early and push targeted refreshers before they become revenue problems.

Zack and Rachael discuss:

  • Training as the foundation of guest experience
  • Adoption vs completion and mobile-first access
  • Using AI to detect anomalies and intervene with training
  • Closing the loop between marketing promises and ops delivery
  • Real-time, location-specific refreshers that lift accuracy and service

Thanks, Rachael!

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-nemeth/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/opus-so/
https://www.opus.so/about-us

Shake Shack's Recipe for Tech-Enhanced Customer Journeys with Dave Harris08 Apr 202400:21:40

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Today we sit down with Shake Shack's CIO, Dave Harris. As you can imagine, he had some great insights on tech stacks, the balance between human and tech-centered hospitality, and the potential he sees AI having on the industry. 

If you're looking for some high level views on tech in your restaurant, as well as some in-the-weeds tactics, you'll love this episode. 

Thanks, Dave!

Restaurant Strategy in Action with Jared Cohen01 Apr 202400:19:37

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Why should all of us care if restaurants are adopting a big-picture strategy? Sure, Mcdonald's should have a strategy team, if not an entire department. But let's get real - say you've got 14 locations. How do you justify having someone as talented and expensive as Jared Cohen?

Jared and Zack explored this on the podcast this week and we learned how he's taken his experience as Senior Director of Global Strategy at Mcdonald's and turned it into real-world change as the COO of Protein Bar & Kitchen.

What stood out to us was the intelligent ways he uses customer data gathered by Ovation and Incentivio to provide a customized guest experience. 

Today's Ovation goes to you, Jared! 

Building Effective Restaurant Teams with Matt Tucker25 Mar 202400:22:20

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Today's episode is with Matt Tucker,  a titan in the industry who was formerly the President and COO of Olo, and is now the Head of Tock. 

Matt and Zack discuss: 

  • The 'cockroach' strategy—a testament to the relentless hustle required to weather the tempests of industry uncertainties
  • Ben Horowitz's "The Hard Thing About Hard Things"
  • Matt's insights on building teams based on trust
  • More

Thanks, Matt!

Slam Dunk Loyalty with Josh Halpern18 Mar 202400:19:55

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Today's episode is with the  CEO of Big Chicken and Beer Park, Josh Halpern, from whom we learn all about the good and the hard that comes from a star-backed brand. Sure, Shaq can bring them in. But how do you get them to stay? Stay tuned to find out, and learn some valuable lessons about loyalty for your restaurant. 

Thanks, Josh!

The Difference of a Few Degrees with Andy Husbands11 Mar 202400:17:10

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Imagine treating every diner like Grandma – with warmth, affection, and a genuine concern for their experience. That's the philosophy Andy Husbands, the acclaimed chef behind Smoke Shop BBQ and the author of "Pitmaster," brings to our table in an eye-opening discussion about the transformative power of hospitality in the restaurant world. Andy peels back the layers of what truly makes a restaurant successful. It's not just the sizzle of the barbecue or the mouthwatering flavors, but the total experience from a heartfelt welcome to the final wave goodbye. 

We tackle the essentials of guest care, from refining a takeaway order to leaving a lasting impression that turns first-time visitors into lifelong patrons.

Compassion in the Culinary Industry with Jen Hidinger-Kendrick07 Mar 202400:16:04

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Our episode today is a heartfelt conversation with the powerhouse behind Giving Kitchen, where we uncover the incredible journey that led Jen from personal tragedy to the founding of an organization that's the embodiment of hope for food service workers facing crisis. Through Giving Kitchen, Jen and her team have turned the tables on misfortune, offering over $11 million in aid to more than 17,000 individuals who keep our favorite eateries running.

This episode is a celebration of the strength that comes when we support those who serve us, and a reminder of the profound impact that stems from a single act of kindness.

Making It Cool To Care with Brian Klinger04 Mar 202400:19:21

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Ever wonder how Chick-fil-A became a byword for customer service excellence? Brian Klinger from Comcast joins us to unravel the secrets behind blending technology with the human touch to create unforgettable restaurant experiences.

We discuss common industry challenges, like upsizing checks and staff shortages, and how companies like Chick-fil-A stand out by putting care at the forefront of their brand philosophy. 

Thanks Brian!

Leading Modern Restaurant Employees with Sam Fauser05 Feb 202400:22:35

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Is leadership an art or a science? Sam Fauser, the guru of team training and development who's left a mark on Domino’s and NASCAR, joins us to explore this intriguing terrain. Together, we pull back the curtain on the evolution of leadership, challenging long-standing myths about 'lazy' generations and discussing the importance of recognizing diverse perspectives and drives among young employees. 

The Science Behind Location, Location, Location with Max Sheets01 Feb 202400:19:26

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In this episode, Max Sheets, Founder & CEO of Chick N Max, peels back the curtain on melding cutting-edge data analytics and AI with the indispensable art of site visits to pinpoint the perfect spot for a thriving restaurant. Whether it's the buzz in the kitchen or the welcome at the door, Max reveals how a deep understanding of the local market's heartbeat is what truly sets a restaurant apart.

Zack and Max also discuss the importance of your people, the differences between hospitality now and 50 years ago, and much more. 

Thanks, Max!

From Star Power to Staying Power with Andy Hooper of Hart House29 Jan 202400:22:13

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This episode has a lot of... hart. 

Discover the art of building a brand that shines on its own, even when it's linked to the dazzle of a celebrity like Kevin Hart. Join us as Andy Hooper, CEO of Hart House, opens up about the delicate dance of leveraging star attraction while ensuring that the brand's essence captivates and retains customers. When Kevin's name draws them in, it's the quality and consistency of Hart House that keeps them coming back.

Drawing inspiration from Will Guidara's "Unreasonable Hospitality," Zack and Andy combination of operational expertise and the personal touch that defines exceptional customer service.

From Fast Food to Full-Service Success with Jay Bandy at Goliath Consulting Group13 Nov 202500:19:05

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Restaurant value is not a price point. It is the experience. In this episode, Zack sits down with Jay Bandy, President at Goliath Consulting Group, to unpack what guests really buy and how teams can deliver it consistently. With nearly four decades in foodservice, Jay shares the practical foundations that still work: hire for warmth, train relentlessly, and build a culture guests can feel.

Zack and Jay discuss:

  • Why value equals price plus experience
  • Hiring signals that predict great front-of-house performance
  • Training first, then hospitality
  • Daily “drip” habits that shape culture
  • Turning B players into A players through service vs. hospitality

Thanks, Jay!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaybandy/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/goliath-consulting-group/
https://jaybandy.com/

Serving California Food in Alabama with Jennifer Ryan24 Jan 202400:20:21

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Jennifer Ryan is the restaurateur behind BlueRoot, a seemingly rare example of healthy, tasting eating in Alabama. She's also the Co-Founder and CEO of Croux,  an online marketplace that connects vetted talent with flexible work opportunities. 

On this episode, Jennifer walks us through creating a culture of "yes" at BlueRoot, where the answer to a customer's request is always one smile away. She even lets us in on her secret sauce for fostering a dedicated, well-compensated team, proving that a smaller staff can make a mighty impact.

Navigating a Lifetime of Achievement in the Food Industry With Carin Stutz18 Jan 202400:25:31

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Prepare to be enlightened by Carin Stutz, a hospitality giant whose restaurant industry experience serves as the backbone of today's conversation. Her tenure at the helm of industry giants like Wendy's and Applebee's has made her a veritable oracle of career wisdom. For anyone dreaming of a hospitality career that leaves a lasting impact, Carin’s insights into operational finesse are a feast of knowledge you won't want to miss.

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

  • Self advocacy
  • Operational strategy
  • International and franchise experience
  • Guest acquisition to retention
  • More!

Thanks, Carin!

The Secret Ingredients to Creating Memorable Dining with Michael McHenry16 Jan 202400:21:55

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Tune in to this week's episode with Michael McHenry, the mastermind behind The McHenry Group, as he joins us to unravel the intricacies of curating dining experiences that linger after the last bite. Michael shares his creative journey, revealing the fusion of tradition and innovation that goes into each menu item's conception, ensuring that it not only delights the palate but also touches the soul.

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

  • Aspects of ambiance
  • Making each location a destination
  • Customer advocacy
  • Tech and personal experience
  • More!

Thanks, Michael!

Mastering the Art of Hospitality With David Doty11 Jan 202400:17:51

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Uncover the secrets behind the scenes of the restaurant world with David Doty, the financier turned hospitality expert. Our conversation peels back the curtain on the meticulous craft of curating a five-star guest experience, revealing the heart and soul that transform a meal into an enduring memory. David imparts his unique perspective on steering iconic establishments to new heights. 

On this episode you'll learn from David about:

  • Turning customer interactions into loyalty
  • Personalized service
  • Empowering staff
  • More!


Thanks, David!

Revolutionizing the Guest Experience With Eric Knott09 Jan 202400:20:35

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Unlock the secrets behind the fast-food revolution with Eric Knott, COO of PDQ, as we discuss the art of enhancing the guest experience in the bustling restaurant industry. Learn how PDQ's dedication to quality goes beyond mouthwatering meals, delving into the heart of their team dynamics and community engagement. As we examine the ripple effects of business practices on both community and industry, you'll grasp how PDQ is setting a new standard for fostering lasting relationships and exceptional service.

In this episode, you'll learn from Eric about:

  • Daring operational choices
  • Pivotal role of feedback
  • Impact of guest engagement
  • More!


Thanks, Eric!

Grilling up Top-Tier Customer Service With Laura Rea Dickey04 Jan 202400:17:04

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Discover the secret sauce behind creating an unforgettable guest experience with Laura Ray Dickey, the CEO of Dickey's BBQ Pit. Dickey's BBQ is a legacy brand that began in 1941. In this episode, Laura pulls back the curtain on what it takes to serve up mouthwatering barbecue and lays bare the critical decisions that shape a beloved brand.

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

  • Innovative metrics of success
  • Turning feedback into stepping stones
  • The importance of trust
  • More!

Thanks, Laura!

Cereal, Content, and Creativity with Chris Burns 02 Jan 202400:21:46

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Unlock the secrets of social media stardom with Cereal Killerz Kitchen Owner, Chris Burns.  Chris dishes out the recipe for creating content that not only tickles the taste buds but also captures the hearts of over a million followers. Step into the vibrant hustle of Las Vegas Strip marketing, where Chris Burns navigates the transient tides of customers with a shrewd social media strategy.

On this episode you'll learn from Chris about:

  • Authenticity and relatability
  • Advertising in budget
  • Correcting content misconceptions
  • Social media tactics
  • More!

Thanks, Chris!

Harmonizing Taste and Tech With Jordan Cusner28 Dec 202300:18:10

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Step into the dynamic world of hospitality as Jordan Cusner shares how he transitioned from musician to lawyer, and now guest insights as he executes enhanced dining experiences with data-driven creativity. Jordan reveals his philosophy on cultivating ideas and reflects on the industry's most mouth-watering advancements, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

On this episode you'll learn from Jordan about: 

  • Guest centricity
  • Sharing objectives across organizations
  • Innovating connecting with guests
  • More!

Thanks, Jordan!

Parking Lot Pop-Up to Fast Casual Success With Bill Phelps and Arman Oganesyan21 Dec 202300:23:37

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Get ready because this week's episode dives into the booming industry of fast casual fried-chicken as we chat with Dave's Hot Chicken's powerhouse duo: Co-Founder/CBO Arman Oganesyan and CEO Bill Phelps. Arman's marketing ingenuity and Bill's strategic eye have catapulted Dave's Hot Chicken from a local curiosity to a national sensation. 

On this episode, you'll learn from Arman and Bill about:

  • Vision that guides branding
  • Operational wisdom and simplicity
  • Staying true to core identity
  • Quality and authenticity
  • More!

Thanks, Bill and Arman!

Celebrating 250 Episodes with Five Industry Experts18 Dec 202300:45:08

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Welcome to our milestone 250th episode of the Give an Ovation podcast, where we have assembled an all-star panel of industry experts:

🎙 Kelly MacPherson, Union Square Hospitality Group
🎙 Shawn P. Walchef, Cali BBQ Media
🎙 David "Rev" Ciancio, Handcraft Burgers and Brew, Branded Hospitality Ventures, and... everywhere else basically
🎙 Geoff Alexander, Wow Bao
🎙 Christopher J. Ramirez, Dog Haus & The Absolute Brands

This episode features more than just a panel of experts discussing ideas. We're actually out there on the restaurant floor, engaging with our guests, learning, experimenting, and evolving. Join us as we navigate the path between preserving tradition and embracing innovation, the relevance of technology, and the importance of two-way guest feedback. So, pull up a chair and tune in for our ground breaking episode of Give an Ovation!

Thanks, everyone!

The Eye In The Sky That Isn't Creepy with Savi's Brock Weeks10 Nov 202500:16:49

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Zack Oates welcomes Brock Weeks, CEO of Savi, to talk about using AI to measure and improve in-store guest experiences. Brock explains how Savi transforms existing security footage into actionable insights that help operators understand consistency, cleanliness, and engagement in real time. Together, Zack and Brock discuss the connection between AI, feedback, and the human side of hospitality.

Zack and Brock discuss:

  • Using AI to measure consistency and guest interactions
  • The “time to engage” metric and what it reveals
  • Why data only works when it fits real workflows
  • How AI empowers frontline workers instead of replacing them
  • Why consistency builds trust

Thanks, Brock!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brock-weeks-7b7471a/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/savi-solutions/
https://getsavi.com/

Exploring Mental Health and Leadership in the Workplace with Dan Simons11 Dec 202300:17:48

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Strap in as we journey through an insightful conversation with Dan Simons, Founder and Co-owner of Farmers Restaurant Group. As a leader in the business world, he underlines the importance of striking a balance – pushing employees to achieve their goals while also ensuring their mental well-being is prioritized. 

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

  • Mental health in the workplace
  • Effective leadership and employee advocacy
  • Farm-to-table concepts
  • More!


Thanks, Dan!

The Duality of Dining and Entertainment with Dale Schwartz07 Dec 202300:14:59

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Imagine dining in a world-class restaurant and, as an added bonus, enjoying a lively game of bowling or bocce right there. That's the winning recipe Dale Schwartz, Founder and CEO of Pinstripes, brings to the table. From his journey as a visionary entrepreneur to the inception of Pinstripes, Dale shares the ups and downs of his business adventure.

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

  • Crucial role of feedback 
  • Cueing the guest
  • Entrepreneurial success 
  • More!

Thanks, Dale!

Inclusive Leadership: Transforming the Restaurant Industry with James Pogue04 Dec 202300:20:42

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Experience a revealing conversation as we delve into the intricate world of diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DIB) in the restaurant industry with Dr. James Pogue. You'll gain a new appreciation for the importance of DIB and its role in enhancing productivity, igniting innovation, and strengthening collaboration.

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

  • DIBs 
  • Inclusive leadership
  • Creating a sense of belonging across experiences
  • Understanding but not limiting team members
  • More!

Thanks, James!

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