Explore every episode of the podcast Give an Ovation: The Restaurant Guest Experience Podcast with Zack Oates
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Making AI Practical in Restaurants with Carl Orsbourn of Invisible | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:21:31 | |
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:
Thanks, Carl! Links: | |||
| How Investors Really Evaluate Restaurant Brands with Brian Fauver of Hargett Hunter Capital Management | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:17:38 | |
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:
Thanks, Brian! Links: | |||
| From Brand DNA to Guest Love with Melissa Richards-Person of Third Arm Consulting | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:21:48 | |
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.
Thanks, Melissa! | |||
| Unlocking the Power of Relationships with Patrick Ewers | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:24:13 | |
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. | |||
| How Staffing and Efficiency Drive Restaurant Performance with Joe Guszkowski | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:17:01 | |
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. | |||
| Healthy Eats, Happy Guests: Darden Coors on Salad Collective's Success | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:16:24 | |
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. | |||
| Honoring Solomon Choi: Lessons from the 16 Handles Founder | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:26:08 | |
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. | |||
| Building a Winning Team with Andrew Smith of Savory Fund | 17 Jun 2024 | 00:16:33 | |
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. | |||
| From Core Menu to LTOs: How Slim Chickens Keeps Guests Coming Back | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:12:53 | |
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. | |||
| From Shark Tank to Sweet Success: Jeremy Carlson’s Journey with Crispy Cones | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:14:02 | |
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. | |||
| From PepsiCo to Blaze Pizza: Jim Mizes on Restaurant Growth | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:19:12 | |
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. | |||
| Next Level Loyalty with Olga Lopategui | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:23:10 | |
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. | |||
| Pioneering Poke: How Seth Cohen Built Sweetfin | 30 May 2024 | 00:15:52 | |
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. | |||
| Bringing Brazilian Flavor to NYC with Pedro Uchôa of TAP | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:16:09 | |
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:
Thanks, Pedro! Links: | |||
| Juicing Up Operations: Natalie Green’s Strategies for Success | 28 May 2024 | 00:15:02 | |
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. | |||
| Fan-first Fun: The Savannah Bananas' Playbook with Emily Cole | 23 May 2024 | 00:22:08 | |
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. | |||
| Back to Basics with Susie Sarich of SusieCakes | 21 May 2024 | 00:16:37 | |
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. | |||
| Brewing Up Customer Loyalty with Nick Newbill of 7 Brew Drive-thru Coffee | 17 May 2024 | 00:16:14 | |
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 Lawton | 13 May 2024 | 00:20:14 | |
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. 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. | |||
| Dave's Playbook for a Hot Brand with Jim Bitticks | 09 May 2024 | 00:24:34 | |
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? We hope you enjoy - thanks, Jim! | |||
| Leading with Authenticity with Ricky Richardson of Eggs Up Grill | 06 May 2024 | 00:18:08 | |
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. | |||
| The Golden (Chick) Rule with Brian Loescher | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:16:19 | |
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. | |||
| Continuous Innovation with Craig Dunaway of Penn Station East Coast Subs | 22 Apr 2024 | 00:18:21 | |
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 Pérez | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:19:01 | |
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. | |||
| Detect, Then Train: Rachael Nemeth of Opus Training on AI Interventions that Stick | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:18:11 | |
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:
Thanks, Rachael! Links: | |||
| Shake Shack's Recipe for Tech-Enhanced Customer Journeys with Dave Harris | 08 Apr 2024 | 00:21:40 | |
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. | |||
| Restaurant Strategy in Action with Jared Cohen | 01 Apr 2024 | 00:19:37 | |
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 Tucker | 25 Mar 2024 | 00:22:20 | |
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.
Thanks, Matt! | |||
| Slam Dunk Loyalty with Josh Halpern | 18 Mar 2024 | 00:19:55 | |
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. | |||
| The Difference of a Few Degrees with Andy Husbands | 11 Mar 2024 | 00:17:10 | |
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. | |||
| Compassion in the Culinary Industry with Jen Hidinger-Kendrick | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:16:04 | |
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. | |||
| Making It Cool To Care with Brian Klinger | 04 Mar 2024 | 00:19:21 | |
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. | |||
| Leading Modern Restaurant Employees with Sam Fauser | 05 Feb 2024 | 00:22:35 | |
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 Sheets | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:19:26 | |
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. | |||
| From Star Power to Staying Power with Andy Hooper of Hart House | 29 Jan 2024 | 00:22:13 | |
This episode has a lot of... hart. | |||
| From Fast Food to Full-Service Success with Jay Bandy at Goliath Consulting Group | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:19:05 | |
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:
Thanks, Jay! | |||
| Serving California Food in Alabama with Jennifer Ryan | 24 Jan 2024 | 00:20:21 | |
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. | |||
| Navigating a Lifetime of Achievement in the Food Industry With Carin Stutz | 18 Jan 2024 | 00:25:31 | |
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.
Thanks, Carin! | |||
| The Secret Ingredients to Creating Memorable Dining with Michael McHenry | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:21:55 | |
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.
Thanks, Michael! | |||
| Mastering the Art of Hospitality With David Doty | 11 Jan 2024 | 00:17:51 | |
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.
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| Revolutionizing the Guest Experience With Eric Knott | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:20:35 | |
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.
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| Grilling up Top-Tier Customer Service With Laura Rea Dickey | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:17:04 | |
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.
Thanks, Laura! | |||
| Cereal, Content, and Creativity with Chris Burns | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:21:46 | |
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.
Thanks, Chris! | |||
| Harmonizing Taste and Tech With Jordan Cusner | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:18:10 | |
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!
Thanks, Jordan! | |||
| Parking Lot Pop-Up to Fast Casual Success With Bill Phelps and Arman Oganesyan | 21 Dec 2023 | 00:23:37 | |
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.
Thanks, Bill and Arman! | |||
| Celebrating 250 Episodes with Five Industry Experts | 18 Dec 2023 | 00:45:08 | |
Welcome to our milestone 250th episode of the Give an Ovation podcast, where we have assembled an all-star panel of industry experts: | |||
| The Eye In The Sky That Isn't Creepy with Savi's Brock Weeks | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:16:49 | |
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:
Thanks, Brock! Links: | |||
| Exploring Mental Health and Leadership in the Workplace with Dan Simons | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:17:48 | |
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.
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| The Duality of Dining and Entertainment with Dale Schwartz | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:14:59 | |
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.
Thanks, Dale! | |||
| Inclusive Leadership: Transforming the Restaurant Industry with James Pogue | 04 Dec 2023 | 00:20:42 | |
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.
Thanks, James! | |||