The meez Podcast

#62. In this engaging episode of The meez Podcast, host Josh Sharkey sits down with his friend and accomplished entrepreneur, Jordan Silverman. Josh and Jordan delve into the journey that led Jordan from his role as VP of Customer Success at MarketMan to founding his innovative AI company, Starfish.Jordan's impressive track record of going above and beyond to help others is a central theme in their discussion. Josh recounts how Jordan's willingness to share his expertise and offer support was invaluable during the early days of meez. This generosity foreshadowed Jordan's success, culminating in the launch of Starfish.Starfish, an AI-driven platform, revolutionizes financial management by generating P&Ls with remarkable speed and precision, uncovering opportunities for margin improvement, and simplifying multi-location financial oversight. Josh and Jordan explore the impact of this technology on the restaurant industry and beyond, highlighting its potential to transform financial processes.In a playful twist, Josh experiments with AI tools like ChatGPT and Meta AI during the conversation, creating some surprisingly impressive slogans and taglines for Starfish. This light-hearted segment underscores Jordan's enthusiasm for AI and its creative possibilities.Join Josh and Jordan for a thought-provoking discussion about entrepreneurship, innovation, and the exciting advancements in AI that are shaping the future. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a business professional, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of inspiration.Where to find Jordan Silverman:Jordan's LinkedInStarfish LinkedInStarfish InstagramStarfish TwitterStarfish TikTokStarfish FacebookWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(04:04): Jordan's start with Star TP(07:28): How Josh and Jordan met(14:10): What is customer success and how did Jordan start working in that field?(18:55): Jordan's opinion on what the biggest change has been in the adoption of software for restaurant companies(21:53): Starfish 101(32:11): What Starfish is planning for the future(34:36): Specific things Jordan finds exciting in AI(40:14): Josh gives ChatGPT prompts to create slogans for Starfish(43:22): What makes Jordan angryBook Recomendations Relentless by Tim GroverThe Fountainhead by Ayn RandAtlas Shrugged by Ayn RandLiving with a Seal by Jesse Etzner 

#61. In this episode of The meez Podcast, host Josh Sharkey welcomes Sam Bernstein, the founder of Table22. Table22 is a pioneering company designed to help restaurants generate incremental new revenue through subscriptions, including memberships, CPG products, and events.Josh and Sam's paths first crossed at The Chef Conference in Philadelphia. Since then, their encounters have become frequent, most recently at the National Restaurant Association Show, where they connected at an event hosted by meez, Made In Cookware, and Fernet.In this episode, Josh delves into Sam's entrepreneurial journey, discussing his impressive background as a Thiel Fellow and his early forays in real estate before founding Table22. Sam's passion and smart approach to supporting the restaurant industry shine through as he shares insights into the growth of Table22 and his vision for the future of restaurant revenue streams.Tune in to hear about Sam's innovative strategies, his dedication to the restaurant community, and the story behind Table22. Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with entrepreneurial wisdom and industry insights.Where to find Sam Bernstein:InstagramLinkedInWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(03:41): Sam's background(15:17): Sam's learnings from receiving a Thiel Fellowship(22:00): How Table22 works(47:39): Sam's interpretation of the 11 star experience for Table22

#60. For this week's episode, we are thrilled to welcome chef Alon Shaya. Alon is a two-time James Beard Award winner, having earned accolades for Best Chef in the South and Best New Restaurant. He's also the author of the acclaimed book "Shaya," a book that traces the evolution of a cuisine and the transformative power of cooking throughout Alon's personal life and career. Alon has made significant strides in the culinary world. He is the chef-partner, and founder of Pomegranate Hospitality, a venture he started with his wife, Emily. Alon is deeply involved in philanthropy. One of his notable initiatives is Rescuing Recipes, inspired by a moving story from the Holocaust Museum about a Yugoslavian Jewish family and their preserved recipe book. Alon has been recreating these recipes and sharing them across the country with Steven Fenves.Additionally, Alon co-founded the Shaya Barnett Foundation with Donna Barnett, contributing further to his legacy of giving back. In this episode, we delve into Alon's philanthropic efforts, his innovative approach to building a supportive and sustainable company culture at Pomegranate Hospitality, and his commitment to ensuring his team has access to health insurance and a safe working environment.Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Chef Alon Shaya, his impactful work beyond the kitchen, and the experiences that have shaped his remarkable career.Where to find Alon Shaya:InstagramLinkedInTwitterWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(03:57): Alon's experience coming from Israel to Philadelphia (09:09): Does suffering make for an entrepreneurial spirit?(16:26): A Cookbook's purpose in the past vs. now(21:18): How does Alon have time for fly fishing?(27:54): How Alon manages the culture part of his business(39:14): How core values manifest in day-to-day business(51:14): Shaya Barnett Foundation

#59. Join host Josh Sharkey on this engaging episode of The meez Podcast as he sits down with Sterling Douglass, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of Chowly, a trailblazing  food tech company that enhances your sales through strategic first and third-party distribution channels, alongside sophisticated advertising and marketing support.Sterling shares his journey from an actuary to a leading entrepreneur, revealing the challenges and triumphs of building a company. This episode dives into the innovative concept of dynamic pricing in restaurants, drawing parallels with fluctuating airline ticket costs. Sterling offers his expert insights on how this approach could revolutionize profitability in the food industry. Josh Sharkey and Sterling Douglass will both be present at this year's NRA Show as well as Utility, taking place from May 19th-20th. Drop by and meet them in person!This conversation is essential listening for anyone at the crossroads of technology and the culinary industry. Whether you're steering a startup or operating within a large corporation, the insights and advice from Sterling can profoundly impact your approach. Where to find Sterling Douglass:InstagramLinkedInTwitterWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(04:32): Sterling's background as an actuary and why he changed careers(12:44): Where the idea for Chowly came from(17:08): What Chowly is and who it serves(22:08): Why restaurants get the short end of the stick(26:22): Chowly and first party ordering(31:34): Should companies, "do it all"? Or should they focus on one thing(41:05): The 11 star experience(54:54): Being a parent and a founder

#58. Dive into an exhilarating episode of The meez Podcast recorded live at The Chef Conference in Philadelphia. This special installment features a dynamic panel discussion hosted by our founder and CEO, Josh Sharkey, with four culinary luminaries, each bringing a unique blend of creativity, science, and innovation to the table.Join us as we engage with Rosio Sanchez, the esteemed former pastry chef at Noma and now thriving as the chef and founder of Sanchez and Hija de Sanchez in Copenhagen. Alongside her, experience the insightful musings of Arielle Johnson, PhD, a flavor scientist and co-founder of the Fermentation Lab, who has advised some of the world's top chefs and authored the book "Flavorama."The conversation also includes Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr. Lyan, a cocktail virtuoso recognized globally for his award-winning bars and innovative drink creations. Completing the panel is Thomas Frebel, former head of R&D for Noma, who has continued to push culinary boundaries as the chef of the Michelin-starred Inua in Japan and now as the creative director at Noma.This episode delves deep into the intricacies of menu development, the blend of scientific and creative approaches in culinary arts, and the continuous pursuit of innovation. From discussing when a dish feels complete to exploring R&D processes and the essence of collaboration, this panel covers it all. Where to find Ryan Chetiyawardana:InstagramLinkedInTwitterWhere to find Rosio Sanchez: InstagramLinkedInTwitterWhere to find Arielle Johnson: InstagramLinkedInTwitterWhere to find Thomas Frebel:InstagramWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(04:27): Introductions(06:05): When do you know that a dish is done?(18:53): How do you combat analysis paralysis?(33:22): Arielle's book and why it's important to understand why. (42:41): How do you balance that absence of pragmatism when you're coming up with new ideas?(59:22): Q&A from the audience

#57. In this episode, we sit down with Ellen Cassidy, the founder of Elemental Prep, a company that teaches people how to retain information. Ellen shares her innovative process of information retention, which involves reading, translating, and quipping. She explains how to code information with emotions by intoning the words as you say them, translating the information in your own words, and creating a conversation with what you read. This process helps people retain information and make it their own. The episode also touches on Ellen's background and her journey to creating Elemental Prep. Ellen discusses the power of effective note-taking and the importance of translating information into one's own words. She shares her personal experience with note-taking and how it helps her remember and understand information. Ellen also talks about the value of indexing advice and using intuition to make decisions. She highlights the need for trust in relationships and the challenges of managing a growing team. Ellen ends with sharing her vision for the future, including expanding her tutoring business and developing a tech platform for asynchronous learning.Where to find Ellen Cassidy:InstagramLinkedInTikTokWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(08:32): Growing up and handling trauma(15:35): The process of retaining information(31:09): The community and future of elemental prep(40:08): Faster with less effort(41:31): Good way to index advice(43:55): Portfolia and investment(46:20): What makes you angry?(48:49): The importance of trust in relationships(56:49): A vision for the future: expanding the tutoring business and developing a tech platform

#56. In the latest episode of The meez Podcast, we had the pleasure of conversing with the masterful Avery Ruzicka, founder and head baker of Manresa Bread. Avery delves into the art of breadmaking, sharing her passion for milling flour in-house and the distinctive flavors it yields. She also enlightens us on the benefits of natural leavening, not just for taste but for digestion too, and offers her take on the ubiquitous all-purpose flour.But Avery's expertise doesn't end at the oven. She's a culinary entrepreneur who's mastered the delicate balance of scaling a business without compromising on quality. From the intricacies of expansion to maintaining excellence across multiple locations, Avery's journey with Manresa Bread is a testament to her dual prowess as a chef and a savvy business operator.Tune in to this insightful episode to uncover the secrets behind crafting exceptional bread and the strategies that have allowed Avery to grow her business while keeping the essence of her craft alive. Thank you, Avery, for an enlightening conversation!Where to find Avery Ruzicka: InstagramLinkedInWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(02:37) Avery's background(05:08) Organization and calendars(10:07) The benefits of milling your own flour(24:12) Avery's thoughts on all purpose flour(27:54) Surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you(38:26) The importance of the retention of team members(41:09) The reason behind Avery and Manresa Bread's success (44:35) Delegation in owning and running a business(52:50) Other bread programs Avery favors(57:29) What Avery would do if she had unlimited resources**SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MEEZ POD LISTENERS**:Just give the code "meezpod24" to your meez Services Manager for a 100% discount on our “Premium Recipe Upload Service- Hourly (coupon covers 4 hours. one time use only, must be a meez customer)

#55. In this week's episode, we sit down with the remarkable Chef Fiore Tedesco, co-owner of the renowned L'Oca d'Oro in Austin and the visionary behind an eagerly anticipated new pizza venture, Bambino. Beyond his entrepreneurial spirit, Chef Fiore is a proud supporter of Good Work Austin, showcasing his commitment to community and culinary excellence.Join us as Chef Fiore shares his extraordinary journey, marked by both hardship and triumph. From his early years influenced by a significant hearing impairment to navigating homelessness in New York's Washington Square Park, his path has been anything but ordinary. Yet, it's these very challenges that have sharpened his senses and shaped him into the acclaimed chef he is today.With a rich background that spans the music and fashion industries, alongside mentorship from culinary giants like Chef Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern, Fiore's story is a testament to resilience and passion. His transition to Austin opened a new chapter, allowing him to explore the soul of Italian cuisine, deeply rooted in his family's heritage.This episode delves deep into the essence of struggle, resilience, and the art of cooking with soul. Fiore's insights into overcoming adversity, fostering resilience within his team, and imparting life's tough lessons to the next generation are both enlightening and inspiring.Prepare to be moved by a conversation that's as profound as it is unexpected, filled with life lessons that extend far beyond the kitchen. Chef Fiore Tedesco's narrative is not just about culinary success; it's a compelling exploration of the human spirit's capacity to overcome and flourish.Where to find Fiore Tedesco: InstagramLinkedInWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(04:11) Reminiscing about Indie Chefs Event(05:02) Fiore's movie, Severed Ways(09:26) Fiore's diverse background as an artist and his bout of homelessness(21:36) Fiore's experience growing up deaf(29:07) Experiencing Suffering and how it can lead to strong resilliance(35:46) Teaching resilience to your children (47:20) Balancing technique in soul in Fiore's restaurant(54:17) Fiore's new pizza joint(1:06:53) What Fiore would do if he had limited resources**SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MEEZ POD LISTENERS**:Just give the code "meezpod24" to your meez Services Manager for a 100% discount on our “Premium Recipe Upload Service- Hourly (coupon covers 4 hours. one time use only, must be a meez customer)

#54. Welcome to this captivating episode of The meez Podcast, where we explore the heart of culinary innovation and education with our distinguished guest, Mike Traud,  founder of The Chef Conference (formerly known as the Philly Chef Conference) in the gastronomic hub of Philadelphia. With a legacy spanning over a decade and 10 groundbreaking conferences, Mike has significantly contributed to the culinary landscape through this annual event, which started during his tenure as the Director of Hospitality Management at Drexel University.In today's conversation, we uncover the essence of The Chef Conference, exploring its evolution, significance, and what makes it a beacon for culinary professionals worldwide. Mike, with his rich background in hospitality law, culinary arts, and education, and his notable stint with Marc Vetri, brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into creating an event that not only celebrates but also advances the culinary industry.Our dialogue extends into the meticulous planning and sheer effort required to bring such a conference to life, highlighting Mike's dedication and passion for fostering community and innovation among chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike. The Chef Conference has become a coveted gathering, attracting an impressive roster of culinary talents and thought leaders, indicative of its prestige and impact on the culinary world.Adding a personal touch to our discussion, our CEO and founder, Josh Sharkey, shares his excitement and anticipation for moderating a panel on menu development, featuring celebrated chefs Ariel Johnson, Mr. Lyan, Rosio Sanchez, and Thomas Frebel. This opportunity not only allows for an engaging exploration of culinary creativity but also marks Josh's inaugural experience in panel moderation—a journey inspired by the conference's ethos of organic, passionate participation from all involved.Moreover, we delve into the vital conversation about the intersection of education and industry, a theme close to Mike's heart, given his extensive background in academia. This discussion sheds light on the ongoing debate regarding the relevance of culinary education and how initiatives like The Chef Conference are pivotal in bridging the gap, ensuring a symbiotic relationship between learning and practical application.As we gear up for this year's Chef Conference, taking place from April 12-15, we invite you to immerse yourself in the plethora of panels and special events lined up. Where to find Mike Traud: InstagramThe Chef Conference InstagramWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterIn this episode, we cover:(04:53) Mike's background in law and how he transitioned to food(11:50) Where to eat in Philly(14:21) How The Chef Conference was created(16:23) The gap between education and industry(19:49) Mike's goal for the conference(22:41) Menu Development 101 panel(24:09) How Mike chooses which panels to have during the conference(30:10) What Mike loves most about the conference(37:35) Biggest challenges faced every year(44:52) The benefits of an intimate conference(52:54) Goals for future conferences**SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MEEZ POD LISTENERS**:Just give the code "meezpod24" to your meez Services Manager for a 100% discount on our “Premium Recipe Upload Service- Hourly (coupon covers 4 hours. one time use only, must be a meez customer)

#53. This week, we're joined by a distinguished entrepreneur, activist, public speaker, mediator, chef, and a key figure in the hospitality industry, Elizabeth Meltz. Elizabeth shines not only through her involvement on the boards of various organizations championing the hospitality sector and women's empowerment but also as the founder of EM PATH, a company dedicated to refining leadership, culture, and management in hospitality and beyond.With over a decade of experience with the Batali and Bastianich group, along with pivotal roles at B&B Hospitality, Eataly, and Dig In, she has deeply influenced sustainability, environmental health, and food safety within the hospitality realm.This episode takes you through a thoughtful conversation about what defines exceptional leadership, the challenges of leadership in the restaurant sector, and her ambitions for advancing leadership education within hospitality. We discuss her impactful journey, from delivering a TED talk to establishing Women in Hospitality United during a period of significant turmoil, and her efforts in creating organizations that broadly support the hospitality industry.From our first in-person meeting in New York, where we discovered the depths of her background, to an exchange of impactful books (which we'll detail in the notes), this discussion is packed with educational insights, inspiring stories, and enjoyable moments.Geared towards professionals in the field and enthusiasts passionate about leadership, communication, and hospitality, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the industry through the eyes of a visionary. Where to find Elizabeth Meltz: LinkedInWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInTikTokTwitterBooks Mentioned in This Episode: High Output Management By Andrew GroveOne Minute Manager By Ken BlanchardThe Art of Gathering By Priya ParkerThanks for the Feedback By Douglas StoneYou're Not Listening By Kate MurphyWhy Won't You Apologize By Harriet LernerRadical Candor By Kim ScottEndurance By Alfred LansingFive Days at Memorial By Sheri FinkElon Musk By Walter IsaacsonBen Franklin By Walter IsaacsonIn this episode, we cover:(04:10) Elizabeth's background in the restaurant industry(07:44) Elizabeth's role in creating food safety procedures(11:24) Oyster Sunday & Drive Change(13:48) Elizabeth's Superpower & EM PATH(22:42) Mediation in all its forms(30:29) DISC Assessments(35:45) Circle keeping(41:59) Making team success your KPI(52:25) OKRs(59:37) Women In Hospitality United(1:04:39) Elizabeth's experience with TED Talks