The Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast brought to you by Custom Business Solutions

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, hosts Jeremy Julian and David Alvarado delve into the world of financial technology and its impact on the restaurant industry. They discuss the critical importance of earned wage access, allowing employees to get paid daily, and the advantages it offers for both employers and employees. David Alvarado, who has extensive experience in the restaurant industry, shares insights from his journey, including his tenure at Blooming Brands and his current role at Instant Financial. Instant Financial provides a solution that enables daily pay for non-tipped employees and digital tip distribution, streamlining operations and reducing costs for restaurants. The episode also covers the broader implications of financial wellness tools, including financial literacy education, credit building, and health and wellness benefits, emphasizing how these tools can significantly improve employees' lives. This podcast is a must-listen for restaurant operators looking to gain a competitive edge by adopting technology that addresses modern employees' needs.00:00 Instant Financial01:17 Introduction and Welcome01:45 Meet David Alvarado02:14 David's Career Journey03:36 Introduction to Instant Financial04:57 Understanding Earned Wages07:24 Benefits of Instant Pay13:35 Addressing Concerns About Instant Pay23:33 Digital Tips Management31:09 Employee Financial Wellness37:33 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Paul Potvin, Chief Financial Officer of California Fish Grill, introduces himself and discusses the seafood chain’s mission, expansion plans, and innovative strategies. He elaborates on the company's focus on providing high-quality, sustainable seafood at affordable prices in a fast casual setting. Paul highlights how technology, such as digital menu boards and self-service kiosks, has transformed operations and enhanced customer experience, especially during the pandemic. He also shares insights on managing supply chain challenges and maintaining value for customers. The discussion ends with Paul's personal menu recommendations for new guests.00:00 Introduction to Paul Potvin and California Fish Grill00:20 Expansion Plans and Market Strategy00:47 Brand Mission and Vision01:19 Value and Innovation in Seafood03:09 Digital Transformation and Kiosk Implementation07:38 Impact of Digital Menu Boards11:30 Paul's Recommendations and Conclusion

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, hosts Jeremy Julian and Angelo Esposito, Founder and CEO of WISK, delve into the innovative solutions WISK offers for inventory management in the restaurant industry. They discuss the challenges of traditional inventory methods, the development of WISK's technology combining AI and user-friendly features, and the significant impact these solutions can have on managing prime costs in bars and restaurants. The conversation also touches on AI's role in the restaurant technology arena, offering insights into how modern tools can streamline operations and improve accuracy. Listeners are encouraged to explore WISK's platform and the potential benefits it can bring to their inventory processes.00:00 Wisk01:21 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:30 Understanding Prime Costs in Restaurants01:58 Introducing WISK.ai: Streamlining Restaurant Operations02:50 Challenges in Restaurant Inventory Management04:05 The Origin Story of WISK.ai06:47 Digitizing Old School Processes08:31 The Evolution of WISK.ai12:08 Current Inventory Management Practices14:45 Common Mistakes in Inventory Management17:38 Receiving Product Correctly18:59 Understanding the Inventory Formula19:30 Simplifying Inventory and Purchasing20:36 Handling Item Variations22:24 The Importance of Demos27:27 AI in Inventory Management32:36 Whisk's Full Capabilities33:32 How to Get in Touch and Learn More

In this episode, Cristal Craven, Director of Strategic Partnerships at SynergySuite, introduces herself and explains the concept of 'back office' in the restaurant industry. She discusses how SynergySuite's all-in-one platform simplifies operations by integrating various essential functions like inventory management, scheduling, cash management, and kitchen safety. Cristal emphasizes the importance of partnerships and data consolidation for making informed business decisions. She also highlights SynergySuite's strategy of using tools like Tableau for customizable reports, which allow brands to make specific, data-driven decisions without overburdening the engineering team. The conversation covers the evolving landscape of restaurant technology and how adopting a comprehensive back office solution can save costs, reduce waste, and streamline operations, particularly in times of economic uncertainty.00:00 Introduction to Cristal Craven00:21 Defining Back Office Software01:03 SynergySuite's Comprehensive Approach02:03 Importance of Data and Partnerships04:27 Simplifying Technology for Operators06:52 Adapting to Industry Challenges09:25 How to Connect with SynergySuite10:34 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, Jeremy Julian, the Chief Revenue Officer for CBS North Star, interviews Ha Ly, the head of marketing for Pokeworks. They discuss the rapid expansion of Pokeworks across the U.S. and delve into the unique aspects of the poke cuisine. Ha describes poke as a build-your-own bowl concept featuring raw fish cured in various sauces, emphasizing freshness and flavor. They talk about the national penetration of Pokeworks, its key marketing strategies for entering new markets, and enhancing guest experiences. Additionally, Ha shares insights on Pokeworks' new Hawaiian Hot Plates menu and the importance of their loyalty program in driving repeat customer visits. The conversation provides a comprehensive overview of the brand's growth, guest acquisition strategies, and the exciting new offerings designed to attract a wider audience.00:00 Pokeworks00:56 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:10 Discovering Poke Cuisine06:08 Poke Works Expansion and Market Penetration07:25 Marketing Strategies and Customer Engagement10:34 Loyalty Programs and Customer Retention21:28 New Product Offerings and Future Plans24:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian speaks with the founders of Kids Menu, Herman and Chrissy, to discuss their innovative platform aimed at transforming the children’s dining experience. Kids Menu provides restaurants with customizable, entertaining, and on-demand kids menus that capture children's interest, allowing families to have a more pleasant dining experience. They delve into the ease of use of their platform, which is inspired by tools like Canva, and discuss the business impact of engaging kids menus on restaurant revenue. The founders also share their long-term vision, including gamification, loyalty programs, and enhanced community connectivity. This episode offers valuable insights for restaurant operators seeking to enhance family dining experiences.00:00 Kids Menu00:52 Introduction and Welcome01:17 Meet the Founders: Background and Experience02:12 Introducing KidsMenus.com04:02 The Problem with Traditional Kids Menus04:26 How KidsMenus.com Solves the Problem11:47 Ease of Use and Quick Setup18:15 Affordability and Market Research20:44 Impact on Business and Customer Stories28:44 Legal Risks and Brand Integrity33:19 Future Vision and Roadmap35:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guides podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Kat Claypool from Wisetail, a leader in learning management systems for the restaurant industry. Kat discusses her career journey and the pivotal role Wisetail plays in improving restaurant operations through its employee enablement platform. The conversation covers Wisetail’s comprehensive tools, including learning management systems, operational checklist tools, and newly integrated content management systems resulting from their acquisition of Player Link. Emphasizing the importance of micro-training and tailored solutions for frontline workers, they explore how Wisetail aids in consistency, retention, and data-driven decision-making. Jeremy and Kat also delve into the advantages of tech consolidation, accessibility on multiple device platforms, and the impact of AI in enhancing training content. This episode offers valuable insights into how Wisetail is transforming the restaurant industry's approach to employee training and operational efficiency.00:00 Wisetail01:15 Introduction and Welcome01:27 Meet Kat from Wisetail03:05 What is Wisetail?05:06 The Importance of Micro Training09:16 Hybrid Training and Real-Time Support26:09 Tech Consolidation and Operational Efficiency30:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by Mina, the CEO of Tony Roma's. The discussion covers Mina's unique journey from an attorney conducting due diligence during the 2020 pandemic to becoming the permanent CEO in 2023. Mina shares her vision for revitalizing the beloved brand, focusing on menu innovation, expanding both domestically and internationally, and appealing to Gen Z and Millennials. The conversation highlights the brand's resilience, the importance of social media and influencer marketing, and the flexible support system provided to franchisees. Tune in to learn about Mina's strategy to reintroduce Tony Roma's to a new generation while preserving its cherished legacy.00:00 Tony Roma's01:01 Introduction and Welcome01:23 Meet the New CEO of Tony Roma's01:56 Journey to Becoming CEO03:10 Challenges and Achievements04:28 Revitalizing the Tony Roma's Brand07:55 Explaining the Tony Roma's Experience09:53 Innovations and Menu Updates13:45 Franchisee Relations and Flexibility17:13 Creating Memorable Experiences19:52 Social Media and Marketing Strategies23:05 Future Growth and Expansion Plans27:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian welcomes back a returning guest from Pollo Campero. They discuss sustainable growth, entering new markets, and engaging guests through modern platforms. The guest, Pollo Campero’s VP of Franchise Development, shares insights on brand expansion, customer experience, and leveraging technology. They delve into the brand's strategic efforts during the pandemic, including implementing a mobile app, optimizing kitchens, and expanding customer experience programs. The episode highlights Pollo Campero’s growing presence in the U.S., their marketing strategies to connect with younger generations, and the importance of supply chain logistics. The conversation also touches on the integration of automation and AI in their operations and the significance of maintaining strong supplier relationships.00:00 Audio Pollo Campero00:59 Introduction and Welcome01:30 Guest Background and Experience02:27 Brand Evolution and Growth06:39 Unique Dining Experience09:54 Market Expansion Strategy14:17 Supply Chain and Distribution17:20 Engaging Younger Demographics22:22 Customer Experience and Feedback24:46 Pandemic Impact and Recovery29:47 Technology and Innovation35:04 Long-term Vision and Partnerships37:30 Conclusion and Contact Information