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

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

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by hospitality tech veteran Seth Temko of Full On Strategy. Seth shares insights from his 25 years in the industry, discussing his various roles in pioneering restaurant tech initiatives and innovations. They delve into Seth's newest venture, Full On Strategy, a consultancy aimed at helping restaurant and tech companies implement effective go-to-market strategies. The episode explores the importance of awareness, education, and touchpoints in marketing, how to identify and address early signs of unmet forecasts, and strategic advice for scaling a business successfully. Seth and Jeremy also emphasize the role of emotional selling and the necessity of data-informed marketing. A valuable listen for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of successful restaurant tech implementations and business growth. For more details visit fullonstrategy.com or connect with Seth on LinkedIn.00:00 Audio Full On Strategy00:58 Introduction and Guest Background01:37 Early Career in Hospitality Tech02:44 Innovations and Missed Opportunities04:09 Career Transitions and New Ventures05:50 Founding Full On Strategy06:57 Consulting Services and Approach11:09 Marketing Challenges in Restaurant Tech19:24 Understanding Buyer Psychology21:29 The Importance of Doing the Right Thing in Marketing22:55 Understanding Marketing Attribution and Data Points27:00 Challenges and Strategies in Marketing Alignment33:28 The Role of Marketing in Hyper Growth38:20 Engaging with Full On Strategy

Succeeding in the Restaurant Industry with NRN's Sam OchesIn this episode, Jeremy Julian hosts Sam Oches, Editor in Chief of The Nation's Restaurant News, to discuss significant trends and insights shaping the restaurant industry in 2025 and beyond. Sam highlights the success strategies of top restaurant brands like Texas Roadhouse, Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane's, and Jersey Mike's, emphasizing consistency, quality, and efficient operations. They also explore innovation while maintaining brand integrity, employee investment, and managing growth. Moreover, they delve into the impact of technology, especially in enhancing employee efficiency, and the importance of adaptive strategies for casual dining brands. The episode is rich with strategies for navigating the evolving restaurant landscape.00:00 Sam Oches00:41 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:08 Sam Oches: Background and Role02:15 Current Trends in the Restaurant Industry02:40 Successful Restaurant Brands and Their Strategies04:36 Balancing Consistency and Innovation10:48 Employee Investment and Retention15:14 Growth Strategies and Challenges19:30 Casual Dining: Challenges and Opportunities20:17 Introduction to Fogo de Chão's Success20:45 Gen Z's Favorite Full-Service Restaurant21:47 The Evolution of Casual Dining22:37 Twin Peaks: A Modern Sports Bar Experience23:26 Gustavo Group's Community-Centric Approach24:47 Balancing Tradition and Innovation27:39 Future of Restaurant Technology31:43 Employee Engagement and Retention Strategies34:39 Connecting with Industry Leaders

Restaurant Tech Innovations: AI, Dynamic Pricing, and Future Trends with Joe GaskowskiIn this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Joe Gaskowski, Senior Editor at Restaurant Business, to discuss the state of the restaurant industry, especially casual dining, and future technological trends. They talk about the impact of AI in areas such as drive-thrus, back-of-house operations, and marketing. The conversation also delves into the controversial dynamic pricing, voice AI, and the strategic use of third-party delivery services. Additionally, the challenges of integrating new tech with legacy systems and the importance of tech consolidation for seamless operations are highlighted.00:00 Audio Joe Guszkowski00:50 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:14 Joe Gaskowski's Background and Role02:29 Trends in Restaurant Technology for 202403:06 The Rise of AI in the Restaurant Industry04:49 Dynamic Pricing in Restaurants15:10 Voice AI and Its Applications21:50 Third-Party Delivery Services25:44 Technology in Casual Dining31:40 Future of Restaurant Technology33:47 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

Innovating Consistency: Donato's Pizza with CEO Kevin KingIn this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Kevin King, the CEO of Donatos Pizza, a legacy brand based in Columbus, Ohio. Kevin shares his journey in the restaurant industry, including his return to Donatos, and discusses the company's unique value proposition and operational consistency. The conversation delves into Donatos' emphasis on high-quality ingredients and their strict adherence to consistency, aided by their proprietary technology and operating systems. Kevin also talks about the brand's innovative use of AI in ordering, automation, and their strategic partnerships, including with Red Robin. The episode explores Donatos' future plans, including automation in kitchens and expanding their footprint while maintaining core mission values of quality, service, and hospitality.00:00 Audio Donatos Pizza00:11 Introduction to Today's Episode01:13 Meet Kevin, CEO of Donatos Pizza01:47 Kevin's Career Journey02:53 Returning to Donatos07:23 Donatos' Unique Value Proposition11:28 Mission and Values of Donatos14:21 Customer Experience and Market Strategy16:56 Technology and Innovation at Donatos30:07 Franchising and Expansion35:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navigating Tariffs and Technology: Insights from Canada's Restaurant Guy, Jay AshtonIn this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Jay Ashton, known as Canada's Restaurant Guy. They delve into the non-political impact of regulations, especially tariffs, on the restaurant industry in both Canada and the U.S. Jay shares his extensive experience in the restaurant supply chain, discusses the potential severe impact of upcoming tariffs similar to or worse than COVID-19, and stresses the need for strategic planning. They also explore innovative revenue streams, the role of AI in restaurant management, and the importance of community and cooperation among restauranteurs. If you're looking for ways to future-proof your restaurant against economic uncertainties, this episode is filled with practical advice and unique insights.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:12 Meet Jay Ashton: Canada's Restaurant Guy03:34 Impact of Tariffs on the Restaurant Industry07:54 Strategies for Restaurants to Navigate Tariff Challenges17:09 Exploring New Business Models and Revenue Streams25:16 The Role of AI and Technology in Modern Restaurants31:00 Conclusion and How to Stay Connected

Unlocking Restaurant Success: A Deep Dive with Matt Plapp on Marketing and LoyaltyIn this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Matt Plapp, a seasoned marketing expert in the restaurant industry and CEO of America's Best Restaurants. Matt, also known as the Chief Energy Officer, shares insights on creating memorable guest experiences and leveraging digital loyalty programs to keep restaurant guests returning. He discusses his journey from working with his father's clients in the restaurant business to growing a marketing company that now serves thousands of restaurants nationwide. Matt explains the importance of customer acquisition and retention, emphasizing the value of capturing and utilizing customer data effectively. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in restaurant marketing, with real-world examples of success stories driven by strategic marketing and technology adoption. The episode highlights the significance of continuous self-improvement for restaurant owners and managers, encouraging them to invest in both personal development and smart marketing strategies to drive business growth.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:21 Matt Plapp's Background and Journey04:28 Marketing Strategies for Restaurants07:20 The Importance of Customer Data14:22 Challenges and Solutions in Restaurant Marketing22:32 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories28:05 A Pizza Restaurant's Remarkable Growth28:34 The Power of Business Coaching29:29 Avery's Success Story30:13 Engaging with Social Media30:35 Road Trip with Dad31:40 Matt Plapp's Marketing Philosophy32:53 Customer Acquisition Strategies40:57 The Birth of Driver43:02 The Importance of Continuous Improvement49:24 Connecting with Matt Plapp50:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, CRO of Custom Business Solutions with over 25 years in restaurant tech, hosts Can, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Finch. Finch offers innovative digital media platforms tailored for restaurants, allowing them to advertise in-house specials and sell screen time to third-party advertisers. Can explains how Finch aims to help restaurant owners enhance guest experiences, drive behavior, and boost margins without incurring costs for hardware or installation. Highlights include real-time advertising capabilities, success stories and upcoming features to enhance customer loyalty and venue revenues. Finch currently operates in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Miami. For more information, restaurants can reach out directly via Instagram @FinchVenues or email hi@FinchNow.com.00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode00:09 The Rise of Digital Media in Retail00:27 Introducing Can and His Digital Media Platform01:21 Meet Jeremy Julian01:50 Welcome to the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast02:37 Can's Journey in the Startup Industry03:38 The Concept Behind Finch04:54 How Finch is Revolutionizing In-Venue Advertising06:15 Real-World Applications and Success Stories12:11 Ensuring Security and Customization14:36 Cost and Implementation of Finch29:43 Future Plans and Expansion31:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor for Nations Restaurant News. They discuss a wide array of topics, including Alicia's extensive background in restaurant journalism, the current and future trends in the restaurant industry, and the impacts of automation and technology on restaurant operations. They also touch on the importance of providing value and a holistic experience to consumers, the challenges and strategies of labor management, and the benefits of loyalty programs. The conversation delves into macroeconomic challenges, such as inflation and labor shortages, and practical advice on how restaurant operators can adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape.00:00 Audio of Alicia NRN01:06 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:41 Alicia Kelso's Background and Career02:46 The Draw of the Restaurant Industry05:33 Current Trends and Challenges in the Restaurant Industry11:54 The Importance of Value and Experience20:15 Role of Technology in the Restaurant Industry30:31 Future Outlook and Conclusion