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

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast, host Jeremy Julian talks with Rishabh, a serial entrepreneur aiming to transform the beverage industry with his innovative startup, Sidework. The discussion delves into the current challenges faced by the beverage sector, especially in coffee shops and bars dealing with complex drink orders. Rishabh explains how Sidework's agnostic ingredient dispensing system simplifies and speeds up the preparation process, improves accuracy, and enhances both barista and customer experiences. The episode also explores the broader potential of this technology in various settings, including under-invested aspects of the restaurant industry and non-traditional locations. The conversation underscores the immense opportunity for beverage-focused technology to significantly boost margins and operational efficiency.00:00 Sidework00:56 Introduction and Episode Overview01:19 Guest Introduction: Rishabh Background02:48 Introducing Sidework: Revolutionizing Beverage Dispensing04:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Restaurant Technology11:27 The Evolution of Beverage Complexity17:24 How Sidework Enhances Efficiency22:39 Addressing Concerns About Automation27:35 Expanding Beverage Menus and Non-Traditional Environments36:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Jeremy Julian speaks with Andrew Scott, a former restaurant owner who transitioned into empowering restaurant owners through his company, Ownership Training. Andrew shares his journey from struggling with restaurant management to founding a company that helps other restaurateurs scale their businesses and regain their freedom. The discussion covers his three-step process to enhance restaurant profitability, effective hiring practices, and understanding business seasonality. Andrew emphasizes the importance of intentional and deliberate actions to transform restaurant operations, ensuring owners can achieve both financial success and a better work-life balance.00:00 Owner Shift Training00:44 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:27 Andrew's Journey in the Restaurant Industry02:14 Challenges of Restaurant Ownership03:33 Turning the Business Around08:05 Defining Restaurant Freedom11:17 Three-Step Plan for Restaurant Success18:41 Leveraging Technology and Systems22:09 The Importance of Consistency in Hiring23:25 Effective Interview Techniques25:31 Success Stories and Results27:01 Understanding Business Seasons29:51 Client Engagement and Ideal Clients35:28 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian is joined by Brian Wayne, VP of Customer Success at QSR Automations. They discuss how QSR Automations' technology solutions, such as the ConnectSmart kitchen display system and front desk software, enhance kitchen efficiency and guest experience. Brian shares insights into his journey with QSR Automations, the evolution of their products, and the importance of data in improving restaurant operations. The conversation highlights the benefits of transitioning from kitchen printing to more sophisticated kitchen management systems, including improved food quality, reduced noise, and better guest communication. Brian also touches on the significance of real-time data, partnerships, and predictive analytics in the future of restaurant technology.00:00 QSR Automations00:39 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:03 Brian's Journey with QSR Automations02:55 What is QSR Automations?05:25 The Evolution of Kitchen Display Systems12:03 Real-Time Data and Guest Communication19:30 Front Desk Software and Integration26:11 The Future of Restaurant Technology29:48 Touchscreens vs. Bump Bars in Kitchens32:37 Conclusion and How to Engage with QSR

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy Julian, Chief Revenue Officer of Custom Business Solutions, is joined by Jeff Porter and Ryan Burhorn, co-founders of RAD, a next-generation analytics platform designed for restaurant operators. Their guest, James McGee, CFO and franchisee at Dave's Hot Chicken, shares insights into how RAD helps the rapidly growing brand make data-driven decisions that improve guest and employee experiences. The discussion covers RAD's innovative approach to providing actionable insights from existing data systems, the importance of understanding financial versus productivity metrics, and the critical role of customer sentiment. The episode highlights RAD's customized analytics solutions and how they help franchisees enhance their return on investment while maintaining consistent, high-quality service in a scalable manner.00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode01:00 Meet the Co-Founders of Rad02:00 Introducing James McGee from Dave's Hot Chicken02:20 The Genesis of Rad03:24 Rad's Approach to Data Analytics05:51 Holistic Data Analysis in Restaurants08:03 James McGee's Journey and Dave's Hot Chicken09:48 Actionable Data and Productivity Metrics13:42 Engaging Franchisees with Rad26:16 Future of Rad and Restaurant Analytics30:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian is joined by Brandi Villareal, head of Uber Direct's online food delivery for the U.S. and Canada. They explore the advantages of Uber Direct's first-party delivery solution, which allows restaurant brands to maintain control over customer data and enhance customer loyalty, unlike third-party marketplaces. Brandi shares her extensive background in the food and beverage industry, including technology and operations, and provides insights on how Uber Direct can help restaurants of all sizes easily integrate delivery services through APIs, partnerships with point of sale systems, and other technology providers. The discussion also touches on the benefits of hybrid delivery models and the growing importance of digital sales for restaurant success. Featured case studies, such as the Salad House, demonstrate significant growth and enhanced customer experiences through Uber Direct.00:00 Audio Uber Direct01:06 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:27 Brandi Villareal's Background02:18 Overview of Uber Direct04:25 Benefits of Uber Direct for Restaurants10:40 Success Stories and Case Studies21:12 Hybrid Delivery Models27:24 Getting Started with Uber Direct29:46 Future of Uber Direct and Conclusion

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys Podcast, Jeremy Julian talks with Danny Klein, freshly promoted to VP Editorial Director at WTWH Media's FRH properties. They delve deep into the state of the restaurant industry, discussing everything from the surge of bankruptcies and the challenges of rising costs, to evolving consumer preferences and the impact of technology. Danny shares insights on value perceptions, brand adaptations like those of Chili’s and Texas Roadhouse, and the future roles of QSR, casual dining, and even C-stores. The conversation also explores the intricate balance between maintaining quality service and embracing new tech to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences.00:00 Danny Klein00:43 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:58 Danny Klein's Role and Responsibilities01:58 Current Challenges in the Restaurant Industry03:50 Value Perception in Dining06:07 Opportunities in the Restaurant Sector19:08 Technology's Impact on the Restaurant Experience28:57 Convergence of Restaurants and C-Stores34:24 Conclusion and How to Follow Danny Klein

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, Jeremy is joined by Deric Rosenbaum, President and CTO of Groucho's Deli, an 83-year-old deli chain based in the Southeast U.S. Deric shares his journey from commercial construction to leading Groucho's Deli alongside his business partner Bruce Miller. The conversation delves into Groucho's unique hybrid model between QSR and Fast Casual, their unrelenting focus on quality ingredients, and their innovative use of technology to enhance customer and staff experiences. Deric also discusses Groucho's approach to sustainability, adapting business models during COVID-19, and leveraging tools like Ovation and Marquis for customer feedback and reputation management. The episode wraps up with Deric sharing his personal and family favorites from Groucho's menu, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to both tradition and modern technology.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:09 Meet Deric Rosenbaum: President and CTO of Groucho's Deli00:44 The Legacy of Groucho's Deli01:27 Deric's Journey with Groucho's03:25 Groucho's Unique Dining Experience05:16 Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights08:23 Commitment to Quality and Sustainability11:02 Adapting Through Technology15:11 Customer Experience and Feedback29:21 Favorite Menu Items and Personal Stories33:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian speaks with Cijoy, an experienced restaurant technology and operations veteran. Cijoy shares his journey from engineering to the Y2K era and his transition into the restaurant industry. He introduces his new product, GM Pilot, which aims to streamline restaurant operations by optimizing labor management, enhancing efficiency, and saving costs. The discussion highlights the significant challenges faced by GMs and how GM Pilot is designed to alleviate these burdens by automating and improving labor and inventory management without requiring extensive training or IT resources. Cijoy also outlines future plans for expanding the capabilities of GM Pilot and provides insights into effective implementation strategies.00:00 Audio GM Pilot00:57 Introduction and Welcome01:06 Guest Introduction: Meet Cijoy01:49 Cijoy's Career Journey04:39 The Birth of a New Idea06:39 Implementing the Concept11:35 Challenges and Solutions in Restaurant Tech15:10 The Role of General Managers17:30 Adapting to New Labor Models19:38 Custom Tailored Solutions for Labor Management20:16 Uncovering Hidden Opportunities in Labor Efficiency21:44 The Importance of Consistent Guest Experience22:59 Empowering GMs with Advanced Tools26:09 Future Plans: Expanding Beyond Labor Management29:24 Engagement and Implementation Process31:58 Target Audience and Market Strategy34:49 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, the discussion centers around InKind's innovative, tech-driven approach to scaling and supporting restaurants. InKind's CEO shares insights on leveraging Silicon Valley strategies, deploying large-scale data analytics and AI, and the significance of personalized support for independent restaurants. The episode covers the dual role of InKind as a financial service provider and a consumer marketplace, detailing creative financing solutions and marketing experiments that enhance profitability and customer experience. Listeners also learn about the platform's benefits for business travelers, including earning credits for personal dining through data-driven recommendations. The episode emphasizes practical advice for restaurant owners, market insights from owning restaurants, InKind’s funding model, and future enhancements, aiming to create a sustainable and profitable ecosystem for restaurant growth.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:55 Meet Johann Munisinghe: From Tech to Restaurants01:55 The Birth of InKind: Solving Restaurant Finance03:12 The Restaurant Incubator Experiment06:41 Scaling InKind: Financing and Marketplace11:31 Challenges and Solutions for Restaurant Operators17:01 InKind's Unique Value Proposition19:56 Challenges in Restaurant Tech20:39 Uses of Capital in Restaurants21:07 Sponsor Messages22:07 Growth and Financing Strategies23:21 Consumer Experience with InKind25:15 Leveraging Data for Recommendations28:25 Engaging with InKind for Expansion35:40 Future Vision and Expansion Plans36:41 Conclusion and Farewell

In this insightful episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian chats with Chris Demery, CTO of Blaze Pizza, about the technological advancements at Blaze Pizza, particularly post-COVID-19. Chris highlights the pivotal role of user-friendly technology in enhancing both on-premise and off-premise dining experiences. The discussion covers the seamless implementation of the Qu POS system across more than 270 locations, the importance of open APIs, and the challenges and solutions related to managing digital and in-store orders. Further, the episode explores how predictive analytics, data optimization, and customer data platforms are key to improving operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Listeners will gain practical insights into adapting technology to meet evolving guest needs, maintaining balance between digital and on-site service, and the significance of industry-specific networking for staying ahead in technological innovations.00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode00:51 Meet Chris Demery: A Legend in Restaurant Technology01:27 Chris Demery's Career Journey02:43 Philosophy on Technology and Operations04:23 The Importance of Predictable Technology05:46 Challenges and Innovations at Blaze Pizza12:45 Adapting to Post-COVID Changes16:27 Sponsor Messages17:28 Understanding Blaze Pizza's Unique Model18:43 Innovative Changes in Restaurant Operations19:33 Speed of Service and Wait Time Metrics20:56 Challenges with Custom Orders24:16 Managing Digital and In-Person Orders27:32 Leveraging Data for Better Staffing29:11 Future Innovations and Guest Experience35:17 Staying Connected and Final Thoughts