Top Business Leaders Show
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This is the Top Business Leaders Show powered by Rise25 Media. We feature top founders, executives, and leaders from all over the world.
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3 days ago
[SpotOn Series] How To Own a Restaurant That Doesn’t Own You With Hengam Stanfield
Restaurateur Hengam Stanfield is the Owner of Mattenga’s Pizzeria, a family-owned eatery in San Antonio, Texas. Hengam is a wife, mother of four, Iranian immigrant, and electrical engineer-cum-entrepreneur. With no prior experience in the food industry, she and her husband and business partner, Matt, increased sales six times in the last eight years. Hengam also hosts the Making Dough Show, a go-to podcast offering practical step-by-step training on day-to-day restaurant operations and how to grow sales. In this episode…
Dream careers have pros and cons, but what happens when the cons outweigh the pros?
For restaurant owner Hengam Stanfield, her dream job afforded her a healthy paycheck, a decent family lifestyle, and the ability to pay bills worry-free. On the other hand, Hengam was stressed, working long hours, and losing quality family time. So, what do you do when you reach a point of no return? You buy a restaurant, move to another state, and start from scratch. Want to know how this story ends?
Join host Chad Franzen of Rise25 in this episode of the SpotOn Series as he talks to Hengam Stanfield, Owner of Mattenga’s Pizzeria in San Antonio, Texas. Hengam discusses pivoting careers, purchasing and running a pizzeria without any restaurant experience, and the inspiration behind her podcast, the Making Dough Show.
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Mar 15, 2023
The Fundamentals of Success in the Sales Industry With Paul Ratner of Marble Bridge Funding Group
Veteran B2B sales and revenue professional Paul Ratner is the Vice President of Sales at Marble Bridge Funding Group. Marble Bridge is a California-based strategic commercial finance company helping entrepreneurial organizations succeed by working on growth strategies through strategic financing. Before Marble Bridge, Paul held many titles during his decades-long tenure at the Golden State Warriors. He also taught sales and business development for four years as an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco. In this episode…
Regardless of the industry you work for, your job is to sell whatever product your company offers. The sales industry is competitive, and your strategy can determine whether you sink or swim. What are the fundamentals necessary to achieve success in the sales industry?
The former Senior Director of Premium Suite Sales for the Golden State Warriors, Paul Ratner, knows what it takes to be successful in the sales industry. Early in his career, he found a unique approach to landing an internship with the basketball team that led to a full-time position. His experience has granted him wisdom on how to take advantage of opportunities and leverage skills to be an asset to any company.
Join host Chad Franzen in this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show as he welcomes Paul Ratner, Vice President of Sales at Marble Bridge Funding Group, to discuss the mindset necessary to thrive in the sales industry. Observing his prior role for the Golden State Warriors, Paul shares what it takes to achieve your professional goals, the difference between business and consumer sales, and crucial boundaries to establish between management and sales teams.
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Mar 15, 2023
[SpotOn Series] Your Sign To Start a Franchise With Rob Stolker of Bubbakoo’s Burritos
As a serial entrepreneur, Rob Stolker is a franchise and business owner, author, the Membership Chair at Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and proud Founder of Hummingbird Sports. His franchise, Bubbakoo’s Burritos, serves a unique interpretation of traditional Mexican cuisine while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere and fresh food quality. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen welcomes Rob Stolker, owner of Bubbakoo’s Burritos. They discuss the challenges of operating multiple businesses, knowing whether or not you should start a franchise, the top business goals you should keep in mind, and the importance of working in accordance with brand values. Rob also shares the difficult lessons he learned the most from during his entrepreneurial career.
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Mar 8, 2023
[SpotOn Series] The Path to Success: A Legacy of Innovation With Sara Frasca of Trasca & Co Eatery
Sara Frasca is an innovation Keynote Speaker, business consultant, and the COO at Point Northeast. She’s also the owner of Trasca & Co Eatery, an Italian-inspired neighborhood eatery in Ponte Vedra, Florida, with a one-of-a-kind vintage atmosphere and signature panini made by the secret Frasca family recipe. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Sara Frasca, keynote speaker and Owner of Trasca & Co Eatery. They discuss the business opportunities within the restaurant industry, establishing trackable team goals, and staying true to brand values. Sara also shares how she is maintaining the right vision to further her family’s legacy while promoting innovation through creativity and business operations.
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Mar 1, 2023
How To Succeed in the Ever-Changing Digital Space
Pat McGovern is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Ascedia, an award-winning digital marketing growth agency. He has over 25 years of experience working with C-suite and middle management executives across industries like retail, B2B manufacturing, travel and tourism, and higher education. Pat is also the co-host of the Over a Pint Marketing Podcast, where he and his guests talk about the fast-paced world of marketing. In this episode…
Why is it vital for companies to be proactive in the digital space? Take the recent pandemic for example.
When COVID-19 swept across the world, there were two types of companies: those who realized they needed to amp up their digital game and those who were convinced the world would return back to the way it was. The companies who waited for the return to “normal” were most commonly the ones who suffered, while those who dove head-first into the digital space transformed their business for the better. Want to learn more about how you can elevate your digital initiatives?
Tune in to this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show where John Corcoran chats with Pat McGovern, Director of Sales and Marketing at Ascedia. Pat shares his thoughts on digital transformation trends, the value of taking action in the digital space, and digital investment tips to help your company thrive.
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Mar 1, 2023
[SpotOn Series] Creating a Franchise That Must Be Experienced With Seth Bassett of Wings and Rings
Seth Bassett is the owner of Wings and Rings, a restaurant with a unique family atmosphere and elevated customer experience. In his early career, Seth worked at BJ’s Restaurants while pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration at California State University, which set his groundwork in the hospitality industry. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen welcomes Seth Bassett, owner of Wings and Rings. They talk about Seth’s early experience in the restaurant industry that prompted him to purchase a franchise, the challenges of managing a business during the pandemic, and how to establish a unique brand in a saturated market. Lastly, Seth explains how to go about reviving a franchise.
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Feb 22, 2023
[SpotOn Series] How To Make a Franchise Thrive With Paul Reiser of Paul Reiser Companies
As a former President of Reiser Group Sonic Management, Paul Reiser owned and managed 38 Sonic Drive-Ins in four different states. In 2021, he and his business partner sold their entire business, allowing Paul to focus more on video content creation, podcasting, and business investing. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen welcomes Paul Reiser, video content creator and former President of Reiser Group Sonic Management. They talk about important elements that can turn around restaurant success, complying with pandemic rules while sustaining business profitability, and understanding the fundamentals of an effective exit strategy. In addition, Paul shares why content video creation is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry.
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Feb 15, 2023
How To Build a Successful Business With Uhnder’s COO, Sandeep Chennakeshu
Sandeep Chennakeshu is the Chief Operating Officer of Uhnder, the company credited for designing the world’s first digital imaging radar-on-chip. Sandeep is a lifelong student and aspiring teacher whose heart is in technology and whose mind is in business. He has led the development of technology found in our electronic devices, satellites, medical equipment, and cars. A fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Sandeep is a named inventor on 180 patents.
Sandeep earned his BE in electronics engineering from the University Visveswariah College of Engineering, a postgraduate diploma in industrial management from the Indian Institute of Science, an MS in electrical engineering from the University of Saskatchewan, and his PhD in electrical engineering from Southern Methodist University. He is also the author of Your Company Is Your Castle: Proven Methods for Building a Resilient Business. In this episode…
Do you want to build a sustainably successful company? What principles can you implement to help strengthen your business and build your leadership skills?
Research shows that two-thirds of companies collapse within their first ten years. Many businesses fail because they opt for speed rather than building systematic structures to help them withstand challenges. Sandeep Chennakeshu has determined eight elements that make up the systematic structure of a company. Neglecting any of the eight elements puts your company at risk and unable to withstand macroeconomic factors and competitors.
Join Bela Musits, host of the Top Business Leaders Show, as he speaks with Sandeep Chennakeshu, Chief Operating Officer of Uhnder. Sandeep highlights the importance of aligning culture and strategy, metrics for measuring employee performance, and the challenges established companies and startups face.
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Feb 15, 2023
[SpotOn Series] How To Establish a Unique Brand Culture With Mark Gray of Bottleneck Management
Mark Gray is the President and CEO of Bottleneck Management, a specialized company providing management solutions and operation strategies to a variety of restaurants. Mark’s expertise in operations comes from years of leadership positions at some of the most recognized hospitality brands. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Mark Gray, the President and CEO of Bottleneck Management. They discuss overcoming the challenges of creating a unique brand atmosphere, establishing a healthy leadership culture, and adapting to the pandemic requirements for restaurants. Additionally, Mark shares his insights on building a virtual brand in the hospitality industry and managing operations for multiple businesses on a national scale.
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Feb 8, 2023
[SpotOn Series] The Motivation Behind Successful Businesses With Barry Jessurun of Green Valley Hospitality
Barry Jessurun is the President and CEO of Green Valley Hospitality, a group of restaurants with multiple locations in Connecticut. As a veteran of the hospitality industry, Barry values creativity and progress which drove him to author The Drunkard’s Path, a self-help book and guide for entrepreneurs from any industry. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Barry Jessurun, President and CEO of Green Valley Hospitality. They discuss how to handle professional burnout, adopting a healthy mindset to ensure business longevity, and the key elements of fast casual restaurants that attract customers. Barry also breaks down the most common obstacles for entrepreneurs of all ages and gives advice on starting a business in the hospitality industry.
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Feb 1, 2023
[SpotOn Series] How To Create and Scale an Authentic Business With Alli Jarrett of Harold’s
Alli Jarrett is the President and CEO of Harold’s, a Houston-based restaurant that embodies southern hospitality. Her extensive leadership and business development experience come from several different sectors including media, sports, and sales. Alli is passionate about giving back to communities and serves on different volunteer boards including the Texas Restaurant Association. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Alli Jarrett, President and CEO of Harold’s. They discuss the importance of positively impacting communities through your business and finding your formula for success through experimentation. Alli goes on to explain the key elements for long-term business concepts, how to make a difference with quality products, and overcoming the challenges the pandemic created for the hospitality industry.
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Feb 1, 2023
The Value of Connections and Referrals With YOUR Referral Partner’s Founder, Devin Sizemore
Devin Sizemore is the Founder of YOUR Referral Partner, a consulting agency that focuses on helping businesses build strategic partnerships, increase referrals, and streamline their sales processes. As a connector, speaker, and consultant, Devin is on a mission to help 100 of the best service providers generate 100 connections in 2023. He is a serial entrepreneur that has worked with over 500 businesses on their growth strategies in the last decade.
After graduating from the University of Nevada, Reno, Devin launched his online marketing agency, MarkUBiz, which he later sold. Since then, he has owned a manufacturing company, coworking space, sales consulting agency, and cat café. In this episode…
Are you looking for clients, strategic advice, products, services, sponsors, or partnerships? How can you make the connections you need for your business to succeed?
Devin Sizemore has been an entrepreneur for years and has discovered that businesses thrive on connections and referrals.…
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Jan 25, 2023
[SpotOn Series] Making the World Happier and Healthier One Smoothie at a Time With Isaac Hamlin
Isaac Hamlin is the Founder of Better Blend, a wellness-focused company with a mission to “cultivate a healthier and happier world one blend, bowl, and community at a time.” It was during Isaac’s time as an SEC All-American rugby player for the University of Kentucky that he found the inspiration for Better Blend. Wanting to replace the team’s heavy pregame meals, he developed more nutritious — yet delicious — smoothies that could travel well. In this episode…
Meal replacement smoothies became popular in the early 1990s, targeting those looking for a quick weight-loss option. The issue with many of these products is that they can be low in nutritional value and calories, leaving consumers hungry and sluggish.
Wellness entrepreneur Isaac Hamlin experienced a similar dilemma as an elite collegiate athlete. Instead of feeling hungry, the traditional pregame meals left him feeling heavy and lethargic. So Isaac began making pregame smoothies when searching for a quick altern…
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Jan 18, 2023
[SpotOn Series] The Ups and Downs of Owning a Restaurant Franchise
Pinal Sitaram is a serial franchisor who owns and operates Buffalo Wild Wings franchises in the Los Angeles Metropolitan area. He worked previously as a franchisee for PostalAnnex+ and Best Western Hotels. Pinal has set a three-year goal to add eight new Buffalo Wild Wings franchises, providing steady work for the underserved. In this episode…
Join Chad Franzen in this episode of the SpotOn Series as he queries Pinal Sitaram on his 14 years of experience as a franchisee for multiple Buffalo Wild Wings locations in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. Pinal explains the hardships of owning a restaurant franchise, the motivation behind opening a franchise, and his quest to add additional franchises in his community.
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Jan 11, 2023
[SpotOn Series] Enjoy Food Truck Dining Without the Long Wait Lines
Andrew Martino is the Founder of Ghost Truck Kitchen, a digital food truck concept. GTK is the first and only of its kind with a mission to make food takeout a greater experience.
Andrew has nearly 20 years of experience in the food and hospitality industry, working at the managerial and executive levels. A virtuoso in the ghost kitchen space since 2018, Andrew gives expert advice on podcasts and panels. Andrew has also been featured in publications such as The Hudson Kitchen and Food Service Equipment and Supplies. In this episode…
Approximately 60 percent of Americans order takeout food — if you’re among them, you’ve probably found yourself awkwardly awaiting your meal at the bar or the takeout area.
Thanks to the ghost kitchen concept, the brainchild of restaurateur Andrew Martino, those days could be over for all hungry Americans. How? The answer is simple: the digital food truck lot.
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Founder Andrew Martino of Ghost Truck Kitchen jo…
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Jan 4, 2023
[SpotOn Series] Hospitality Served With a Servant’s Heart With Kyle Noonan
Kyle Noonan is the Co-founder and CEO of FreeRange Concepts, a Dallas-based restaurant and hospitality management company with a mission to create remarkable memories. The company owns and operates 12 food and entertainment venues, including Bowl and Barrel, Mutts Canine Cantina, The Rustic, and The General Public. With over 13 years in the restaurant industry, Kyle gained experience opening eateries for the well-known Pappas franchise. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Kyle Noonan, Co-founder and CEO of FreeRange Concepts, about the restaurant’s innovative brand. Kyle shares his journey in the restaurant industry, the inspiration behind FreeRange Concepts, and the philosophy he attributes to the company’s success.
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Dec 28, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Transforming People’s Quality of Life One Bite at a Time With Raji Sankar of Choolaah
Raji Sankar is the Co-founder and CEO of Choolaah, an authentic Indian barbeque restaurant with seven locations around the United States. Although Raji has an extensive background in the tech industry, her love of food and sense of community drove her to start a business in the restaurant industry. She considers herself fortunate to have created an authentic place that prepares quality food made only with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, bringing a timeless atmosphere to her locations. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen welcomes Raji Sankar, Co-founder and CEO of Choolaah. They discuss the intricacies of starting a restaurant and the benefits franchising can bring to your business. Raji goes on to explain creating a confident brand message that resonates with consumers, how to stay true to your company values even through challenges, and the best ways to learn from costly mistakes when starting your business.
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Dec 21, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How One Informal Conversation Led Gaurav “G” Patel Into the Restaurant Business
Serial entrepreneur Gaurav “G” Patel is the Founder of Eschelon Experiences, a hospitality group based in Raleigh, North Carolina that includes cocktail lounge concepts such as The Haymaker and Killjoy Cocktail. Since the age of 17, G has launched over a dozen companies and over two dozen hospitality brands. Additionally, he’s founded spirits and retail brands and various startups. In this episode…
Perseverance, formal education, and the desire for high achievement are a strong formula for success. But what happens when you buy into a business with little to no experience in that industry?
That’s the question serial entrepreneur Gaurav “G” Patel faced when he purchased a restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina. Although he worked in events and hotels, the transition into the restaurant industry was out of G’s league. Still, the perseverance that helped him work several jobs while in university gave him the confidence to operate in an industry where he was green. So, how…
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Dec 14, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How to Successfully Scale Your Restaurant Business With Mac Hay and Sebastien Taffara From Mac’s Seafood
Mac Hay is the Founder and CEO of Mac’s Seafood, which has five locations in Massachusetts. Mac’s passion for cooking allowed him to work in the restaurant industry before purchasing his own business, which was primarily a fish market that eventually turned into Mac’s signature restaurant. After a decade in the industry, Mac decided to expand by opening seafood restaurants in other locations across Massachusetts and introducing wholesale and retail strategies into his business.
Sebastien Taffara is the Restaurant Director and Operations Manager at Mac’s Seafood. His experience in the restaurant industry comes from previously working in French bakeries and formal restaurants. Sebastien joined Mac’s Seafood restaurants in 2013 and has been able to grow with the company as it has expanded. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Mac Hay, the Founder and CEO of Mac’s Seafood, and Sebastien Taffara, Restaurant Director and Operations…
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Dec 14, 2022
Future-proofing a Multimillion-dollar Industry With Allison+Partners Co-founder Jonathan Heit
Jonathan Heit is the Co-founder and Global Chief Operating Officer at Allison+Partners. The award-winning Allison+Partners is a global marketing and communications agency operating in 50 worldwide markets. The agency specializes in corporate, consumer brands, public affairs, reputation risk, and health and technology practices.
In the 20-plus years under Jonathan’s leadership at Allison+Partners, he’s grown the agency from two offices and a 14-person staff to a $100-million global operation. Jonathan works closely with finance and human resources to maximize the agency’s potential. His additional responsibilities include internal communications, external marketing, and the agency’s overall diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this episode…
When owning or heading a company, it’s important to design a future-proof business plan. The best way to do that is to create a business that consistently tops the market. However, an exposed corporation is vulnerable to bankruptcy. How…
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Dec 7, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating Excellence in Dining With Robert Hall of Refined Hospitality Concepts
Robert Hall is the CEO of Refined Hospitality Concepts, a hospitality group and catering company centered in Farmer’s Branch, Texas that serves the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. He has decades of experience in the hospitality industry, from pizza shops to wineries. Robert uses his vast experience to foster a culture of excellence across all of his restaurants. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Robert Hall, CEO of Refined Hospitality Concepts, about the atmosphere and inspiration for each of his restaurants. Robert strives to create a culture of excellence across all of his restaurants, from Bourbon and Banner’s speakeasy design to the fun Euro-Western atmosphere of Sfereco. His experience in the industry has propelled Refined Hospitality Concepts through the challenges of the pandemic, and the company continues to grow, introduce new concepts, and open new locations.
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Dec 1, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Tips To Grow Your Business and Support Your People With Tom Coogle of Reynolds Foodliner Inc. and Your Pie Franchising
Tom Coogle is the President of Reynolds Foodliner Inc., a grocery company that operates stores including Piggly Wiggly and Stripling’s General Store. He is also a Franchise Owner at Your Pie Franchising. Tom has been in the food and beverage industry for over 22 years, taking his family’s company from modest success in the grocery business to a diversified company with his team members as the priority. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joined by Tom Coogle, President of Reynolds Foodliner Inc. and Franchise Owner at Your Pie Franchising. They discuss maintaining a great culture, supporting employees, and pivoting during tough times. Tom explains the importance of sharing profit with employees, streamlining processes to improve workflow, and creating a culture based on authenticity and positivity. Plus, he shares his experience running a business and franchise.
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Nov 23, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Alexander Green of The Fireman Hospitality Group
Alexander Green is the Managing Director of The Fireman Hospitality Group in National Harbor, a diverse group of restaurants ranging from pizzarias to upscale steakhouses. He has been in the restaurant industry for 25 years, starting as a dishwasher and working his way up to his current position. Alexander oversees two restaurants in National Harbor: Fiorella Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria and Bond 45. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Alexander Green, Managing Director of The Fireman Hospitality Group in National Harbor. His two restaurants bring their own individual atmospheres: Fiorella Pizzaria is a fun family-style Italian restaurant, in contrast to the upscale dining experience of Bond 45. Alexander has led the two restaurants through the challenges of surviving and adapting to the global pandemic.
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Nov 16, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Big Franchise Opportunities With Josh Halpern of Big Chicken
Josh Halpern is the CEO of both Beer Park and Big Chicken, a dining concept that pays homage to the food of founder Shaquille O'Neal’s childhood. He holds an MBA from Babson College. Josh is currently looking for single and multi-unit franchisees who are serious about the food industry and carrying on the culture of Big Chicken. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Josh Halpern, CEO of Big Chicken, about conceptualizing the culinary vision of founder Shaquille O’Neal. Big Chicken takes the foods that Shaq grew up on and brings them to the table with a modern and fun twist. The chain has grown not only on land, but with locations on Carnival Cruise ships. Josh’s mission is to connect with prospective multi-unit franchisees and help Big Chicken grow internationally.
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Nov 9, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Swirling and Serving Flavors With Solomon Choi
Solomon Choi is the Founder and CEO of 16 Handles, the first self-serve frozen yogurt store to open in New York City. Also the Co-founder of Greeno Products, he is an entrepreneur, advisor, and investor with a background in hospitality. Solomon is an Advisor for Hooray Foods, Kolkata Chai Co., Lunchbox, and Optamark, an Investor for Bikky, Sunscoop, and MCTco., and a Hospitality Partner at Branded Strategic Hospitality. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Founder and CEO of 16 Handles, Solomon Choi, about developing and cultivating a frozen-yogurt lifestyle brand. With Solomon’s optimistic attitude, he is an entrepreneur that delivers what customers want: convenience. By navigating social platforms and creating a healthy work environment, he has established lasting brands that resonate across all demographics and lifestyles.
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Nov 2, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Recovering the Body and Spirit With Terces Engelhart of Cafe Gratitude
Terces Engelhart is the Co-founder of Cafe Gratitude and Gracias Madre. She has co-authored three books with her husband, Matthew. Terces draws from over 35 years of recovery from 20 years of addiction and her intimate relationship with Christ, which led to her healing. She recently launched her podcast called Unreasonably Grateful, sharing life lessons she learned and how those lessons can help others. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Terces Engelhart, Co-founder of Cafe Gratitude and Gracias Madre, about the restaurants’ unique approach of gratitude and both physical and spiritual self-healing. She and her husband created Cafe Gratitude, a plant-based gathering place for people to dive deeply into their own wellness and celebrate the people around them. Gracias Madre carries this same spirit, while providing extra focus on mothers, the people to whom we owe everything. Terces also discusses her new podcast, Unreasonably Grateful, a…
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Oct 26, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Healing Our Bodies and Planet One Burger at a Time With Ran Nussbacher
Ran Nussbacher is the Co-founder and CEO of Shouk, a plant-based restaurant chain with a mission to fight climate change. He has almost 20 years in diverse sales industries, which helped drive his passion for conservation. Ran holds Master’s degrees in Information Systems and Business Administration from Boston University. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Shouk Co-founder and CEO Ran Nussbacher about its innovative, Middle East market-style restaurant and storefront and its 100% plant-based menu. Ran created Shouk in 2014, before the plant-based culinary industry became the trend it is today. He continues to aid the fight against climate change through unique sustainability-minded initiatives like running exclusively on wind-power, delivering environmentally-conscious menu items and supplies, and tree planting programs to close the consumption loop.
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Oct 19, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Raising the Bar With Bill Tobin of Tiki’s Grill & Bar
Bill Tobin is the Co-owner and CEO of Tiki’s Grill & Bar and a business mentor on his Restaurant Leadership 365 podcast. He has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry as a manager, owner, mentor, and consultant. Bill Tobin is a veteran of the US Army and holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Bill Tobin, Co-owner and CEO of Tiki’s Grill & Bar and mentor for The Restaurant Leadership 365 podcast, about the busiest independent restaurant in Waikiki. Tiki’s has survived many challenges since opening in 2001, including a complete shutdown in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Bill uses his experience and savvy to help others in the industry through 2-3 minute podcasts that tackle some of the most common challenges facing restaurateurs.
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Oct 12, 2022
[SpotOn Series] From Pennies to Pies With Jim Kaa of Polly’s Pies
Jim Kaa is the CEO and President of Polly’s Pies. He has spent nearly 40 years in the restaurant industry, formerly working as Vice President of Accounting for The Veggie Grill, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis for Pacific Restaurant Advisors, Director of Accounting for Ruby Restaurant Group, and Director of Finance and Administration for Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Jim Kaa holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from California State University in Long Beach. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Jim Kaa, CEO and President of Polly’s Pies, about his experiences going from Director of Finance and Accounting for restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and The Veggie Grill, to being CEO and operating all aspects of a restaurant. Jim talks about the unique struggles he’s faced, between Hurricane Katrina, 9/11, and the constantly-changing challenges of the pandemic. You’ll hear how Jim tackles adversity head-on, with innovative ada…
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Oct 5, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Shabby Dive to Kitschy Charm With Eric Goodwin of The Friendly Toast Restaurant
Eric Goodwin is the Co-owner of The Friendly Toast Restaurants and President of Goodwin Recruiting. He is a serial entrepreneur, owning and overseeing numerous other businesses, such as NOBL Coffee. Eric Goodwin holds a bachelor’s of science in Business Administration. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Eric Goodwin, Co-owner of The Friendly Toast Restaurant and President of Goodwin Recruiting, about what makes The Friendly Toast such a unique experience for patrons. With the help of his recruiting firm Goodwin Recruiting, Eric and his partner Scott Pulver have taken The Friendly Toast Restaurants from landmark, shabby tourist dives to a growing collection of indie brunch-all-day restaurants with great teams and charming atmospheres.
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Sep 28, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Collaborating With Top Restaurant Brands With Jayson Siano of Sabre Real Estate Advisors
Jayson Siano is the Founder and CEO of Sabre Real Estate Advisors, a full-service boutique real estate advisory firm specializing in tenant/owner representation, investment sales, and development/construction services. As an entrepreneur and commercial real estate executive, Jayson advises and scales some of the most successful brands in the world. His client list includes Chipotle, Starbucks, Orangetheory Fitness, and Massage Envy, among others. In this episode…
Join Chad Franzen in today’s episode of the SpotOn Series as he hosts Jayson Siano, Founder and CEO of Sabre Real Estate Advisors and CRE Digital Army, to discuss his collaborative process for advising restaurant brands. Jayson shares how he began consulting well-known brands, the principal characteristics of an entrepreneur, and the importance of collaboration in the real estate industry.
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Sep 21, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Entrepreneurship in the Restaurant Industry With Elaina Morris of Ascend Hospitality Group
Elaina Morris is the Founding Partner, President, and CEO of Ascend Hospitality Group, which delivers world-class hospitality and culinary experiences across the Pacific Northwest. As an accomplished business owner and community leader, Elaina has over 20 years of experience developing concepts and creating value in various industries. She serves as a trustee for the Washington Hospitality Association’s Education Foundation, Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, Samena Club, and Rainier Athletics. In this episode…
Join Chad Franzen of Rise25 in today’s episode of the SpotOn Series as he chats with Elaina Morris, Founding Partner, President, and CEO of Ascend Hospitality Group, about achieving entrepreneurial success in the restaurant industry. Elaina shares how Ascend expanded following a major setback, how she launched Ascend and its various brands, and the lessons she learned as a franchisee.
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Sep 14, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Modern Restaurant Concepts With Karl Goodhew of BurgerFi
Karl Goodhew is the Chief Technology Officer at BurgerFi, one of the nation’s fastest-growing premium, fast-casual restaurant concepts with 116 locations. As a proven engineer and product leader, he has over 15 years of experience in software development, with more than six years spent managing and overseeing enterprise-level programs. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, join Chad Franzen of Rise25 as he sits down with Karl Goodhew, Chief Technology Officer at BurgerFi, to talk about innovative restaurant concepts. Karl discusses BurgerFi’s innovative technologies, the importance of innovation in the food service industry, and his transition from retail to restaurants. Tune in!
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Sep 7, 2022
Achieving Success Through Hardwork, Determination, and Integrity With Jem Bourouh of Adcubator
Jem Bourouh is a 24-year-old serial entrepreneur from Germany and the CEO and Founder of Adcubator. Jem’s business acts as a marketing agency-cum-venture capital. Jem uses his gained experience, knowledge, and creativity to assist e-commerce businesses in converting their ideas into multimillion-dollar successes. In addition to Adcubator, Jem helped co-found eCom Incubator, an education-focused entity designed to mentor students. In this episode…
As you reflect on your younger years, what dreams do you recall? Did your circumstances influence your career goals?
Many of us grew up determined to make a better life for ourselves. Some of us even dreamed of becoming wealthy. But those kinds of dreams often do not evolve into fruition. Achieving greatness involves more than just a dream — it takes goal setting, planning, perseverance, and action. Jem Bourouh had a dream, set a plan in motion, and succeeded. But what else accompanied his journey to success along the way?
In this ep…
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Sep 7, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating Authentic Products With Brandon and Zane Hunt of Via 313 Pizzeria
Brandon and Zane Hunt are the Co-founders and Co-owners of Via 313 Pizzeria, which serves Detroit-style pizza from three brick-and-mortar locations and two customized trailers in Austin, Texas. They are investors in Better Half, Sold Out, Lil Nonna, Parma Pizza, and several other restaurants. In this episode…
Join Chad Franzen in today’s episode of the SpotOn Series as he welcomes Brandon and Zane Hunt of Via 313 Pizzeria to discuss creating authentic products for a restaurant brand. Together, they share the history of Detroit-style pizza, the factors influencing Via 313’s growth, and advice for aspiring restaurateurs.
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Aug 31, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Expanding a Restaurant Brand With Micha Magid of Mighty Quinn’s BBQ
Micha Magid is the Co-founder of Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, a fast casual barbeque with 13 locations. He oversees finance and marketing strategies alongside the brand’s PR and social media teams. Micha began his career on Wall Street performing mergers and acquisitions for J.P. Morgan before investing in Mighty Quinn’s. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, join Chad Franzen of Rise25 as he sits down with Micha Magid, Co-founder of Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, to talk about franchising his restaurant brand. Micha shares how he co-founded and expanded Mighty Quinn’s, his key to success in operating multiple locations, and his ideal franchisees.
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Aug 24, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Ecological Sustainability in the Restaurant Industry With Michael Oshman of Green Restaurant Association
Michael Oshman is the Founder and CEO of the Green Restaurant Association (GRA), a national nonprofit organization created to shift the restaurant industry toward ecological sustainability. He has been featured in Time Magazine, The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and hundreds of other local and national media outlets. Through the GRA’s notable press coverage, Michael has been a keynote speaker and guest lecturer at conferences in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Asia. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen talks with Michael Oshman, Founder and CEO of Green Restaurant Association, about how eateries can implement ecological practices. Michael shares the Green Restaurant Association’s mission, how to become a certified green restaurant, and the benefits of sustainability in the food service industry. Stay tuned!
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Aug 17, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How the Right Consultant Can Change Your Life With Jim Laube of RestaurantOwner.com
Jim Laube is the Founder and CEO of RestaurantOwner.com, a restaurant consulting firm that has helped thousands of aspiring and struggling restaurant owners succeed and make their dreams a reality. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with RestaurantOwner.com Founder and CEO Jim Laube about how they help new restaurateurs succeed. Jim launched RestaurantOwners.com in 1998, when the internet was still in its infancy. Jim and his team have helped over 65,000 independent restaurant operators achieve their dreams worldwide.
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Aug 10, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Encouraging Company Culture in an Employee-Owned Restaurant With Kevin Suto of Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
Kevin Suto is the CEO of Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, which currently operates five locations in Northern California. He began working at Zachary’s as a dishwasher and has been with the company for 38 years. Kevin has assumed many roles, including president and CFO. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen sits down with Kevin Suto, CEO of Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, to discuss how the company maintains a positive culture and impeccable reputation. Kevin shares Zachary’s early history and the company’s development, its local and national awards, and how the business supports its employees' growth.
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Aug 3, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How To Solve Big Problems in Small Packages With Jeff Tolke of Compaction Technologies
Jeff Tolke is the CEO of Compaction Technologies, providing restaurant automation for touchless handling of waste. Jeff has been with Compaction Technologies for nearly 14 years, helping reduce the volume of waste and divert it from landfills to be a viable resource. Jeff holds an MBA in marketing from Washington University in St. Louis. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Compaction Technologies CEO, Jeff Tolke, about how touchless automation and compaction are changing how high-volume industries handle waste management. As a child living on a farm, Jeff’s experience with zero-waste living shaped his vision for sustainability. He uses his experience and passion to make dirty jobs easier for workers while reducing landfill waste.
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Jul 27, 2022
[SpotOn Series] The Perfect Recipe With Fred Langley of Restaurant Systems Pro
Fred Langley is the owner and CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, a complete operating system for restaurants including organization, hands-on training, apps and software, and more. Fred has been in the service industry since he was 12 years old and opened his first restaurant at age 27. Fred holds an associates degree in Business Administration from Santa Rosa Junior College. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Restaurant Systems Pro Owner and CEO Fred Langley about how complete operating systems can help restaurants improve profits. Fred started as a client with Restaurant Systems Pro and moved up the ranks to where he is now. He uses his decades of experience as a chef and restaurateur to help build sustainable systems for operating profitable restaurants.
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Jul 20, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How To Survive Hospitality With Richard Weil of National Restaurant Consultants
Richard Weil is the Principal and Owner of National Restaurant Consultants, a restaurant consulting firm that partners with restaurateurs embarking into entrepreneurship. Richard holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Richard Weil, the Owner and Principal of National Restaurant Consultants about their mission to propel new entrepreneurs into successful restaurant ownership. Richard has accumulated over 40 years in hospitality and uses his experience to provide entrepreneurs A-Z guidance and resources for success in the industry.
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Jul 13, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How To Break Out of the Corporate Grind With Tariq Johnson of Dream Life Mastery
Tariq Johnson is a franchise coach and the Founder and CEO of Dream Life Mastery. He spent over a decade working as a financial advisor for PNC and other firms before transitioning to franchise ownership. Tariq now uses his skills and experiences to help others make the move to business ownership and quickly become profitable. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Tariq Johnson about how his franchise coaching company Dream Life Mastery can help people escape the corporate grind. Tariq began working in finance before transitioning to franchisee. He now spends his time teaching other frustrated employees how to transition to entrepreneurship through franchise ownership.
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Jul 6, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Bringing Home the Bacon With Lauren Coulter of Biscuit Belly
Lauren Coulter is the Owner and Director of Franchise Development for Biscuit Belly. She and her husband Chad opened their first location in 2019 and now have five corporate locations across Kentucky and Indiana with several franchises on-target. Lauren is also a Doctor of Pharmacy, having earned her PharmD from South University. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Lauren Coulter about Biscuit Belly. Lauren and her husband Chad began the restaurant chain by creating a mouth-watering southern-style menu, an atmosphere of Southern Hospitality, and a fun, energetic environment.
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Jul 6, 2022
Recognizing Problems and Solutions With Serial Entrepreneur William Vablais
William Vablais is a business development executive with over 20 years of experience in developer relations, business development, digital content, licensing, and product marketing. He is the Founder and CEO of FirstWave3D Corp and most recently launched FlowingEdge, a company that optimizes file delivery without using the cloud.
William is specialized in adapting multimedia technologies and has a proven ability to identify and discover technologies and business opportunities before others. He enjoys fixing things that others find challenging. William is fascinated by the internet of things and creating real business opportunities while connecting the dots. In this episode…
Technology is constantly improving, so why do many systems seem to rely on outdated methods? Are you constantly looking for problems to find solutions to? Systems are often shackled by technology that was once cutting edge — but now is being left behind.
William Vablais is an entrepreneur and the mind behind…
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Jun 29, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Fighting World Hunger One Taco at a Time, with Austin Samuelson of Tacos 4 Life Grill
Austin Samuelson is the Co-founder of Tacos 4 Life Grill, a restaurant chain devoted to fighting world hunger through their Meal4Meal program in partnership with Feed My Starving Children. Austin has a bachelor’s degree in finance. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Austin Samuelson about Tacos 4 Life and the mission to fight childhood starvation. Austin started this venture with his wife, Ashton, and talks about the life experiences that led the two of them to create a restaurant chain that can feed starving children worldwide.
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Jun 22, 2022
[SpotOn Series] The Key to Restaurant Longevity
George McKerrow is the Co-founder and CEO of Ted's Montana Grill, a classic American grill serving made-from-scratch dishes in an eco-friendly environment. George opened the first Longhorn Steakhouse in 1981and co-founded We're Cookin’ Inc. in 1996. He received the first Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia Restaurant Association in 2007 and was inducted into the Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame by the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau in 2008. In this episode…
Most restaurants fail within the first year. What’s the key to making your restaurant last? Or making it a national success?
Co-founder and CEO of Ted’s Montana Grill, George McKerrow, discusses his journey of founding multiple successful restaurants. With host Chad Franzen, George talks about the risks he took, how he met his business partner, and why he is passionate about bison.
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Jun 22, 2022
Lessons Learned From a Life of Entrepreneurship
Dennis Kelly is the CEO of Postalytics, a fast-growing direct mail automation software company that helps marketers do more in less time. Postalytics syncs your existing CRM to your direct mail campaigns and integrates as a digital marketing channel by offering an all-in-one solution to create, print, mail, and track personalized direct mail postcards and letters.
Postalytics is Dennis' sixth startup, and he has been involved in starting and growing early-stage technology ventures for over 30 years. Dennis started in retail sales but now spends his time building products, running data centers, and serving as CEO of angel and venture-backed startups. He typically oversees product development, sales, marketing, finance, and HR. In this episode…
Being a serial entrepreneur is a lifelong journey. Continually developing products and businesses yields valuable lessons you can apply to your next endeavor. But what does it take to be successful?
With a thirst for startups, Dennis Kelly ha…
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Jun 15, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How to Grow Your Franchise With Steven Gardner and Anthony Leone of QSR Franchise Development Group
Steven Gardner is the Co-founder of QSR Franchise Development Group, a team of experts in the step-by-step process of creating, developing, and growing quick-service-restaurant (fast food) franchises. He has over 25 years of franchise development experience and has represented almost 100 brands including Chock Full o' Nuts and Energy Kitchen. He has helped open over 1,000 franchise locations as an independent development consultant. Steven holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Questrom School of Business at Boston University.
Anthony Leone is the Co-founder of QSR Franchise Development Group. He is a serial entrepreneur and experienced restaurant executive with a demonstrated history of building brands. Anthony is the Winner of the Torch Award from Florida International University, given to the most distinguished alumnus in their chosen field. Anthony holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Administration and Management from Florida International University. In…
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Jun 8, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Becoming An Industry Leader With Jameel Burkett of Burkett Restaurant Equipment
Jameel Burkett is the President and CEO of Burkett Restaurant Equipment, a market leader in the food service equipment industry. He’s been awarded the Business Excellence Award from the Entrepreneurial & Business Excellence Hall of Fame, the Champion for Young Leaders Award by the Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association (FEDA), and the Management Excellence Award by the Foodservice Equipment Reports magazine. He was also named a Top Achiever by the Foodservice Equipment and Supplies magazine. Jameel holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and an MBA from The University of Toledo. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Jameel Burkett about growing Burkett Restaurant Equipment. As the President and CEO, Jameel reveals the successes and hurdles that helped him scale his company from a small, regional equipment supplier to one of the top restaurant equipment and supply distributors in the nation.
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Jun 1, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How the Pandemic Has Shaped the Current Nightlife and Bar Experience With Tom Fricke of Bar Louie
Tom Fricke is the CEO of Bar Louie, a gastrobar with over 70 locations across the US. Tom has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from Stanford University. He was a Naval Intelligence Officer in the US Navy for five years and has over three decades of leadership experience in multiple industries, including consumer products, retail, and restaurants. In this episode
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen speaks with Tom Fricke about Bar Louie and the effects that the pandemic had on the gastrobar experience. As the company’s CEO, Tom dives deep into the challenges he faced and the changes that kept Bar Louie successful during and after the height of the pandemic. Stay tuned!
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May 25, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating Innovative Restaurant Brands With Amy and Vivi Wanderley-Britt of 360 Degrees Restaurant Group
Amy and Vivi Wanderley-Britt are Co-owners of 360 Degrees Restaurant Group, whose brands include Pig & A Jelly Jar and WB’s Eatery. Amy has over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and she first opened Pig & A Jelly Jar more than a decade ago. Vivi spent 20 years in the paid media field before joining her wife to grow their restaurant group. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, co-host Chad Franzen talks with Amy and Vivi Wanderley-Britt, Co-owners of 360 Degrees Restaurant Group, about creating innovative concepts for restaurant businesses. Together, they share the four-step growth model of their company, how they use cannabis in their restaurant brands, and the various ways they work to support their community.
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May 25, 2022
How To Build a Self-Sustaining Business So You Can Pursue Other Passions
Casey Cavell is the Founder of Legacy 4:12, an entrepreneurial team consisting of advisors, mentors, investors, and experts who serve growth-minded entrepreneurs. After building over two dozen self-sustaining businesses, the team has turned its focus to helping its clients experience consistent and predictable growth and make an impact far beyond the profit and loss statement.
Casey is an award-winning entrepreneur, Jesus follower, and trusted advisor to those looking to reach their highest potential. At 21, Casey started his first company and has created, bought, invested, and operated over two dozen businesses in various industries over the past 15 years. His most recent venture is a Web3-based consulting company called Kingdom House. In this episode…
Are you an entrepreneur that feels bogged down by the day-to-day operations of running your business? Would you like to learn a better way to get the growth you want and still have time to spend with your family and pursue other pas…
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May 18, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Achieving Success in the Restaurant Industry With Mike Pruitt of Amergent Hospitality Group
Mike Pruitt is the Chairman and CEO of Amergent Hospitality Group, which owns, operates, and franchises casual and full-service restaurants such as American Burger Co., Little Big Burger, and PizzaRev. Mike has a demonstrated history as a chairperson in multiple industries and previously played on two NAIA World Series baseball teams while working toward his business degree at Coastal Carolina University. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen talks with Mike Pruitt, Chairman and CEO of Amergent Hospitality Group, about the secret to success for buying and franchising restaurants. Together, they discuss Mike’s success with his burger restaurants, how he purchased Hooters, and how he overcame failures in his business deals.
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May 11, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating and Sustaining a Successful Restaurant With Mark Moeller of The Recipe of Success
Mark Moeller is a national restaurant consultant, operations expert, and turnaround specialist with decades of experience in the restaurant industry. He is the President and Founder of The Recipe of Success, a nationally recognized restaurant consulting firm that has held the secret ingredient to creating some of the best restaurants, fast casual dining venues, cafes, bars, bakeries, and multifaceted catering and events businesses. In this episode…
In today’s episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen joins Mark Moeller, President and Founder of The Recipe of Success, to talk about creating and sustaining a successful and profitable restaurant. As someone with 40 years of restaurant industry experience, Mark divulges how he transformed a struggling restaurant with his consulting business, some common mistakes restaurateurs make when starting out, and the benefits of hiring a consultant as a new restaurant owner.
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May 4, 2022
[SpotOn Series] The Dos and Don’ts for Restaurant Managers With Ken McGarrie of Korgen Hospitality
Ken McGarrie is the Founder and CEO of Korgen Hospitality, a consulting firm for hospitality leaders, and the COO of Fabio Viviani Hospitality, one of the leading restaurant groups in the United States. Ken has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and is also the Author of The Surprise Restaurant Manager. He and his team at Korgen make it their mission to help restaurateurs reach their full potential. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen sits down with Ken McGarrie, Founder of Korgen Hospitality, to talk about his book The Surprise Restaurant Manager. Together, they unfold some of the biggest challenges facing new restaurant managers today, the solutions to help them achieve success, and how Ken became a leading consultant in the hospitality industry.
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Apr 27, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Thriving in the Midst of Career Changes With Paul Carolan of Paul Carolan Consulting
Paul Carolan is the Principal at Paul Carolan Consulting, where he brings over 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry to help clients achieve financial and unit growth. He became President of Genghis Grill in February of 2020, just prior to the pandemic, and managed to avoid closing any stores or losing anyone in their leadership or management teams during his tenure. Paul has also served as President and COO of Mongolian Concepts Restaurant Group, President of Bruegger’s Bagels, and Chief Development Officer of Le Duff America. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen interviews Paul Carolan, the Principal of Paul Carolan Consulting, about his storied career in hospitality. As an accomplished restaurant executive with 40+ years of experience to his name, Paul shares invaluable advice on making sound financial decisions, the importance of company culture, and the strengths of managing and motivating employees through teachable moments.
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Apr 20, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Pioneering New Business Models for Eateries with Kirk Mauriello of Virturant
Kirk Mauriello is the President and Co-founder of Virturant, a company that establishes delivery-only restaurant brands that can be run out of existing kitchens. He started the virtual restaurant business in 2019, and it has since pioneered a new business model for eateries and experienced huge growth in a short timespan. Before this, Kirk spent almost a decade leading successful restaurant brands and franchises in the Chicago area. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen picks the brain of Virturant President and Co-founder Kirk Mauriello to learn the ins and outs of virtual restaurants, a burgeoning business model in the eatery industry. Kirk explains how the flexible day-to-day operations of virtual restaurants maximize the productivity and profits of existing kitchens. He also details how the pandemic forced the industry years ahead of where it would be otherwise.
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Apr 13, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating a Lasting Legacy With Michael Schultz of Infuse Hospitality
Michael Schultz is the Founder and CEO of Infuse Hospitality, a management and consulting company that works with offices, retail spaces, hotels, and more to create first-class food and beverage amenities. These spaces are fully customizable and range from simple beverage carts all the way up to full-scale restaurants. With 25 years of experience in hospitality, Michael entered the industry at age 12 as a dishwasher before his entrepreneurial drive and creativity ultimately led him to create Infuse. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen chats with Infuse Hospitality Founder and CEO Michael Schultz about how his desire to create a lasting legacy for his family led him to become an entrepreneur. Michael discusses his humble beginnings in the hospitality industry, the key components of a successful brand, and how being service-minded and observant of human behaviors helped his company find stability and success — even once the pandemic reared its ugly he…
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Apr 6, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Innovation: Your Restaurant’s Secret Ingredient for Success with Ethan Huynh of EAAT Restaurant Group
Ethan Huynh is the Founder and CEO of EAAT Restaurant Group. He’s currently based in Austin, Texas, where he operates several restaurants, including HappyRito Seafood, his newest venture. He has been a restaurateur for 14 years and previously worked as a sushi chef. Ethan has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and an associate’s degree in culinary arts and chef training from Nicholls State University. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen talks with Ethan Huynh, the Founder and CEO of EAAT Restaurant Group, about his experience as a restaurant owner and operator. Ethan discusses the challenges of opening new restaurants just before and during the pandemic. He also explains how innovation, such as self-service ordering, can relieve many of the new pressures restaurants are feeling, and how fresh ideas can make your restaurant a success. To hear more, tune in to this episode.
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Mar 30, 2022
From Navy SEAL to Entrepreneur: Tips for Running a Successful Business
Brandon Webb is a combat-decorated Navy SEAL sniper turned entrepreneur and best-selling author who has built two brands into eight-figure businesses. Brandon is the Founder, CEO, and Publisher of SOFREP Media, the world’s leading military culture, defense, and foreign policy news site. Millions of people read from SOFREP every month, and it’s regularly featured on some of the largest news media sites in the world.
Brandon was also the Founder of Crate Club, a membership subscription and kit that includes a variety of self-defense, tactical, and survival gear from first-aid kits to high-quality outdoor equipment. Brandon successfully exited Crate Club in 2020 after bootstrapping it to an eight-figure revenue.
Additionally, as a US Navy Chief, Brandon was head instructor at the Navy SEAL sniper school, which produced some of America’s most legendary snipers. In this episode…
Are you struggling with success in your personal and professional life? What if you can learn from pro…
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Mar 30, 2022
[SpotOn Series] How To Win the Franchise Game With Dan Rowe of Fransmart
Dan Rowe is the CEO of Fransmart, one of the largest franchise development firms in the world. Dan has over 30 years of experience as a franchisor and franchisee, having grown brands like Five Guys, Qdoba, and The Halal Guys. Dan and his team at Fransmart help brands succeed by staying on top of the next big opportunities. Additionally, Dan is the Managing Partner of Kitchen Fund and an active Board Member of YPO and the National Restaurant Association. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen sits down with Dan Rowe, CEO of Fransmart, to talk about how the company has become one of the world leaders in franchising. Dan shares how his time in the restaurant industry led him to franchising, the ways Fransmart helps franchisees succeed, and the tried-and-true systems restaurant owners need to grow and reach their goals.
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Mar 23, 2022
How To Form a Business With a Remote Team Built for Success
Sarah Hawley is the Founder and CEO of Growmotely, the world’s first platform that helps companies engage with worldwide professionals and hire them into long-term remote roles. Sarah is a serial entrepreneur and an investor in startups and has founded eight companies since 2009, including three successful exits exceeding $2 million each.
She is the author of Conscious Leadership: A Journey from Ego to Heart. Sarah is the Co-founder of the League of Extraordinary Women, a community that supports women’s entrepreneurship. She is also the host of the Conscious Culture podcast.
Sarah is fueled by a passion for changing the status quo of how people work, conscious culture and leadership, community, gender equality, and living life on one’s own terms. In this episode…
Working remotely has become the norm due to the pandemic. As an entrepreneur, how can you stretch your thinking and understanding to have conscious leadership with a remote team?
Culture is not your office — it's…
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Mar 23, 2022
[SpotOn Series] From Law Books To Sandwich Chains With Brad Forsling of Jimmy John’s
Brad Forsling is a former attorney and current Franchise Owner of Jimmy John’s. He practiced law for three years in Atlanta, GA, before becoming a Franchise Owner of The Original Pancake House and Jimmy John’s. With almost a decade of experience as a business owner, Brad is a skilled problem-solver, high EQ leader, and team builder. In this episode…
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen sits down with Brad Forsling, Franchise Owner of Jimmy John’s, to discuss his journey building a successful franchise. Tune in as Brad talks about why he left the legal industry to pursue restaurant ownership, how he overcame burnout, and his tips for attracting and motivating employees.
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Mar 16, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Creating the Top Restaurants in Texas
Dallas Hale is the Chief Executive Officer at Shell Shack, a successful seafood chain with six locations in Texas and one in Florida. He is also the CEO of Texas-based restaurants Sushi Marquee and Ebb & Flow. He’s gone from working as a busser to operating some of Texas’ top restaurants and overseeing more than 500 employees. Before this, Dallas proudly served in the US Coast Guard for five years. In this episode…
Shell Shack has become the go-to destination for seafood in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. So, what makes it stand out from the hundreds of other seafood hotspots in Texas? Dallas Hale, the co-creator and CEO of Shell Shack, tapped into a restaurant market that left much to be desired — and transformed it into something amazing.
Dallas first came up with the concepts that made Shell Shack a success while working at a nightclub. With this experience under his belt, he was able to build the seafood restaurant into a fun and engaging atmosphere with mouth-watering food.…
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Mar 9, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Upgrading Your Restaurant’s Digital Strategy
Carl Orsbourn and Meredith Sandland are Co-authors of the book Delivering the Digital Restaurant: Your Roadmap to the Future of Food. They're also the Co-founders of Learn.Delivery, a website dedicated to helping food and beverage executives optimize their off-premise businesses and succeed in the digital economy.
Carl has extensive global experience implementing product strategies, change, and innovation in retail, virtual restaurant, and digital food-related environments. Previously, he was Head of Retail at BP and the Vice President of Operations at Kitchen United.
Meredith spent two decades as a consultant for corporate strategy and restaurant development. She helped build over 1000 restaurants as Chief Development Officer at Yum! Brands/Taco Bell and served as the Chief Operating Officer at Kitchen United. Now, Meredith is at the forefront of the profound change in America’s food consumption patterns. In this episode…
The global pandemic crammed about 10 years of digital tr…
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Mar 2, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Engineering Inspiration Through Ice Cream
Garrett Clark is the Founder and Visionary of Rolling Monkey, a company that specializes in handcrafted ice cream made by skilled artisans. After starting his career in engineering, Garrett decided to found Rolling Monkey in 2017 with the goal of delivering high-quality products and exciting experiences. In addition to this, he is a Community Catalyst for Georgia Southern University’s Business Innovation Group. Previously, he worked as a Production Improvement Supervisor at Koyo Bearings North America and a Lean Engineer at Mitsubishi Power Americas. In This Episode
What is the secret to running a successful, tasty, and memorable food business? While many would assume that it requires an in-depth background in the food and hospitality industries, Garrett Clark has proven that it’s all about leadership.
With a degree in civil engineering and a position at Mitsubishi Power Americas, Garrett was solidly ensconced in a successful engineering career. But he quickly learned that he was…
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Mar 2, 2022
How Essential is Digital Marketing to Business Success?
Ben LeDonni is the CEO and Founder of Creative Multimedia Solutions (Creative MMS), a company that grows established B2B solution providers by building authority, trust, and expertise with their audience using data-driven digital marketing. Ben’s leadership embodies Kaizen, a Japanese business philosophy of continuous improvement around working practices and efficiency — he seeks out the latest trends in digital strategy, along with company efficiency. When Ben is not strategizing or leading his team to new heights, he’s out in his garden, adventuring with his three kids or enjoying a sunset with his beautiful wife. In this episode…
So many things in the world are now being done online — but do you know how to create powerful digital experiences?
People have to evolve as the world does if they want to succeed. Learning and embracing new trends and practices is essential. With all the technologically focused online capabilities, it’s almost impossible for companies to be s…
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Feb 23, 2022
[SpotOn Series] From Investment Banking to The Restaurant Business
Rick Spell is a Private Equity Investor and the Owner of Spell Restaurant Group. In 2004, Rick and his daughter Christy purchased Brookhaven Pub & Grill in Memphis, Tennessee. Since then, they have established both casual and fine dining restaurants in nine locations in Florida, Tennessee, and Mississippi. In addition to this, Rick is a CPA with over 30 years of experience in investment banking. He is also currently a member of The University of Memphis Board of Visitors and an active supporter of the university’s athletics department. In this episode…
After a 30-year career in finance, many wouldn’t consider starting from scratch in a trade they don’t know much about. But for Rick Spell, a background in investment banking was the key to his success as a restaurateur.
Rick says he didn’t get into the restaurant business despite his background in investing and accounting, but because of it. His approach to restaurant ownership is rare, informed by his keen eye for numbers…
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Feb 16, 2022
Getting Current in the Changing Landscape of Data Security and Privacy
Jodi Daniels is the Founder and CEO of Red Clover Advisors, a company that helps hundreds of businesses create privacy programs and achieve GDPR, CCPA, and US privacy law compliance. Clients rely on the secure online strategies that Red Clover establishes.
Jodi is a Certified Informational Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) with more than 20 years of experience helping a range of businesses from solopreneurs to multinational companies in privacy, marketing, strategy, and finance roles. Jodi is also a national keynote speaker, a member of the Forbes Business Council, and the host of the She Said Privacy, He Said Security podcast. In this episode…
Do you have what it takes to stay ahead or keep up with data privacy laws in a way that’s manageable and gives you the peace of mind you need? What if it is possible to stay compliant in an ever-changing landscape, no matter what changes occur?
As an expert in privacy and security issues, Jodi Daniels knows that privacy-friendly practices ar…
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Feb 16, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Solving Restaurant Industry Pain Points Through One App
Kassandra Pike is the Founder of Fliptable, the #1 app for finding and posting restaurant jobs. Powered by AI and contactless QR technology, Fliptable is building the largest community of experienced applicants and hiring managers in the industry. Before this, Kassandra held management positions at companies including Heartland, Freestone Digital Media, and Birchstand. In this episode…
Since the pandemic, restaurants have struggled to find the right candidates to solve their understaffing challenges. Additionally, job seekers are overwhelmed trying to manage their resumes and applications across different platforms. Luckily, Kassandra Pike created a solution for both of these issues using one simple app.
If people can find life partners on dating apps, why can’t the restaurant industry match great people on an app, too? This question inspired Kassandra to found Fliptable, an app that offers seamless hiring tools for restaurateurs and matches candidates with the right jobs. The ap…
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Feb 9, 2022
[SpotOn Series] 3 Ingredients You Need to Grow Your Restaurant Business
David Grossman is the President and CEO of Epic Burger, a Chicago-based restaurant chain focused on crafting “a more mindful burger.” An expert in business development, David knows exactly what it takes to grow a successful brand. Throughout his 30-plus years in the restaurant industry, David has led organizations like Subway and Freshii to incredible success, opening more than 150 stores combined for the two franchises. His latest venture is building Epic Burger into a dominant burger chain in the Midwest. In this episode…
It’s a simple but painful truth: You can’t be everywhere at once. No matter how much attention you give your business, no matter how hard or how long you work, success often hinges on factors outside your control. But how do you know what areas to focus on to set yourself up for success?
When David Grossman teamed up with Epic Burger, the brand was struggling to survive the COVID-19 pandemic. But, by leveraging his restaurant experience and implementing…
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Feb 2, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Cultivating a Positive Restaurant Culture
Aylwin Lewis is a seasoned business leader with decades of experience in the restaurant industry. Before retiring in 2017, Aylwin was the Chief Executive Officer for multiple companies including Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Kmart, and Sears. He also spent four years as the Chief Operating Officer for Yum! Brands, which includes KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell. Additionally, he has served on the board of directors for The Walt Disney Company, Red Robin, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, and Marriott International. In this episode…
Most people have worked jobs they dreaded showing up to every day. So what makes or breaks a company’s culture? Is it the clients, the other employees, or the actual work?
Seasoned restaurant business leader Aylwin Lewis says that people don’t quit companies — they leave bosses. If your leader is unstable or lacks certain characteristics, the business doesn’t have a shot. Instead, employees respect a leader who is steady under stress, who can calmly coach new…
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Feb 2, 2022
“I Don’t Have Time To Start a Podcast” & 10+ Reasons How Podcasting Will Save You Time
Dr. Jeremy Weisz is the Co-founder of Rise25. He has been involved in podcasting for 11 years and was a Senior Producer for one of the early business podcasts; he assisted in putting all of their systems in place and helped them add volume, feature, and edify various business leaders.
Dr. Weisz has also been running his podcast, Inspired Insider, since 2011. He has featured top entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs of P90X, Atari, Einstein Bagels, Mattel, the Orlando Magic, and many more.
In addition to running Rise25, Dr. Weisz owns a nutritional supplement business and runs his chiropractic and massage facility, Chiropractical Solutions & Massage.
John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and was a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and has run his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs.
John has…
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Jan 26, 2022
[SpotOn Series] The Intersection of Organic Chemistry and Cooking
Chris Yang is the Founder of PopCultivate, a chef-driven culinary group creating cannabis-infused cuisine. Chris is formally trained as an organic chemist with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree in management from Chang Gung University in Taiwan. Chris started his career in the pharmaceutical industry, but he soon discovered a passion for food and turned his science knowledge into cooking techniques. Since then, he's built multiple culinary companies and has been featured on the Food Network. In this episode…
What do organic chemistry and cannabis-infused dining have in common? You’ll have to ask Chef Chris Yang.
Chris started his career path in the pharmaceutical industry after studying organic chemistry in college. Along the way, he discovered a passion for cooking that exceeded his desire to continue in the medical field. His first steps in the culinary world included a delivery-only restaurant and a cooking…
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Jan 19, 2022
Journey to Entrepreneurship With Danijel Velicki, Founder and CEO of Sqwire
Danijel Velicki is the Founder and CEO of Sqwire and the Founder and Senior Partner of Opus Wealth Strategies LLC. With only $40 in his pocket, Danijel left Croatia in pursuit of the American Dream. After working his way through college, he became a successful entrepreneur.
With decades of experience in personal finance, education, and communication, Danijel and the team at Sqwire help low to moderate-income families realize their financial promise by providing them with financial education. Opus Wealth Strategies is an independent financial and insurance services firm that guides businesses, families, and individuals nationwide to achieve the financial goals that are most important to them. In this episode…
How do you go from a 17-year-old Croatian immigrant with only $40 in his pocket to a successful entrepreneur in America? Hard work, dedication, and some chance-taking.
Sqwire Founder and CEO and Opus Wealth Strategies Founder and Senior Partner Danijel Velicki says, “you mis…
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Jan 19, 2022
[SpotOn Series] From Homeless at 15 to the Owner of Multiple Restaurants
Dan Pool is the Owner and CEO of Pools Restaurant Group. He has owned and opened over 150 restaurants throughout the United States. Pools Restaurant Group currently consists of 30 Gandolfo’s Delis and 18 Petro’s Chili & Chips. Previously, Dan worked for Chili's and Bennigan's, owned several gourmet food trucks, and was the President of Golden Corral. In this episode…
Some people learn through years of expensive college education. Others, like Dan Pool, learn through the school of hard knocks.
When 15-year-old Dan came home to find all of his belongings tossed onto the front lawn, the future didn’t look bright. He was sleeping in friends’ cars and barely making enough to eat by working at fast food restaurants. But what started as a way to survive turned into a lifelong passion for the restaurant industry. Since then, he’s started several restaurants, became the President of Golden Corral, and created his current business, Pools Restaurant Group.
In this episode of the Sp…
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Jan 12, 2022
[SpotOn Series] Building a Virtual Brand To Boost the Restaurant Industry
Paul Allen is the President and Co-founder of Nextbite, a virtual restaurant. Nextbite helps commercial kitchens add innovative, online food delivery concepts to their line-up. Paul has over 25 years of experience spanning technology sales, marketing, and product development. He’s worked with teams at Intel, Motorola, Adobe, Autodesk; the states of Connecticut, Colorado, and Ohio; and dozens of technology startups. He has been a founder, investor, and board member of numerous venture-backed technology companies and led two tech startup accelerators, including one backed by Dan Gilbert, Founder and Chairman of Quicken Loans. In this episode…
Restaurants have downtime. They’ve got space, employees, and ingredients to make food — but there’s no way to use them without orders flowing in. Wouldn’t it be nice to use those resources for some extra cash flow?
Paul Allen started Nextbite to fill the gap. He’s created online brands that are made in local kitchens, using ingredien…
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Jan 5, 2022
Getting Unstuck Through the Power of Selfishness
Mike Malatesta is an entrepreneur, author, investor, and the Founder of Advanced Waste Services. He is the Leader of ERC Midwest, a holding company formed to purchase and grow other businesses that specialize in solving complex waste problems. Mike is also the author of the forthcoming book, Owner Shift: How Getting Selfish Got Me Unstuck, and host of the How’d It Happen Podcast.
Mike is on a mission to help 1,000 entrepreneurs create companies that become worth more than $20 million each. Options rather than obligations drive him, and he hopes to create new opportunities, relationships, and success stories as a result of doing what he loves. In this episode…
Many people have come to a point in their career where they feel like they’ve eclipsed their skillset or begun hating the things they used to love. Mike Malatesta calls this the “valley of uncertainty.” So, how do you avoid getting stuck in this dark place?
Sometimes you need to break to discover a breakthrough. After…
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Dec 29, 2021
[SpotOn Series] Networking in Style at Baltimore’s Finest Luxury Business Club
John Bonavia is the Founder of The Gateway Advantage, a luxury business club in Baltimore. The Gateway Advantage aims to create a professional network environment for business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors to meet like-minded people and find innovative solutions. John is a sales and marketing guru who uses his skills in problem-solving, ethics, leadership, and creativity to meet sales, profitability, and growth objectives. Previously, he was a Regional Sales Manager for First Data Corporation, a Property Manager for Macerich, and a Contract Specialist for The National Institutes of Health. In this episode…
You look to the left and see a successful CEO of a multimillion-dollar company. You look to the right and see an energetic young owner of a startup. This is the exciting reality of The Gateway Advantage in Baltimore.
A luxury business club, The Gateway Advantage fosters an environment of ingenuity, class, and success. Members mix and mingle to create new partnerships, netw…
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Dec 22, 2021
Driving Success Through Innovative Compensation Plans
Verne Harnish is the Founder and CEO of Scaling Up, a global executive education and coaching company with over 180 partners on six continents. Verne chairs the annual ScaleUp Summits and serves on several boards, including Chair of The Riordan Clinic, Co-founder and Chair of Geoversity, and Board Member of the Million Dollar Women community.
Verne is the Founder of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), a peer-to-peer network for entrepreneurs with over 14,000 members worldwide. He is also a keynote speaker and the author of multiple best-sellers, including Mastering the Rockefeller Habits and Scaling Up — which has been translated into 23 languages and won eight major international book awards. In this episode…
Nowadays, employees are gravitating towards non-traditional compensation plans. But what’s the benefit of exploring new incentive methods?
Verne Harnish says that there’s a strategic advantage in crafting a cutting-edge compensation plan. You’ll stand out from co…
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Dec 15, 2021
[SpotOn Series] Reimagining Food Tours to Support Local Restaurants
Ben Brown is the Founder and President of TastePro, a self-guided food tour company. With TastePro’s tours, participants can try the best foods from multiple restaurants at a fraction of the price. Ben is a seasoned hospitality professional with a fanatical passion for food. He has experience with corporate food and beverage marketing, strategy, and analytics and has worked with companies including MGM Resorts International, Princess Cruises, and more. Ben is also currently the Vice President of Marketing for ConverseNow, an AI platform that is revolutionizing the restaurant industry. In this episode…
If you have a passion for traveling and food, trying new restaurants is probably top-of-mind anywhere you go. So, how do you find the best, most authentic places to eat in each location?
How about a self-guided food tour? As a content strategist for Princess Cruises, Ben Brown loved to take guided food tours during his travels to experience the finest local cuisine. He discovered am…
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Dec 8, 2021
How One Entrepreneur Pivoted His Career, Solved a Universal Problem, and Grew His Business
Kyle Ewing is the President and Founder of TerraSlate, the leading provider of waterproof and rip-proof printer paper. Founded in 2015, TerraSlate has grown into a multimillion-dollar company that does business in over 85 countries worldwide. Kyle became a full-time entrepreneur in 2014 after leaving the corporate world to build his first company, Guerrilla Tags ID Systems. Since then, he has collaborated with fellow entrepreneurs and venture capitalists to develop new systems, metrics, and growth strategies for emerging companies in the tech and renewable resources industries.
Kyle is a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization and Chair of the Board for Seven Ribbons Foundation. Before TerraSlate, Kyle founded Teslyne and MBA Adventure Tours and worked at companies including Brightstar and Sand Cherry Associates. In this episode…
Many entrepreneurs have exceptional ideas, but what does it take to turn those ideas into reality?
For Kyle Ewing, it’s all about the execution and…
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Dec 1, 2021
[SpotOn Series] The Secrets to Starting a Sustainable Restaurant
Glenn Cybulski is an award-winning executive chef with over 25 years of restaurant experience. He has opened 24 of his own restaurants, consulted for Papa Murphy's take-and-bake pizza, and developed a dough recipe that they purchased from him for $80,000. He's also consulted for Pieology, a restaurant company that has over 150 locations, and has spoken at multiple expos, including the International Artisan Bakery Expo and the International Pizza Expo. Glenn has written for Pizza Today magazine, Outside magazine, and Franchise Times, and has appeared on the Food Network and multiple other television outlets. Additionally, Glenn is the Founder of Tossed, Sauced & Baked, which features award-winning sauces infused with cannabis. In this episode…
The wonderful aroma of a freshly cooked meal fills the air. You’re surrounded by loving friends and family. Just like millions of people around the globe, you’ve all been brought together by one simple thing — food. Chefs in every corner…
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Nov 24, 2021
Surviving Financial Crisis, the Pandemic, and Building a Business Through Tough Times
Ivan Barratt is the Founder and CEO of The BAM Companies, which specialize in the acquisition and management of multifamily apartment communities. The BAM Companies consist of BAM Capital, BAM Management, and BAM Construction and have over $593 million in total assets. Ivan’s company has been listed three times on the Inc. 5000 list.
In addition to his role at The BAM Companies, Ivan is also a Managing General Partner for 11 apartment complexes, the Owner of two apartment complexes, and the President of the Reserve at Broad Ripple Homeowners Association. He has held several leadership positions at the Penrod Society and is an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). In this episode…
Every business faces challenges in its launch period. But what does it take to build your business during all-encompassing economic hardships?
Ivan Barratt has the answer. Two years after the financial crisis in 2008, Ivan started his real estate company. Ten years later, they wer…
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Nov 17, 2021
[SpotOn Series] Making Your Restaurant Dream a Reality
Jeannette Goldman is the Owner of Start Your Restaurant Business, a consultancy that provides one-on-one coaching, e-learning courses, and other helpful resources for first-time restaurant entrepreneurs. Jeannette has been helping people pursue their dreams of owning a food business for over 10 years. Throughout her storied career, she has started several of her own businesses, including cafes, catering businesses, a retail store, and a multimedia company, which she still currently owns. In this episode…
You’ve got a flair for cooking and a dream to open up your own restaurant. But where do you even begin?
It’s no secret that the restaurant industry is tough. Jeannette Goldman tried and failed the first time she opened a restaurant, but she took those hard lessons and used them to successfully launch four more businesses. Now, she offers her expertise to other entrepreneurs who share her passion for the food industry.
In this episode of the SpotOn Series, Chad Franzen is joine…
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Nov 10, 2021
From Lemonade Stands to Building High-End Restaurants
Michael Boaz is the Founder of Boaz Construction, which offers budget development, vendor and subcontractor management, equipment sourcing, and more. General Contractors Magazine has recognized Boaz Construction as one of “The Best Commercial Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana,” “The Best Tenant Improvement Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana,” and “The Best Apartment and Condo Interior Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana.”
Michael is also the Founder of iRestore, LLC, which offers roof inspection and replacement services, and Meadows Design Complex, which focuses on property management and redevelopment. He is certified by Procore Technologies as a Project Manager of Core Tools. In this episode…
From running lemonade stands at a young age to building high-end homes and commercial buildings today, Michael Boaz has been through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. So, what has his experience taught him about business leadership?
Like many across the globe, Michae…
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Nov 3, 2021
The Most Important Leadership Lessons From 2,000+ Business Leaders
Among all of the influential leaders they’ve interviewed, there’s a major lesson that sticks out for both Jeremy and John: leaders should constantly be learning, growing, and expanding their skillset. As a business leader, it’s vital to strive for improvement for yourself and your employees, business, and community. What other characteristics are key for successful business leaders? In this episode…
Together, Dr. Jeremy Weisz and John Corcoran have a collective two decades of podcasting experience. They’ve each interviewed over 1,000 guests, from CEOs to billionaires to entrepreneurs across all industries. By connecting with so many business leaders, Jeremy and John have learned what it takes to succeed.
In this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25 Co-founders Dr. Jeremy Weisz and John Corcoran discuss the most important qualities they see in top business leaders. Using examples of the inspirational people they’ve connected with through podcasting, they bring…
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