Restaurant Owners Uncorked - By Schedulefly

David Bessinger shares the multi-generational history of Melvin’s BBQ, a business built on a secret mustard-based sauce invented by his grandfather in 1933. Bessinger details the evolution of the brand from its origins during the Great Depression to its current status as a Charleston staple, emphasizing the transition from gas-assisted pits to traditional all-wood smoking methods. Throughout the conversation, he underscores the foundational principles inherited from his father: maintaining debt-free operations by owning land, prioritizing customer and employee respect, and the "sacred" decision to remain closed on Sundays for family and rest. Bessinger also offers a candid look at modern industry challenges, including the post-2016 labor crisis and the dual-edged nature of social media, ultimately advocating for a "long game" philosophy that focuses on internal quality rather than external competition.10 Takeaways The Power of Heritage: The business is anchored by a 1933 family recipe for South Carolina’s fi

Koji Kanematsu, the founder of Onigilly Japanese Kitchen, who shares his nearly 20-year journey of introducing Japanese rice balls to the American market. Transitioning from a background in tech startups, Koji applied a systems-oriented approach to transform a 2008 street cart into a growing franchise brand. The conversation covers his early challenges securing funding as an immigrant, the strategic pivot from urban business districts to suburban shopping centers during the pandemic, and his "Panda Express" vision for making onigiri a mainstream, healthy fast-food staple. Koji emphasizes the importance of balancing data-driven tools with human instinct and selecting franchisees who are driven by a passion for the product rather than just financial gain.10 Key Takeaways Identify a Market Gap: Koji founded the business after realizing he couldn't find the healthy, quick, and affordable lunches he enjoyed in Japan while working in San Francisco. Systems-Driven Scaling: Influenced by his tech background, Koji

John Ahrendt, the head of franchise relations for Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, talks about the unique operational DNA that drives the brand's success. Arendt, a 40-year industry veteran with roots in the Outback Steakhouse system, discusses how Keke’s maintains its "founder-inspired" magic—characterized by massive portions and "elevated American classics"—while scaling under the corporate umbrella of Denny’s. The conversation delves into the tactical "rhythm" of the breakfast model, including the importance of "throughput" during peak weekend hours, the strategic use of Denny’s franchisee network for national expansion, and the philosophy of keeping systems simple enough that they require no formal training to master.10 Key Takeaways The Power of Simplicity: Effective systems, like Keke’s or even Google, should be intuitive enough to use with almost no formal training. The "Shots on Goal" Mentality: Every table is a fresh opportunity to refine service and outdo the previous interaction. Predictability of Break

Chef Jeremy Conner is a hospitality veteran who shares his nearly 32-year journey in the industry. Jeremy details his diverse experiences, ranging from his early "hustle" starting at age 15 to navigating the complexities of SBA loans, shipping container setups, and transitioning from outdoor pop-up pizza ventures to brick-and-mortar ramen shops. The conversation delves into the cultural influences of Jeremy’s background in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, while emphasizing a business philosophy centered on authentic human connection rather than technological "stickiness" or exit strategies. Ultimately, Jeremy advocates for building a business that one can be proud of every day, focusing on the value of regular customers and genuine staff engagement over the lure of becoming an "unhappy billionaire".10 Key Takeaways Early Foundations: Long-term success in hospitality often stems from early, foundational experiences and a willingness to "hustle" through various entry-level roles. Adaptability in Business Models

Dominick D'Aleo, the Chief Operating Officer of IGC Hospitality, discuses the nuances of managing a large-scale hospitality group in New York City. Dominick shares his transition from a financial analyst to a seasoned hospitality leader, emphasizing IGC’s core "Four H's" philosophy: Human being, Hospitality, Humble, and Hungry. The conversation explores how IGC leverages data through platforms like SevenRooms to provide "unreasonable hospitality" and personalized guest experiences, while also navigating modern challenges such as a shifting labor market, rising costs, and changing alcohol consumption trends. Ultimately, Dominick underscores the importance of "extreme ownership," authentic leadership, and continuous learning as the primary drivers for resilience and success in the restaurant industry.10 Key Takeaways The "Four H's" Framework: IGC Hospitality operates on the pillars of being a Human being (accepting mistakes), providing Hospitality (the "X factor"), staying Humble (open to criticism), and remai

Wil chats with Tessa Yost and Samantha Bratten of Coffee Rush, a family-owned drive-through coffee chain started in 1992 in Oregon by Tessa's parents amid the early coffee boom, pioneering convenience over sit-down spots like Starbucks. They discuss expanding to South Florida in 2023, driven by Tessa's post-abroad entrepreneurial shift and Samantha's ops skills, focusing on quality brews, genuine customer interactions in under 2 minutes, small dual-drive footprints in parking lots, and family ownership to avoid franchising dilution. Topics include hiring for personality to build connections, using a custom app for 50-60% sales while keeping orders face-to-face, competing via word-of-mouth and TikTok, navigating rising prices and permits, viewing rivals positively, and growth plans for 40 stores in 5 years. The talk emphasizes human touch in tech-heavy times, soft skills for young staff, and ideas like a "pay it forward" program.10 Key Takeaways Drive-Through Innovation: Founded in 1992 in Oregon, Coffee Rush

Jason Berkowitz, a veteran restaurant operator and the founder of Arrow Up Training. Berkowitz shares his "origin story" rooted in a four-generation family of funeral directors, which taught him that true hospitality is about shifting one’s ego to support others during their most vulnerable moments. The conversation explores the critical balance between technology and humanity, with Berkowitz arguing that tools like digital scheduling should be used to automate "crappy" tasks so leaders can spend more time on the floor engaging with their teams and guests. He also offers practical advice for independent owners, emphasizing that "organized people work in organized environments" and warning against the common pitfalls of opening a second location without proper systems and project management tools.10 Key Takeaways The Root of Hospitality: True hospitality is the ability to set aside your ego and provide the specific support a person needs in their current emotional state. The "Two Questions" Framework: Every

Jeremy and Angie Walton talk about their journey of launching a hospitality company in Alys Beach, Florida. Jeremy, a veteran of luxury hospitality brands like Montage and Sea Island, and Angie, who transitioned from a career in social work, share how they navigated the immense challenges of opening their first restaurant, Citizen, amidst the global pandemic . The conversation explores their "yin and yang" dynamic, where Jeremy’s creative obsession with detail is balanced by Angie’s focus on human resources and operational problem-solving . Central to their philosophy is the idea that they are not just selling food but are "responsible for people’s memories," a mindset that informs their commitment to high standards, efficient kitchen design, and a culture that values and empowers every team member .10 Key Takeaways Responsibility for Memories: A mentor taught Jeremy that hospitality professionals are responsible for the memories created during guests' special moments, whether they are celebrations or solemn

Jay Rushin, who left a 20-year finance career to become the CEO of the iconic H&H Bagels in 2014. details the brand's tumultuous history—including multiple bankruptcies and a famous split in ownership—before explaining how he modernized the legacy business by rebuilding its infrastructure and implementing formal systems. A major focus of the conversation is Jay’s innovative approach to scaling: by "par-baking" and freezing bagels in a central 20,000-square-foot facility in Queens, H&H can provide authentic New York bagels to franchise locations worldwide without the prohibitive costs of on-site boiling and mixing equipment. The episode concludes with Jay’s insights on maintaining product quality through traditional kettle-boiling and long "retarding" (proofing) processes, as well as his strict criteria for hands-on, dedicated franchisees as the brand expands rapidly into markets like Florida and North Carolina.10 Key Takeaways Legacy Brand Awareness: H&H Bagels benefits from massive organic brand

Isaac Lee Collins, the founder and CEO of Fifth & Emery Frozen Yogurt and Chocolate, shares his journey from managing a chocolate shop at age 22 to owning five locations in Kansas City that combine frozen yogurt with gourmet chocolates and caramel apples. The conversation explores the "philosophy of hospitality," the evolving work ethic of Gen Z employees, and the practical financial strategies, such as choosing between SBA and traditional bank loans, that Collins used to scale his business while maintaining 100% independence.10 Key TakeawaysThe Power of Hospitality Systems: Collins credits his time at Olive Garden for teaching him that seamless systems and processes are the backbone of a successful restaurant.Balancing Seasonal Revenue: By combining frozen yogurt (summer-heavy) with chocolates and caramel apples (winter-heavy), Collins created a year-round sustainable business model.Gen Z Management: With nearly 70 employees under 21, Collins emphasizes that while "kids these days" are motivated differen

Peter Waters, owner of T/aco in Boulder, Colorado, discusses the state of the industry as we enter 2026. Peter candidly reflects on a difficult 2025, noting that rising operational costs and shifting socialization patterns among college students and remote workers have made for a less profitable year. However, the conversation pivots to a deeply inspiring story of community support: T/aco donated $50,000 in gift cards to 50 local families facing food insecurity. This "fire hose" approach to marketing not only provided these families with a "T/aco rich" experience where they could dine without financial worry, but it also rejuvenated the staff and built immediate, meaningful relationships with a new demographic of regulars.Key TakeawaysThe "First Four Gifts": Peter shares Danny Meyer's philosophy that restaurants are unique because they can provide the first four gifts a human ever receives: eye contact, a smile, an embrace, and food.The "T/aco Rich" Concept: By giving $1,000 gift cards to families, Peter want

Keith Paul of Good Egg Dining discusses the challenges and strategies of navigating the modern hospitality landscape, particularly in the Tulsa and Oklahoma City markets. Keith shares insights on the resilience of the restaurant industry, his philosophy of hands-on coaching and management, and the necessity of prioritizing human connection over "clunky" AI and automation in service. They also examine the economic pressures facing the industry, from minimum wage hikes in California to the rising Consumer Price Index (CPI), emphasizing that slow, intentional growth and a picky hiring process are key to long-term stability.Key Takeaways Industry Resilience: Despite revenue problems and national chaos, the restaurant industry remains one of the most resilient sectors. Coaching as Management: Keith's approach to leadership involves understanding the court (the business) and coaching people rather than just managing silos. Local Market Focus: Keith emphasizes the value of a deep local presence in Tulsa and Oklah

Deric Rosenbaum, President and CTO of Groucho's Deli, a legendary brand celebrating 85 years in business, shares his journey from a commercial construction background to leading the brand's growth and technological evolution, emphasizing a philosophy of "adapt, not change" to modernize systems while preserving the core essence of community and hospitality. He discusses the strategic decision to prioritize controlled, concentric growth through franchising, the importance of fostering human connection in an increasingly digital world, and how leveraging data and a robust tech stack (including Square for restaurants, Ovation, and Bikky) helps optimize operations and enhance customer loyalty without sacrificing the personal touch.10 Key Takeaways "Adapt, Don't Change": Modernize systems (technology, operations) while retaining the core brand identity and legacy (e.g., original recipes). Community and Hospitality are Core Assets: Building community and genuine hospitality is crucial for customer loyalty and take

This episode features Jason Ingermanson, President and CEO of JRI Hospitality. Based in Salina, Kansas, Ingermanson oversees a diverse multi-concept portfolio that includes Mokas Coffee & Eatery, Chompie’s, and a massive franchise footprint as one of the nation’s largest Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers operators. The conversation explores Ingermanson's journey from his early days at Burger King to managing high-growth brands across multiple states, emphasizing his philosophy of developing people, leveraging data for site selection, and maintaining a competitive edge through personal discipline and organizational alignment.10 Takeaways Diverse Portfolio: Ingermanson manages a multi-concept operation through JRI Hospitality, including Freddy’s, Mokas Coffee & Eatery, Chompie’s, and the Salina Country Club. Humble Beginnings: His hospitality career began with a formative job at Burger King at age 18, which taught him the impact of a fast-paced environment. The "Dream" Philosophy: He views

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil  interviews Trace Miller, the founder and CEO of Konala, a health-focused fast-casual brand. Miller shares the incredible personal story that anchors his business: his own childhood battle with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that began at age three. While doctors predicted he would be brain dead by age 13, Miller credits his mother with being the "desperate" researcher who refused to give up, eventually finding the medical professionals and the strict nutritional protocol that cured him. This life-altering experience with the power of food, combined with Miller’s military background and his "Simple scales, fancy fails" philosophy, serves as the foundation for Konala’s mission to provide delicious, high-protein, and convenient whole-food meals to the public.10 Key TakeawaysTrace Miller’s Personal Miracle: Miller himself was the patient who suffered from Lennox-Gastaut syndrome; he was cured through a strict medical ketogenic die

Trey Morgan and Derek Copeland of Sentinel Grove Partners pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of restaurant real estate and private equity. The trio explores the critical importance of the landlord-tenant relationship, viewing it as a long-term partnership rather than a mere transaction, and discusses the shift toward a "landlord’s market" in high-growth regions like the Sunbelt. Beyond the numbers, Trey and Derek emphasize that successful investing is about "betting the jockey, not the horse," highlighting how exceptional leadership, staff retention, and clear succession planning are the true indicators of a concept's longevity in an unpredictable economy.10 Key Takeaways Interview Your Landlord: A lease is only as good as the people behind it. Talk to existing tenants to see how the landlord handles crises before signing. Bet the Jockey, Not the Horse: A great concept (the horse) will fail with a poor operator, but a great operator (the jockey) can pivot and save a concept during a "black swan

Wil peaks with Enga Stanfield, co-owner of Pizza Today's 2025 Pizzeria of the year, multi-location Mattenga's Pizzeria in San Antonio, and Head of Community at Owner.com. Enga, an Iranian-born former engineer with no prior restaurant experience, shares how she and her husband Matt transitioned from engineering to restaurant ownership in 2014 by purchasing a struggling pizzeria, initially losing significant money due to inexperience. Through relentless grassroots marketing, obsessive cost control, data-driven location selection, and frugal self-funded growth, they turned the business around, expanded to multiple locations, achieved consistent strong sales growth, and built a profitable family-oriented operation that prioritizes community giving, strong systems, and work-life balance while preparing for potential franchising.10 Takeaways No experience required, but commitment is essential: Enga and Matt had zero restaurant or business background yet succeeded through sheer passion, grit, and a willingness to l

Israel Jiles reflects on his evolution from managing elite, high-volume establishments like Catch NYC and partnering with Montclair Hospitality Group (Ani Ramen) to founding his passion project, Po Boy Riche. The episode captures the pivotal moment around the one-hour mark where Jiles discusses the decision to leave the security of established hospitality groups to build something deeply personal.The discussion centers on the "uncompromising pursuit of authenticity"—from shipping legendary Leidenheimer bread directly from New Orleans to ensuring his beignets rival those of Café Du Monde. Jiles explains that Po Boy Riche isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a cultural bridge. He shares insights on the grit required to launch in the competitive Jersey City market, the importance of operational excellence learned in the "big leagues" of NYC dining, and his philosophy on community-centric business, exemplified by the restaurant's "Artist Wall."10 Takeaways The Power of Provenance: Authenticity isn't a buzzword, it’s a

Asheville-based restaurateur Jacob Sessoms shares his 26-year journey from a trade-focused background in electrical work to becoming a James Beard-nominated chef. Sessoms details how his early experience in construction provided a unique "unfair advantage" in the restaurant world, allowing him to maintain his own facilities and stay resilient during lean times. He discusses the difficult transition from being a passionate cook to a disciplined business owner, highlighting the shift from sole proprietorship to a sophisticated investment model that allows for shared risk and growth. Throughout the conversation, Sessoms advocates for "running into the storm" like a bison, viewing failures, including the 2008 crash and COVID-19, as essential educational assets that build long-term grit and operational strength.10 Key Takeaways Technical Skills as Leverage: Jacob’s background as an electrician allowed him to fix his own equipment, saving thousands in repair costs and proving his worth in NYC kitchens. The "Biso

Sue Straughan, a tenured hospitality specialist and Corporate Director of Business Solutions for the food distributor Ben E. Keith, shares her remarkable 40+ year journey in the industry, detailing how a necessity job at Baskin Robbins evolved into a profound passion. The discussion centers on her pivotal experience working for Houston's restaurant, where she learned that "chaos and hospitality could coexist in a way that was beautiful", and how she applied these high standards to help turn around the struggling James Coney Island chain. This success was achieved not by raising prices, but by relentlessly focusing on systems, consistency, team pride, and the overall guest experience, demonstrating that flawless execution on the basics is the key to driving sustained sales and word-of-mouth growth.10 Takeaways  Prioritize Execution over Complexity: The most successful businesses, especially in restaurants, focus on doing fewer things perfectly rather than many things averagely. This requires a constant discip