Post Shift with Shawn Soole

In this special live episode, Shawn Soole hosts one of the most beloved voices in cocktail culture—David Wondrich, renowned historian, writer, and spirits expert. Together, they explore the evolution of mixology, the stories that shaped our drinks, and what lies ahead for the hospitality world.

NEW EPISODE drops Friday, 9amIn this trailer for our conversation with the legendary David Wondrich, we're digging into the rich history of cocktails, challenging the status quo, and exploring the idea that not everything in this industry is set in stone. Trust me, you won't want to miss this one!

In this live episode, Shawn Soole is joined by acclaimed bartender and entrepreneur Jack McGarry, co-founder of the world-renowned Dead Rabbit, to unpack what it really takes to build—and sustain—one of the world's most celebrated bar brands. From Belfast to New York, Jack shares hard-won lessons on leadership, creativity, mental health, and legacy.

We had an unforgettable session live with legendary bartender Julie Reiner, digging deep into her craft, creativity, and the evolution of the cocktail world.

In this episode, I sit down with Jean-Marc Baketel Dykes, the creative force behind Imbiblia, to talk about the intersection of storytelling, hospitality, and immersive dining experiences.We dive deep into:Jean-Marc's unique journey through the worlds of performance and serviceHow Imbiblia is redefining what it means to "dine with purpose"The challenges of building truly experiential pop-upsCreative collaboration, leadership, and the future of hospitality eventsThis is a must-watch for bartenders, restaurateurs, creatives, and anyone looking to break the mold in food and beverage.

In this episode, I chat with James Grass of  @chefsfavourite  about career progression, pivoting and creating a hospitality media juggernaut, Mates on Crates. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat to Mr Lyan himself, Ryan Chetiyawardana about expansion, pushing the boundaries and his love for travel with his new show Taste TripsFOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat to Simone Caporale of SIPS and the legendary Boadas Cocktails in Barcelona. We chat about everything from staying creative to taking over a stalwart industry space like Boadas. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat with fellow "Australian" Hayden Lambert about the journey to and operating a small bar in metro Melbourne. This is a raw chat about small bar culture, community and business. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat to the ever charismatic Giacomo Giannotti of Paradiso, Barcelona. We chat about the real meaning of sustainability and it's more than saving your waste. This is an enlightening talk about community, culture and creativity.FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chatted with Danil Nevsky, the cocktailman, and the indie bartender. He has become one of the most prolific bartending personalities in the world, this is a great chat for young bartenders. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER -https://twitter.com/ShawnSooleFOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I have the privilege to chat to journalist and author, Camper English. We chat about his work with creating perfect ice, his rabbit hole investigative style and what he is loving about the industry right now. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I want to chat to the younger generation about what is next for them. Been asked how I stay motivated in the industry after almost 30 years, so I break it down for you. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I am lucky enough to have a chat with Iain McPherson from Panda & Sons in Edinburgh, Scotland. He and his team have been behind some of the most advanced bar techniques in the last decade. We not only talk about the creative element of his work but also the business side of things. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, this came out of a little mentor session about how I manage my time. From the outside looking in, I achieve a lot in my day; but I still have plenty of time for family and sleep. Time Management is about compartmentalizing your priorities. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soolehttps://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/Soole Hospitality Conceptshttps://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat with Evan Rogers,  @BeardFoundation  Award Winning Film Maker. We discuss the need for small market food space voices along with his take on the filming and making of The Great Wall, his James Beard Award Winning Short Documentary. Here is the documentary link - https://vimeo.com/undercurrentfilmco/greatwallfilm FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

I recorded this just yesterday, and the governments have flopped back to allowing US products. I have always been compliant on government issues like this, but this one felt like the industry was being used as a whipping pole yet again. Will all this revert back in 30 days? Tough to say! FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat to  Chris Maffeo about brand building for small brands. A great start to 2025, if you are a small brand in the liquor sphere, this is the episode that you need to listen to. Tons of value and advice on what you should be doing to succeed in 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat about how to how to build a solid foundation as a new hospitality industry person. I break down the 5 key points below. Master the Basics: Learn bar setup, how to use tools properly, and the key techniques for efficiency and speed. Memorize the Classics: Start with 20-30 go-to cocktails (e.g., Martini, Old Fashioned) and build from there. Be Humble and Eager: Show a willingness to learn, ask questions, and absorb knowledge from veteran bartenders. Develop Professional Habits: Be punctual, have a clean uniform, and show respect for coworkers and the bar. Understand the Industry Culture: Learn the unwritten rules, how to build relationships, and the value of teamwork. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat with BCRFA President and CEO, Ian Tosteson and the state of 2024, the GST holiday rollout and the outlook for 2025. Another indepth chat with the people on the ground for legislation and governmental changes. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, it's awards season so I chat about why they shouldn't matter as much as people make out that they need to be. Hope this gives you some perspective. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat to Jeff Guignard of ABLE BC and dive into the wins and losses for the industry in 2024 and the hopes and aspirations of 2025. If you are an operator and want a deep dive on the organisation helping the industry, this is the one. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I kick a hornet's nest with Josh from Bartender Atlas when he did a deep dive on the creation and proliferation of Victoria's cocktail (or is it?) The Shaft. always love chatting to crew from Bartender's Atlas and this one was a ton of fun. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, I chat with Chris Elliott, Chief Economist from Restaurants Canada about how the industry did during 2024 and where it's headed in 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

Another exert from my session with the Camosun College talking about the early days of the cocktail scene here in Victoria. Those days were tougher than I would like to remember but still a lot of fun. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@PostShiftPodcast

In this episode, we get a masterclass on brand building from Simon Ford, owner of Ford's Gin. We dig deep on his journey, the early days and how he built it into the "bartender's gin" and the new challenge of retail sales and growth. If you are a small brand, this is a must watch! FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I do a throwback to a series I did leading up to 2021 called FOCUS, PATIENCE, SUCCESS. And with the re-release of the podcast this year and this being my mantra, I wanted to repost for everyone to get you set up for 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I get to chat social media stardom with like.a.ble cocktails, Kait Stewart and how it all started and the direction it is heading in for her. Great chat for young bartenders looking at really honing their skills and building a online personal brand. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I do a throwback to a series I did leading up to 2021 called FOCUS, PATIENCE, SUCCESS. And with the re-release of the podcast this year and this being my mantra, I wanted to repost for everyone to get you set up for 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I have a lively chat with spirits writer Dave Broom about his upcoming book, the third edition of The World Atlas of Whisky. We chat about how whisky is intertwined with society, culture and how we drink. Amazing chat, hope you enjoy. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I do a throwback to a series I did leading up to 2021 called FOCUS, PATIENCE, SUCCESS. And with the re-release of the podcast this year and this being my mantra, I wanted to repost for everyone to get you set up for 2025. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In the episode, I sit down with 2024 World's 50 Best Roku Scholarship Recipient and their work in the scope of inclusivity, LGBTQ rights in the hospitality space. An enlightening chat about how as an industry we can be better for everybody. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I take a portion of the Camosun College Mixology Class talk and chat about mental health, training and the industry in general. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, we chat to Boston bartender, Curtis McMillan about tiki, his new book, The Mischievous Mixologist and his career. The book is fantastic and I highly urge you to get it. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

This came out of a long session I did with the Mixology Class at Camosun College. I have the class come in every 6 months with new students and try and enlighten them on the industry as a whole. I hope you get some value out of this. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Littrell of Kinetic Management Systems to chat about the rise of AI in the hospitality industry and how he shows clients how to implement it in their everyday for guest retention to staff on boarding. Really eye opening conversation about the future of AI in the hospitality space. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

I suppose it's a bit of a reflection period coming to the end of the year, so I have reposted a chat that Mike Norbury and I did when he competed in the Patron Perfectionists competition. Now he is the Patron brand ambassador.

A little throwback episode about embracing the mistakes you make and taking control of the narrative going forward. It's a nice reminder for myself as well, so I hope you enjoy it. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I get to chat with industry stalwart, Jim Meehan about his career, the industry and his amazing new book, The Bartender's Pantry. This is a must get book, get it here. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I take on a topic that I don't feel many independent operators think about when they open and run their venues. A successful succession plan is very important after the first 5 years of business. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I chat with good friend Hugo Togni of Bar Pompette in Toronto, and absolutely gem of a human and the tour de force behind Bar Pompette in Toronto, one of the most awarded bars in the country in 2024. We chat evolving industry, awards, and working with local farmers. Hope you enjoy the episode. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I chat about certifications and wage increases for your team along with how much to budget per year for staff training, if you aren't investing 1-2% into training your team, you are missing out on a massive retention tool. Edinburgh Whisky Academy Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey, Gin WSET 1 Spirits Online   FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Taylor of Benchmark Sixty and chat about his new book, Bold Operations. A deep dive in modern day operations and how to implement systems to tackle staffing, training and so much more. An absolute fantastic book, can be purchased here - https://amzn.to/4fc8huR FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I tackle the top 5 expenses for a restaurant and what their budgets should be. I know so many operators don't know what their costs should be so I wanted to quantify the best I can. Hope this helps some operators out there. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Cardone of Continuous Beverage and chat his journey through flair, to Diageo World Class and his latest endeavour with his sober journey and educating the industry and more on the movement. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I lay out the the costs of how much it actually costs to open a restaurant. These are just industry averages and everyone is different, but I wanted to give tangible figures and some antidotes along the way. Hope this gives you some scope if you are looking at opening your own place. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I sit down with Kate Gerwin of Happy Accidents and of Drink Master fame and we have a chance to delve into small markets, awards, cocktails, travel and the TV show. Hope you enjoy the episode. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I give you five actionable ways to saving costs in the current restaurant market. They are listed below for reference. Here are five solutions for "Navigating the Costs of Running a Restaurant in 2024" 1. Cut Smart, Not Cheap You gotta trim the fat, but don't slice into the meat. Food costs are skyrocketing with inflation, but don't start cutting corners on quality. Instead, rework the menu. Go for dishes that maximize the ingredients you already have. Think of it like a cocktail—sometimes fewer ingredients, done right, deliver a bigger punch. Seasonal menus are key; keep it fresh and local to avoid getting hit by long-haul transportation costs. 2. Labor: Cross-Train or Die Labor is where most restaurants bleed out, so get creative. Cross-train your staff to handle multiple roles. That bartender? Make sure they can jump in as a barback or even help the host. It builds a team with better flexibility, makes scheduling easier, and keeps the labor costs down without burning out your people. Plus, they feel more invested in the overall operations—it's a win-win. 3. Tech Up, Save Big It's 2024—time to embrace tech. Automation for inventory management and ordering can save you cash on human error and overbuying. POS systems are getting smarter, so leverage them to track what's selling and when to reduce waste. Even energy-saving tech, like LED lighting and smart thermostats, can make a noticeable dent in those overhead costs without sacrificing the guest experience. 4. Negotiate Like a Shark Don't be afraid to flex on your suppliers. You're running a business, not a charity. Talk to your vendors and negotiate better terms—long-term partnerships, bulk deals, or even shared cost savings. If they can't give you what you need, it might be time to look elsewhere. Loyalty is great, but not at the cost of your bottom line. 5. Community = Free Marketing Engage with your community and tap into local collaborations. Host events with local businesses or breweries that bring in a crowd without costing you an arm and a leg on marketing. These partnerships can help draw traffic without the ad spend, and the word-of-mouth marketing is priceless. Keep your brand visible but lean on your community to share the load. These strategies are all about balancing the need to tighten the purse strings without suffocating your restaurant's vibe. You've gotta keep the guest experience solid while playing the game smart behind the scenes. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I catch up with Dave Mitton, Global Brand Ambassador of J.P Wiser's as we chat about his start in the industry, his move to brand ambassadorship and the state of Canadian Whisky. Absolute gem of a human, that I am glad to call a friend and peer. Listen to the Post Shift Podcast - https://tr.ee/B2PalbS8hG #fyp #PostShiftPodcast #ShawnSoole #BartenderLife #Mixology #CocktailCulture #BehindTheBar #HospitalityIndustry #BarTalk #DrinkCreators #bartendercommunity#shorts, #youtubeshorts, #viral, #trending, #subscribe, #foryou, #foryoupage, #fyp, #explorepage, #discover, #viralvideo, #tiktok, #instagram, #youtube, #reels FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I recently put out a questionnaire for business owners, operators and managers to see how other markets are doing. The results were shocking and telling on how the industry is currently. The link to my break even calculator is here - https://soolehospitality.com/blog/2021/5/18/ultimate-break-even-calculator FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA

In this episode, I sit down with Reece Sims, a spirits expert and entrepreneur. We dive into the importance of fitness in the hospitality industry, overcoming rejection, and finding success beyond financial goals. Reece also shares her vision for disrupting the spirits industry with innovative tasting methods. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM – Shawn Soole https://www.instagram.com/shawnsoole/ Soole Hospitality Concepts https://www.instagram.com/soolehospitalityconcepts/ FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - https://twitter.com/ShawnSoole FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGgDDJZM7HvJiQCaqmXEVNA