Podcast appearances and mentions of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants

David offers a behind-the-scenes look at steering a hospitality powerhouse, weaving stories of the brand's ambitious growth, innovative concepts, and unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable dining experiences. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants is fine dining, private clubs, and new concepts, and continues to raise the bar for guest engagement and operational excellence.Key Takeaways:• A “Meet Cute” Moment in Business, David shares his initial meeting with Cameron Mitchell, detailing how a simple FedEx letter and a Cheesecake Factory conversation led to their successful collaboration. This pivotal moment shows the importance of shared values and vision in building long-term partnerships.• Breaking News: Cameron Mitchell Restaurants is set to open seven new locations over the next 14 months, including concepts like Big Rock Chop House, Ocean Prime, and Butcher and Rose.• The introduction of Prime Social Reserve is a growing trend toward exclusive, membership-driven dining experiences, inspired by London's private clubs.• David discusses how consumer habits are changing, with an increased demand for healthier options, mocktails, and a “lighter” approach to dining. He explains how Cameron Mitchell Restaurants stays ahead by reimagining menu items and incorporating guest feedback into their culinary innovations.• The adoption of Toast POS across 65 locations illustrates the brand's focus on efficiency and guest satisfaction.• Cameron Mitchell Restaurants prioritizes its associates, fostering a culture of loyalty and mutual respect with a retention rate well above industry standards.• Hot takes: From the value-packed Wendy's Double Stack Biggie Bag to the debate over pickleball court takeovers, the fun kicks off with “Trivia Tuesday”. The discussion heats up with “Hot or Not” topics like QR codes in fine dining, table-side preparations, and dynamic pricing models.Thank you for joining us on Hospitality Hangout, powered by Branded Hospitality Ventures. Don't miss out on more insider tips, groundbreaking trends, and inspiring stories from the visionaries redefining the hospitality industry. Stay tuned for what's next!

I have an incredible guest, Lisa Gutierrez, who turned her and her husband's vision into a reality by launching a humble food truck business that would eventually become a local sensation. Lisa's story isn't just about entrepreneurship—it's about passion, resilience, and the tenacity to build something remarkable from the ground up. As a former manager at The Cheesecake Factory and through her husband's experiences with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Lisa brought a wealth of industry knowledge to their venture. However, their path wasn't paved with ease. Bootstrapping their way from a borrowed truck to a powerhouse with multiple locations and nearly a hundred employees, Lisa's tale is a masterclass in navigating the business landscape with determination and grace. From branding mishaps to challenges in securing capital, Lisa candidly shares the lessons she has learned and emphasizes the importance of building a solid team, understanding your "why," and the value of community involvement in business growth. Hear how Lisa's entrepreneurial drive and her commitment to her staff and community have made Dos Hermanos Taco Truck a thriving brand and a source of inspiration for all. The Power of Entrepreneurial Support Networks: "You know there's always someone in those organizations that you can reach out to. There's always information there and it's a safe place which I think is amazing."— Lisa Gutierrez  Memorable Moments 00:00   Lessons learned in life shape giving back. 04:52   Overcame challenges, built successful thriving business. 06:26   Importance of understanding one's purpose and motivations. 13:40   Seeking surgeon's advice led to x-rays. 19:00   Unexpected burrito purchase due to bus issue. 21:32   Share advice and support others' growth. 24:12   Navigating uncertainty, small businesses demonstrate resilience. Top Takeaways 1. **Embrace Lessons Learned**: Recognizing the value of the lessons you've learned through your journey and sharing them with others can inspire and help them navigate similar situations. 2. **Seek Advice and Mentorship**: Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals and experts in your field can provide critical guidance and prevent common mistakes. 3. **Passion Drives Success**: Whether it's a passion for people, food, or service, finding your "why" is essential to staying motivated and overcoming obstacles in business. 4. **Challenges as Opportunities**: Facing and overcoming challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities, such as Lisa's commissary kitchen providing crucial food access to an underserved community during the pandemic. 5. **The Importance of Building Your Team Early**: Getting the right people in place, especially in finance and bookkeeping, is key to establishing a solid foundation for your business.   Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company. Betty also serves as the Committee Chair for Empowering Women, and Director of the Brady Ware Women Initiative. Each episode is presented by Brady Ware and Company, committed to empowering women to go their distance in the workplace and at home. For more information, go to the Insights page at Brady Ware and Company. Forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.

Welcome back to the more we know! Because the more we know, the more we grow. Today your mentor is the famous american restauranteur out of Chicago, Kevin Boehm. After opening 40 restaurants over the last 30 years, James Beard Foundation Award-winning restaurateur Kevin Boehm has established himself as one of the world's foremost hospitality visionaries. Kevin, along with his partner Rob Katz, has built a restaurant group based on great chefs, inspired design, and enlightened hospitality.Born in 1970, Kevin grew up in Springfield, Illinois, and told his mother at age 10 that he wanted to open his own restaurant one day.After attending the University of Illinois for two nonconsecutive years, he dropped out and moved to the Florida Panhandle to start working in restaurants and embark on a self-directed on-the-job hospitality education. After enduring homelessness, fist fights, and six months working at an amusement park, he wrote an embellished resumé that landed him a coveted captain position at Beach House Restaurant. Within a few years, he'd squirreled away enough money to open a six-table restaurant in 1993 in Seaside, Florida, the picture-perfect location where Peter Weir's The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey, was filmed. In 1995, he opened Indigo Wine Bar in the same town, and helped cater for the movie's dailies screenings.Restaurants in Springfield, Illinois, and Nashville, Tennessee followed. By age 30, Boehm had opened and sold four restaurants.In 2002, Boehm partnered with Rob Katz to form what in time became Boka Restaurant Group. Eventually, they would open 36 places in less than 20 years. The group's many accolades and accomplishments include 18 James Beard Award nominations, two Food & Wine Best New Chefs, 13 consecutive Michelin Guide stars for Boka, and 6 Boka Restaurant Group restaurants on Chicago Tribune's Top 50 list. Boehm, along with Katz, won Restaurateurs of the year from TimeOut Chicago in 2010, the Chicago Tribune in 2011, and The Illinois Restaurant Association in 2017, and were Eater National's Empire Builders of the year in 2012. They have been James Beard Finalists for Best Restaurateur in America 2016-2019, winning the award in 2019, and New City Chicago ranked them #1 in 2017 in its annual list of the 50 most powerful influencers on the Chicago dining scene.In addition to Boka Restaurant Group, in 2020 Boehm co-founded Bian, a private club with a foundation in wellness. Forbes called it “the ultimate wellness destination.” As a writer he has had pieces published in Esquire, Plate, The Chicago Sun Times, and McSweeneys, and he is a contributing writer for Fast Company. His first book, “The Bottomless Cup,” comes out on Abrams Press in 2025.Kevin has been a featured or keynote speaker for the National Restaurant Show, MUFSO, Miami Food& Wine, New York City Wine & Food Festival, The Illinois Restaurant Association, Kellogg School of Management, University of Illinois, ChicagoGourmet, Asheville Independent Restaurant Show, Hearst, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, The Welcome Conference at Lincoln Center, & Welcome Chicago.He has given the commencement address at both Culinary Institute of America & Kendall College.He currently sits on the board of the Illinois Restaurant Association, Open Table, 826 CHI, and Easter Seals.Kevin lives in Chicago and frequently spends time in Los Angeles and New York City, where Boka Restaurant Group has opened restaurants in recent years.Listen To The More We Know ⇨ https://www.buzzsprout.com/1134704​Subscribe ⇨https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxvfd5ddf72Btbck8SdeyBwFollow my Instagram ⇨ https://www.instagram.com/sameer.sawaqed/?hl=enFollow my Twitter ⇨ https://twitter.com/commitwithmeer

Why are chocolate milkshakes so important to Cameron Mitchell? This week's episode of the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive features Mitchell, founder of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants and one of the country's most successful restaurant creators. Mitchell's company operates 64 restaurants in 20 brands, including the fine dining brand Ocean Prime. He talks about his reasons for starting a restaurant company and why culture was so important to him from day one. We talk about a range of other topics, including the state of fine dining and how his company was able to emerge from the pandemic. He also talks about hospitality and chocolate milkshakes but we will let him tell that story. It's a great conversation with one of the industry's more accomplished restaurateurs. And this week, I give you thoughts on three big stories this week, including Subway, Chipotle and Patrick Doyle.

In this episode, Joel shares his vision for scaling his business and improving the lives of his workforce through mental health support. He talks about the importance of growing a culture of love in workspaces and how he navigates the challenges of building and maintaining a great team in the business world.   Tune into this episode with us to hear about:    How to scale a company's culture of love, support, and care Joel talks about what triggered his self-exploration and healing journey How to use the success of business to make a bigger impact on people's lives and the communities they are in The importance of awareness of root cause of performance issues  Why paradigms are being rethought and people are open to new ways of addressing suffering in the areas of mental health and addiction And so much more!   About Our Guest:    In 2006, Joel founded Citrin at the age of 19 while pursuing a degree at Ohio State University.  Citrin is a hospitality company that provides valet services to restaurants, hotels, healthcare centers, and auto-dealerships as well as parking management services for developers who own surface lots and parking garages.  Citrin's local clientele includes Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Schottenstein Property Group, Easton Town Center, Polaris Fashion Place, Canopy Hotel, Crawford Hoying, The Wood Company, and more.    Today, Joel continues to serve as Founder and CEO. The company employs over 750 people and has scaled to 14 cities across the country, while still remaining headquartered in Columbus. Last year, Joel was ranked as the #6 CEO nationally with Glassdoor for all companies with less than 1,000 employees, which reflects the values that have been ingrained inside the organization.   --   Ready for more? Head over to https://www.sightshift.com/ for more learning and growth. 

In this episode, Joel shares his vision for scaling his business and improving the lives of his workforce through mental health support. He talks about the importance of growing a culture of love in workspaces and how he navigates the challenges of building and maintaining a great team in the business world.   Tune into this episode with us to hear about:    How to scale a company's culture of love, support, and care Joel talks about what triggered his self-exploration and healing journey How to use the success of business to make a bigger impact on people's lives and the communities they are in The importance of awareness of root cause of performance issues  Why paradigms are being rethought and people are open to new ways of addressing suffering in the areas of mental health and addiction And so much more!   About Our Guest:    In 2006, Joel founded Citrin at the age of 19 while pursuing a degree at Ohio State University.  Citrin is a hospitality company that provides valet services to restaurants, hotels, healthcare centers, and auto-dealerships as well as parking management services for developers who own surface lots and parking garages.  Citrin's local clientele includes Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Schottenstein Property Group, Easton Town Center, Polaris Fashion Place, Canopy Hotel, Crawford Hoying, The Wood Company, and more.    Today, Joel continues to serve as Founder and CEO. The company employs over 750 people and has scaled to 14 cities across the country, while still remaining headquartered in Columbus. Last year, Joel was ranked as the #6 CEO nationally with Glassdoor for all companies with less than 1,000 employees, which reflects the values that have been ingrained inside the organization.   --   Ready for more? Head over to https://www.sightshift.com/ for more learning and growth. 

To stay ahead of your competition and succeed during this restaurant labor crisis, you must keep both your staff and guests happy. Times have changed and the way we manage our team has changed. Today, it's more essential than ever to create a company culture that's inspiring, inclusive, and rewarding. Achieve staff loyalty and guest loyalty and positive online reviews will follow. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I'm speaking with Chuck Kline of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. To grow to 71 concepts and locations, this group had to solve their own restaurant labor crisis and effect a different approach to leading and growing their team. Their approach is now their advantage. Listen as Chuck tell us:

Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel finds it “reasonable” to think the pandemic might be over, but economies and politics around the world must recover in its wake. Cameron Mitchell, CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, discusses the increased labor and product costs hitting all restaurateurs, whether Covid ends or not. Arthur Brooks, Harvard professor and The Atlantic contributor, discusses Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his approach to truckers protesting vaccine mandates. Brooks considers leadership before and beyond the pandemic: “If you don't love everybody, if you don't believe in the equal dignity of all people, you can't be an effective leader.” The ‘Art of Happiness' podcast host also discusses his new book, ‘From Strength to Strength.' Plus, big media is making big moves, like ViacomCBS's rebrand to Paramount Global, and the Squawk anchors are sharing their game show favorites. In this episode:Arthur Brooks, @arthurbrooksCameron Mitchell, @CMRColumbusJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkBecky Quick, @BeckyQuickAndrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkinKatie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie

We're really privileged to have Cameron Mitchell, Founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, the CRM Group on this episode. And he is no stranger to anyone in central Ohio. And now Cameron Mitchell Restaurants are breaking out on the national scene, with restaurants from coast to coast. We're going to hear more about his success, his origins, where it all came from, and some of the challenges that they have in the restaurant industry today. And we'll get Cameron's take on the 10 most controversial restaurant policies. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR) will be celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022, and Mitchell has enjoyed success as a lifelong entrepreneur, accomplished businessman, culinary expert and nationally recognized restaurateur. Cameron has been a much-needed voice for the industry, pushing for PPP loan amendments for the hospitality sector, being appointed as one of 18 CEO's on Ohio Governor DeWine's Economic Recovery Task Force, collaborating with the Cleveland Clinic to create a company-wide safety protocol, writing op-eds for national hospitality trade publications, and appearing on national television representing not only CMR, but other independent restaurant companies. With an entrepreneur's energy, vision and passion, Mitchell's sights are set on the development of new restaurant concepts, and the expansion of concepts currently in his company's portfolio, particularly Ocean Prime (known in Columbus, OH, as Mitchell's Ocean Club). Plans include the continued introduction of this concept in major metropolitan markets throughout the United States. Among his service to numerous local charities and committees in Columbus, Ohio, where he lives with his family, is his dedication to The United Way, Nationwide Children's Hospital Foundation, and the Columbus State Community College Foundation. Cameron chaired the capital campaign, led by his $3.5 million donation, towards the newly opened Mitchell Hall, a $40 million, state-of-the-art Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts School at Columbus State. He is also an active member of the Young President's Gold Organization, the Columbus Partnership, and he serves on the board of directors of the charter school, KIPP Columbus. The Driving the Cbus podcast co-hosts, Scott McComb, CEO of Heartland Bank and Kailyn Bucklew (McComb), a third-generation community banker, offer two different perspectives as they sit down and get real with local business owners. From well-established companies to startups, small businesses are the heart and soul of Columbus. Tune in to find out how it all began, what keeps them up at night – the current struggles they face, and what successes they are most proud of with some entertaining stories along the way.

On this week's episode of Spoon Mob's Chefs & Guests podcast series, executive chef Matt Walton of The Guild House joins the podcast to chat about his family connection to restaurants, how he got his start, going to Ohio State University before enrolling at the Culinary Institute at Bradford, working at Marcella's and The Refectory at the same time, moving to Cameron's American Bistro, his sting with Pocket Produce, returning to be the sous chef at The Guild House, becoming an executive chef, how he develops event menus, his competitiveness, spending most of his career in the "corporate" environment with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, the challenges of being in control of all the food at the Le Meridien hotel, and more before answering the guest questions. For more on chef Matt Walton, visit spoonmob.com/mattwalton and follow him on Instagram @matt.e.walton & @theguildhouse. Visit theguildhousecolumbus.com for menu details, reservations, and online ordering. For all things Spoon Mob, visit spoonmob.com and make sure to follow us on Instagram (@spoonmob), Twitter (@spoonmob1), and Facebook (@spoonmob1). Audio Editing by @TrackEditPrint. Intro music by @kabbalisticvillage.

In this episode, we talk with AARON DAWSON, who is the General Manager of Miramont and President of the Lone Star Chapter of the CMAA (Club Management Association of America), an association of private membership clubs and golf resorts.THOUGHT #1Right is Better than Right NowTHOUGHT #2Good Work is Done with Dignity, And There Is No Dignity In Rushing - A.D. Aliwat CONNECT:Website: CMAA.orgEmail:  dawson@miramont.ccLinkedin:  Aaron R DawsonTwitter: @CMAABRAND & RESOURCE MENTIONS:"My Generation (The Who) - Youtube.comJimmy Page - JimmyPage.comThe Dollar Store - DollarTree.comBrio/Bravo Restaurant Group- Wikipedia.comChenal Country Club - ChenalCC.comBentwater Yacht & Country Club - Bentwater.comCap City Diner (Columbus, OH) - CapCityFineDiner.comHurricane Katrina - Wikipedia.comKirk Cameron - KirkCameron.comJohn Wooden - CoachWooden.comRuth's Chris - RuthsChris.comMitchell's Fish Market - MitchellsFishMarket.comCOVID-19 - CDC.govYBOR City - YborCityOnline.comAffirmative Environment - fostering an environment of saying YESMeredith McKlung (Kyser Musical Instruments) - NAMM.orgA.D. Aliwat - GoodReads.comMonopoly - Monopoly.Hasbro.comJohnny Cash - JohnnyCash.comDisney World - Disneyworld.Disney.Go.comBatman - DCComics.comChick-Fil-A - Chick-fil-a.comRitz Carlton - RitzCarlton.comHampton Inn - Hilton.comLove INC. - LoveINC.comCraig's List - CraigsList.org"Toxic Charity" (Book) - Amazon.comPresident Bill Clinton - ClintonFoundation.orgDanny Meyer  - USHGNYC.comAbraham Maslow - SimplyPsychology.orgPAT - Play Ability Test - PGA.orgMarriott World Center - Marriott.comPGA - PGATour.comHooters - Hooters.comNationwide - Nationwide.comNike - Nike.comNAVY SEALS - Navy.comStolen Valor - Archives.govHard Rock International – HardRock.combookstarPR - bookstarPR.comThoughts That Rock – ThoughtsThatRock.comCertified Rock Star - CertifiedRockStar.comLeadership That Rocks: Take Your Brand's Culture to Eleven and Amp Up Results (Jim Knight) - LeadershipThatRocksBook.comCulture That Rocks: How to Revolutionize Your Company’s Culture (Jim Knight) – CultureThatRocks.comBlack Sheep: Unleash the Extraordinary, Awe-Inspiring, Undiscovered You (Brant Menswar) - FindYourBlackSheep.comRock ‘n Roll With It: Overcoming the Challenge of Change (Brant Menswar) – RocknRollWithIt.comCannonball Kids’ cancer – CannonballKidscancer.orgBig Kettle Drum - BigKettleDrum.comSpectacle Photography (Show/Website Photos) – SpectaclePhoto.comJeffrey Todd “JT” Keel (Show Music) - JT KeelAARON DAWSON'S BIO:Aaron Dawson became Miramont’s General Manager in April 2014, bringing more than two decades of exemplary leadership experience in the hospitality, private club management and restaurant industries to the Club. Dawson oversees a Miramont team of more than 180 dedicated professionals, as well as all the elegant and exceptional facilities at Miramont. More than that, though, he has consistently displayed an open-door service commitment and a hands-on approach to addressing the needs and concerns of Members and employees. His vision and pledge is to make Miramont a home away from home for Members and guests. Dawson, a native of Ohio, arrived at Miramont after serving from 2010-14 as the General Manager of Chenal Country Club in Little Rock, Arkansas. Dawson has also been the General Manager at Bentwater Yacht and Country Club in Montgomery, Texas. Prior to joining the Bentwater staff, Dawson was the GM for Brio/Bravo Restaurant Group, and he also served in various roles at Morton’s Steakhouse and Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Dawson is an active member in Club Managers Association of America, currently serving as President of Lone Star Chapter of the CMAA. Dawson volunteers his time and efforts to various local organizations and fundraising efforts, serving as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees at Allen Academy and as Chair of the Annual Cadet Golf Classic and Patriot Dinner at Miramont that benefits Folds of Honor and the Financial Assistance Program at Allen Academy. He is an Advanced Corporate Client and Individual Certified Birkman Consultant, who has worked with numerous hospitality groups, as well as using the assessment to help young individuals with career selection. Dawson, who is also Mindset Perspective Certified, has presented with Sharon Birkman and Diana Sheley to show the power of Birkman to hospitality professionals. He is an avid user and promoter of the Birkman assessment. Dawson and his wife, Nikki, live in the Miramont subdivision with their two daughters: Olivia, who was born in 2005, and Madeline 2009. 

Gabby found her passion early on. She wanted to do something in writing, but she didn't know that PR work would be the perfect thing for her. Another passion of hers is traveling. From there she connected PR with traveling. She helps to promote all the wonderful things about traveling, in a very authentic way. It is particularly important for her to believe in the thing she was promoting. She had gotten to a point in her life where she decided to start her own consulting company. She wanted the flexibility and the ability to use her time the way she wanted to. Through her struggles with cancer years ago, she learned something valuable. You must try to learn something during a hard time. She believes then that nothing is a total loss. Do not focus so much on the negative, create a new way of doing something. You must take the good with the bad. Two of her major clients are the Princess Cruise Line and The City of Orlando. This year has brought traveling to a hault, which effected both these clients. She speaks about what is to be expected for the next year with traveling and cruises. She believes when we can travel more again, the memories and the time with family and friends will be so much more special and will have more meaning.She shared about her passion and talent. Passion: to share experiences and to have great experiences. Talent: able to communicate the various great experiences with others so they can feel passionate about it tooAbout Gabriella: Gabby has more than 20 years of experience in marketing communications. Her specialties are strategic planning and brand revitalization for travel and tourism accounts. Gabby has created high-profile branding and 360-degree integrated marketing campaigns for the travel, food and beverage, lifestyle and general consumer product industries. She is a natural "idea person" and strategically develops marketing solutions that realize significant ROI for clients. Fully versed in social media applications, she is a master at blending traditional PR tactics with new media strategies to orchestrate impactful integrated campaigns. TV network producers and productions companies turn to Gabby for her limitless ideas and precision broadcast production management. Her client experiences include many top consumer brands including Visit Orlando, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, the Port of Quebec, Amazon Nature Tours, Hands Up Holidays, Impact Destinations, Esperienza, Select Registry, Hostelling International USA, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Canyon Ranch, Visit Philadelphia, Briggs & Riley, Seaview a Dolce Hotel, ShermansCruise, the Port of Philadelphia and more.Connect with Gabby on social media:https://about.me/gabriella_mcnamarahttps://www.facebook.com/gabby.mcnamarahttps://twitter.com/gabbymachttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriella-mcnamara-3506361a/About the Megan: Megan Di Martino is a New York girl deep in the heart of Texas! A lifelong creator of beauty with a serving, mentoring spirit. She has started, scaled, sustained and sold 2 seven figure businesses in the Skin Care-Spa Industry. Her purpose is to build teams that in turn build businesses. In January 2020, her book went to number one on Amazon. In April 2020, her award-winning skin care line, Novita Spa Clinicals, was nominated in the Product Innovation Category, for the Austin Women's Way Awards. Megan is now continuing to speak, write, coach and consult with businesses and individuals to help them reach their dreams, goals and desires. "Novita...New Birth...New Life...Always Something New...That's My Promise."Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Host of FOX Business' The Claman Countdown, Liz Claman, is joined by the Founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Cameron Mitchell. By the time he was 18 years old, Cameron Mitchell had run away from home, dropped out of school, and barely earned his degree. But one night while working in a kitchen in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio Cameron committed himself to making it in the restaurant industry. Today, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants boasts an impressive portfolio of favorites, including the acclaimed Ocean Prime restaurant. In this conversation, Mitchell discusses how he harnessed his inspiration to reach his goals, his company's guiding rules for serving employees and customers, and his guidance for facing those "near-death" business challenges.  Follow Liz on Twitter: @LizClaman

Cameron Mitchell wasn't sure he restaurant company would still be around. The founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants was just as scared as anyone in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic that the event might lead to the end of the company he's spent nearly three decades building. Now seven months in, the self-described optimist feels more confident in his business' survival and hopeful the worst has already occurred. But there still are key questions to be answered — five in his estimation — that businesses, restaurants especially, need answers to in order to feel better about the future. In this episode of Crisis Management, Mitchell lays out those questions and when he expects to hear answers. He also shares a look at how his business is performing — what's working and what isn't — in addition to updates on several new restaurants that were in the works when the pandemic hit.

Cameron Mitchell wasn’t sure he restaurant company would still be around. The founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants was just as scared as anyone in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic that the event might lead to the end of the company he’s spent nearly three decades building. Now seven months in, the self-described optimist feels more confident in his business’ survival and hopeful the worst has already occurred. But there still are key questions to be answered — five in his estimation — that businesses, restaurants especially, need answers to in order to feel better about the future. In this episode of Crisis Management, Mitchell lays out those questions and when he expects to hear answers. He also shares a look at how his business is performing — what’s working and what isn’t — in addition to updates on several new restaurants that were in the works when the pandemic hit.

Cameron tells the story of his tumultuous childhood and finding his passion for the restaurant entertainment business, the founding of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, The KIPP School, Mitchell Hall - a state of the art hospitality school at Columbus State, and midwestern hospitality including “The Columbus Way.” Keep up with the CBUS Speaks conversation on instagram and twitter.

Walter Carpenter is a first-time restaurant owner, but he's doing so with decades of experience. The owner of The Royce, which is now open at Polaris Fashion Place, has more than 30 years in the industry starting as a cook at historic Columbus brand G.D. Ritzy's and more than 20 years with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants where he worked in and helped open many of that company's sites. Carpenter spoke to Columbus Business First for Crisis Management, a podcast about doing business amid the coronavirus pandemic. He talked about what he learned in his various stops over the years and how that applies to his own space. He also talked about how the pandemic shaped his plans and the impact that the Black Lives Matter movement has had on his business.

Walter Carpenter is a first-time restaurant owner, but he’s doing so with decades of experience. The owner of The Royce, which is now open at Polaris Fashion Place, has more than 30 years in the industry starting as a cook at historic Columbus brand G.D. Ritzy’s and more than 20 years with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants where he worked in and helped open many of that company’s sites. Carpenter spoke to Columbus Business First for Crisis Management, a podcast about doing business amid the coronavirus pandemic. He talked about what he learned in his various stops over the years and how that applies to his own space. He also talked about how the pandemic shaped his plans and the impact that the Black Lives Matter movement has had on his business.

Robert F. Smith, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners discusses his role working with the White House on the roll-out of PPP, and how to get the loans in the hands of the most in need, including minority-owned small businesses. Plus, Restaurateur Cameron Mitchell, founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, discusses adapting to the “new normal” as businesses reopen. Cameron Mitchell operates over 30 restaurants across 12 states. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I don’t want people to mass panic, I want people to think.” Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater, the largest hedge fund in the world, considers the market downturn and what’s needed from investors and the Federal Reserve to relieve economic anxiety. Cameron Mitchell, founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, has closed each of his restaurants in over a dozen states and cut his staff from 4000+ to a mere six. He considers the wide impact of pandemic-prompted shutdowns across the service industry. CEO of Boston Consulting Group Rich Lesser has been speaking with other CEOs around the world; he maps out the long term costs of business slowdown.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode David sits down to chat with Vice President of Cameron Mitchell Premier Events and Community Relations at Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Melissa Johnson. Melissa and David chat about Cameron Mitchell's idea on customer service "Yes is the answer. What is the question?" Melissa also talks about how Cameron Mitchell Premier Events got started and becoming one of the newest members of the Cameron Mitchell Executive Team. Melissa shares some fun stories about the learning opportunities their team has had, some of their great successes and everything in between during her 20 plus years with Cameron Mitchell. Melissa also talks about having participated in the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon!

Imagine immediately saying yes to everything. In your everyday life, maybe that isn’t the best decision. If you’ve seen the movie Yes Man with Jim Carrey, you’ll know that things could quickly go off the rails. But what about as a motto for a hospitality business? “Yes is the answer, what is the question” is more than just a motto for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, it’s what the company lives by. Cameron has built a phenomenal business and it all started with an epiphany in a crowded restaurant when he realized that he wanted to spend the rest of his life in the restaurant business. Then epiphany number two hit when he realized that he wanted to start his own restaurant. The very first thing Cameron did after this realization was write down the culture and values for his company. Many people would start thinking of themes, scouting locations, coming up with names, but Cameron started with the people and he’s still all about the people 40 years later. Give this episode a listen to hear all about Cameron’s journey from dish room to boardroom. P.S. If you’ve ever been to one of Cameron’s restaurants you’ve likely seen images of a chocolate milkshake and maybe you’ve even heard The Milkshake Story. Cameron explains why the milkshake is the icon of hospitality for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. About our Guest: Cameron began his career in the restaurant industry almost 40 years ago as a dishwasher; a few years later, while working as a line cook, he had an epiphany to start his own restaurant. He lives in Columbus, Ohio with his family and is dedicated to causes such as The United Way, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the Columbus State Community College Foundation. You can connect with Cameron on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/camsaysyes/. Resources cited Yes is the answer. What is the question? By Cameron Mitchell

The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk Text LEARNERS to 44222 Full show notes can be found at www.LearningLeader.com #346: Cameron Mitchell is the founder & CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants.  In 2018, they celebrated their 25th anniversary. He employees more than 5,000 people and his restaurants do $300m/year in sales. He is the author of Yes Is The Answer, What Is The Question?  He has been recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Young, as a Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration and as one of 50 New Taste Makers by Nation’s Restaurant News. Notes: "Leaders who sustain excellence believe in people.  They put trust in people." Must have strong culture and values Writing your core values -- The benefit of putting pen to paper and the courage to act on them (including firing a superstar if he doesn’t live up to the values set) His goals: Go to the Culinary Institute of America Become GM at age 24 Regional at age 26 VP of Operations at age 30 Be president of a restaurant company by age 35 Go to the Culinary Institute of America He woke his mom up at a 1:00am and told her his goals "When you share your goals, people want to hold you accountable to them..." He went to Culinary Institute of America. Same place as Anthony Bourdain. The CIA was the Harvard of culinary schools. He got turned down initially because of his low high school grades -- "I had the can do, but didn't have the want to initially" He once worked 100 days in a row without a day off (that included a 1 hour and 45 minute commute each way) "I equate it to the doll that you punch and it comes right back up." -- Must be resilient "You cannot build a life like this or be successful without a commitment to hard work" Years ago Cameron was a young man with a dream, a yellow note pad, and a pen.  He wrote down 5 questions and answers that articulated who he would be, why he would exist, and what he believed and did as a restaurant company. The 5 Questions: Who are we? What do we want to be? Why are we in business? What is your role? What is our goal? After those questions were answered, Cameron created their eight core values to live by... Fundraising (for people to invest in his new restaurant business) was a grueling process. He got rejected 9 out of 10 pitches when trying to raise money for his first restaurant.  Cameron shares everything he learned from so much rejection and failure... Initially Cameron was a bad boss and people threatened to quit because of him… He got help from Jim Collins and other mentors. Why the answer is always yes... --> Cameron shares the symbolism of a milkshake. To grow his business, he needed to hire great leaders to help him scale and run other restaurants... He shares the key qualities he looked for when making hiring decisions.  The first leader he hired 20+ years ago is still with him today. "I'm constantly pushing on where could we be?  Constantly thinking about how we can be better?" The Customer Comes Second -- Book by Hal Rosenbluth that impacted Cameron. Cameron gave 5% of the purchase price ($4.6m) to his associates (employees) when they sold a portion of their business to Ruth's Chris and gave a unique gift/experience to his senior leaders (paid for their kids college tuition, sent them on a European trip with their spouse) Associates must come first Cameron described with emotion the power of having children had on him... Before Cameron had even met his wife, he would tell people, "I'm working for a wife and kids I don't even know yet." The moment of clarity when you have that walk with your wife... When she's in the wheelchair holding your new baby. "You can't be successful at home if you're not successful at work.  You can't be successful at work if you're not successful at home." "Everyone sees the outward success.  But the family is the inward success." Their associates get 8 weeks paid vacation. The culture and values must hold up especially when times are tough Cameron tells the story of a time when his best chef used bad language towards another associate.  Cameron fired him within five minutes. "If we don't live those values every single day, then they become no good." General life advice: "Integrity takes years to build and minutes to ruin.  You must lead with integrity." "Cutting corners in life will get you nowhere."  Don't think of the easier way to do things.  "If it were easy everybody would do it.  I don't want the easy way, I want the right way." "Positive mental attitude.  It's what you do with your day that defines you.  Be constantly aware of that." Be unwavering with your work ethic.  "We're pushing forward every day."  

After nearly 40 years deep in the hurly-burly of the restaurant business, Cameron Mitchell says he’s looking to pass the baton within his 36-unit company and focus on what he calls the two esses: strategy and stewardship. “I’m getting old. I tell people my ‘low-fuel light’ is on,” the 57-year-old founder and CEO of Columbus, Ohio-based Cameron Mitchell Restaurants said with a laugh. “I use the term: ‘I’m in the fourth quarter of my career.’” During a conversation at the debut of a $2 million renovation of the Dallas Ocean Prime restaurant, Mitchell reflected on this dish room-to-boardroom story.

Ocean Prime, an upscale seafood and steak concept in Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ portfolio, stays on trend by frequently refreshing the menu. Listen as Ian Rough, Ocean Prime’s corporate chef, and Jason Shelley, executive chef at the Chicago location, describe how they are keeping up with the tastes of today’s diners.

I discuss Five questions from an article in Costco Connection by Cameron Mitchell founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants http://Cameron Mitchell.com contact kikiposts@gmail.com 510.98L.GBT3 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/kikipodcasts/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/kikipodcasts/support

Shep Hyken interviews Cameron Mitchell, Founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. They discuss Cameron’s customer service philosophies and his new book, Yes is the Answer! What is the Question?. The Interview with Cameron Mitchell:Be goal-oriented. Know the difference between working for a paycheck and working for your career.Define your company’s core values and culture first. Then, build the company for the people, by the people.Rather than putting the guests/customers first, put your employees first. This sets up a triangular relationship: you take care of your employees, your employees take care of your customers, and your customers take care of your company. This all stems from an internal people-first culture.Mitchell shared his company’s Five Pillars of Culture, which are in the form of questions. These questions must be answered with authority and conviction. They are as follows:What do we want to be?How do we define ourselves?What is our mission?What is your role?What is our goal?There should be an almost even split between cultural and fiscal responsibility, the scales tipped in favor of culture. The number one goal should be to maintain your company’s culture and values. Making a profit should be second to that. Never sacrifice your culture for the sake of profit.Your company will have many goals that come and go, but the one constant goal should be to be better today than you were yesterday, and better tomorrow than you are today. This creates a culture of positive change within your organization. Stagnation is a death sentence.The phrase “yes is the answer; what’s the question?” creates an attitude of action. It motivates people to find creative solutions to problems rather than just saying “no.”Attaching an image, symbol, or picture to your company mantra can make for a powerful reminder. Implement and integrate this company-wide to ensure everyone is on the same page.Quote:  “We take care of our people, our people take care of our guests, and our guests then take care of our company.” - Cameron Mitchell About: Cameron Mitchell is the founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. He has enjoyed success as a lifelong entrepreneur, accomplished businessman, culinary expert, and nationally recognized restauranteur. Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and your host of Amazing Business Radio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building your company with and for your people with Cameron Mitchell.

Opinions That Count and Five Cultural Pillars Do you really want to know what your consumers are thinking? Well, there is a way to shift through influencers and hear the opinions of your loyal followers! Mike Donoghue, Founder and CEO of Alpha Group, and Kyle Lelli, General Manager of The Tylt, join us to explain their brilliant platform that can help businesses capture the pulse of their target audience. Hear how The Tylt, Pigeon, Project Text, and Elsewhere can help your company thrive and deliver what your customers crave. Then, we learn about the culture and values behind a company that was started by a man with a troubled past. Cameron Mitchell, Author of “YES IS THE ANSWER. WHAT IS THE QUESTION?”, explains the five cultural pillars that he founded his restaurant chain on. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants puts their people first and that appreciation is passed on to their guests. If you’re ready to define your mission and crush your goals then listen now for Cameron’s tips that will set you on the right path. • [00:00:00] Share Your Opinion Where It Counts • [00:05:32] Showcase Topics with Real-Time Polling • [00:11:31] Capture Opinions of Target Audience • [00:18:21] It All Began with Culture and Values • [00:28:07] Built by Our People For Our People • [00:33:22] Integrity, Hard Work, and Goal Setting

Opinions That Count and Five Cultural Pillars: Do you really want to know what your consumers are thinking? Well, there is a way to shift through influencers and hear the opinions of your loyal followers! Mike Donoghue, Founder and CEO of Alpha Group, and Kyle Lelli, General Manager of The Tylt, join us to explain their brilliant platform that can help businesses capture the pulse of their target audience. Hear how The Tylt, Pigeon, Project Text, and Elsewhere can help your company thrive and deliver what your customers crave. Then, we learn about the culture and values behind a company that was started by a man with a troubled past. Cameron Mitchell, Author of “YES IS THE ANSWER. WHAT IS THE QUESTION?”, explains the five cultural pillars that he founded his restaurant chain on. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants puts their people first and that appreciation is passed on to their guests. If you’re ready to define your mission and crush your goals then listen now for Cameron’s tips that will set you on the right path.    [00:00:00] Share Your Opinion Where It Counts [00:05:32] Showcase Topics with Real-Time Polling [00:11:31] Capture Opinions of Target Audience [00:18:21] It All Began with Culture and Values [00:28:07] Built by Our People For Our People [00:33:22] Integrity, Hard Work, and Goal Setting

On this weeks episode of "Girl, Still Love You," Kassondra and Maddie have the privilege of interviewing Heather Buck, a powerhouse in the hospitality industry, holding the Director of Training and Guest Services position at Cameron Mitchell Restaurants for over a decade. Opening and maintaining the highest level of service for almost 32 successful restaurants coast to coast, this is only one of her many accomplishments, as she also teaches at a collegiate level, sharing her wisdom and skill set that propelled her to the position at which she maintains now. Not to mention she is badass single Mother to 2 wonderful children. This is Heather Buck. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/girlstillloveyou/support

Kelly sits across the table with Cameron Mitchell (Ocean Prime, Mitchell‘s Fish Market, Rusty Bucket) to talk about his new book Yes is the Answer, his own rag to riches story and a business philosophy that puts his own staff first. [audio http://serve.castfire.com/audio/3592003/cameron-mitchell-restaurant-owner_2019-02-01-171303.64kmono.mp3]

"Yes is the Answer! What is the Question?" Cameron Mitchell promotes top-notch service at his CMR locations Ocean Prime and Ocean 44; he is interviewed by David Cogan founder of Eliances and incredible Host of the Eliances Heroes Radio show broadcast on AM & FM network channels, internet radio and syndicated online. www.cameronmitchell.com www.eliances.com 

"Yes is the Answer! What is the Question?" Cameron Mitchell promotes top-notch service at his CMR locations Ocean Prime and Ocean 44; he is interviewed by David Cogan founder of Eliances and incredible Host of the Eliances Heroes Radio show broadcast on AM & FM network channels, internet radio and syndicated online. www.cameronmitchell.com www.eliances.com 

Bloomberg Opinion columnist Barry Ritholtz interviews Cameron Mitchell, founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants and author of ‘‘Yes Is the Answer! What Is the Question? : How Faith in People and a Culture of Hospitality Built a Modern American Restaurant Company.’’ Cameron Mitchell Restaurants operates more than 30 restaurants under 15 different concepts, with locations in 12 states.

Just before the end of summer, we're talking about where to find the best seafood in central Ohio. On this week's episode, we were joined by Brian Hinshaw, the executive corporate chef for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. He discussed which dish you should order if you aren't familiar with seafood and how the various restaurants under Cameron Mitchell ensure the freshest fish and crustaceans on a daily basis. As fate would have it, we talked to Brian just weeks before the Cameron Mitchell Restaurants' 25th-anniversary party, which is in October, to celebrate Cameron's American Bistro opening 25 years ago. The bistro is the first of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants' now 55 restaurants in 13 states. Welcome to "The Great Food Debate," where we discuss the best food, drinks and specialties found in central Ohio. This week's topic: seafood! This episode's panelists are: • Brian Hinshaw, senior vice president of food and beverage and executive corporate chef for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants • Neil Thompson, ThisWeek Community News editor of content and special projects • Scott Hummel, ThisWeek Community News assistant managing editor, digital Where can the best seafood be found in central Ohio? • Brian's pick: Akai Hana (1173 Old Henderson Road, Columbus), Windward Passage (4739 Reed Road, Columbus), Third & Hollywood (1433 W. Third Ave., Grandview Heights), Min-Ga Korean Restaurant (800 Bethel Road, Columbus), Lindey's (169 E. Beck St., Columbus) • Neil's pick: The Pearl (641 N. High St., Columbus), Frank's Fish and Seafood Market (5251 Trabue Road, Columbus), Sushi.com Japanese Restaurant (7178 Muirfield Drive, Dublin) • Scott's pick: Phil's Seafood (2207 Linden Ave., Zanesville), Arthur Treacher's Fish & Chips (the closest location remaining are in Cleveland and Cuyahoga Falls) Other restaurants mentioned in this episode: • Mitchell's Ocean Club (4002 Easton Station, Columbus) • Harvey & Ed's (698 N. High St., Columbus) • North Market (59 Spruce St., Columbus) • Hudson 29 (1600 W. Lane Ave., Upper Arlington) • Tensuke Market (1155 Old Henderson Road, Columbus) • HoneyDip Donuts & Diner (4480 Kenny Road, Columbus) • Penzey's Spices (4455 Kenny Road, Columbus) • Cameron's American Bistro (2185 W. Dublin Granville Road, Worthington) New episodes are released every Friday. Subscribe to our podcast on iTunes, Google Play and Stitcher. Have any suggestions on what we should talk about? Email us at online@thisweeknews.com or tweet us at @ThisWeekNews. After you subscribe, the latest episodes will be downloaded automatically to your phone or tablet so you can listen during your commute while working out or making dinner. This podcast was produced by Scott Hummel, ThisWeek assistant managing editor, digital, and hosted by Abby Armbruster, ThisWeek social-media strategist.

In my 2nd interview with Cameron (click her to listener to the first episode) we discuss: How to create win-win situations. How loyalty drives partnerships. How building your reputation is continual work. Serving your community by paying it forward with your knowledge. Examples of how Cameron Mitchel is paying it forward. Cameron Mitchell is CEO and founder of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. A lifelong entrepreneur, Mitchell is an accomplished businessman, culinary expert and nationally recognized restaurateur. With an entrepreneur's energy, vision and passion, Mitchell's sights are set on the development of new restaurant concepts, and the expansion of concepts currently in his company's portfolio.

Summary: Cameron Mitchell is a household name in Columbus, Ohio for delivering some of the finest dining experiences the city has to offer. Not to mention, he’s the epitome of going from the bottom to the top, building a nationwide restaurant empire that does more than $100 million in sales annually and a few billion …

Glenn chats with Cameron Mitchell, founder of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. The company started humbly but now brings in $250 million revenue annually. Learn all about how he did it and how his life philosophy helped him to create a powerful Midwest company employing thousands.  Restaurant brands include Cameron's, Cap City Fine Diner & Bar, The Guild House, Hudson 29 Kitchen + Drink, M, Martini Modern Italian, Marcella's, Ocean Prime, and Molly Woo's Asian Bistro, The Pearl, Restaurant, Tavern & Oyster Room, The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek and The Avenue Steak Tavern. But first, Glenn and Bruce lament on how hard it is to qualify for premier airline status any longer, it's effect on the traveler psyche and more. Plus, the guys delve into the state of the industry and newly released numbers for the new hotel construction pipeline. Find Bruce Ford on Twitter @BFinNH, and learn more at www.lodgingeconometrics.com Subscribe on iTunes: No Vacancy with Glenn Haussman Subscribe on Android: https://play.google.com/music/listen#/ps/Ifu34iwhrh7fishlnhiuyv7xlsm Send your comments and questions to to Glenn@rouse.media.  Follow Glenn @TravelingGlenn Learn more at http://novacancy.libsyn.com Produced by Jeff Polly: http://www.endpointmultimedia.com/

Cameron Mitchell is CEO and founder of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. A lifelong entrepreneur, Mitchell is an accomplished businessman, culinary expert and nationally recognized restaurateur. His prominence in the industry increased exponentially in early 2008, when he guided the sale of two of his most popular concepts, a total of 22 restaurants - to Ruth's Hospitality Group for $92 million. With an entrepreneur's energy, vision and passion, Mitchell's sights are set on the development of new restaurant concepts, and the expansion of concepts currently in his company's portfolio.