Podcast appearances and mentions of josh kopel

With the fires wiping out entire restaurant districts, what does the future of restaurant design in LA look like? Renowned architect John Hamilton shares with Josh Kopel and Michael Benson what restaurant operators should be thinking about when rebuilding—from fire-resistant materials to more flexible layouts, outdoor dining strategies, and cost-effective redesigns. Whether you're rebuilding from scratch or planning a renovation, this episode delivers practical design solutions that will shape the next generation of restaurants.This series was created in collaboration with Michael Benson of Southern California Restaurant Design Group. When the fires devastated LA's restaurant community, Michael saw an opportunity to bring together experts who could provide real strategies and solutions for operators facing the challenge of rebuilding. Each conversation in this series is designed to deliver practical insights, industry trends, and actionable steps to help restaurant owners in LA—and beyond—come back stronger.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dive into why profitability has to be the North Star for every restaurant owner — because without profit, nothing else is sustainable. I also break down one of the most underrated marketing tools in the game: the power of 'surprise and delight.' We're talking about those unexpected moments that turn a first-time guest into a lifelong fan. I share practical ways to build those moments into your operations — from budgeting for them to training your team to execute with heart. Because when you systemize joy, you create loyalty. And that's how you win. Takeaways:Money makes every other problem a minor inconvenience.Surprise and delight isn't just generosity; it's unexpected generosity.Creating unforgettable experiences turns guests into raving fans.A surprise and delight budget empowers staff to enhance customer experiences.It's about exceeding expectations in ways they couldn't even imagine.Transforming guests into ambassadors is key for marketing.Marketing through surprise and delight pays for itself.Training staff on surprise and delight strategies is essential.Focus on creating genuine moments of connection with guests.Implementing a structured approach to surprise and delight can lead to greater profitability.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:06 The Power of Surprise and Delight05:54 Creating Unforgettable Experiences09:47 Implementing Surprise and Delight StrategiesIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

#94.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Josh Kopel, restaurateur, consultant, speaker, and former President of the California Restaurant Association, whose story is one of transformation, from building a multimillion-dollar restaurant empire in Los Angeles to rethinking the way hospitality businesses are built and run.Kopel is best known for founding a Hollywood bar that became a local legend, launching a Michelin-awarded fine dining restaurant, and building an award-winning fast-casual brand. But by early 2020, he was burned out. With the pandemic looming, Josh sold everything—not as an exit, but as an evolution.What came next was FULL COMP, a podcast born out of a commitment to rebuild the industry from the inside out. Paring his own experience with candid conversations with industry legends, Josh codified the systems, strategies, and stories that drive long-term success in hospitality. Those insights became the Restaurant Scaling System: a step-by-step framework helping restaurant owners regain control, increase profits, and build businesses that don't burn them out.In 2025, Josh launched the 5-Day Restaurant Profitability Masterclass—a free, high-impact crash course that distills decades of lessons into five focused sessions. It's not theory; it's a practical blueprint for restaurateurs ready to stabilize their operations, grow sustainably, and finally enjoy the freedom they've earned.During the episode, Josh shares valuable insights on understanding customer needs, the power of teaching over doing in consulting, and effective strategies to boost profitability through targeted marketing and customer engagement. He also discusses the concept of product-market fit and how restaurants can harness AI to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Links and resources

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I break down why focusing on frequency instead of foot traffic is the key to long-term profitability.We're diving into the power of customer data—how to capture it, segment it, and use it to create marketing that actually works. Because guess what? Not all customers are created equal. Once you know who your best customers are and why they keep coming back, you can stop throwing money at broad marketing and start making strategic moves that drive real growth. If you're looking to maximize revenue without constantly hustling for new guests, this one's for you.Takeaways:Your fastest path to growth isn't new customers.A 5% increase in repeat customers boosts profitability by 25%.Reminding customers that you exist is crucial.Acquiring customer data is essential for retention.People value status and access over discounts.Role-playing can help staff feel comfortable selling.Segmentation of customer lists increases marketing effectiveness.Personalized communication makes customers feel valued.Focus on existing customers for quicker revenue growth.Implement frequency-based campaigns to drive repeat visits.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:07 The Importance of Customer Frequency05:00 Capturing Customer Data07:52 Segmentation for Effective Marketing10:12 Conclusion and Call to ActionIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

In this episode, Michael reconnects with guest Josh Kopel, a former restaurateur turned industry consultant, five years after their initial conversation. They discuss the significant transformations Josh has experienced since 2020, including selling his restaurant group due to burnout and launching the 'Full Comp' podcast. Josh shares insights into his journey of learning the skill of translating knowledge into value and creating the 'Restaurant Scaling System.' The discussion dives deep into the common pitfalls in the restaurant industry, including the misconception between more work and more money, the importance of focusing on profitability, and leveraging high-value tasks. They also explore the role of AI in amplifying business efficiency and the critical shift from being service-oriented to strategically aligning business models with market demands. Josh emphasizes the importance of having clear financial goals, delegating effectively, and adopting high-leverage activities. He concludes with valuable lessons learned from industry experts and personal experiences, offering a comprehensive guide for restaurant owners to achieve financial freedom, time freedom, and freedom from overwhelm.Connect with Josh:https://joshkopel.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuakopel1/https://pages.joshkopel.com/challengehttps://restaurants.yelp.com/restaurant-resources/full-comp-podcast/Podcast Eps with Warren Rustand https://open.spotify.com/episode/3782vwv3jzfTytmjQ2mTUU?si=6cBO4a3pRYmnDc0aNZAl3gBook recommendation:"Come up for air" https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8596/9781400243846Connect with the podcastJoin the Hospitality Mavericks newsletterTune in via your favourite podcast platform - here More episodes for you to check out here This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

In this episode of the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast, Roger dives deep into the world of restaurant operations with hospitality impresario Josh Kopel. Josh, a Louisiana native who rose to prominence by transforming a Los Angeles dive bar into a Michelin star restaurant, shares his journey and insights. The discussion covers a wide range of topics vital to restaurateurs, including leadership, company culture, marketing, customer experience, and maintaining relevance in a competitive industry. Josh emphasizes the importance of focusing on what works, leveraging high-impact sales strategies, and continuously evolving to meet guest expectations.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I break down how AI can be a game-changer for restaurant owners, not by replacing people, but by freeing them up to focus on what actually matters. We're talking automation, streamlined marketing, and strategic delegation—because the secret to scaling isn't working harder, it's working smarter. I'll walk you through how AI and well-crafted SOPs can help you reclaim your time, reduce the daily chaos, and set your restaurant up for long-term success. And here's the kicker—you don't have to overhaul everything overnight. Start small, build momentum, and watch how AI helps take your business to the next level.Takeaways:Money is the primary problem for restaurant owners.AI can help delegate tasks effectively.Overwhelm often comes from mismanaged tasks.Automated task audits can identify inefficiencies.AI can create structured SOPs from recorded tasks.Marketing consistency is key for restaurant success.AI can generate comprehensive marketing calendars.Engagement can increase with AI-driven marketing.Start with small AI implementations for better results.AI is a tool to amplify leadership in restaurants.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:06 Leveraging AI for Restaurant Efficiency05:49 Streamlining Marketing with AI10:03 Implementing AI in Manageable StepsIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

AI is changing the restaurant marketing game in ways that can save you time while boosting your revenue. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, I chat with Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur who's truly mastered the marketing side of the business.Josh breaks down how restaurants of any size can use AI tools like ChatGPT to create better email campaigns, design loyalty programs that actually work, and analyze menu performance - all without needing a marketing degree.What I love about Josh's approach is how practical it is. He shows you exactly how to get started, even if you've never used AI before. And for just $20 a month, you can access tools that Josh says are like "hiring an expert instead of a teenager."Restaurant owners drowning in spreadsheets and those looking to bring more guests through the door will find Josh's strategies helpful for saving hours each week while potentially adding thousands to monthly revenue.ResourcesConnect with Josh on LinkedIn

AI is changing the restaurant marketing game in ways that can save you time while boosting your revenue. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, I chat with Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur who's truly mastered the marketing side of the business.Josh breaks down how restaurants of any size can use AI tools like ChatGPT to create better email campaigns, design loyalty programs that actually work, and analyze menu performance - all without needing a marketing degree.What I love about Josh's approach is how practical it is. He shows you exactly how to get started, even if you've never used AI before. And for just $20 a month, you can access tools that Josh says are like "hiring an expert instead of a teenager."Restaurant owners drowning in spreadsheets and those looking to bring more guests through the door will find Josh's strategies helpful for saving hours each week while potentially adding thousands to monthly revenue.ResourcesConnect with Josh on LinkedIn

In this episode, Josh Kopel and Michael Benson sit down with Brad Block, a top restaurant builder who has worked on some of LA's most high-profile hospitality projects. With countless operators now facing the challenge of rebuilding, Brad shares insider strategies on how to reopen faster, smarter, and stronger—without getting caught in costly delays or unnecessary expenses. Whether you're in LA recovering from the fires or a restaurateur thinking about renovations, this episode breaks down construction shortcuts, cost-saving strategies, and future-proofing techniques that will make your next restaurant build a lasting success.This series was created in collaboration with Michael Benson of Southern California Restaurant Design Group. When the fires devastated LA's restaurant community, Michael saw an opportunity to bring together experts who could provide real strategies and solutions for operators facing the challenge of rebuilding. Each conversation in this series is designed to deliver practical insights, industry trends, and actionable steps to help restaurant owners in LA—and beyond—come back stronger.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I break down why the old-school mentality of treating your team like “family” is actually holding you back. Look, I love my people, but a real family won't fire you for showing up late. A restaurant, on the other hand? It's a business. And if we want to build sustainable, profitable businesses, we need to stop running our teams on emotions and start leading with clarity, accountability, and mutual investment. I'll walk you through the leadership shifts that changed everything for me—how setting clear expectations, constantly recruiting, and focusing on performance over sentiment will transform your restaurant from a revolving door into a powerhouse of talent. If you're tired of losing good people and constantly hiring, this one's for you.Takeaways80% of restaurants barely break even.If you can't keep people, the problem might not be them.Great restaurants aren't a family. They're a high-performance team.A players do not elevate the performance of B and C players.People don't leave places that invest in them.We need to be recruiting all the time, not just when we're desperate.Set clear expectations from day one.Externalize the rules and accountability.Lead from the front and invest in your team's goals.Build relationships with potential hires before you need them.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability Challenges02:15 The Leadership Problem in Restaurants03:44 Building a High-Performance Team06:40 Mutual Investment in Employee Growth09:34 The Importance of Constant RecruitmentIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dive into why most restaurants struggle to make money and what we can do about it. The hard truth? Discounting isn't the answer. Slashing prices might get people in the door, but it conditions your guests to expect deals instead of value. Instead, I break down how to create offers that actually influence customer behavior—offers that build demand, drive revenue, and make your restaurant the place to be.We'll also get into the psychology behind urgency and scarcity, and how those two factors can supercharge your marketing. Bottom line: You don't need to race to the bottom to win in this industry. You just need to understand what your guests truly want—and then give it to them in a way that keeps them coming back for more.Takeaways80% of restaurants barely break even.It's not your fault, it's your system's.Stop trying to force behavior.Create exclusivity, not a fire sale.Incentivize upsells instead of discounts.Create experiences, not sales.People just want to be told what to do.A great offer gets them in the door at the right time.People don't act unless they feel like they're going to miss out.The best restaurant marketing gets the right people spending the right money.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability Challenges01:48 The Importance of Effective Offers06:01 Crafting Offers that Influence Behavior08:56 Creating Urgency and Scarcity in OffersIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I'm tackling one of the biggest traps restaurant owners fall into—the idea that more locations automatically mean more profit. The truth? Scaling too soon can sink your business faster than a slow Tuesday night. I'll break down how to know if you're actually ready to expand, why strong leadership is non-negotiable, and how to squeeze every ounce of profit from your existing operation before even thinking about a second location. Plus, I'm sharing smart growth strategies—like diversifying revenue streams and testing new concepts—that can set you up for long-term success without unnecessary risk. Let's get into it.Takeaways80% of restaurants barely break even.You don't need more restaurants, you need better restaurants.Bad expansion kills more restaurants than bad food.More seats does not equal more money.Before you scale outward, scale upward.Audit your first location.Find your revenue leaks.Test first with pop-ups or ghost kitchens.Smart growth builds empires.Expand when you're ready, not just because you're impatient.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability Challenges02:08 Understanding When to Expand Your Restaurant05:55 Strategies for Smart Growth and ExpansionIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I'm breaking down one of the most important—and often overlooked—truths in the restaurant industry: profit has to come before hospitality. Without a sustainable business model, there's no way to deliver great guest experiences in the long run. I'll walk you through how to rethink your menu as a business model, why focusing on high-margin items is non-negotiable, and how to optimize profit per guest. Plus, I'm sharing practical, no-BS steps you can take right now to boost your profitability and set your restaurant up for long-term success.Takeaways80% of restaurants barely break even.Profit comes first, not guest experience.Hospitality is a luxury you can only afford when your fundamentals are rock solid.Your menu is a business model, not a list of dishes.Profit per guest is greater than revenue per shift.Audit your top 10 best-selling menu items.Set a profit per guest goal.Stop waiting for our accountants.You can't serve great hospitality if you can't afford to stay in business.This will change your business and it will change your life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Profitability in Restaurants02:09 The Importance of Profit Over Hospitality04:06 Menu as a Business Model05:59 Maximizing Profit Per Guest07:53 Action Steps for Restaurant OwnersIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

One of the biggest reasons restaurants struggle with sales isn't always the food or service — it's awareness. Either people know about you but don't care, or they would care if they knew about you. My guest today, Josh Kopel, calls this the Awareness Formula, and in this episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, he shares powerful strategies that help restaurant owners become known in their market. Kopel has mastered a critical component of restaurant success: marketing. He is not just a restaurateur — he's a tech pioneer, a Michelin-rated fine dining operator, and one of the best marketing minds in the industry. If you've been struggling with getting more customers in the door, keeping your tables full, and making marketing work for your restaurant, this episode is for you.

In this powerhouse episode of The Late Night Restaurant Show, we sit down with the legendary Josh Kopel, a restaurateur-turned-industry coach, to talk about the levers that drive restaurant success. From marketing strategies that actually work to pricing tactics that boost profitability, Josh shares hard-earned insights from his decades in the business. He breaks down why restaurants must shift their mindset from B2C to B2B, how to increase customer frequency, and the importance of personalized engagement over broad social media blasts. Josh also dives into the common pitfalls of restaurant owners, why frequency is more critical than foot traffic, and how strategic price adjustments can counter rising costs like tariffs. If you've ever wondered how to make your business work for you instead of the other way around, this is the episode to tune in for. Before we wrap up, Josh shares a curated reading list for every restaurateur looking to level up their business game:

In this powerhouse episode of The Late Night Restaurant Show, we sit down with the legendary Josh Kopel, a restaurateur-turned-industry coach, to talk about the levers that drive restaurant success. From marketing strategies that actually work to pricing tactics that boost profitability, Josh shares hard-earned insights from his decades in the business. He breaks down why restaurants must shift their mindset from B2C to B2B, how to increase customer frequency, and the importance of personalized engagement over broad social media blasts. Josh also dives into the common pitfalls of restaurant owners, why frequency is more critical than foot traffic, and how strategic price adjustments can counter rising costs like tariffs. If you've ever wondered how to make your business work for you instead of the other way around, this is the episode to tune in for. Before we wrap up, Josh shares a curated reading list for every restaurateur looking to level up their business game:

Josh Kopel's journey from successful restaurateur to media personality and business coach is one of resilience, vulnerability, and a commitment to helping others. As the host of Yelp for Restaurant's podcast Full Comp, he has asked the hard questions and shared his battle scars through more than 400 episodes. Listen now to learn about making hospitality media, the benefits of scarcity, and elevating the restaurant industry. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Savneet Singh shares his journey as the CEO of PAR Technologies, detailing the challenges he faced when he took over a struggling company. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, making difficult decisions, and fostering a strong company culture. Through transparent communication and a focus on values, Singh transformed PAR from a failing business into a thriving enterprise, highlighting the role of innovation and teamwork in achieving success. In this conversation, Josh Kopel and Savneet Singh discuss the challenges faced by restaurant operators in today's rapidly changing industry. They explore the importance of technology and data in enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiency. Savneet emphasizes the need for a culture of risk-taking and innovation at PAR Technologies, while also highlighting the significance of staying true to a brand's promise. The discussion concludes with encouraging words for restaurant owners to never give up and to invest in their teams.TakeawaysThe only genius in entrepreneurship is not giving up.Business is fundamentally about solving problems.Difficult conversations are essential for leadership.Cultural values must be lived, not just stated.Ownership and accountability drive success.Innovation in technology is crucial for the restaurant industry.A transparent environment fosters trust and collaboration.Defining clear values can reshape company culture.Hard work and dedication lead to significant outcomes.Success requires a commitment to customer satisfaction. The restaurant industry is facing unfair expectations from customers.Technology is essential for restaurant operators to survive.PAR Technologies embraces change and innovation.Data must be actionable for restaurant owners to benefit.Personalized customer experiences are the future of dining.Unifying data across platforms is crucial for efficiency.Risk-taking is a cultural norm at PAR Technologies.Staying true to a brand promise is key to success.Investing in people leads to better outcomes.Work-life balance is important in the restaurant industry.Chapters00:00 The Power of Perseverance in Entrepreneurship06:09 The Journey to Leadership at PAR Technologies11:53 Cultural Revolution: Building a Winning Team18:07 The Road to Success: Hard Work and Transparency25:10 Adapting to Change in the Restaurant Industry35:39 The Culture of Risk-Taking at PAR43:11 The Excitement of Team and Mission____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Josh Kopel is a Michelin-awarded restaurateur, entrepreneur, and Founder of Flo Hospitality Solutions, a company helping restaurants enhance customer experiences and profitability through innovative marketing strategies. With decades of experience owning and operating successful restaurants and generating millions in sales through viral campaigns, he is a proven leader in the hospitality industry. Josh specializes in crafting brand narratives, launching impactful social media campaigns, and creating strategies that drive revenue, build loyalty, and boost profitability. He is also the host of the Full Comp Podcast, creator of the Restaurant Marketing School, and a former President of the California Restaurant Association. In this episode… Running a successful restaurant in today's highly competitive and fast-paced market comes with unique challenges — from standing out in a crowded space to maintaining profitability and customer loyalty. Many restaurateurs struggle to create effective marketing strategies, build authentic brand narratives, and adapt to changing consumer expectations. Without the right tools and insights, even the most passionate entrepreneurs can face burnout, missed opportunities, and financial losses. Josh Kopel, Michelin-awarded restaurateur and entrepreneur, shares his proven strategies for overcoming these hurdles. Drawing from decades of experience, Josh emphasizes the importance of crafting compelling brand stories, leveraging viral campaigns, and utilizing social media to boost visibility and profitability. He highlights how consistency, resilience, and customer-focused messaging can turn ideas into results, transform struggling businesses, and create lasting customer relationships. By pairing storytelling with data-driven tactics, Josh demonstrates how restaurant owners can build loyalty, optimize operations, and thrive even in challenging markets. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Josh Kopel, Founder of Flo Hospitality Solutions, about making an impact in the hospitality industry. The conversation takes us from delightful stories of Hollywood nightclubs to the grind behind scaling a fine dining restaurant, culminating in the pivot that led Josh to partner with Yelp and launch a successful podcast. It's an enlightening look at the intersection of grit, social connection, and resilience.

You're only as good as your tools, every chef knows that. But what happens when the tool you need hasn't been created yet?Today we are sharing Josh Kopel's conversation with Joshua Sharkey of meez, a former chef who sought to build the solution to his own problem. In this conversation Josh and Josh discuss the challenges facing the modern chef and what it took to create the Culinary Operation System for the chef of the future.Where to find Josh Kopel: LinkedInInstagramFull Comp PodcastWhere to find host Josh Sharkey:InstagramLinkedInIn this episode, we cover:Josh's background as a chef the differences between running someone else's business and running your ownWhy Josh chose to create technology for recipesConfidence when building a company or running a businessHow Josh works on building an effective tool, while using it consistently and in a compliant way?How to inspire someone to do something newHow Josh's beliefs behind what makes a chef changed after transitioning into techLessons that Josh continues to keep in mind when running meezWords of encouragement or advice

Our guest today is Josh Kopel, a restaurateur, entrepreneur and coach. This is Josh's second time on the podcast, and he's back to talk to us about restaurant marketing and what it really means for your business. Throughout his 20-year career, he's managed venues ranging from casual dining concepts to Hollywood nightclubs, bars and ultra-lounges. He also opened his own Michelin-rated fine dining concept. Josh is a real restaurant pro. In this episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, Josh and I discuss a few restaurant marketing myths, he debunks them, and he provides an incredible amount of information for you to consider for your own restaurant marketing activity.Get Time with Josh: www.PlanWithJosh.comFind Josh's podcast Full Comp: https://restaurants.yelp.com/restaurant-resources/full-comp-podcast/

I'd say my life is divided into two parts. Here on the show, my job is to ask the questions that I believe you want to know the answers to and then listen to the answers. But there's another side to my life. As a coach, folks just like you ask me questions and it's up to me to provide the answers. I wanted the opportunity to share the other part of my life with you and, recently, the opportunity presented itself. In today's episode you'll hear me being interviewed by my close friend and colleague, David Scott Peters for his show. In our conversation, I unpack the frameworks and mental models I've developed to help restaurant owners and operators scale profitability in any season. To pick up some of the tools and templates I mentioned on the show visit https://joshkopel.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Restaurant Marketing School Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Every restaurant owner and operator is looking for an edge over the competition. For most of us, the answer is hidden in plain sight. That answer, ironically enough, is the very reason we got into this industry. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how the level of hospitality we offer our guests is the ultimate competitive advantage and what that looks like in practical application. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

There is a way to establish accountability within our teams without demotivating them. It's a proven process which has become commonplace in countless industries. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how to bring those processes into our restaurants and kitchens, ensuring our teams are held accountable but feel supported at the same time. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

A restaurant is made up of many parts but, in order to achieve the highest levels of success, these individual parts must work in concert with each other. In this episode, Josh Kopel, a Michelin-rated restaurateur and Anthony Hamilton, an award winning chef, sit down to discuss the proven tactics they've used to bring front of house and back of house employees together. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Maximizing performance is a two-way street. If we want to get the most out of our teams, we have to give them everything they need to succeed. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton look at the tools leaders can use to support their teams as they strive for excellence. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

We spend so much time staring at our financial statements without an inkling of how to improve the numbers we see. Those days are done. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton provide winning strategies for managing your costs and scaling your restaurant's profitability. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

  Episode 138 David Ross and Anthony Hamilton talking about Josh Kopel's Restaurant Marketing School Podcast Restaurant Marketing School Podcast Hosted by Michelin-rated restaurateur, Josh Kopel, Restaurant Marketing School provides daily hospitality marketing tips. Get the tools you need to communicate with customers and reach an entirely new fan base. https://restaurants.yelp.com/restaurant-resources/hospitality-marketing-podcast/    https://restauranttopia.com/text/   Join other independent restaurant owners and professionals on our VIP Text Club and get access to exclusive content, industry news, deals, insights, announcements, pro-tips, and more! join our mailing list and get our newsletter: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/dojKlZ5    Enter your email and get the very latest from Restauranttopia - marketing tips and insights, announcements, pro tips, and more! And don't worry, we hate spam too! Check out the show notes at https://restauranttopia.com/category/podcast-episodes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Restauranttopia/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restauranttopia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restauranttopia/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aRVuDUYsV370Rfh-QxDag Brian Seitz https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-j-seitz-j-d-19863616/ David Ross https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ross-b6b39175/ Anthony Hamilton https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-hamilton-5805013a/

As entrepreneurs and restaurant owners, we are in a constant state of improvement. This process, though necessary, can exhaust us and our teams. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how these improvements can be adjusted to inspire our teams instead of wearing them down. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

In our industry, labor is the killer of most businesses and most of that labor is being absorbed by the back of house. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton illustrate how innovations in menu engineering can streamline your restaurant's operations and scale profitability. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Everything you need to move product and create profit is within reach. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how a chalkboard and a little salesmanship can transform your restaurant into a money making machine. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

No one becomes a restaurant owner because they're passionate about marketing. Having said that, it has become painfully obvious that marketing is no longer optional within our industry. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton offer a step by step guide to planning and executing a winning marketing campaign. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

It's easy to feel defeated when we look at the marketing campaigns of the big box restaurants that so many of us compete with. Having said that, the market is clamoring for new ideas and they want to hear what you have to offer. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how independent restaurant owners and operators can position themselves as a more attractive option for savvy consumers looking for what's new and what's next. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

One of the greatest hurdles in our industry is the day to day frustration that we face in attempting to achieve a level of success that so few do. The path to success is not one we can travel alone and, as much as we need great people by our side, those people need a great leader at the helm. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss the right and wrong way to set expectations for yourself and your team. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

In an industry where a positive company culture has always felt like a “nice to have,” it has become painfully obvious that it is a “need to have.” To ensure the survival of the hospitality industry, we must borrow the best practices from other industry leaders. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss the essential elements of a positive company culture as well as tools and tactics that will improve culture without breaking the bank. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

The only sustainable cure for ending the restaurant industry's labor crisis is to maximize employee retention. Turnover is the biggest threat to both our restaurant's profitability and our ability to scale. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton offer simple, proven strategies for ensuring that you keep the employees you currently have inspired and focused. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

It seems like we may have hit a ceiling when it comes to raising prices, especially with a recession on the horizon. In this episode, Josh Kopel and Anthony Hamilton discuss how to win the battle against ever-increasing costs by using proven techniques to improve efficiencies and eliminate waste. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

It's rarely discussed in our industry but there is an art to knowing when to sell your business and how to ensure that you get the most money for your restaurant. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss selling their own restaurant concepts and the lessons learned from those experiences. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Over the last year, it's become clear that food delivery isn't going anywhere. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss all of the ways restaurants can maximize their delivery revenue without cutting corners. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

If the pandemic taught us anything it's that we must make money in more than one way to ensure the solvency of our industry. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss all of the ways that restaurants are leveraging their brand equity to bring in more revenue in more ways. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Everyone wants to know what the future holds for our industry and, though the future is impossible to predict, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel do see trends emerging. In this episode, they discuss the concepts that are clearly winning the competition for butts in seats. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

A restaurant's greatest marketing tool is its menu. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss winning strategies to weaponize your restaurant's menu to drive new business and increase customer frequency. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

It's impossible to run a great company when you're not living a great life. The mass exodus from our industry was the result of the unsustainable pace with which this industry requires us to work. But, as it turns out, it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel share the tactics and tools of successful owners and operators who have figured out how to achieve balance and offer a balanced life to their teams. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

The biggest hurdle within the restaurant industry is people. The search for great people and the efforts involved in keeping those people have made headlines internationally. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss how accountability can serve as our greatest tool to inspire great people to join our teams and how those practices can ensure we retain our existing team members. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Many times, the difference between making money and losing money comes down to doing the boring work. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss how taking inventory in a specific way can scale your restaurant's profitability overnight. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

The restaurant industry has been heavily influenced by “big data” over the last few years. More and more, owners and operators are dependent on technology to guide the trajectory of their businesses. An essential tool in that arsenal is their point of sale system and, in today's episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss what one should look for when trying to find the right POS for their business. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Post-pandemic, our industry finds itself at an inflection point, attempting to determine what was a “pivot” and what has become an evolutionary change. Technology played a critical role in restaurants overcoming the limitations of social distancing and a lack of indoor dining, but what do diners expect from us today? In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss the prevalence of QR codes within the modern dining experience and how restaurants can use them to improve their customer service. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

Happy employees ensure happy guests but, in today's evolving industry, it's difficult to determine what policies will make our employees happy. In this episode, Shaun de Vries and Josh Kopel discuss the strategies they've used to ensure their teams feel heard, supported, and fulfilled. For more information on Shaun and his company, visit https://www.openpantryconsulting.com/. ____________________________________________________________ Restaurant Marketing School is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Full Comp Restaurant expert videos & webinars

In this episode Josh Kopel is sitting down with Ryan Wilson, the great grandson of the founder and current CEO of Lawry's Restaurants to talk about how a dynamic business model created a generational company. For more on Lawry's visit https://www.lawrysonline.com ____________________________________________________________ Full Comp brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time. We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other shows: Restaurant Marketing School Industry Town Halls