Podcasts about qsr

Hosted by Nino Horttrich, and with the collaboration of Arvin Jawa of Diebold Nixdorf, we explore how Tillster is solving some of the biggest challenges in QSR. From tackling operational challenges to improving speed, personalization, and consistency, this conversation explores how strategic partnerships can transform the customer journey and future-proof restaurant operations.

It's Eye on Franchising Friday with your host, Lance Graulich! Today, I'm diving in with Mark Amery, Founder & CEO of Puddle Pools, the fast-growing pool cleaning & maintenance franchise making waves across North America.

We all know the common categories in sponsorships: QSR, dealerships, tires, etc.But what about that next step up, luxury brands? How can we close those...or even get them to care about our team and sponsorship assets?In this episode, we dive into the strategy your team can execute to find, pitch, and close luxury brands. You'll even find some luxury categories you never knew about.--The Inches Podcast is a podcast that looks at sports & event sponsorship and how digital is affecting the industry and landscape. Hosted by Rich Franklin, VP of Partnerships at the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Nick Lawson, Co-founder of SQWAD.

Restaurant Masterminds hosts Paul Barron, Rudy Miick, and Stacey Kane dive deep with Greenlane co-founders Erica Spector Wishnow and Chris Kern to explore their game-changing approach to fast-casual dining. Discover how this Tampa-based concept delivers made-from-scratch salads in just 15 seconds, their mission to bring healthy options to food deserts at $6.99 price points, and the critical challenge of scaling company culture while maintaining staff engagement. Industry veterans discuss why Greenlane has that elusive "X factor" and could be a Front Runner candidate for 2025's most promising emerging brands.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantMasterminds #FastCasualDining #HealthyFastFoodGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this week's The Industrialist: Retail Recap, Jeremy, Bob, and Rob welcome special guest Zach Spletter, Senior Real Estate Manager for T-Mobile, for a deep dive into retail site selection, tenant mix, and the changing competitive landscape. They swap stories from hundreds of T-Mobile deals, small-town expansion strategies, and why outparcels still rule. The conversation shifts to retail market trends—from Starbucks, Chipotle, and 7-Eleven performance to the “Buc-ee's effect” and the latest QSR rankings. The guys also cover lease negotiations, bankruptcy fallout, co-tenancy battles, and Dallas-Fort Worth's fiercely competitive brokerage scene. Last but not least they give updates dates on bonus depreciation, Rollertown Beer Works' massive new Frisco facility, Paper City's top Dallas pizza picks, and what's driving today's restaurant, banking, and service leasing boom.Connect:⁠Jeremy Mercer LinkedIn⁠Rob Franks LinkedInBob Moorhead LinkedInZach Spletter LinkedIn⁠

In this exclusive Paisa Vaisa episode, host Anupam Gupta sits down with Saga Kochhar, co-founder of Rebel Foods, the company that revolutionized the food industry with the cloud kitchen model. Sagar shares the strategic decisions and "lightbulb moments" that turned Rebel Foods from a single QSR chain into the world's largest internet restaurant platform, with a portfolio of over 30 successful brands like Faasos, Behrouz Biryani, and Ovenstory. This episode is a masterclass in business innovation, covering: Cloud Kitchen Unit Economics: How the multi-brand playbook optimizes costs. Data-Driven Brand Building: Using consumer insights to launch new brands. The Power of Scalability: Ensuring food consistency with "de-skilled" recipes. Pivoting for Success: The strategic decision to go all-in on cloud kitchens. Entrepreneurship and Strategy: Advice on "intellectual honesty" and product-market fit. Future of Food Tech: The grand mission to disrupt the global food industry. Whether you're a startup founder, investor, or simply curious about the business of food, this episode provides a rare look inside a company that is fundamentally changing how we eat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Valentine, CSO at Botrista, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to break down what's perhaps the hottest battleground in quick service right now. What trends are driving the beverage movement? What do Gen Z want? How can restaurants innovate without breaking the brand? We get into all of that and a lot more.

In this episode, Chris Fletcher sits down with Sonny Wells, founder of Sonny's – the soon-to-launch fast-casual food brand with a mission to make eating out safer and more inclusive for people with allergies, especially coeliacs. Sonny shares his personal journey through a difficult diagnosis, what sparked the idea for Sonny's in Dubai, and how a chance encounter with Sir Richard Branson turned into national visibility and a wave of investor interest.They talk about why “gluten-free” often isn't really gluten-free, the lack of trust coeliacs feel in mainstream restaurants, and the operational minefield most hospitality brands face when trying to serve guests with allergens. Plus, Sonny gives a sneak peek into how he's building a scalable, confidence-first QSR brand—with tech, training, and trust at the core.

Nancy Combs, VP of Culinary & Calendar Innovation at Shake Shack, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to break down the iconic burger chain's recent menu moves, from barbecue to fried pickles to the social media frenzied Dubai Shake. We get into how Shake Shack plots innovation, what it takes to win with premium and accessible options, and how one of the category's leading brands stays true to its roots while always thinking ahead.

In this episode, Taco John's CEO, Heather Neary, shares her full-circle journey, the five C's of franchising success, and what it takes to grow a legacy QSR in today's competitive market. From franchisee empathy to marketing/ops integration—this is a masterclass in modern franchising.   Timestamps: 00:00 – The lawnmower hustle: Eric's childhood story 01:25 – Meet Heather: CEO of Taco John's 03:46 – Her path from cheesesteaks to CEO 04:49 – Uniting marketing & ops under one vision 06:55 – How to support struggling franchisees 09:37 – Food vs. non-food franchising insights 14:56 – Taco John's legacy and brand refresh 17:54 – How to lead meaningful brand change 20:20 – Listening tours and building trust 26:08 – Franchisee ROI and capital investment strategy   Connect with Erik Van Horn:

The self-service kiosk industry is exploding from $12 billion to $21 billion by 2027, and Don McCoole from Infi USA reveals how restaurants are seeing 40% sales increases through AI-powered upselling. From food trucks to major chains, kiosks are solving labor shortages, boosting average tickets by 20-30%, and delivering ROI in just 4-5 days. Discover why Gen Z prefers kiosks, how one location doubled tips from 8% to 14%, and the game-changing technology that's transforming customer engagement across QSR, fast-casual, and beyond.This episode brought to you by: INFI — Self-ordering made simple.

In this episode of Let's Combinate, host Subhi Saadeh highlights five critical aspects of the FDA's new Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR) that you may have missed. Subhi explains the historical context of QSR and ISO 13485, their 1996 origins, and the drive for harmonization that began in 2018. Key insights include the alignment with ISO 13485, additional FDA-specific expectations, the continued importance of risk management, the removal of certain industry exemptions, and the urgent two-year compliance timeline ending in February 2026. Subhi emphasizes the necessity of updating internal quality management systems and training staff to meet these new regulatory requirements.Timelines:00:00 Introduction to FDA QMSR00:29 Historical Context and Timeline02:22 Key Takeaway 1: Harmonization with ISO 1348504:06 Key Takeaway 2: FDA's Additional Expectations05:18 Key Takeaway 3: Risk Management Expectations06:18 Key Takeaway 4: Removal of Exemptions07:44 Key Takeaway 5: Compliance Deadline09:13 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSubhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.

Smart Calls with Smartkarma | TFS IPO: Strong Margins. Hidden Risks.Travel Food Services Limited (TFS) operates QSRs and lounges at India's busiest airports, reporting high margins and ROEs of 30–35%. But behind the numbers lie structural concerns.Pranav Rao speaks with Insight Provider Himanshu Dugar to unpack: • TFS's dominant footprint in India's airport F&B and lounge segments • How its ROEs stack up against other listed QSR players • Increasing airport operator control via joint ventures • Risks from changes in credit card-linked lounge access • Why FY26 growth could be impacted despite current scale • Expansion plans across Asia through SSP Group partnershipsStrong financials but limited control and shifting revenue models may challenge long-term visibility.Like what you heard? Hit like, subscribe, and turn on the bell for more Smart Calls.Himanshu Dugar - http://on.skr.ma/3IJJ6olDisclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.

Anthony Bambino founded 3Natives in 2013 in Tequesta, Florida. It's since growth to 46 locations across Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, New York, and Arizona, with plans to ramp up franchising further. What does it take to stand out in one of the most-crowded segments in QSR? We get into how to win the lifestyle, healthy segment and how to generate sales momentum throughout the system.

Join Restaurant Masterminds hosts Paul Barron, Paul Molinari, and Stacey Kane as they dive deep into the future of restaurant workforce management with Legion Technologies CEO Sanish Mondkar. Discover how AI is revolutionizing employee scheduling, reducing turnover by 79%, and solving the restaurant industry's biggest challenge - balancing business needs with employee satisfaction. Learn about demand forecasting, instant pay solutions, and why AI-powered workforce management is becoming essential for restaurant success in 2024 and beyond.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantTech #AIWorkforce #RestaurantManagementGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Lola Beans founder Donny Bradley joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein as we break down the story and potential of the Tennessee-based emerging brand. How is it standing out in a drive-thru coffee and beverage category as competitive as any in foodservice? What's ahead for its new franchise program? We get into all that and more as we explore one of the segment's rising stars.

Paul Tredinnick is a seasoned senior marketing director and accomplished business leader with over 25 years of experience driving the growth of global consumer brands. His career spans key roles with iconic names like Mars Snackfood, Unilever, McDonald's, Burger King, and Primo Foods—giving him deep expertise across QSR, grocery, mass merchants, petrol/convenience, and hardware sectors.Today, Paul brings that experience to businesses of all sizes, helping them develop clear brand strategies, strengthen their market presence, and unlock sustainable growth. Whether guiding start-ups or supporting established companies, Paul partners with leaders to build brands that stand out in competitive markets and deliver lasting impact. Paul's Website: Brand Value Builders Website

Dan and Jake sit down with George Gonzalez (brand leader), and Travis Hill (field marketing partner) from Whataburger to learn what QSR means and more ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

White Castle VP Jamie Richardson and Marigold Head of Loyalty CoE Roger Williams joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein for a wide-ranging chat about how one of the country's most-iconic restaurant chains is connecting and speaking to customers in ways it never has before. The brand's Craver Nation Rewards program adopts a “Quests” approach to redemption and has ignited engagement across the system. We'll also explore the overall state of loyalty, the pitfalls some brands run into, and what you need to know to launch a winning program that takes your restaurant business to the next level. This episode was sponsored by our partners at Marigold.

Send us a textThis week on The Digital Restaurant, I'm joined by a new co-host — Alex, an AI avatar — as we break down five headlines showing how delivery, automation, and AI are shaping the next wave of restaurant operations:01:10 – Olive Garden's off-premise engine is hummingUber Direct integration, buy-one-take-one offers, and nearly 7% same-store sales growth from delivery alone05:25 – Yum China rolls out Q Smartt A voice-activated wearable assistant for managers, designed to surface operational insights in real time11:05 – GPT failed at report building QSR's Mary Pillow Thompson spent a weekend trying to automate daily ops. The issue wasn't the model—it was the lack of orchestration13:30 – DoorDash acquires Symbiosis for $175M A strategic bet on local commerce advertising, with closed-loop attribution from ad to order17:45 – Coco raises $80M to scale delivery bots Semi-autonomous, human-guided, and aiming for 10,000 units deployed by 2026Quote of the week: “Coco isn't replacing humans — they're redeploying them smarter.”Full episode: https://thedigitalrestaurant.buzzsprout.com#restauranttech #AI #offpremise #DoorDash #OliveGarden #CocoRobotics #YumChina #InvisibleTechnologiesShoutouts: Zach Rash, Joey Simons, Sam Altman, Ryan Graves, Mary Pillow Thompson, Alex (AI co-host)Support the show

 Today's poddy is sponsored by Square. Square is the all-in-one restaurant tech platform designed to streamline operations and give hospitality business owners the time back to focus on growth. Square is Big In Restaurants - which is the name of its latest UK marketing campaign - offering everything you need for day-to-day service, including Square's payments, point of sale and reporting capabilities. Whether you're a single-location FSR, a multilocation QSR, a bar or a multi-concept restaurant, improve the flow of orders and find more ways to keep profit in your pocket. For more information visit 

Tim Koch, COO of Franchise FastLane, began his restaurant career in supply chain at Hardee's and Carl's Jr. owner CKE Restaurants. Now, he's leading a top franchise development firm. Tim joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to talk about the state of franchising, growth, and offers his firsthand look at how different sides of the industry impact success, and what that means for the future.

Send us a textRuss Hawkins, CEO of Agilence, joins Zack Oates to break down how restaurant operators can use data to improve guest experience, boost loyalty, and align teams. With a background spanning telecom, retail, and hospitality, Russ shares practical strategies for avoiding waste, tracking behavior, and turning missed expectations into long-term relationships.Zack and Russ discuss:Why personalization is the new loyaltyHow to align the boardroom with the back-of-houseUsing data to improve staff training and performanceWhat operators can learn from both QSR and fine diningWhy small moments—like remembering a name—still matterThanks, Russ!Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/russhawkins/https://www.linkedin.com/company/agilence-inc/ https://www.instagram.com/agilence_inc/ https://www.agilenceinc.com/

Nathan Louer, chief brand officer of GoTo Foods' concept Jamba, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss the iconic chain's groundbreaking new “Hello Sunshine” prototype, how Jamba is balancing customer-centric design with operational efficiencies, and why the new look and approach reflects a larger effort to modernize the brand while staying true to what's fueled it over the years. We get into strategy and vision, franchisee profitability, and how digital integration can enhance the in-store experience, along with a bunch of other things.

A former college athlete and QSR hourly wage-earner, Brian Garvey, Express Pros' youngest franchise owner, has transformed his trademark determination and reliability into a successful career helping others find their life's work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Dutch Bros executive May Han joined Pacific Northwest icon Burgerville as Chief Development Officer in September. She came onboard as Burgerville prepares to more than double the number of existing locations in the coming years. Han joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein on this episode to discuss her 25-plus year track record in scaling brands and how that experience is going to take Burgerville to the next level. 

Taylor McKinnon and Adam Wilks, Mr.Charlie's TMS Taylor McKinnon is cofounder of Mr. Charlie's Told Me So (TMS)—a purpose-driven, plant-based QSR brand redefining what fast food can be—is making its biggest move yet with an 18-store development deal across Arizona.This multimillion-dollar franchise agreement marks the brand's first major regional rollout, powered by a mission of second chances, sustainability, and crave-worthy food. To support this growth, Mr. Charlie's has brought on franchising and licensing veteran Adam Wilks (former exec at Pinkberry, Cold Stone, and TYSON 2.0) as President to spearhead national expansion. With proven traction in LA, San Francisco, and Sydney, Australia, Mr. Charlie's is now opening up franchise opportunities in select U.S. states.Plant-based QSR has been largely untapped at scale—Mr. Charlie's is betting big on changing that.

What happens when a global tech leader walks into a late-night restaurant podcast? You get a power-packed conversation with Brian Klinger, a key voice at Comcast Business, who's not only transforming QSR and enterprise restaurant brands with cutting-edge tech, but doing it all with purpose.Jay and Dom go deep into:The real reason why AI might actually save the restaurant industry (hint: it's not what you think)How brands like Chick-fil-A and Taco Bell are blending tech with cultureThe rise of multilingual kitchens and computer visionThe importance of redundancy and reliability in your restaurant's tech stackWhy Giving Kitchen is one of the most important nonprofit orgs in foodservice todayPlus: 80s jokes, the problem with paper towels, and why edibles at a food expo might be a thing now.This is one of our most powerful and practical episodes yet—get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe cry a little. Because in hospitality, tech only works when there's heart behind it.

What happens when a global tech leader walks into a late-night restaurant podcast? You get a power-packed conversation with Brian Klinger, a key voice at Comcast Business, who's not only transforming QSR and enterprise restaurant brands with cutting-edge tech, but doing it all with purpose.Jay and Dom go deep into:The real reason why AI might actually save the restaurant industry (hint: it's not what you think)How brands like Chick-fil-A and Taco Bell are blending tech with cultureThe rise of multilingual kitchens and computer visionThe importance of redundancy and reliability in your restaurant's tech stackWhy Giving Kitchen is one of the most important nonprofit orgs in foodservice todayPlus: 80s jokes, the problem with paper towels, and why edibles at a food expo might be a thing now.This is one of our most powerful and practical episodes yet—get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe cry a little. Because in hospitality, tech only works when there's heart behind it.

 Today's poddy is sponsored by Square. Square is the all-in-one restaurant tech platform designed to streamline operations and give hospitality business owners the time back to focus on growth. Square is Big In Restaurants - which is the name of its latest UK marketing campaign - offering everything you need for day-to-day service, including Square's payments, point of sale and reporting capabilities. Whether you're a single-location FSR, a multilocation QSR, a bar or a multi-concept restaurant, improve the flow of orders and find more ways to keep profit in your pocket. For more information visit 

Costa Vida president Wade Allen, promoted to the role last June, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss his career journey, the brand's potential, and his evolving role atop a fast casual with growth designs. Allen explores past lessons learned directing tech at Brinker to how he's now shifted focus to guiding teams and empowering those around him to morph an emerging brand into a powerhouse.

Join Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they explore fast casual's global expansion with brands like Teriyaki Madness and Mason's Famous Lobster making international debuts. Discover how beverage innovation—from craft mocktails to full bars—is reshaping the segment while fast casual continues to outperform both QSR and casual dining in same-store sales. The hosts analyze Chili's strategic positioning against QSR, discuss the $20+ hourly wages transforming restaurant labor markets, and preview FastCasual.com's 10th anniversary Top 100 gala plus blockchain payment solutions that could eliminate processing fees for operators.FastCasualNation #RestaurantInnovation #FoodserviceTrendsGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

"It's the whole totality of the experience and how we treat our customers to show that they're valued.”Eric Wulf, CEO of the International Carwash Association (ICA), and ICA Research Director Bob Klein discuss the findings of ICA's 2025 Q1 Pulse Report, covering the health of the industry, customer satisfaction, and the balance between price and wash value for car wash customers.Top 5 Episode Highlights:The Health of the Consumer Drives the Health of the Industry – Eric and Bob discuss how customer sentiment and behavior shape industry growth, with pricing dissatisfaction often offset by strong perceptions of value—especially among subscription customers.The Price vs. Value Perception – Car wash owners must recognize the emotional side of pricing and focus on the totality of the customer experience to show value. The conversation draws insights from Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) like Chick-fil-A, where customer engagement plays a key role in perceived value.Subscribers Who Become Transactors: A Retention Opportunity – 54% of former members continue washing their vehicles at the car wash where they previously had a membership, providing an opportunity for operators to re-engage and build long-term loyalty.Loyalty Programs: A Disconnection Between Customers and Operators – The Pulse Report has asked about loyalty for nine years, and customers consistently cite loyalty programs as a key retention driver. However, operators do not prioritize them, signaling a missed opportunity to strengthen customer relationships.Industry Growth & Supplier Outlook – Projections for year-end growth increased slightly from 5% to 6%, with 6 in 10 retailers increasing prices in 2024. Meanwhile, supplier optimism has softened, with forecasted growth of 5%, and their top concerns remain hiring, rising costs, and employee retention. To counteract these challenges, suppliers are investing in training and helping car wash owners enhance customer value.Eric and Bob begin the conversation by examining the overall health of the car wash industry, which is closely tied to consumer sentiment. They emphasize that while customers may resist price increases, strong value perception—especially among subscribers—helps mitigate dissatisfaction.The discussion then shifts to how car wash owners should interpret the Pulse Report's price/value findings. Eric and Bob stress that customer experience is in the operator's control. They highlight how Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), like Chick-fil-A, focus on hospitality and engagement to reinforce customer loyalty—a model the car wash industry can learn from.Bob also references an article he authored in the 2025 Q1 issue of Car Wash Magazine, which explores the five key principles used by the QSR industry to enhance the value proposition and customer experience.The episode also covers the behavior of subscribers who become transactors, noting that 54% of former members continue to use the car wash where they had a subscription. This presents a valuable opportunity for operators to create a dialogue with past members and encourage repeat business.For the past nine years, the Pulse Report has surveyed both customers and operators about loyalty strategies. The data shows that customers strongly value loyalty programs, yet operators do not prioritize them, highlighting a gap in retention efforts.On the growth and supplier side, there is a slight uptick in year-end growth projections from 5% to 6%, and 6 in 10 retailers increased prices in 2024. Looking ahead, the Q2 issue of Car Wash Magazine will explore 12 key factors businesses should consider before implementing price increases.Supplier sentiment, however, is less optimistic, with a softening outlook despite a projected 5% increase. The top three concerns for suppliers remain hiring, rising costs, and employee retention. To stay ahead, suppliers are focusing on training initiatives and working to help car wash operators deliver stronger customer value.

Nate Hedtke, VP of innovation & customer engagement at the American Egg Board, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to explain the state of avian influenza and what restaurants need to understand to navigate the situation. From how it's affecting prices to ways you can get creative on menus with eggs, we'll lay out the roadmap and where to go from here. This episode was sponsored by our partners at AEB. To learn more, please reach out to Nate at nhedtke@aeb.org or visit www.incredibleegg.org/fso for additional resources.

In this energizing episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt chats with Daniel Andreani, Creative Director at Do Not Disturb, about the critical need for creative reinvention in higher education marketing. From dissecting branding stagnation to exploring the evolving role of AI in creativity, this conversation dives deep into how institutions can—and must—break free from outdated visuals and messaging to truly connect with today's students. If you're feeling stuck in the same old admissions campaign loop, this one's for you.Guest Name: Daniel Andreani, Chief Creative Officer, Do Not DisturbGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielandreani/Guest Bio: Daniel Andreani is a creative leader and brand strategist who thrives on building stellar teams and creating work that truly resonates. As founder of Do Not Disturb (donotdisturb.love), he brings a human-centric approach to campaigns that audiences actively seek out. His philosophy remains simple yet powerful: respect your audience through quality storytelling and flawless execution, an approach that consistently delivers measurable business results and ROI for his clients.Beyond crafting award-winning work for the beverage industry, consumer packaged goods, QSR, automotive and higher education clients, Dan embraces life's adventures, conquering marathons, cycling Centuries and GranFondos, mountain biking, playing hockey and battling through zombie apocalypses video games with his son. Full-on ADD and proud of it, so if he asks for your name twice, just roll with it. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Danny Klein is the Editorial Director of QSR and FSR magazines. He's also host of one of the leading QSR conferences in the nation - QSR Evolution Conference.   Listen to hear new industry insights on what makes the most successful brands tick and the underlying leadership principles that make or break a company.   Connect with Danny Klein on LinkedIn.   Connect with your host Josh Swing.   Stay Saucy!

Brandon Knudsen, CEO and cofounder of Ziggi's Coffee, convinced his wife to drop out of college to give this idea a shot. From working multiple jobs to raising a baby in the restaurant, it was hardly easy out of the gates. But once Ziggi's hit its stride, it fast-tracked toward triple-digit locations—store No. 100 opened in 2024, 20 years after the brand's founding. Knudsen joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss the journey, how growth is about to ramp up, and what it was like launching franchising just 12 years into the business. 

 This podcast is a part of a collection of podcasts recorded at ISC West 2025 and previously shared on social media. “Show me unattended cash. Show me wet floors. Show me signs still on display after the promo ends.” — Jac Ondaye, March Networks, introducing AI Smart Search at ISC West 2025 At ISC West 2025, Technology Reseller News publisher Doug Green sat down with Jac Ondaye of March Networks to explore how generative AI is revolutionizing video surveillance and business intelligence. March Networks' new solution, AI Smart Search, brings the power of natural language and large language models to video data. With AI Smart Search, users can ask questions like “show me unattended cash” or “show me empty shelves”—and the system instantly scans millions of image snapshots across multiple cameras and locations to deliver actionable results. “This isn't just about security,” said Ondaye. “It's about improving operations, compliance, marketing execution, and risk management. Whether you're a QSR, a retailer, or a bank, AI Smart Search helps you detect issues before they escalate.” Key features include: Generative AI and Natural Language Interface: Ask questions via text or voice-to-text for instant results. Multi-Site, Multi-Camera Search: Analyze image snapshots across a vast camera network. Use Cases Beyond Security: Identify safety risks (e.g. wet floors), operational inefficiencies (e.g. empty shelves), marketing compliance (e.g. outdated signs), and camera malfunctions. Cloud-Based and Remote-Accessible: No need to review live footage or send staff on-site—monitor and manage everything remotely. March Networks supports global sales through an extensive channel partner network, offering the solution to MSPs, MSSPs, and enterprise customers worldwide. To learn more, visit marchnetworks.com and explore the AI Smart Search video demo and brochure.

Roger McNamara is the Director of B2B Acceptance in the US for Visa Inc. He is a 30+-year veteran of the Payments Industry, most recently as the President of Guide2Interchange and before that, Director of Business Development with American Express in the US. He has worked on the largest Acquisition targets for acceptance of The Card across multiple Industries and across the globe that include: Airlines, Communications, Technology, Cruise Lines, Entertainment, Fractional Jet, Freight, Government, Healthcare, Insurance, Oil & Gas, Residential Rent, Restaurants, QSR's, Retail, Services, Supermarkets, Travel, Vehicle Sales, B2B and Wholesale. Over that time, he has sold more than $300 Billion worth of Card processing and became an expert in Bankcard Interchange and Discount Rates, how they are calculated and what merchants pay to accept Credit, and how this is dramatically different from what they believe they pay. He is an expert in Merchant Statement analysis and payment processing and the rules and regulations associated with payments and the associations. Connect with Roger : https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-mcnamara-5789b21/Thanks for watching! Go ahead and like, comment, subscribe, and turn on post notifications! Follow Us On These Social Media Platforms

Roger McNamara is the Director of B2B Acceptance in the US for Visa Inc. He is a 30+-year veteran of the Payments Industry, most recently as the President of Guide2Interchange and before that, Director of Business Development with American Express in the US. He has worked on the largest Acquisition targets for acceptance of The Card across multiple Industries and across the globe that include: Airlines, Communications, Technology, Cruise Lines, Entertainment, Fractional Jet, Freight, Government, Healthcare, Insurance, Oil & Gas, Residential Rent, Restaurants, QSR's, Retail, Services, Supermarkets, Travel, Vehicle Sales, B2B and Wholesale. Over that time, he has sold more than $300 Billion worth of Card processing and became an expert in Bankcard Interchange and Discount Rates, how they are calculated and what merchants pay to accept Credit, and how this is dramatically different from what they believe they pay. He is an expert in Merchant Statement analysis and payment processing and the rules and regulations associated with payments and the associations. Connect with Roger : https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-mcnamara-5789b21/Thanks for watching! Go ahead and like, comment, subscribe, and turn on post notifications! Follow Us On These Social Media Platforms

Somia Farid Silber in October stepped into the top spot at Edible. At just 31 years old, she's now leading the parent company of Edible Arrangements, a business her father, Tariq Farid, began when she was 6 years old. After serving as president for the past two years, she's now on a mission to continue redefining Edible as a top-tier hybrid retail experience. She has big plans to target a coming generation of consumers and grow Edible's market present through a variety of ways. She joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss the journey and what's ahead for the category pioneer.

Newk's Eatery CEO Frank Paci joins Fast Casual Nation to discuss how the 98-location chain is adapting to major industry shifts. With off-premise sales now representing 55% of their business (including 11% from catering), Newk's is building smaller restaurants, implementing digital ordering solutions, and revamping their catering program. Paci shares insights on their expansion strategy targeting Oklahoma and the Carolinas, their focus on menu innovations like customizable pick-three options, and why fast casual is positioned to continue gaining market share from both QSR and casual dining segments. Don't miss his practical wisdom on franchise partnerships and creating true value for customers in today's competitive landscape.FastCasualInnovation #CateringGrowth #RestaurantEvolutionGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this episode of QSR's CEO to CEO: Behind the Counter series, we step into the burgeoning world of drive-thru beverages. Few segments, if any, are as hot as this one—brands like Dutch Bros have climbed above 1,000 units, and even McDonald's and Taco Bell (CosMc's and Live Mas Café, respectively), launched offshoots to capture demand.We brought together Darren Spicer and Donny Bradley, leaders of the emerging brands Clutch Coffee Bar and Lola Beans, to fill us in on what life is like navigating a red-hot QSR sector and what it takes to separate from an increasingly crowded pack.Watch the video here: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/ceo-to-ceo-the-drive-thru-coffee-chain-edition/

Last year, in what's become an annual tradition, restaurant operators shared their key priorities and initiatives in Qu's fifth-annual State of Digital report. Now, CMO Jen Kern joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein once again to discuss the findings of the sixth edition, which explored everything from the race to holistic, integrated tech to the state of investments to continued kiosk growth to why loyalty doesn't always work (without the right approach). Just like last year (and the year before that), it's a look into the future of foodservice you won't want to miss. Here's a link to the full report: https://www.qubeyond.com/2025-state-of-digital-restaurant-report/

Founded in 1994 in College Station, the original Layne's Chicken Fingers became a Texas A&M cult-favorite known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers, and secret sauce. The brand has since grown past 20 stores, seen same-store sales jump 9 percent, and guest counts 7 percent. With corporate development continuing, franchising is entering the picture, too. Reed joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss the rapid development and how Layne's is thriving in one of the hottest categories in quick service.

On today's episode, we sit down with SG Ellison, the powerhouse behind a 360+ unit franchise empire and the first-ever Taco Bell Cantina. SG didn't scale by cutting corners—he scaled by investing in people, pushing innovation, and playing the long game. From buying his first 85 units to developing the highest volume Taco Bell in the world, SG's story is a masterclass in thoughtful, purpose-driven growth.In this episode, SG shares:-How he built a 360-unit portfolio across multiple QSR brands-The origin of Taco Bell Cantina and what made it work-How he retains top leaders after major acquisitions-What it means to grow with purpose—not just profit-Why franchisees need a seat at the table in policy conversations“Our purpose is to positively impact the lives of the team and the communities that we serve. And that's it.” If you're serious about scaling smart, leading with intention, and being the kind of franchisee brands fight to land, this episode is unmissable.

The three essential Go-To-Market strategies for restaurant tech companies by Paul Molinari of Popcorn GTM. The strategies include: defining your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) to focus your efforts on specific restaurant segments; mastering the sales process through clear lead qualification and team alignment; and leveraging strategic partnerships with POS systems and complementary services to expand reach and enhance product value. These strategies are critical for restaurant tech vendors to succeed in the increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving hospitality technology landscape.~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~#1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and moreWith Gusto's easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto.RestaurantTech #GTMStrategy #HospitalityInnovationGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

Can drones solve some of the age-old issues with delivery? Naturally, there isn't one answer and it's a wide world of possibilities to explore. Tim Ridgely, VP of online ordering at Paytronix, joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to paint a potential vision of the future and why some of these solutions might be closer to reality than operators realize.

Brian Lowe, CEO of BML, works with the some of the biggest brands in quick service and fast casual but also smaller brands. A common dominator across all, whether it's multi-unit franchisees or even a restauranteur/entrepreneur opening one location? They want to slay their grand openings. Brian joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss how brands, of all sizes, should approach this with their franchisees and the lasting impression a solid strategy has on building a following and affinity within the communities they serve and setting a tone for long term sales success.