Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
Sebastian Stahl
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged takes you behind the scenes with candid conversations and real talks with the top minds in the restaurant industry.
Hosted by Sebastian Stahl, CEO of Breadth Marketing, this podcast uncovers the strategies, stories, and successes shaping the future of hospitality. Each episode offers actionable insights and honest discussions to help you grow your business. Tune in for practical advice and authentic stories that inspire and elevate your restaurant journey.
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Top 10 Restaurant Leaders Unplugged Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Restaurant Leaders Unplugged episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Restaurant Leaders Unplugged for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Restaurant Leaders Unplugged episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Redefining Success in the Restaurant World: Lessons from Mathieu Giraud of Garçons de Café and L’Appart
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
12/16/24 • 34 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, we sit down with Mathieu Giraud, the visionary owner of Garçons de Café and L’Appart in downtown Los Angeles. Mathieu shares his incredible journey from training in hospitality in France to managing world-class establishments in LA and eventually stepping into entrepreneurship.
Discover Mathieu’s candid insights on:
- The realities of transitioning from corporate restaurant management to ownership.
- Building a lean, guest-focused team in the evolving restaurant landscape.
- Strategies for balancing creativity, guest experience, and profitability.
- How to navigate leadership challenges and maintain resilience in a highly competitive industry.
Mathieu also dives into the unique challenges of owning a restaurant post-pandemic and offers invaluable advice for aspiring restaurateurs, including the sacrifices, rewards, and mindset required for long-term success.
If you’re ready to learn what it takes to thrive in the restaurant business, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.
Connect with our guest:
Social Media:
Garçons de Café
L’Appart
Website:
Garçons de Café
Air Food
🎧 Listen to the full episode now and gain insights to elevate your restaurant business!
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
Mastering the Steakhouse Business: 31 Years of Lessons with Randy Burks
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
01/08/25 • 43 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged , host Sebastian Stahl sits down with Randy Burks, the founder of Randy’s Steakhouse in Frisco, Texas. With over three decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Randy shares the journey of building his iconic steakhouse, navigating challenges like sky-high food costs, labor shortages, and even pandemic shutdowns. From starting as a dishwasher with a notebook of solutions to becoming a revered restaurateur in a historic 1869 house, Randy’s story is packed with insights, resilience, and some unforgettable tales (like the time he had to remove a pool due to skinny-dipping staff!).
Discover how Randy turned mistakes into loyal customer relationships, the secrets to leading a dedicated team for over 20 years, and his unique perspective on the future of the restaurant industry. Whether you're an aspiring restaurateur, seasoned pro, or just love a great story, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice you don’t want to miss.
Connect with our guest:
Website: www.randysteakhouse.com
Follow Randy’s Steakhouse on Social Media:
Instagram: @RandysSteakhouse
Facebook: Randy's Steakhouse
Listen now to dive into the world of steak, hospitality, and leadership!
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#12 Unlocking Restaurant Success: The #1 Mistake Holding Owners Back & How to Fix It with David Scott Peters"
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
11/14/24 • 56 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, we welcome restaurant expert and coach David Scott Peters, who shares his journey from working in his family’s restaurant to becoming a leading coach for independent operators across the U.S. David reveals the #1 mistake he sees in the industry—a lack of leadership—and explains how restaurant owners can transform their operations through proven systems and strategies.
Tune in as David discusses the importance of having the right systems in place, the power of a growth mindset, and his Restaurant Prosperity Formula, a framework designed to help restaurant owners achieve financial success and freedom. David also dives into topics like effective team management, crafting a powerful company culture, and how to navigate the ups and downs of restaurant ownership.
If you’re ready to take control of your restaurant and lead it to prosperity, this episode is packed with insights to guide you there.
Connect with our guest:
His podcast: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/podcast
His book: https://a.co/d/f315EXE
Social media links: Instagram, LinkedIn
https://www.instagram.com/davidscottpeters/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidscottpeters/
Website: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
Balancing Passion and Leadership in the Restaurant Industry with Christy LoPresto
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
01/14/25 • 29 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged , host Sebastian Stahl chats with Christy LoPresto, a dynamic restaurateur and wellness entrepreneur redefining leadership in the hospitality industry. Christy takes us on a journey through her 20+ years in the restaurant business, sharing her evolution from server to owner of several acclaimed New York City eateries, including Kin, a fast-casual Thai concept, and Babbalucci, a Harlem favorite.
Dive into her experiences of navigating challenges like the pandemic, creating a thriving team culture, and balancing multiple ventures, including her wellness brand, Soakwell. Discover how Christy’s focus on mental health and self-care fuels her ability to lead with empathy, inspire her teams, and deliver exceptional dining experiences.
This episode is packed with actionable insights on scaling a business, embracing change, and building a strong community—perfect for seasoned restaurateurs and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.
Connect with Christy LoPresto:
- Instagram: @christy_lopresto728
- Restaurants and Brands:
- Kin NYC: @eatkinn.nyc | Website
- Soakwell: @soakwell | Website
Get inspired by Christy’s passion for culinary innovation, wellness, and the art of leadership. Tune in to discover the recipe for success in today’s restaurant landscape!
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#7 Sustainable Success: Inside Gather’s 15-Year Journey with Eric Fenster
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
10/07/24 • 39 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, join Sebastian Stahl as he interviews Eric Fenster, co-founder of Gather Restaurant in Berkeley, CA. Eric shares his journey from outdoor education to sustainable dining, discussing Gather's unique 50/50 vegan-omnivore menu balance, their award-winning vegan charcuterie, and navigating the challenges of the pandemic.
Learn how Gather's commitment to sustainability and community has driven its success for 15 years, and get a glimpse into Eric's exciting vision for the future of hospitality.
This episode offers invaluable insights for restaurateurs on menu innovation, sustainability, creating meaningful dining experiences, and building a resilient business through challenging times.
Chapters with Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction to Eric Fenster and Gather Restaurant
2:51 - Eric's journey from outdoor education to hospitality
5:36 - The concept and philosophy behind Gather Restaurant
9:52 - Balancing sustainability, creativity, and business success
15:29 - The story of Gather's award-winning vegan charcuterie
19:11 - Pandemic pivots: Creating an innovative outdoor dining space
22:02 - Overcoming challenges during the pandemic
26:30 - The current state of the restaurant industry and Gather's approach
28:43 - Eric's proudest moments with Gather
30:25 - Lessons learned from working with Highwind One Hospitality
32:47 - Future plans for Gather and community engagement
34:37 - Eric's vision for integrating hospitality, agriculture, and community
38:00 - Closing thoughts and the importance of bringing people together
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
Crafting Profitable Bar Programs: Ben Potts on the Secrets to Hospitality Success
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
12/10/24 • 37 min
What makes a profitable and unforgettable bar program? In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, I sit down with Ben Potts, co-founder of Unfiltered Hospitality and co-owner of The Sylvester in Miami. Ben’s journey is a masterclass in persistence and innovation, from starting as a bar back to becoming one of the most sought-after beverage program consultants in the industry.
We dive into:
- How Unfiltered Hospitality helps restaurants build profitable, guest-focused bar programs.
- The key metrics every restaurant owner should track for bar success.
- How to recruit and train a bar team that shares your vision and values.
- Why creative cocktails and efficient systems go hand-in-hand in today’s market.
- The trends shaping the future of bars, from performative elements to multisensory experiences.
Whether you're a restaurant owner, a budding bartender, or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your hospitality game.
Connect with our guest:
Social Media: @benbenpottspotts
Website: www.unfilteredhospo.com
Don’t miss this deep dive into the art and science of creating a standout bar experience!
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#1: Strategic Leadership in Hospitality: Insights from Matias Pesce, CEO of V&E Group
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
04/29/24 • 45 min
In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, we sit down with Matias Pesce, the CEO of V&E Hospitality Group, to explore his unique journey from the oil and gas industry to leading one of the most dynamic hospitality groups in the United States. Matias shares how his background in corporate governance and strategy enabled him to transform V&E from a family-run restaurant group into a rapidly expanding hospitality powerhouse with 29 restaurants, two hotels, and more on the way.
Join us as Matias delves into the key pillars of V&E’s growth strategy, including diversification across regions and segments, the importance of brand building, and maintaining profitability amidst rising costs. He also discusses the challenges of integrating new talent while preserving the company’s strong Latin roots and family culture.
Whether you're an industry veteran or a budding restaurateur, this episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of scaling a hospitality business, managing through crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and staying ahead in a competitive market. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of the leading minds in the hospitality industry.
Listen now to gain actionable strategies for your own business and learn how V&E Hospitality Group is setting the standard for success in the hospitality world.
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#2: Mastering the Restaurant Game: Insights from Ryan Egozi
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
04/29/24 • 40 min
Mastering the Restaurant Game: Insights from Ryan Egozi | Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
Dive into the dynamic world of restaurant management with Ryan Egozi, a seasoned expert from Toast and former leader at Suviche Hospitality Group, as he shares invaluable insights on thriving in the modern restaurant industry. In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, Ryan discusses the transition from hands-on restaurant operations to technology, the power of simplifying your approach, and the critical role of processes in achieving restaurant success.
🍴 What You’ll Learn:
- Quality of Life in Tech vs. Restaurant Operations: Discover how moving from restaurant floors to tech can change your work-life balance without losing the essence of hospitality.
- Simplicity in Operations: Ryan breaks down why focusing on happy guests, great food, and satisfied employees creates a foundation for success.
- Integrating Technology: Learn how tools like Toast can streamline operations while enhancing the customer experience, and where the line should be drawn to preserve the human touch.
- Adapting to Consumer Changes: Understand the challenges of rising commodity costs and how rapidly changing consumer preferences impact restaurant strategies.
- Marketing and Operations Synergy: Uncover the benefits of aligning marketing efforts with operational capabilities to ensure realistic and impactful promotions.
💡 Ryan shares stories and lessons that highlight the importance of balancing creativity with systematic processes, the role of technology in modern hospitality, and strategies for adapting to the ever-changing landscape of consumer demands.
Whether you're a budding restaurateur, a seasoned operator, or simply fascinated by the intersection of hospitality and technology, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell icon for more insights from industry leaders!
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#3: Legacy and Innovation: Laura Padrino's Journey with Padrino's Restaurants
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
08/21/24 • 39 min
From Generation to Generation: Lauri's Journey in the Family Restaurant Business
In this episode of the Restaurant Leaders Unplugged podcast, Lauri shares her journey and deep-rooted passion for the hospitality industry. Growing up in a family-run restaurant, her transition from marketing to hospitality was a natural fit. She discusses the multi-generational evolution of their business, the impact of her family's values, and the significant challenges they faced, including the 2020 pandemic. The conversation shifts to marketing strategies, operational adjustments, maintaining consistency across multiple locations, and balancing personal and professional life. Lauri emphasizes the importance of prioritizing tasks, self-awareness in leadership, and shares advice for aspiring restaurant owners. Tune in for a comprehensive look at sustaining a successful family-run restaurant through dedication and adaptive strategies.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:18 Lauri's Background in Hospitality
02:02 Joining the Family Business
05:39 Values and Culture at Padrinos
09:43 Challenges and Overcoming Adversity
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
#6 Reimagining Restaurant Operations: Andrei Stern, CFO and Co-founder of Suviche Hospitality Group, on Efficiency and Profitability
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged
08/20/24 • 57 min
Navigating Change and Innovation in the Restaurant Industry: A Conversation with Andrei from Suviche Hospitality
In this episode of the Restaurant Leaders Unplugged podcast, host Sebastian Stahl sits down with Andrei from Suviche Hospitality to discuss the evolution and current challenges of the restaurant industry. They delve into the impact of reducing menu complexity, the importance of meticulous time management, and strategic growth amidst rising labor costs and inflation. Andrei shares his journey from starting out in a small sushi restaurant to scaling multiple locations, highlighting the significance of strong company culture, sustainable practices, and the right technology stack for operational efficiency. With insights on building value-driven customer experiences and future growth plans, this episode provides a comprehensive look at navigating the dynamic landscape of the restaurant business.
00:00 The Evolution of Restaurant Menus
00:34 Introduction to the Podcast
00:57 Guest Introduction: Andrei's Journey
01:28 Early Challenges and Growth
03:49 Strategic Decisions and Expansion
08:20 Navigating Market Changes
13:39 Operational Efficiency and Menu Focus
16:18 Marketing Strategies and Brand Building
21:05 Company Culture and Values
27:46 Customer Experience and Feedback
30:04 Technology and Sustainability
32:12 The Pitfalls of Disconnected Systems
32:40 The Role of AI in the Restaurant Industry
33:09 Building a Holistic Tech Stack
34:24 Marketing Challenges and Solutions
34:33 Sustainability Practices in Restaurants
37:31 Staying Competitive in a Crowded Market
40:17 Innovative Concepts: The Speakeasy Bar
43:20 Personal Reflections and Habits of a CFO
47:59 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
51:01 Future Plans and Final Thoughts
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl
Follow us on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!
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FAQ
How many episodes does Restaurant Leaders Unplugged have?
Restaurant Leaders Unplugged currently has 18 episodes available.
What topics does Restaurant Leaders Unplugged cover?
The podcast is about Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Podcasts, Business and Hospitality Industry.
What is the most popular episode on Restaurant Leaders Unplugged?
The episode title '#1: Strategic Leadership in Hospitality: Insights from Matias Pesce, CEO of V&E Group' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Restaurant Leaders Unplugged?
The average episode length on Restaurant Leaders Unplugged is 42 minutes.
How often are episodes of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged released?
Episodes of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged are typically released every 7 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged?
The first episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged was released on Apr 29, 2024.
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