Going All In On Restaurant Success with Oren Zweig of the Lil Market Deli and Bagelry
Release Date: 04/19/2023
Infinity and Beyond: Exploring Mississippi's Space Legacy with Michelle Anderson
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen chats with , CEO and Executive Director of the . They discuss Michelle's background, including her education and journey to the Science Center. Michelle shares the history and development of the Infinity Science Center, starting from its early days as the Stentosphere to its grand opening in 2012. They talk about the center's relationship with NASA's Stennis Space Center, its major fundraisers, and future plans. Michelle touches on exciting new exhibits and her favorite one. They also highlight the center's role in both public education and...
info_outline
Exploring Walter Anderson's Legacy: Art, Nature, and Community with Julian Rankin
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen speaks with Julian Rankin, Executive Director of the , about the impact of coastal artist Walter Anderson. They explore Anderson's role in promoting creativity and his misunderstood vision, discuss the museum's growth over the past 30 years, and highlight recent expansions like a new restaurant and green space. Rankin also discusses the museum's educational goals, community engagement, and exciting events like the "Silent Light" festival. They reflect on the resilience shown during Hurricane Katrina and the museum's ongoing efforts to support the creative...
info_outline
Building Christmas Magic: Behind the Scenes of Gulfport's Harbor Lights Event
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew interviews Billy Lehman and Alicia Chambless about their roles in organizing events for the city of Gulfport. Billy, the Assistant Director of Leisure Services, and Alicia, the Special Events Coordinator, share their experiences and backgrounds. They discuss the history and growth of the , a massive Christmas light display in Gulfport's Jones Park. The event has grown significantly since it started in 2015, featuring over 2 million lights, Santa's Village, and various food vendors. They talk about the planning process, which begins more than a year in...
info_outline
Transforming Main Street: Kristen Garriga's Vision for Gulfport
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen chats with , executive director of the . Kristen shares her journey from volunteering to help businesses with social media during COVID to establishing her own LLC and taking a vital role in revitalizing downtown Gulfport. We learn about her work with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce and her efforts in real estate marketing. Kristen discusses organizing events like ViewThe Coast, Gunbo Fest, and the upcoming concert series. She also highlights challenges like vacant properties and high insurance costs and outlines plans for more retail, residential...
info_outline
Halloween Magic and Green Thumbs with Kiowa Walley
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen chats with Kiowa Walley, a seasoned hair colorist, landscaper, and Halloween enthusiast. Kiowa shares his love for gardening, growing tomatoes, peppers, peas, and watermelons, and discusses the changing nature of outdoor activities across generations. He talks about running a landscaping business, stressing planning and relationships. Kiowa, who started in the landscaping field about ten years ago, also recounts organizing "WalleyWeen," a neighborhood Halloween tradition supporting local charities. He explains how the event evolved, involving themed rooms and...
info_outline
Exploring Music, Real Estate and Charity with John Carter
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen talks to John Carter about his journey from casino worker to real estate expert and charity founder. John shares heartfelt memories of his late aunt, who battled triple-negative breast cancer, inspiring him to start . The charity hosts events like the "" to support cancer patients. John also discusses his family's Blackjack Ranch, known for Wagyu beef, and his passion for music, which led him to form a band. Learn about his ventures in real estate with Century 21 and his new interest in sneaker conventions. Tune in for an impactful episode filled with community...
info_outline
Family, Friendships and Fizz With Charles Duggan and Junior Estes Graves
Bottled Up
Andrew Allen welcomes guests Charles Duggan and Junior Estes Graves in this episode. They discuss changes in work ethic and communication in today's workforce, emphasizing the need for face-to-face interaction. Andrew shares a crucial lesson about building confidence he learned on the job. The group reminisces about winning the "Bottler of the Year" award and memorable experiences in the business, especially with Andrew's father, whose legacy still inspires them. They also share humorous stories about encounters on their delivery routes, like a goat mistaken for a dog and a lady with a cow...
info_outline
Hickory Hills Tee Time Tales with Troy Guillotte
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen sits down with Troy Guillotte, a prominent figure from Gautier, Mississippi. Troy, the owner and PR/Marketing Director of shares his incredible journey of reviving a 226-acre gem along the scenic Pascagoula River. Hickory Hills features an 18-hole championship golf course, a restaurant, a bar, event venues, and condos for rent. Troy shares the story of reviving and his strong business partnership with Allen Beverages. They discuss personal stories, including playing golf with family and Troy's first job at at a fishing camp. They also cover Troy's passion for...
info_outline
Community and Creativity: The Heartbeat of Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen talks with Cindy DeFrances, Executive Director of They delve into the museum's history, community impact, and new additions like a sensory tree house and Mars rover exhibit. Cindy highlights how the museum has grown from an idea in the 1960s to a beloved family destination, attracting over 120,000 visitors annually. They discuss community outreach efforts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, including "discovery at home kits" and partnerships with local libraries and organizations. Cindy shares her thanks to the Coastal Community for their support, helping...
info_outline
Behind The Wheel Of Jeepin' The Coast
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen chats with event organizers Jennifer Moran, Kim Farve, and Julie Bradley about their annual gathering that unites Jeep enthusiasts. Since its inception in 2011, this event has grown significantly, attracting thousands to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with its family-friendly atmosphere. The conversation highlights how the event showcases an array of Jeeps and supports various community causes with impressive economic benefits for the area. Tune in to hear more about the thrilling activities like scavenger hunts, poker runs, and the...
info_outline
In this episode of The Bottled Up Podcast, Oren Zweig, owner of the Lil Market Deli and Bagelry in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, talks about his journey from avid poker player and dealer to business owner and, eventually, restauranteur. He also shares his advice for anyone wanting to get into the restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of having a quality product, starting lean, and organically growing a loyal customer base. Finally, Oren discusses the importance of partnering with the right vendors, how customer service is the key to success, and treating his employees like family. Plus, he shares his recipe for his soon-to-be-famous Smash Burgers. Enjoy the show!
Listen closely to this episode because Oren gave one heck of a recipe for making it in the tricky business of restaurants and hospitality. One, focus on a quality product and start lean. Two: don't be afraid to experiment with new products and be open to customer feedback. Three: partner with vendors that focus on customer service and are willing to support your business. Four: grow organically through your outstanding products and word of mouth. And five: focus on the bottom line and what will make the business successful. Oren sure knows how to make a bagel and burger, but he also knows the business, and I love how he is willing to share his path to success so openly. Until next time go and see Oren at The Lil Market, grab a Smash Burger, and tell him Andrew from Allen Beverages says "Hello."
Episode Takeaways
1. To be successful in the restaurant business, focus on a quality product and start lean.
2. Consider partnering with vendors focus on customer service and are willing to support the business.
3. Be bold, experiment with new products, and be open to customer feedback.
4. Don't compete with other vendors for the sake of competition - focus on the bottom line and what will make the business successful.
5. Have an honest conversation with customers about what they need to be successful and be willing to provide it.
6. The Little Market has been in business for four years and has grown organically through word of mouth.
This episode is made possible by Allen Beverages
Please subscribe, rate, and review The Bottled Up Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Want To Know More About Allen Beverages?
Website: allenbeverages.com
Facebook: @allenbeverages