Restaurant Unstoppable with Eric Cacciatore
What do the most successful restaurateurs know that you don't? Today's most successful Restaurateurs, Chefs, and Restaurant Professionals sharing tips and insights 2-days weekly to help make your restaurant dreams unstoppable! Listen as our guests explain what it takes to be successful in the restaurant industry. We'll discuss topics on how to lead, manage, and market a successful restaurant. be a part of the conversation at www.restaurantunstoppable.com/live
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1270: Ryan Turner, Partner at Unsǔkáy Restaurants
04/27/2026
1270: Ryan Turner, Partner at Unsǔkáy Restaurants
Ryan Turner joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on June 1st, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Ryan Turner is a co-founder and partner at Unsukay, the Atlanta-based restaurant group behind Muss & Turner’s, Eleanor’s, Local Three, MTH Pizza, and Roshambo. A Maine native who made his way to Atlanta, Ryan built his career from the ground up, working every role in restaurants before launching his first concept in 2005. He’s also a founding force behind Giving Kitchen, the nonprofit that supports food service workers in crisis, and has been recognized widely for both his leadership in hospitality and his community impact. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Email: ryan@unsukay.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1269: Ryan Pernice, Founder of R.O. Hospitality
04/20/2026
1269: Ryan Pernice, Founder of R.O. Hospitality
Ryan Pernice joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on May 18th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Ryan Pernice is the founder of R.O. Hospitality, the Atlanta-based restaurant group behind beloved neighborhood concepts including Table & Main and Osteria Mattone. A lifelong restaurateur with more than 25 years of experience, Ryan began working in kitchens as a teenager and went on to build his career across New York and Georgia, sharpening his approach to operations, hospitality, and leadership along the way. Known for creating restaurants that balance warmth, consistency, and community connection, Ryan brings a deep operator’s perspective to every aspect of the guest experience. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Instagram: @ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1268: Robby Kukler, Founding Partner of Fifth Group Restaurants and Founder of Kukler Restaurant Advisory
04/13/2026
1268: Robby Kukler, Founding Partner of Fifth Group Restaurants and Founder of Kukler Restaurant Advisory
Robby Kukler joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on May 18th, 2026 at 11AM EST. Robby Kukler is the founding partner of Fifth Group Restaurants, one of Atlanta’s most respected restaurant companies. A lifelong hospitality professional, Robby helped grow Fifth Group from its first restaurant, South City Kitchen, into a nationally recognized collection of chef-driven concepts known for warm service, thoughtful design, and a people-first culture. Over the course of his career, he has played a key role in building standout brands including Ecco, La Tavola Trattoria, Alma Cocina, Lure, and The Original El Taco, while also helping expand the company’s catering and events business, Bold Catering & Design. Today, Robby continues to share his deep expertise in leadership, restaurant culture, and concept development. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.kuklerrestaurantadvisory.com LinkedIn: Email: rkukler@outlook.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1267: Ron Cardwell, Director of Commodity Strategy at Restaurant Technologies
04/06/2026
1267: Ron Cardwell, Director of Commodity Strategy at Restaurant Technologies
Ron Cardwell is the Director of Commodity Strategy at , where he oversees cooking oil sourcing, pricing, and risk management for foodservice operators across the country. With more than two decades in agriculture, energy, and vegetable oil markets, he has managed global corn oil and biodiesel trading, logistics, and policy engagement at ADM and other major firms. Ron now helps restaurants navigate everything from flavor profiles and performance to sustainability and cost savings, including how to get the most out of every pound of cooking oil. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.rti-inc.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1266: Randy Hines, CEO and Partner at The Kolache Shoppe
04/02/2026
1266: Randy Hines, CEO and Partner at The Kolache Shoppe
Randy Hines joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on May 4th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Randy Hines is the CEO and owner of , a beloved Houston bakery that has been serving made-from-scratch kolaches since 1970. A former CPA and consultant, Randy fell in love with authentic Texas kolaches while growing up in the state’s “Czech belt,” and later became a devoted customer of the original Kolache Shoppe on Richmond Avenue. In 2006 he approached founder Erwin Ahrens with a simple request—to learn how to bake—sparking an eight-year mentorship that ultimately led Ahrens to pass the business to Randy and his wife, Lucy, in 2014. Since taking the reins, Randy has honored the shop’s Czech roots and all‑butter dough recipe while thoughtfully modernizing the brand, adding new locations, drive‑thru convenience, and collaborations with top Houston chefs. Under his leadership, The Kolache Shoppe has expanded its menu beyond classic fruit and sausage fillings to inventive offerings like brisket, boudin, and seasonal specials, and is now growing through carefully selected franchise partners who share his people‑first, community‑minded vision. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1265: Christian Wiens, Founder and CEO of Loman AI
03/30/2026
1265: Christian Wiens, Founder and CEO of Loman AI
Christian Wiens joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on May 4th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Christian Wiens is the Founder and CEO of Loman AI, a leading voice AI platform built specifically for restaurants that answers every call, takes orders, and helps operators capture missed revenue while easing front-of-house labor pressure. Since launching the Austin-based company in 2024, he has scaled Loman AI to serve restaurants nationwide, processing tens of millions of dollars in order volume and millions of phone calls as brands use the technology to boost sales by up to 22% and cut labor costs by as much as 17%. Before Loman AI, Christian spent a decade in B2B SaaS marketing and go-to-market leadership roles at companies like MixMode, Anchore, and AutoVitals, where he helped build and scale revenue engines in fast-growing tech businesses. Drawing on that background and thousands of conversations with restaurant operators, he’s now focused on using AI to turn the restaurant phone from a bottleneck into a growth channel and to help operators run more resilient, profitable businesses. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1264: David T. Denney and Chelsea Masters, Partners and Denney Law Firm
03/26/2026
1264: David T. Denney and Chelsea Masters, Partners and Denney Law Firm
Today's guests join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 27th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! David T. Denney is the founder of Denney Law Group, a Dallas-based firm that counsels startups and growing companies on corporate transactions, business litigation, real estate, franchising, and beverage alcohol licensing, with a particular focus on the food, beverage, and hospitality industry. A graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, David formed Denney Law Group in 2007 after practicing in the litigation and corporate transaction groups at Vial, Hamilton, Koch & Knox, where he founded and chaired the firm’s Food, Beverage, and Hospitality Practice Group. He serves on the boards of the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association and the Texas Restaurant Association, teaches as an adjunct professor at The Art Institute of Dallas, and is a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation. David has been recognized on the Texas “Super Lawyers” list since 2019 and is licensed to practice law in both Texas and Tennessee. Chelsea Masters is a partner at Denney Law Group, where she advises restaurant, hospitality, and other growing businesses on intellectual property and commercial matters, including trademarks, copyrights, and a wide range of transactional issues. She counsels clients on company formations, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, technology transactions, and startup-focused legal needs, drawing on experience that also includes federal, multi-district, and international commercial litigation and alternative dispute resolution. A graduate of American University Washington College of Law and the University of Oklahoma, Chelsea is admitted to practice in Texas and serves the Dallas startup and creative communities through board service with Bold Idea, Inc. and volunteer roles with Launch DFW and Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://denneylawgroup.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1263: Eric Reed, Chief Development Officer at Layne’s Chicken Fingers
03/23/2026
1263: Eric Reed, Chief Development Officer at Layne’s Chicken Fingers
Eric Reed and Natalie Hurley (also of Layne's) join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 20th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Eric Reed is the Chief Development Officer at Layne’s Chicken Fingers, where he leads the brand’s aggressive growth and real estate strategy as the company scales its footprint across existing and new markets. With more than two decades of experience in restaurant and retail real estate development, Eric has held leadership roles at brands including Raising Cane’s, Brinker International, Payless ShoeSource, and Sally Beauty, giving him a deep understanding of site selection, market planning, and franchise expansion. Before joining Layne’s in 2024, he also served as Chief Growth Officer at Main & Main Capital and previously as Vice President at Main and Main Development, working on growth strategies for a variety of concepts. Eric is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned his BBA in Finance, and he now applies that background to building what Layne’s calls its “soon to be famous” chicken empire. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: Email: eric@laynes.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1262: Natalie Hurley, VP of Marketing at Layne’s Chicken Fingers
03/19/2026
1262: Natalie Hurley, VP of Marketing at Layne’s Chicken Fingers
Natalie Hurley and Eric Reed (also of Layne's) join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 20th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Natalie Hurley is the Vice President of Marketing at Layne’s Chicken Fingers, where she leads brand strategy and growth for the “Soon to be Famous” chicken finger franchise as it expands nationwide. With nearly 20 years of hospitality and restaurant marketing experience, she’s built her career driving guest engagement, experiential branding, and omni-channel campaigns for leading hospitality groups and restaurant brands. Before joining Layne’s, Natalie led marketing for high-profile restaurant portfolios and hotels, developing brand positioning, integrated campaigns, and digital strategies that delivered record-breaking revenue and national recognition. Today, she blends that luxury and full-service background with a hyper-local, community-focused approach to help franchisees tell authentic stories, build loyal followings, and turn Layne’s from a beloved Texas classic into a household name across the country. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliehurley/ Website: https://www.layneschickenfingers.com Instagram: @ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1261: Alex Camp & Cuyler Esposito, VP of Operations Services, VP of Culture Operations at Layne's Chicken Fingers
03/16/2026
1261: Alex Camp & Cuyler Esposito, VP of Operations Services, VP of Culture Operations at Layne's Chicken Fingers
Alex Camp and Cuyler Esposito join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 13th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Alex Camp is the vice president of operations services at Layne’s Chicken Fingers, where he serves as the “central nervous system” of the brand’s rapidly growing franchise system. After joining Layne’s in 2024 as senior director of operations, he brought decades of restaurant and franchising experience to support the company’s expansion beyond Texas, overseeing how corporate infrastructure translates into smooth, profitable operations in every restaurant. In his current role, Alex focuses on cross‑departmental collaboration, turning the leadership team’s strategic vision into reality for franchisees and ensuring new initiatives—from IT to marketing to construction—actually reach the guest experience on the ground. Known for a service‑first mindset, he sees his job as building feedback pathways between franchisees and the home office so Layne’s can protect the brand while helping local owners operate at their best. Cuyler Esposito is the vice president of culture operations at Layne’s Chicken Fingers, leading a “culture‑first, operations‑very‑close‑behind” approach as the brand scales nationwide. A former multi‑unit foodservice franchisee, Cuyler joined the Layne’s leadership team to be a dedicated voice for franchisees, ensuring the company’s small‑town hospitality, high‑touch support, and Texas “Born and Breaded” roots stay at the center of how the system runs. In his role, he focuses on team development, hospitality standards, and values‑driven operations across the franchise network so that every new location reflects the same energy and guest experience that made the original College Station restaurant a legend. For Cuyler, it’s not just a job but a lifestyle—he views himself as the liaison between franchise owners and the brand, committed to protecting both while helping operators and their teams get better every day. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.layneschickenfingers.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1260: Albert Sanchez, Co-Founder of Beto’s Mexican Restaurant
03/12/2026
1260: Albert Sanchez, Co-Founder of Beto’s Mexican Restaurant
Albert Sanchez and Chris Schultz join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 6th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Albert Sanchez is the co‑founder and owner of Beto’s Mexican Restaurant, a family‑owned Mexican restaurant based in Grand Prairie, Texas, that has been serving the community since 1993. A lifelong Grand Prairie resident and graduate of South Grand Prairie High School, Sanchez grew up around the restaurant industry, working alongside his father, Humberto “Beto” Sanchez, who originally pursued his dream of opening a Mexican restaurant using family recipes from Monterrey, Mexico. As a very young entrepreneur, Albert helped transform Beto’s from a small “hole‑in‑the‑wall” location into a well‑known local destination for traditional Mexican cuisine, focusing on hand‑rolled enchiladas, homemade tamales and tortillas, and freshly fried chips. Over the years, he has navigated the growing pains of expanding and relocating the business, balancing the demands of ownership with raising a family and staying deeply involved in the Grand Prairie community. Today, as owner and CEO, Sanchez continues to guide Beto’s Mexican Restaurant and Catering, emphasizing family hospitality, community engagement, and authentic Mexican flavors for guests from across the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.eatatbetos.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1259: Chris Schultz, CEO of Velvet Taco
03/09/2026
1259: Chris Schultz, CEO of Velvet Taco
Chris Schultz joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on April 6th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Chris Schultz is the CEO of , a fast-casual taco brand known for its globally inspired, chef-driven tacos and cult-favorite Weekly Taco Feature program. He brings more than 30 years of restaurant leadership experience to the role and is focused on leading Velvet Taco through its next phase of domestic and international growth while protecting the brand’s bold, creative, and unapologetically original culture. Before joining Velvet Taco, Chris served as CEO of Voodoo Doughnut, where he helped guide the brand into new markets and strengthen its cult following. Prior to that, he spent nine years as senior vice president of operations at MOD Pizza, helping grow the concept from a single shop to more than 350 locations across the U.S. He began his restaurant career with a 13-year run at Starbucks, working in operations and development during a period of rapid national and global expansion. Today, Chris is leveraging that Starbucks, MOD Pizza, and Voodoo Doughnut playbook to scale Velvet Taco’s 50-plus restaurants across eight states and into new markets, including its first international location in London, all while doubling down on innovation, guest experience, and a highly distinctive brand identity. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Email: chris.schultz@velvettaco.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1258: Jo Irizarry, Serial Entrepreneur and Investor at Barbs-B-Q and Thorn & Bred
03/05/2026
1258: Jo Irizarry, Serial Entrepreneur and Investor at Barbs-B-Q and Thorn & Bred
Jo Irizarry and Skeeter Miller join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 23rd, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Jo Irizarry is an investor and mentor in the modern Texas barbecue scene, best known for backing nationally acclaimed concepts like Barbs-B-Q and butcher shop and restaurant Thorn & Bred. As an early believer in Barbs-B-Q, Jo helped support pitmaster Chuck Charnichart and the team as they transformed a bold, pop-culture-infused vision for barbecue into one of the most talked‑about restaurants in Texas, earning national accolades and a James Beard nomination along the way. At Thorn & Bred, Jo brings that same mix of business savvy and heart for hospitality to a new generation of chefs and makers, focusing on spaces that celebrate community, creativity, and the evolving story of Texas food. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Instagram: @ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1257: John Russ, Chef/Owner of Clementine
03/02/2026
1257: John Russ, Chef/Owner of Clementine
John Russ and Kim Beechner join the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 30th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Chef John Russ is the chef-owner of , a celebrated neighborhood restaurant in San Antonio known for its seasonally driven menus and warm, family-centered hospitality. A New Orleans native and 2023 James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef: Texas, Russ trained at Delgado Culinary and refined his craft in fine dining kitchens at the Ritz-Carlton and The Capella Group before putting down roots in San Antonio in 2012. Alongside his wife and pastry chef, Elise, he launched a series of pop-up dinners that evolved into the Clementine restaurant group, where the couple has helped reshape the city’s culinary landscape with their acclaimed “Feed Me” tasting experience and thoughtful approach to service and work–life balance. Beyond the stove, Russ advocates for better food sourcing, sustainability, and commonsense immigration reform within the restaurant industry, working with state and national organizations while mentoring the next generation of chefs. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.clementine-sa.com Instagram: @ Email: hello@clementine-sa.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1256: Kim Beechner, CEO of Embark Marketing
02/26/2026
1256: Kim Beechner, CEO of Embark Marketing
Kim Beechner joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 30th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Kim Beechner is the CEO and founder of Embark Marketing, a boutique digital agency specializing in the food and beverage and hospitality industries. Drawing on more than a decade in marketing and many years in the restaurant and bar world, she helps restaurants, bars, and food and beverage brands tell their stories, attract loyal guests, and grow revenue through strategy, social media, PR, and content. Since launching Embark Marketing in 2010, Kim and her team have partnered with concepts across Texas and the U.S., earning recognition from organizations such as PRSA, the American Marketing Association, Yelp’s Advertising Partner Awards, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. She holds both undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of the Incarnate Word, with a focus on international business, marketing, and communications, which informs her consumer-first, storytelling-driven approach to brand building. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.embark-marketing.com/ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1255: Skeeter Miller, Owner and President of The County Line Bar-B-Q Restaurant Group
02/23/2026
1255: Skeeter Miller, Owner and President of The County Line Bar-B-Q Restaurant Group
Skeeter Miller joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 23rd, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Don “Skeeter” Miller is the longtime owner and president of The County Line, the iconic Texas barbecue institution he helped launch in Austin in 1975. Starting as the restaurant’s first dishwasher, he worked every job in the house before being invited into partnership and eventually leading the brand’s growth into a multi-location barbecue operation spanning several states. Under his leadership, The County Line has become known for its hilltop and lakeside locations, its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, and its famously generous platters of ribs and brisket. A hands-on operator and industry advocate, Skeeter has served as president of County Line Incorporated and has been deeply involved with restaurant associations and legislative advocacy on behalf of independent restaurateurs, earning multiple honors for his contributions to Texas’s hospitality community. On this episode, Skeeter shares the story of how he went from washing dishes to building a beloved barbecue brand, what he’s learned from nearly five decades in the business, and why he believes in supporting local food and community above all. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.countyline.com/ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1254: Sarah Heard, Chef/Co-Owner of Foreign & Domestic
02/19/2026
1254: Sarah Heard, Chef/Co-Owner of Foreign & Domestic
Sarah Heard joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 23rd, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Chef Sarah Heard is the co-owner and co-chef of Austin’s acclaimed , where she’s known for boldly flavored, from-scratch cooking and a deep respect for every ingredient. Raised in Conroe, Texas, she learned early from her mother and grandmother to use every part of what you cook, a philosophy she now applies through whole-animal utilization and a focus on sustainability. After working her way up from banquet server to executive sous chef at The Mansion at Judges’ Hill, and later leading kitchens at venues like The Winfield Inn and other Austin restaurants, she and her partner, chef Nathan Lemley, purchased Foreign & Domestic in 2017 and later opened Commerce Café in Lockhart in 2020. Today, Sarah is celebrated for pairing comfort and creativity on the plate, championing local farms and producers, and mentoring the next generation of cooks in Austin’s tight-knit North Loop neighborhood. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: Instagram: @ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1253: Taylor Swenning, Owner of Darlin's Diner
02/16/2026
1253: Taylor Swenning, Owner of Darlin's Diner
Taylor Swenning joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 16th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Taylor Swenning is the creative force and owner behind , a modern small-town spot known for its nostalgic charm and scratch-made comfort food. A Texas A&M graduate who studied Construction Science, Taylor first tested her entrepreneurial chops with a food trailer called Donut Darlin’ before growing it into the full-fledged diner brand locals love today. From managing build-outs and menus to cultivating community events and partnerships, she blends a hands-on work ethic with a genuine heart for hospitality. On this episode, Taylor shares her journey from student side hustle to restaurant ownership, the lessons she’s learned building Darlin’s Diner, and what it really takes to create a place people want to come back to again and again. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: Instagram: @ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1252: Jody Fiess, COO at Cerboni Services
02/12/2026
1252: Jody Fiess, COO at Cerboni Services
Jody Fiess is the COO of , HQ'd in Houston, Texas. Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Cerboni Services was formed in 2017 to help independent restaurants manage their financials and lower costs through performance based metrics. Today, Cerboni helps around 800 restaurants nationwide. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://cerboniservices.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1251: Pete Mora, Founder of Fajita Pete’s
02/09/2026
1251: Pete Mora, Founder of Fajita Pete’s
Pete Mora joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 16th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Pedro “Pete” Mora is the founder and CEO of Fajita Pete’s, a Houston-based Tex-Mex concept built around catering, delivery, and a streamlined fajita-focused menu. Born in Colombia and raised with an entrepreneurial push from his family, he opened his first full-service Mexican restaurant, Poblano’s, at age 23 in 2002, discovering that guests were most excited about fajitas and off-premise catering. In 2008 he closed that restaurant and launched Fajita Pete’s, reimagining the business as a compact, catering first brand that delivers fresh fajitas, tacos, and flautas directly to homes, offices, and events. A graduate of the University of Houston’s entrepreneurship program, Mora has grown Fajita Pete’s from a single Houston location into a fast-growing franchise recognized on lists of top emerging franchise brands, all while keeping the model intentionally simple and hospitality-driven. On this episode, Pete shares how he went from crafting tables in his garage to building a scalable restaurant system, why he believes hospitality matters more than square footage, and what he’s learned about grit, franchising, and “achieving the American dream one fajita at a time.” Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Email: Website: https://fajitapetes.com/ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1250: Understanding Tip Credits with Joshua Santana, Co-Founder of Cerboni Services
02/05/2026
1250: Understanding Tip Credits with Joshua Santana, Co-Founder of Cerboni Services
Joshua Santana is the co-founder of , an outsourced accounting and financial consulting firm dedicated to helping restaurant and hospitality operators turn numbers into smarter decisions. A Houston native and graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in Accounting, Joshua has spent more than 15 years specializing in tax strategy, compliance, and financial planning for both individuals and businesses through his work with Santana & Associates, Cerboni’s sister tax firm. At Cerboni, he combines deep tax expertise with industry-specific financial insight to build forecasting, budgeting, and reporting systems that help owners improve profitability, control costs, and reach their long-term growth goals. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Joshua partners closely with operators nationwide to demystify their financials and give them the clarity and confidence to run more resilient, profitable restaurants. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. Call (281) 888-2413 and mention Restaurant Unstoppable to get 20% off your first month of service. - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://cerboniservices.com Email: joshua@cerboniservices.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1249: Sam Caucci, CEO of 1Huddle and Author of Wasted Talent
02/02/2026
1249: Sam Caucci, CEO of 1Huddle and Author of Wasted Talent
Sam Caucci joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 9th, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Sam Caucci is the founder and CEO of , a workforce technology company that helps organizations find, train, and retain workers using science-backed, quick-burst mobile games. A global keynote speaker, workforce policy advisor, and bestselling author, Sam has helped hundreds of brands—from the U.S. Air Force and UEFA to Loews Hotels, ESPN, Audible, Novartis, and Madison Square Garden—rethink how they onboard and upskill their people. His work on employee engagement and the future of work has been featured in outlets including The Wall Street Journal, CNN, CNBC, Fox Business, Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, Forbes, and The Huffington Post. On the policy side, Sam has served on workforce innovation and economic policy committees, including for the Biden-Harris Presidential Campaign and the City of Newark’s Workforce Development Board, bringing a frontline worker perspective into national and local conversations about jobs and skills. He is the author of the forthcoming book , where he lays out a roadmap to fix broken training systems and ensure every worker has a fair shot. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: 1huddle.co Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1248: Alec Bauer, Founder of Kitchen, Restaurant & Bar Specialists
01/29/2026
1248: Alec Bauer, Founder of Kitchen, Restaurant & Bar Specialists
Alec Bauer joins the Restaurant Unstoppable Network for a live Q+A on March 2nd, 2026 at 11AM EST. To join us and engage with all our guests and events, go to restaurantunstoppable.com/live -OR- to just catch today's guest, head over to restaurantunstoppable.com/cwe and we will get you a link to join that specific event for FREE! Alec Bauer is the Principal and Creative Director of (KRBS), a Burlington, Vermont-based foodservice design consultancy. A graduate of the New England Culinary Institute, he honed his skills as a chef in renowned kitchens like The Ryland Inn, Auberge du Soleil, Maison Blanche in Paris, and The Four Seasons San Francisco. Bauer transitioned to foodservice consulting and design in 2005, founding KRBS—initially from his San Francisco Bay Area garage—now headquartered at 36 Locust St. in Burlington, where he lives with his family and rescue coonhound, Beazy. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Website: https://www.krbspecialists.com/ Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1247: Chris Goss, Director of Human Resources at Heirloom Hospitality and Founder of Awakened Hospitality
01/26/2026
1247: Chris Goss, Director of Human Resources at Heirloom Hospitality and Founder of Awakened Hospitality
Chris Goss is the Director of Hospitality, Operations, and Human Resources at Heirloom Hospitality in Vermont, where he oversees people, culture, and guest experience across the organization. With more than four years in this role, and over 30 years of restaurant hospitality experience before that, Chris blends strategic HR leadership with hands-on operational expertise to help build engaged teams and memorable hospitality experiences. Passionate about “awakened” hospitality, he focuses on values-driven leadership, staff development, and creating workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and able to do their best work. On this episode, Chris shares lessons from a career spent at the intersection of service, operations, and human connection—and how thoughtful HR can transform both employee and guest journeys. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Guest contact info: Email: -OR- Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1246: Jordan Ware and Cindi Kozak, Co-Owners of Frankie’s
01/22/2026
1246: Jordan Ware and Cindi Kozak, Co-Owners of Frankie’s
Jordan Ware and Cindi Kozak are the chef-and-general manager team behind in Burlington, Vermont, a 70-seat, seafood-forward, farm-to-table restaurant in the former Penny Cluse Café space that has quickly become one of the most talked-about new spots in the country. After years working together at Hen of the Wood—Jordan as executive chef and Cindi as general manager and wine buyer—they struck out on their first solo venture, building a warm, “fine but friendly” dining room that bridges casual and special-occasion hospitality while spotlighting New England farms, fisheries, and producers. Jordan, a Culinary Institute of America graduate originally from Bennington, Vermont, leads an ever-changing, adventurous menu that works directly with local farmers and a small fishmonger to keep the food deeply tied to place, while Cindi, who came to Burlington for Champlain College, curates the wine and cocktail programs with an emphasis on sustainable, personality-driven bottles and classic-but-not-stuffy drinks. Together they see Frankie’s as a civic investment in downtown Burlington and a joyful, community-driven “day-to-day place,” where the next generation of Vermont hospitality can experiment with new ideas, support producers, and still feel like a neighborhood restaurant. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Today's guest recommends: Guest contact info: Email: Instagram: @ Website: https://www.frankiesvt.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1245: Eric Scheffer, Founder and CEO of The Scheffer Group
01/15/2026
1245: Eric Scheffer, Founder and CEO of The Scheffer Group
Eric Scheffer is the Founder and CEO of , based in Asheville, North Carolina. Eric comes from a family that worked in the entertainment business in NYC and LA and he too joined them in that business at a young age. Eventually, he decided to pivot to restaurateur. Eric opened his first restaurant in Asheville in 2000 and has owned 7 concepts in the city since then. Today, The Scheffer Group consists of 2 Vinnie's neighborhood Italian locations, 1 Jettie Rea's Oyster House location, and 1 Gan Shan Neighborhood Asian location. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. - . Running a restaurant takes MORE than great food—it takes reliable deliveries, quality products, and smart tools. US Foods® helps you make it. Ready to level up? Visit: . - Today's guest recommends: Guest contact info: Email: eric@thescheffergroup.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1244: Philip Bollhoefer, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Parks Hospitality Group
01/12/2026
1244: Philip Bollhoefer, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Parks Hospitality Group
Philip Bollhoefer is the Vice President of Food & Beverage at based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Starting in 2008, Parks Hospitality Group opens, owns, and operates hotels in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. When Philip joined in 2016 they owned 6 hotels and today they own 12. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Make running your foodservice operation easier and more efficient with solutions from US Foods®. Utilize a suite of digital tools, like the all-in-one foodservice app MOXē®, and enjoy exclusive access to quality Exclusive Brands products. Learn how partnering with US Foods helps you get more out of your business by visiting - Guest contact info: Website: https://parkshotels.com Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1243: Elizabeth Tilton, Founder and CEO of Oyster Sunday and OS BENEFiTS
01/08/2026
1243: Elizabeth Tilton, Founder and CEO of Oyster Sunday and OS BENEFiTS
Elizabeth Tilton is the Founder and CEO of and . Based in both New Orleans and NYC and founded in 2019, Oyster Sunday is a hospitality consulting agency for independent F&B businesses. Consider them your thought partner or an extension of your in-house team, whether you're launching a business or currently operating one. The company is currently rolling out their Oyster Sunday HR department. OS BENEFiTS seeks to help your team get affordable health insurance and wellness benefits built for hospitality companies and organizations. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. - . Make running your foodservice operation easier and more efficient with solutions from US Foods®. Utilize a suite of digital tools, like the all-in-one foodservice app MOXē®, and enjoy exclusive access to quality Exclusive Brands products. Learn how partnering with US Foods helps you get more out of your business by visiting - Guest contact info: Email: Oyster Sunday website: https://www.oystersunday.com OS Benefits website: https://osbenefits.co Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1242: Leonard Botello, Pit Master and Owner at Truth BBQ
01/05/2026
1242: Leonard Botello, Pit Master and Owner at Truth BBQ
Leonard Botello is the owner and Pit Master of , which currently has two locations in Houston and Brenham, TX. Leonard grew up in restaurants with his family and went on to study Biology at A&M. He pivoted to BBQ when he had his first real eye-opening experience with craft BBQ. In 2015 he opened the first Truth BBQ in Brenham, Texas and in 2019 he opened the second location in Houston. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: - — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. - . Make running your foodservice operation easier and more efficient with solutions from US Foods®. Utilize a suite of digital tools, like the all-in-one foodservice app MOXē®, and enjoy exclusive access to quality Exclusive Brands products. Learn how partnering with US Foods helps you get more out of your business by visiting - Today's guest recommends: Guest contact info: Website: Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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1241: Ope Amosu, Chef/Owner/Blok Captain of ChòpnBlọk
01/01/2026
1241: Ope Amosu, Chef/Owner/Blok Captain of ChòpnBlọk
Ope Amosu is the chef/owner of located in Houston, Texas. Ope began his career working in oil and gas all over the globe. The son of Nigerian parents, Ope found that no matter where he travelled, it was difficult to get Nigerian food and find the local Nigerian culture. So, in 2017 he decided he should open a West African/Nigerian food restaurant in Houston. He began with private dinners and then held "restaurant takeovers" and in 2018 opened up in a food hall to great success. In 2022, the first standalone ChòpnBlọk opened. Join RULibrary: Join RULive: Set Up your RUEvolve 1:1: Subscribe on YouTube: Subscribe to our email newsletter: Today's sponsors: — the leader in automated cooking oil management. Their Total Oil Management solution is an end-to-end closed loop automated system that delivers, monitors, filters, collects, and recycles your cooking oil eliminating one of the dirtiest jobs in the kitchen.. Automate your oil and elevate your kitchen by visiting or call 888-779-5314 to get started! - - Cerboni is an all-in-one financial solution for restaurants. Reliable tax preparation & Business incorporation. Seamless Payroll and compliance report. Strategic CFO Services That Drive Business Growth. Detailed, custom reporting for complete financial clarity. Dedicated support for restaurants & Multi-location businesses. End-to-end financial management under one roof. - . Make running your foodservice operation easier and more efficient with solutions from US Foods®. Utilize a suite of digital tools, like the all-in-one foodservice app MOXē®, and enjoy exclusive access to quality Exclusive Brands products. Learn how partnering with US Foods helps you get more out of your business by visiting - - Lower your prime cost by $1,000, and get paid $1,000 with the Restaurant Systems Pro 30-Day Prime Cost Challenge. If you successfully improve your prime cost by $1,000 or more compared to the same 30-day period last year, Restaurant Systems Pro will pay you $1,000. It's a "reverse guarantee." Let’s make 2026 the year your restaurant thrives. Today's guest recommends: Guest contact info: Instagram: @ Website: https://chopnblok.co Thanks for listening! Rate the podcast, subscribe, and share!
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