2025 Restaurant Workforce Management Report. Sitting down with Jaime Oikle, they explore the collective feedback of more than 900 restaurant managers about employee needs, wages, and retention. Discover how to overcome the biggest hiring challenges, keep up with the continuous growth of QSR dining over full-service dining, and navigate the ever-evolving culture of tipping. Jordan also shares insights on how the restaurant industry must transform alongside the new technological innovations and remain optimistic despite the rapidly changing trends.

Find out more at https://www.7shifts.com/ & https://www.runningrestaurants.com.

Sponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

Cost controls are paramount in maximizing restaurant profitability, and Roger Beaudoin of Restaurant Rockstars joins Jaime Oikle in this episode to emphasize their critical importance. Roger breaks down essential systems for managing food, beverage, and labor costs, including accurate inventory tracking and menu cost analysis. He provides valuable insights on calculating true usage, understanding prime cost, and optimizing menu pricing for maximum profit potential. Don't miss this episode – discover how to implement these strategies and watch your restaurant's bottom line soar!

Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares the inspiring story of building a successful restaurant franchise from the ground up. Discover how Pokeworks went from a single location in New York City to a nationwide sensation with over 70 locations. Jaime Oikle and Peter Yang discuss the unique aspects of the Pokeworks franchising model, including their focus on small footprints, efficient operations, and prime real estate selection. Tune in to learn about the power of social media marketing, building a strong loyalty program, and the importance of finding the right franchise partners. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the restaurant industry or franchising opportunities.

Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Sponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

Empowering restaurants to thrive in the digital age, Checkmate offers a suite of innovative solutions. In this episode, Jaime Oikle chats with Vishal Agarwal, the founder and CEO of Checkmate, a tech game-changer for restaurants. Initially focused on simplifying payment processes, Vishal discovered restaurant operators' deeper challenges with managing orders from multiple platforms. That's when the lightbulb went off! Vishal and his team created a suite of tools that not only simplify payments but also streamline online ordering, kiosks, and even phone orders using AI. Tune in to explore the future of restaurant technology and the impact of Checkmate’s solutions.

Learn more about Checkmate at https://www.itsacheckmate.com/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.

Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

How can AI revolutionize your restaurant’s guest experience? In this episode, Jaime Oikle talks with Alex Sambvani from Slang.ai about how their voice-powered AI technology is helping restaurants improve efficiency and customer service. From handling reservations to answering common questions, Slang.ai’s solution allows restaurants to automate over 50% of their phone calls while enhancing the guest experience with human-like interaction. Discover how this innovative platform is helping operators reduce missed calls, capture more business opportunities, and streamline operations—all without replacing staff.

Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Jaime Oikle sits down with Angelo Esposito of Wisk.ai to dive deep into the world of cost management for restaurants. From tracking cost of goods sold to automating invoices, they explore practical ways to boost profitability and streamline operations. Angelo shares key insights on inventory management, recipe cost tracking, and how AI can simplify the most tedious tasks. Tune in for valuable lessons on improving your restaurant’s bottom line with smart, tech-driven solutions.

Learn more about Wisk.ai at https://www.wisk.ai/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.

Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Sponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

With its innovative menu and commitment to quality, Bun Mee has quickly become a beloved destination for foodies seeking a taste of Vietnam. In this episode, Jaime Oikle sits down with Denise Tran, founder and CEO of San Francisco-based Vietnamese sandwich eatery Bun Mee. Denise recounts her journey of bringing authentic bánh mì into the mainstream, transitioning from a legal career to pursuing her culinary dreams. With four thriving locations and a fifth on the way, she shares the excitement of launching a national franchise while navigating the complexities of the restaurant industry. Join them as they delve into Bun Mee's story, the challenges of growth, and Denise's passion for sharing her heritage through food.

Learn more about Bun Mee at https://bunmee.co/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.

Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants