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🔥 The Hard Truth About Making It in a Michelin-Starred Kitchen—And Why Most Cooks Don’t Last

Renowned chef and entrepreneur Justin Khanna shares his journey from esteemed kitchens like Per Se and Noma to becoming a leader in the culinary world. Discover his strategies for running successful kitchen shifts, honing in on practical tools like line checks, reservation checks, and efficient prep lists. In an industry where efficiency is everything, innovative solutions like those from Restaurant Technologies Inc. help top kitchens streamline operations, from automated oil management to back-of-house automation. Learn more at https://go.rti-inc.com/RestaurantLeadershipPodcast.

Khanna's story is one of resilience and ambition as he navigates the challenges of transitioning from a line cook to a sous chef, illustrating the hurdles and triumphs that define a culinary career.

Chapters:
00:00:08 - Improving Restaurant Kitchen Operations

00:10:33 - Advancing Skills in Restaurant Kitchens

00:15:46 - Improving Communication for Kitchen Teams

00:26:48 - Teamwork and Communication in Kitchens

00:31:08 - Optimizing Inventory Management in Restaurants

00:40:49 - Enhancing Hospitality Organizations for Success

Listeners will gain insight into the relentless pursuit of culinary mastery that drives chefs to stay after hours, constantly learning and perfecting their craft. In high-pressure environments, such as Michelin-starred kitchens, the distinction between cooks and chefs becomes stark. This episode emphasizes the importance of continuous education, whether through formal training or real-world experience, and the passion required to overcome knowledge gaps. Khanna’s reflections explore the emotional journey of feeling inadequate yet determined to grow, providing a realistic look into the evolution of chefs in the industry.

Effective communication and teamwork form the backbone of successful kitchen operations, and this episode delves into strategies for fostering these essential skills. Learn how to tackle the challenges of open dialogue, manage inventory efficiently, and prioritize high-performing menu items. From introducing a "station score" for staff assessments to understanding the broader financial impact of inventory choices, Khanna’s insights offer practical advice for enhancing both team dynamics and business success. Join us as we advocate for sustainable business practices and invite hospitality professionals to refresh their approaches, setting the stage for thriving restaurant operations.

Resources:
Justin Khanna
Per Se
Noma
The French Laundry

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

What if your biggest struggles—like near bankruptcy or seasonal slumps—were the keys to building a thriving local empire? This episode reveals how to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success.

Imagine starting your business at a bustling flea market and growing it into a thriving local tea brand. That’s the inspiring journey of Scented Leaf Tea House founder Shane Barella in Tucson, Arizona. In this episode, we dive deep into actionable strategies for entrepreneurs looking to overcome challenges like near bankruptcy, seasonal slowdowns, and finding the perfect location. Shane shares insights on customer loyalty, creating a purpose-driven business, and standing out in competitive markets like college towns.

This episode is brought to you by Restaurant Technologies, the trusted partner for helping restaurant operators streamline efficiency and focus on what matters most: growing their business. Learn more at https://go.rti-inc.com/RestaurantLeadershipPodcast

We also discover how Shane built a loyal customer base by prioritizing authentic human connections and how his strategic planning led to securing prime locations, boosting foot traffic, and increasing profitability. From lessons learned in The Alchemist to fostering a unique company culture, Shane provides invaluable tips for growing a sustainable brick-and-mortar business.

Chapters:
00:00:08 - From Flea Market to Tea Empire

00:13:14 - Navigating Challenges in Business Growth

00:20:32 - Summer Business Strategy and Customer Connection

00:28:18 - Cultivating Company Culture and Expansion

00:36:05 - Navigating Business Growth and Leadership

00:43:54 - Building a Purpose-Driven Business

Whether you're navigating the challenges of running a small business or dreaming of launching your own local empire, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Tune in to learn how to lead with purpose, build community connections, and create a business that thrives in even the toughest markets.

Resources:
The Alchemist
Scented Leaf Tea House

#totaloilmanagement #restauranttechnologies #localbusiness

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

Your internal critic is holding you back from achieving an extraordinary life.

Join us as we turn the spotlight on Michael Jesse, the visionary owner of the Curiosity Center, to uncover his fascinating insights into the realms of creativity, innovation, and leadership. Our engaging session takes an unexpected twist as Michael faces his own coaching tools, shedding light on the pivotal role a coach can play in identifying blind spots and keeping us focused amidst life's distractions. Together, we unravel the mysteries of creative leadership and business innovation, while confronting the daunting challenge of self-imposed limitations and the powerful weapon of self-awareness. I'd invite you to listen to this episode and identify moments or insight or shifts in perspective you can apply to your own life and business.

I'd like to take a moment and shoutout Restaurant Technologies for sponsoring this show and supporting the restaurant industry. Their innovative solutions, like automated oil management and hood cleaning systems, help restaurants save time, reduce risks, and operate more efficiently, allowing owners to focus on delivering exceptional dining experiences. Learn more at https://go.rti-inc.com/RestaurantLeadershipPodcast

Chapters:
0:08 - Coaching for Creativity and Innovation
15:43 - Escaping the Cage of Self-Doubt
25:32 - Embracing Change Through Metaphors
35:25 - Reflecting and Gratitude in Self-Discovery

Ever feel like you're stuck in a cage of self-doubt, constantly grappling with the pressure to make a significant impact? Our conversation dives into the roots of this struggle, examining how early life experiences and parental expectations can wield an overbearing influence on our beliefs and actions. We discuss the relentless pursuit of an extraordinary life, often overshadowed by the critical internal 'judge' that once served a purpose but now hinders progress. Through mutual exploration, we redefine what it means to lead an extraordinary life by acknowledging past achievements and balancing ambition with contentment.

Prepare to reimagine your limiting beliefs through the power of metaphors. Inspired by Richard Branson's audacious journey, we explore the liberating process of viewing outdated beliefs as toys in a box, remnants of past growth ready to be released. Our episode culminates in a heartening reflection on self-awareness and gratitude, encouraging a reconnection with past clients and colleagues to appreciate the positive impacts we've made. By embracing shared experiences and mutual support within the coaching community, we unlock the true potential for personal transformation and fulfillment.

Resources:
Michael Jesse
Restaurant Technologies
The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

What’s the secret to running a restaurant that not only survives but thrives for decades?

Join us as Casey Wills, president of Argo Land and Cattle Company, reveals how curiosity, service, and a commitment to problem-solving have propelled his leadership and kept his restaurants thriving despite industry challenges. With a career spanning over two decades, Casey's journey from understanding discipline in college to becoming a leader in the restaurant world is inspiring. Listeners will gain insights into his mindset of leadership, which focuses on problem-solving and supporting others, and how it has been pivotal in running thriving restaurant businesses despite the challenges of the industry.

Efficiency and sustainability are critical for modern restaurants to thrive. Tools like those offered by Restaurant Technologies can transform back-of-house operations through innovations like automated oil management, which saves time, reduces waste, and ensures consistency in food quality. These kinds of solutions empower restaurants to focus more on delivering exceptional guest experiences and less on time-consuming operational tasks. Learn more at RTI-Inc.com.

Pinnacle Peak, a beloved Tucson restaurant since the 1960s, embodies the evolution of adapting to consumer tastes while maintaining a robust guest experience. Learn how this iconic spot, famous for its tie-cutting tradition and mesquite-cooked steaks, has diversified its menu and employed unique strategies, like Trellis Town, to remain competitive. We delve into the impact of seasonal fluctuations and national competition, emphasizing the resilience required to keep a restaurant vibrant and successful.

Chapters:
00:00:08 - Adapting Restaurants While Staying True

00:13:18 - Evolving Business Trends for Restaurants

00:21:52 - Reviving Charlestown and Jell-O'S Tables

00:27:18 - Leadership Development and Networking Perspectives

00:36:48 - Building Camaraderie in Leadership Challenges

Leadership development and networking are at the heart of Casey's approach to fostering growth within his team. By leveraging the power of peer advisory groups and internal promotions, Casey has cultivated a culture of support and stability, as evidenced by the impressive average tenure of his staff. As we explore the challenges leaders face, from managing customer perceptions to maintaining operational efficiency, Casey's experiences highlight the importance of adaptability

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

Think your restaurant’s marketing is all about posting on Instagram? Think again.

The secret to thriving in today’s competitive restaurant scene lies in leveraging the right mix of strategies and tools to connect with your audience, build your brand, and fill seats—all while staying ahead of the curve.

Our discussion dives into the crucial role of marketing in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the range of effective strategies operators should adopt beyond just social media.

One powerful way to level up your marketing game is by integrating advanced restaurant technologies. Tools like Restaurant Technologies help streamline your operations and provide valuable data that can be repurposed into effective marketing materials, from cost-saving sustainability initiatives to unique back-of-house stories that captivate customers and boost your brand's appeal.

In this episode, we explore essential topics like the importance of customer data, differences between PR and marketing strategies, realistic budgeting for marketing, and actionable insights for independent restaurant owners.

• Importance of understanding the diverse channels of marketing
• Role of customer data in effective marketing strategies
• Differences between marketing agencies and PR firms
• Crafting a targeted email marketing strategy
• Realistic marketing budget allocation for restaurants
• Building strong brand awareness before opening
• Importance of adaptability in marketing approaches

Resources:
Sebastian Stahl
Breadth Marketing
The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

What would you do if you could redefine success on your own terms?

Clara Capano, an inspirational speaker and entrepreneur, joins us to share her captivating journey from the monotony of corporate life to the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship. Clara talks candidly about how she transformed her passion for coaching into a thriving business, Capano Speaking and Training, and the profound sense of freedom and fulfillment that followed. She opens up about leaving behind burnout and embracing a life aligned with her values—betting on herself and finding energy in her work every day.

Chapters:
00:00:08 - Redefining Success

00:08:53 - Evolving Business Strategy and Sustainability

00:19:28 - Creative Journey in Writing and Media

00:25:27 - Empowering Women in Business

We also explore the evolution of success beyond just ticking off tasks or collecting accolades. Clara recounts her pivotal "moment of clarity," which reshaped her understanding of true success and led to a business model that accommodates her life as a single mom. Her story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the importance of being present, whether it’s shifting to group coaching or crafting a financial strategy that sustains growth through challenging times. Clara's insights provide valuable lessons for anyone striving to balance personal circumstances with professional ambitions.

The episode takes an inspiring turn into the creative realms of writing and media. Clara shares her path as an author and show host, starting from a childhood tale of a magical unicorn to impactful books like "Find Your Focus 52 Weeks of Clarity" and "The Mother of All Success Manuals." Her work supports both working moms and foundations for survivors of human trafficking. We wrap up by celebrating Clara's dedication to empowering women in business, with her resources, courses, and speaking engagements offering a beacon of hope and motivation for those looking to align their goals with their values. Listen as Clara Capano’s story resonates with clarity and courage, inspiring you to redefine success in your life.

Resources:
Clara Capano
The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

This episode will tell you how you can cut COGS and save hours of labor per week at the same time.

Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing your restaurant operations with Angelo Esposito, the trailblazing co-founder and CEO of Wisk AI. Discover how Angelo's passion for hospitality and technology led to the creation of a game-changing inventory management platform that is turning heads in the hospitality industry. Learn how Wisk AI empowers restaurant operators to streamline processes, slash costs, and boost profits, all while providing smart, actionable insights. Angelo shares an inspiring entrepreneurial journey that began with a simple yet powerful idea: transforming traditional inventory methods into a seamless, user-friendly system.

Chapters:
00:00:08 - Entrepreneurship and Wisk AI Interview

00:12:47 - Revolutionizing Inventory Management in Hospitality

00:18:05 - Building and Adapting Tech Products

00:24:45 - Optimizing Restaurant Cost Management

00:29:43- Streamlining Beverage and Food Inventory Management

00:40:42 - Enhancing Hospitality Operations With WISK

Explore the fascinating birth of Wisk and its evolution from tackling the inefficiencies of liquor inventory to mastering comprehensive food management. Angelo sheds light on the critical role of customer feedback in product development and the importance of resilience and adaptability in the competitive restaurant technology space. From the initial groundwork of building a database of bottle weights to integrating cutting-edge technology with existing systems, Wisk AI has continually adapted to meet the dynamic needs of the industry. Angelo's insights into minimizing labor and cost of goods highlight how Wisk is optimizing restaurant cost management and enhancing operational efficiency.

Join us as we walk through Wisk's robust setup process, tailored to reduce losses and improve user experiences in both bar and restaurant settings. From seamless inventory scanning to advanced recipe management, Angelo explains how Wisk's customer-centric approach is redefining hospitality operations. With a steadfast commitment to exceptional customer support and a vision to automate processes for even greater value, Wisk AI is poised to become the virtual assistant every restaurateur needs. Whether you're a hospitality professional or a tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights and strategies to elevate your business to new heights.

Resources:
WISK

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/

Send me a Text Message. I'd love to hear from you.

What if the obstacles you face are actually the building blocks to success?

This is what we will demonstrate for you during today's introduction to group coaching.

Join us as we explore this empowering idea through the experiences of Kimberly, a former operations professional who transformed her career in the fast-paced world of hospitality into a thriving online business. In this episode, we promise to unravel the essentials of restaurant leadership coaching and the profound benefits of group coaching. You'll discover how slowing down, enhancing self-awareness, and creating a clear vision can help hospitality leaders harness their unique skills to tackle challenges head-on.

We journey into the heart of self-discovery, addressing internal battles such as self-sabotage and undiagnosed ADHD. Through compelling stories of overcoming adversity and addiction, we share insights on transforming past fears into growth opportunities. Our conversation draws on personal experiences to highlight the courage required to trust oneself, create meaningful projects, and turn dreams into reality. Prepare to be inspired by the power of storytelling and the art of workshops in reshaping one's life and legacy.

The spotlight on Henal is one of resilience and reinvention as we follow his path from chef to certified life coach. Through personal tales of heartbreak and addiction, we underscore the importance of honesty and the transformative potential of embracing one’s story. You'll learn how listening, patience, and community support can facilitate change, and why it's never too late to embark on a new journey. By the episode's end, we hope you'll see your unique story as a potent asset for both personal and professional growth. Join us for an episode filled with heart, hope, and the pursuit of happiness in hospitality leadership.

Enrollment is now open for The Hospitality Leadership Mastery Group. 6 people will be chosen for this 6 month program and the next enrollment will happen in May. If you are ready to invest in your leadership and surround yourself with a network of like-minded leaders in the industry, join us.

For more information, visit christinmarvin.com/groupcoaching

More from Christin:

Grab your free copy of my audiobook, The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap: Move from Ordinary to Extraordinary at christinmarvin.com/audio

Curious about one-on-one coaching or leadership workshops? Click this link to schedule a 15 minute strategy session.

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/