Best Employee Ownership Associations Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 593: The Journey of a Restaurant Owner: Ross Hester, Oxford, MS 41:06

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1d ago41:06

41:06

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil chats with Ross Hester, owner of Good Day Cafe and Bar Muse in Oxford, Mississippi. They discuss Ross's journey in the restaurant industry, the challenges of running a business, and the importance of leadership and team dynamics. Ross shares insights on the growth of his establi…

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Episode 45: STEPs with Virginia McCrary 12:18

5d ago12:18

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In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we’re joined by Virginia McCrary of Torch Technologies to dive into the STEPs program—Society of Torch Emerging Professionals. As one of the program’s founding organizers, Virginia shares how STEPS has evolved into a key part of preserving and growing Torch’s unique employee-owner culture. From trivia nig…

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Episode 592: The Man Behind Bohemian Bull: Chad Biel, Owner and Franchisor 1:01:00

6d ago1:01:00

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Summary In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley engages with Chad Biel, a successful restaurateur and franchisor, discussing the intricacies of restaurant management, the importance of effective AI-phone answering software, and the challenges of finding the right franchisees. They explore the growth strategies for franchisin…

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Profit Sharing Secrets: How to Transform Your Business Culture With an Ownership Mentality 49:52

11d ago49:52

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In this conversation, Mason Duchatschek and Rob Gallaher explore the transformative power of profit sharing in business. Rob shares his journey from traditional compensation models to implementing profit sharing, emphasizing its role in fostering a culture of trust, accountability, and engagement among employees. They discuss common misconceptions,…

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Episode 591: TacoLu: An Iconic Restaurant Journey 56:26

17d ago56:26

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil interviews Don Nicol from TacoLu, discussing the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, including rising costs and labor issues. Don shares insights on maintaining customer experience, navigating cash flow, and the importance of community engagement. He reflects on the imp…

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How to Empower Employees, Protect Institutional Knowledge and Scale Business Using AI 27:26

19d ago27:26

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Summary In this conversation, Derek Crager, founder of Practical AI, discusses voice-based AI tools designed for hands-free, real-time industrial support. He emphasizes the importance of addressing downtime as a knowledge problem and how to use AI to simplify training and troubleshooting for technicians. The discussion covers the significance of in…

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Episode 44: What is a Public Benefit Corporation with Clay Hagan 20:00

19d ago20:00

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In this episode, we’re joined once again by Clay Hagan of Torch Technologies to talk about a major milestone in the company’s journey—becoming a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) in early 2024. Clay breaks down what it means to be a PBC, why Torch pursued this rare designation, and how it aligns with their long-term commitment to employee ownership,…

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Episode 43: Alabama A&M with Aaron Thompson 13:20

1M ago13:20

13:20

In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we sit down with Aaron Thompson, Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Branding at Alabama A&M University, to explore the university’s 150-year legacy and its bold vision for the future. Aaron shares how Alabama A&M is evolving through record-breaking enrollment, transformative campus projects, and…

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The Future is Female: Economic Revolution Ahead | Dr. Don Barden on Inclusive Leadership 29:42

1M ago29:42

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Summary In this conversation, Dr. Don Barden discusses his groundbreaking work on the rise of women in leadership and its implications for the global economy. He presents data-backed insights into how women's leadership styles are uniquely effective, leading to higher productivity and employee retention. The discussion emphasizes the importance of …

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Episode 590: Be the Fire. Wish for the Wind. 4:45

1M ago4:45

4:45

In this quick, heartfelt episode, Wil delivers a philosophical and motivational message for independent hospitality business owners. Drawing from 18 years of experience serving restaurants and 12 years of podcasting, Wil reflects on the remarkable anti-fragility of this industry. Inspired by Nassim Nicholas Taleb's book Antifragile, Wil explains ho…

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When Business Policies and Customer Needs Clash: A Leadership Solution 13:31

1M ago13:31

13:31

In this episode, Mason Duchatschek discusses the critical disconnect between business leaders, frontline employees, and customers. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer experiences and feedback. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how corporate policies can create unnecessary challenges for customers and frontline employees.…

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Episode 42: ESOP Culture with Bill Roark 16:17

2M ago16:17

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In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we sit down with Bill Roark, co-founder of Torch Technologies, for a deep dive into the company's unique ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) culture. Bill shares how employee ownership isn't just a structure—it's a mindset that transforms how people show up to work, collaborate across departments, and in…

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Episode 589: Challenges Are Growth Opportunities: Dana Monfort, Town Pump Provisions, Denver, CO 1:07:24

2M ago1:07:24

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Summary In this conversation, Dana Monfort shares her journey of opening a new restaurant concept, Town Pump, in Denver. She discusses her diverse background, the challenges of entering the restaurant industry, and her vision for creating a community-focused space that fills a void in the market. Dana emphasizes the importance of simplicity, intent…

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Episode 588: The Reality of Restaurant Ownership: Challenges and Triumphs w/ Jon Darby, Darby's American Cantina 41:59

2M ago41:59

41:59

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Will interviews Jon Darby, owner of Darby's American Cantina. They discuss John's journey into the restaurant industry, the challenges of managing a restaurant, the impact of minimum wage laws, and the evolving trends in alcohol consumption. Jon shares insights on the importance of …

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Episode 41: Food Bank of North Alabama & Family Services Center 18:43

2M ago18:43

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In this episode, we sit down with two leaders making a powerful impact in the Huntsville community—Darren Geiger, President & CEO of Family Services Center, and Shirley Schofield, CEO of the Food Bank of North Alabama. They share how their organizations are addressing core issues like food insecurity, homelessness, mental health, and family support…

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Episode 587: The Quiet Strength of Great Hospitality Leadership - Simon Harris,Blau & Associates 12:17

2M ago12:17

12:17

Wil reads an incredible article by Simon Harris.

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Episode 586: Revolutionizing Restaurant Bookkeeping with Fixe: Ryan Handel, Founder 48:05

3M ago48:05

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil interviews Ryan Handel, founder of Fixe, a bookkeeping service tailored for the restaurant industry. Ryan shares his journey from working in restaurants to founding his own, and ultimately creating Fixe to streamline bookkeeping for restaurant owners. The conversation covers the…

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HR, AI and Outsourcing: Expendable vs. Irreplaceable Employees 13:49

3M ago13:49

13:49

Summary In this episode, Mason Duchatschek discusses the looming challenges faced by HR professionals due to budget cuts, outsourcing, and the rise of AI. He emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to ensure job security and highlights the need for HR executives to demonstrate their value as assets rather than expenses. The conversation int…

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Episode 40: What is an ESOP with Clay Hagan 21:13

3M ago21:13

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In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we're excited to welcome back Clay Hagan for an in-depth conversation about one of the foundational elements of Torch Technologies: the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Clay breaks down what an ESOP is, why it’s such a crucial part of Torch’s culture, and how employee ownership impacts career growth,…

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Episode 585: Exploring the Art of Distilling with Chand Harlow of Wonderbird Spirits 55:06

3M ago55:06

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Summary In this episode, Wil speaks with Chand Harlow, co-creator and owner of Wonderbird Spirits, a distillery in Mississippi. They discuss Chand's journey from finance to the world of hospitality and distilling, emphasizing the importance of a grain to glass philosophy. Chand shares insights into the unique process of crafting gin using Jasmine r…

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Leadership and the Power of Presence 26:09

3M ago26:09

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Summary In this conversation, Mason Duchatschek speaks with Christian Espinosa, author of the book The In-Between: Life in the Micro. Christian is a veteran, CEO and cybersecurity expert. And, they talk about his transformative journey following a near-death experience. They discuss the importance of awareness, presence, and the small moments that …

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Episode 39: Huntsville Hospital & SIMVANA Partnership 15:05

3M ago15:05

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In this episode of Keeping The Dream Alive, we dive into the cutting-edge partnership between SIMVANA and Huntsville Hospital, exploring how virtual reality training is transforming the way nurses are onboarded and trained. Our guests, Alexis Spalding, Director of Clinical Nursing Practice at Huntsville Hospital, and Nathan Faught, Program Manager …

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Episode 584: Legacy and Community: Greg Dulan, Owner, Dulan's on Crenshaw 53:56

3M ago53:56

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Summary In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, Wil interviews Greg Dulan, owner of Dulan's on Crenshaw, celebrating 50 years in business. They discuss the importance of family legacy in hospitality, the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, and innovative strategies for revenue generation. Greg shares insights on building authentic c…

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Episode 583: The Heart of Hospitality: Authentic Connections - Simon Harris, Blau & Associates 57:55

3M ago57:55

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Summary In this conversation, Simon Harris shares his extensive experience in the hospitality industry, discussing the importance of genuine connections in dining experiences. He reflects on the evolution of hospitality, emphasizing the need for authentic interactions over scripted service. The discussion also touches on the impact of technology an…

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Eyes Wide Open: How to Protect Your Business from Cybercriminals 15:29

3M ago15:29

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In this conversation, Mason Duchatschek interviews Christian Espinoza, author of the book, The Smartest Person in the Room and CEO of Blue Goat Cyber. They discussed the critical importance of cybersecurity for businesses, especially small ones. Christian emphasizes that all businesses are potential targets for cybercriminals and outlines the commo…

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Episode 38: Free 2 Teach & The Downtown Rescue Mission 17:09

3M ago17:09

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In this episode, I sit down with Keith Overholt from the Downtown Rescue Mission and Alison Kling from Free 2 Teach—two nonprofit leaders making a powerful impact in Huntsville. Keith shares how the mission is expanding its efforts to support a growing population of young people experiencing homelessness, while Alison dives into how Free 2 Teach eq…

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Episode 582: What a Long Strange Trip It's Been: Justin Cucci, Chef & Founder, Edible Eats 55:27

3M ago55:27

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil chats with Justin Cucci, a seasoned restaurateur from Denver. They discuss Justin's early experiences in hospitality, the importance of passion in the industry, and the distinction between hospitality and service. Justin shares insights on implementing an Employee Stock Ownershi…

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Episode 581: From Corporate to Entrepreneur: Jeff Galletly, Chairman and CEO, Brooklyn Dumpling Shop 1:05:05

3M ago1:05:05

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Summary In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley speaks with Jeff Galletly, CEO of Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, about his extensive journey in the hospitality industry. Jeff shares insights from his corporate background at PepsiCo and Restaurant Brands International, his transition to entrepreneurship, and the rapid growth of Broo…

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Recession-Proof Your Business Strategies 40:13

4M ago40:13

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Summary In this engaging conversation, Mason Duchatschek interviews Teresa Bassett, CEO of the Diamond Group, who shares her insights on how businesses can build momentum and recession-proof their operations. Teresa emphasizes the importance of creating one's own economy, focusing on what can be controlled, and the necessity of taking action during…

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Episode 580: Empathy in Action: The True Meaning of Hospitality with Michael DePaolo, Square Roots Collective 39:15

4M ago39:15

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Summary In this conversation, Wil and Michael DePaolo explore the essence of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of empathy, connection, and community impact. Michael shares his personal journey in the hospitality industry, from washing dishes to running a nonprofit hospitality vertical. They discuss the challenges faced by the restaurant indus…

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Episode 37: Alzheimer’s Association & The Heart Association 16:12

4M ago16:12

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In this episode, we sit down with Abigail Mercer of the Alzheimer’s Association and Stephanie Cline of the Heart Association to discuss two major health challenges affecting our communities. Abigail sheds light on the widespread impact of Alzheimer’s, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the staggering number of those affected, including youn…

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Episode 579: Twenty Years of Billy Bricks: A Family Business Journey with Billy Bricks CEO Ric Gruber 51:14

4M ago51:14

51:14

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil talks with Rick Gruber, CEO of Billy Bricks Restaurant Group. Ric hares insights into the pizza industry, the challenges of running a family business, and the impact of online reviews on restaurants. He discusses the unique styles of pizza offered at Billy Bricks, the evolution …

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Episode 578: Building a Franchise Empire: Premium Loaves' Marc Largent and Jerome Hranka Aim for 300 Jimmy John's Locations by 2030 53:43

4M ago53:43

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Wil interviews Jerome and Marc, the owners of Premium Loavess, the second largest Jimmy John's franchisee. They discuss their early experiences in hospitality, the unique culture of Jimmy John's, the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining that culture, and their journey …

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Episode 577: Lessons from the Trenches: Chef Brandon Sharp, Chapel Hill, NC 53:14

4M ago53:14

53:14

Summary Brandon and Wil discuss the intricacies of the restaurant industry, focusing on the challenges faced by aspiring restaurant owners, the importance of financial planning, and the role of hospitality in ensuring success. They delve into the concept behind 'The Industry Standard,' a platform aimed at sharing valuable insights and strategies fo…

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Your Call is NOT Important to Us and Other Customer Service Experience Insights from Shep Hyken 26:46

4M ago26:46

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Summary: In this conversation, Shep Hyken discusses the critical aspects of customer experience and service. He highlights the disconnect between companies' perceptions of their service and actual customer experiences, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer effort and satisfaction. Hyken shares insights on how technology can enhance c…

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Episode 36: Veterans Program with Christopher Finley & Stephan Stidfole 12:26

4M ago12:26

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In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Stidfole and Chris Finley of Torch Technologies to discuss how their Veterans Program is creating meaningful career transitions for service members through initiatives like DoD SkillBridge and Hiring Our Heroes. They share how Torch fosters a strong sense of community, provides mentorship, and supports vete…

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How to Make Play Work: Universal Business Insights from the Music Industry 1:01:15

4M ago1:01:15

1:01:15

Summary In this episode of the Mason Duchatschek Show, Ryan Patrick, lead guitarist of the rock band OTHERWISE, shares insights into the evolution of the music industry, the challenges faced by independent artists, and the importance of authenticity in both music and business. The conversation explores how OTHERWISE has navigated their journey from…

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Episode 576: The Future of Hospitality: AI + Human Connection, Cameron Long, Virnika 1:01:10

5M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

Summary In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley speaks with Cameron Long, co-founder of Virnika, about the challenges faced by restaurant owners, particularly regarding labor issues. They discuss how Virnika aims to leverage AI technology to improve operational efficiency in restaurants, allowing staff to focus on high-value…

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Conflict, Chaos and Toxic Work Behavior: How to Build a Healthier Culture Through Leadership 45:36

5M ago45:36

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How do you transform conflict into a leadership growth opportunity? In this episode, Mason Duchatschek sits down with Marlene Chism, an expert in leadership and conflict management, to discuss how leaders can embrace discomfort, practice radical listening, and develop the conflict capacity needed to create a more engaged and trusting workforce. Mar…

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Episode 575: Unlocking Restaurant Profitability: Fred Langley, CEO, Restaurant Systems Pro 58:01

5M ago58:01

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, Will interviews Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro. They discuss the challenges faced by restaurant owners, the importance of profitability, and the role of effective management systems in achieving success. Fred shares his journey from being a restaurant owner to helping o…

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Episode 35: Torch's New Core Values with Charlie Crowe 20:51

5M ago20:51

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In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Crowe to discuss the process of defining and formalizing the core values at Torch— values that had long been ingrained in the company’s culture. Charlie shares how leadership recognized these principles through years of experience and simply put them into words. We also explore the mindset of ownership at T…

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Episode 574: Building a Brand Through Community: David Stuck, CEO, Tin Kitchen 56:32

5M ago56:32

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Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley interviews David Stuck, owner of Tin Kitchen, who shares his unique journey in the hospitality industry. David discusses his early experiences, the importance of customer service, and the challenges he faced while starting his food truck business. He emphasizes the …

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The Secrets of Successfully Navigating Business Exits: Strategies and Insights 40:49

5M ago40:49

40:49

In this conversation, Mason Duchatschek speaks with Chris Riley, CEO of United Cutwater, about the intricacies of business transformation and exit strategies. Chris shares insights on how to maximize business value, the importance of preparation, and the various options available for business owners looking to sell. He emphasizes the need for opera…

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Episode 573: From Valet to Successful Restaurant Chain Owner: Joe Fontana, Owner & Founder, Fry the Coop 1:22:30

5M ago1:22:30

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Summary In this engaging conversation, Joe Fontana, owner of Fry the Coop, shares his journey from working in hospitality as a valet and bartender to opening his own successful restaurant chain specializing in chicken sandwiches. He discusses the importance of finding one's purpose, the role of mentorship, and the challenges of starting a business.…

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Rewards & Punishment: The Secrets to Inspiring Innovation, Cost Savings and Extra Effort 8:42

5M ago8:42

8:42

Summary In this conversation, Mason Duchatschek discusses the importance of behavior change in organizations, emphasizing that what gets rewarded gets repeated, while what gets punished is avoided. He shares stories illustrating how a lack of recognition can stifle innovation and employee engagement. Duchatschek advocates for creating a culture tha…

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Episode 572: The Importance of Customer Experience: Mykal Zangwill, Franchise Owner, Fuzzy Peach Frozen Yogurt Bar 44:12

5M ago44:12

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Summary In this conversation, Wil Brawley and Mykal Zangwill discuss the journey of Mykal's family-owned frozen yogurt business, Fuzzy Peach, and the challenges and rewards of working in the hospitality industry. They explore the importance of a positive mindset, the essence of customer experience, and the nuances of managing a self-serve business.…

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Episode 571: Innovating Compliance in the Food and Beverage Industry: Cliff Crider, CEO, Stinger Compliance 1:07:44

5M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

Summary In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Cliff Crider, CEO of Stinger Compliance and co-founder of Truck and Tap. They discuss Cliff's journey from working in fast food at Roy Rogers to becoming a real estate appraiser and eventually transitioning into the restaurant industry. Cliff shares insi…

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Episode 570: Building a Poke Empire: The Pokeworks Story with Peter Yang, Co-founder 45:10

6M ago45:10

45:10

Summary In this conversation, Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares his journey from growing up in a family restaurant to establishing a successful poke restaurant chain. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in the hospitality industry, the importance of customer service, and the strategic decisions that led to the birth and growth…

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Episode 34: Breakthrough T1D & New Hope Children's Clinic 12:56

6M ago12:56

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In this episode of the Keeping the Dream Alive podcast, we talk with Cindy Williamson, Executive Director of New Hope Children's Clinic, and Jennifer Bentley, State Director for Breakthrough T1D. They discuss the missions of their organizations: providing accessible healthcare for children in New Hope and advancing support and research for individu…

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Episode 33: 2024 Recap with Torch President Brad Walker 21:38

6M ago21:38

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In this episode of Keeping the Dream Alive, we sit down with Brad Walker, President of Torch Technologies, to reflect on 2024 and discuss plans for 2025. Brad shares insights into Torch's growth, driven by strategic planning, employee ownership, and a focus on customer satisfaction. He highlights the company’s six focus areas, including maintaining…