Rock My Restaurant

In this insightful episode of Rock My Restaurant, host Paul Barron and Norton Creative CEO Robin Blanchette dive into effective marketing strategies for independent restaurants and small chains operating on limited budgets. They explore the importance of brand identity, customer journey mapping, compelling food photography, and strategic social media presence while sharing practical advice on website essentials, leveraging customer reviews, and choosing the right platforms to connect with target audiences. Blanchette emphasizes that successful restaurant marketing combines both artistry and science to drive profitability, not just create beautiful designs. ~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~ #1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more With Gusto’s easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto. RestaurantMarketing #FoodBusinessTips #SmallRestaurantSuccess Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/ Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights. Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this insightful episode of "Rock My Restaurant," host Paul Barron interviews Jim Balis of CapitalSpring about the evolving restaurant investment landscape. Balis shares CapitalSpring's approach to investing in restaurants, revealing they look for concepts with 15%+ store-level margins and 20%+ ROI. He discusses valuation multiples in today's "moderate" market, when founders should consider taking capital, exit strategies for brands, and his optimism about "fast casual 3.0" concepts that deliver elevated dining experiences without full service. ~This episode is sponsored by: Gusto → https://gusto.pxf.io/PBN ~ #1 rated HR platform for payroll, benefits, and more With Gusto’s easy-to-use platform, you can empower your people and push your business forward. See why over 400,000 businesses choose Gusto. RestaurantInvestment #FastCasual3 #RestaurantGrowth Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/ Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights. Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory

In this eye-opening interview, restaurant marketing innovator Shawn P. Walchef reveals why traditional advertising is dead and how restaurants must adapt in 2025. The founder of Cali BBQ Media shares his groundbreaking "Be the Show, Not the Commercial" philosophy, explaining how any restaurant can build a powerful digital presence through authentic storytelling. From live streaming kitchen preparations to building genuine community connections, Walchef provides actionable insights on transforming your restaurant into a media powerhouse, regardless of your location or technical expertise. RestaurantMarketing #FoodContent #DigitalStorytelling Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. ➡ Visit www.savor.fm Follow on X: Savor_fm

In this eye-opening interview, restaurant industry expert Fred LeFranc reveals how leadership is dramatically evolving in 2025. From the rise of AI and automation changing management tasks, to the emergence of fractional C-suite roles, and the shift away from traditional hierarchical leadership models, LeFranc breaks down what successful restaurant leaders need to focus on now. He explains why human skills like emotional intelligence and self-awareness are becoming more crucial than ever, while sharing insights on how younger generations are reshaping workplace culture. Whether you're a current leader or aspiring to be one, this conversation offers essential perspectives on balancing technology with human elements in modern restaurant leadership. RestaurantLeadership #FutureOfHospitality #RestaurantIndustry 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

In this insightful episode of Rock My Restaurant, industry veteran Vaughan Dugan shares his predictions for the restaurant industry in 2025. From the evolution of customer loyalty programs to the surprising surge in gift card sales, Dugan explores how operators can adapt to changing consumer behaviors. The discussion covers essential advice for restaurant startups, the importance of building genuine community connections, and emerging opportunities in real-time social commerce for hospitality businesses. RestaurantIndustry #FoodService #HospitalityBusiness 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

The restaurant industry is on the brink of a technological transformation that goes beyond mere efficiency, focusing on using innovative technologies like AI and augmented reality to create more meaningful, engaging, and career-driven workplace experiences. By implementing smart tools that provide real-time coaching, personalized career insights, and recognition systems, restaurants can address high turnover rates and empower employees to see their jobs as genuine career opportunities rather than temporary positions. #RestaurantInnovation #EmployeeTech #FutureOfWork RestaurantInnovation #EmployeeTech #FutureOfWork 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

A deep dive into the evolving restaurant industry landscape, exploring how innovative brands like Crave Worthy are adapting to Gen Z preferences through international cuisine, digital marketing strategies, cross-brand loyalty, and authentic brand storytelling. Guest: Gregg Majewski of Crave Worthy Brands #RestaurantInnovation #FoodTrends #GenZMarketing 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

As Gen Z reshapes the restaurant industry, understanding their distinct dining preferences for interactive, tech-integrated experiences is crucial. Restaurants should offer customizable meals, shareable snacks, and strategic social media presence to attract this influential demographic. Guest: Troy Hooper | CEO of Hot Palette America 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

Industry experts Alejandro Marin Vidal and Shelly Ruple discuss how restaurants can revolutionize their customer engagement through gaming, web3, and innovative loyalty programs on the "Rock My Restaurant" podcast. Drawing from his experience at Activision, Marin Vidal emphasizes how modern consumers seek varied experiences and dopamine-driven entertainment, suggesting that restaurants should adopt collaborative loyalty programs—a "NATO of loyalty"—rather than maintaining isolated systems. While the industry has traditionally resisted centralized loyalty programs, the experts argue that emerging technologies like AR/VR and blockchain present unprecedented opportunities for creating immersive dining experiences and strengthening customer connections through shared resources and data. FutureOfDining #RestaurantTech #LoyaltyInnovation 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

"Rock My Restaurant" recently discussed the growing integration of gaming and web3 technologies into the restaurant industry. Hosts Paul Barron and Shelley Rupel explored the opportunities for brands to reach younger consumers through gaming platforms and loyalty programs. Barron highlighted data showing the massive growth of e-sports and brand partnerships, with major chains like Burger King, Chipotle, and McDonald's increasingly active in this space. Rupel noted that smaller restaurant brands are also looking to leverage gaming integrations, but often need technology platforms like Devour to enable cost-effective activations. A key focus was the role of gamification and loyalty. Rupel explained that points-based programs are less engaging than missions, quests, and dynamic rewards tied to user activity. Brands are exploring ways to blend social media, in-app actions, and blockchain-backed digital assets to create more immersive loyalty experiences. The discussion also touched on the evolution of augmented reality and the potential impact of devices like Meta's new Quest 3 headset. Barron argued this could be a "ready player one" moment, with AR enabling new modes of productivity, gaming, and spatial computing that brands will need to consider. Overall, the podcast emphasized that the restaurant industry must adapt to the growing influence of gaming, web3, and emergent technologies to stay relevant with younger consumers. Brands that can authentically integrate these elements into the customer experience will be best positioned for the future.

Forbes is pioneering Web3 integration in legacy media through its Forbes Legacy Pass program, a soulbound NFT initiative led by VP of Web3 Mani Patel, offering valuable insights for the restaurant industry's digital evolution. By establishing a dedicated blockchain department and creating an exclusive, application-based digital membership system, Forbes demonstrates how traditional businesses can embrace Web3 technology while maintaining brand value and community engagement - a model particularly relevant for fine dining establishments looking to enhance their premium experiences with digital collectibles and blockchain-based features. Web3Innovation #FutureOfDining #DigitalTransformation 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

The restaurant industry is undergoing a digital revolution, as discussed in a recent "Rock My Restaurant" podcast featuring Feifei Hu, Paul Barron, and Shelly Rupel. Key trends include authentic community engagement, especially in gaming spaces, balancing appeal across demographics, and leveraging AI and automation for operational efficiency. Emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles and drone delivery are set to reshape food services. The industry faces challenges in adopting these innovations while maintaining brand authenticity, emphasizing the need for leaders who can navigate both current and future digital landscapes to ensure success in this evolving market. RestaurantTech #DigitalDining #FutureOfFood 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

Web3 gaming is emerging as a powerful new frontier for restaurant brand engagement and customer loyalty. In a recent "Rock My Restaurant" podcast episode, industry experts discussed how integrating loyalty programs into gaming experiences, creating comprehensive brand ecosystems, and leveraging storytelling can revolutionize how restaurants connect with customers. Companies like Wagmi Games and Devour are pioneering innovative approaches, such as NFT characters and in-game promotions, while advancements in AR and VR technology promise to further blur the lines between physical dining and digital experiences. This convergence of gaming, loyalty, and immersive technology offers restaurants unprecedented opportunities to create engaging, interactive experiences for their customers. 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

The restaurant industry is exploring Web3 technologies like blockchain and digital collectibles, as discussed on the "Rock My Restaurant" podcast. Beezie's platform for digital twins of physical collectibles was highlighted, along with the potential for blockchain in loyalty programs, marketing, and e-commerce. While adoption is still in early stages, there's growing interest among restaurant brands in leveraging Web3 for brand extension, community building, and unique digital experiences. Education and focus on tangible benefits are key to driving adoption in the industry. #Web3Restaurants #BlockchainLoyalty #DigitalCollectibles 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

The restaurant industry is grappling with a significant shift in consumer behavior, particularly among Generation Z, as traditional loyalty programs and marketing strategies lose effectiveness. The "Rock My Restaurant" podcast discusses how emerging technologies like blockchain, AI, and AR/VR, along with gaming integrations, could revolutionize brand engagement and loyalty for younger consumers. While some major brands are experimenting with these approaches, many restaurant executives remain hesitant. The hosts emphasize the need for authenticity, personalization, and emotional connections in loyalty programs, suggesting that brands must adapt to create more engaging, community-driven experiences to remain relevant to Gen Z consumers. FutureOfLoyalty #GenZMarketing #RestaurantTech 🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ A recent "Rock My Restaurant" podcast episode featuring Paul Barron and Shelly Rupel from Devour explored the future of restaurant loyalty programs and the potential impact of Web3 technologies. The discussion highlighted the limitations of traditional point-based systems and emphasized the need for community-driven experiences. Web3 technologies like blockchain and NFTs were presented as solutions for creating unique digital collectibles, exclusive experiences, and verifiable ownership of rewards. The speakers stressed the importance of user-friendly implementation and the potential for cross-brand collaborations and digital twins to extend brand presence into virtual spaces, ultimately revitalizing customer relationships in the competitive restaurant industry. RestaurantLoyalty #Web3Innovation #FutureDining 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://savorfm.substack.com/ Web3 technologies are revolutionizing brand engagement and customer loyalty, as exemplified by The Gods NFT project's collaborations with traditional brands like Dogghouse and the Big3 basketball league. These partnerships leverage engaged online communities to create unique experiences and tokenized promotions, offering exclusive perks to NFT holders. The podcast "Rock My Restaurant" discusses how this approach can help restaurants and other brands connect with younger, tech-savvy consumers, emphasizing the importance of aligned incentives and authentic community engagement. Early adopters of these Web3 strategies may gain a significant competitive advantage in customer acquisition and retention, similar to the benefits seen by early adopters of e-commerce and online ordering. 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index Follow on X: Savor_fm

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in food service! - https://www.savor.fm/ The Rock My Restaurant Podcast, hosted by Shelly Rupel and Paul Barron, explores Web3 integration in loyalty programs with guest Steve Kaczynski. They discuss how blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and NFTs are revolutionizing customer rewards, citing Boba Guys' successful NFT-based membership program as a case study. The episode draws parallels between gaming and loyalty programs, explores Web3 payment technologies, and examines how brands can leverage their IP in the Web3 space. The hosts offer practical advice for businesses looking to implement Web3 loyalty programs. 📈 Learn More ~ Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry. https://www.savor.fm/restaurant-power-index

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in foodservice! - https://www.savor.fm/ Strategies for restaurants to regain customer loyalty, particularly among Generation Z, amid declining loyalty due to abundant choices and changing consumer behaviors. We explore leveraging technology, offering unique experiences, emphasizing authenticity, personalization, and creating shareable moments to engage Gen Z consumers effectively. #RestaurantMarketing #GenZLoyalty #DiningExperiences 📈 Learn More ~ https://www.revernetworks.com/restaurant-power-index Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry.

🫶 Subscribe NOW - Unlock a world of knowledge, innovation, and growth from the largest podcast network in foodservice! - https://www.savor.fm/ Nekter Juice Bar has carved out a niche in the competitive healthy fast casual sector by excelling in five key areas: a commitment to high-quality, locally sourced, and organic ingredients; an innovative and ever-evolving menu with unique offerings like superfood smoothies and acai bowls; an exceptional customer experience with knowledgeable staff and an inviting store design; perceived value for the Gen Z consumer by aligning with their values of health, sustainability, and authenticity; and the ability to stay relevant by continuously adapting to changing trends and engaging with customers through social media. By delivering on these fronts, Nekter Juice Bar has built a loyal customer base, particularly among health-conscious Gen Z consumers, and stood out in the crowded market. 📈 Learn More ~ https://www.revernetworks.com/restaurant-power-index Restaurant Power Index featuring the top 50 brands' performance in consumer sentiment based on 12 performance markers in food, service, and overall brand consumer sentiment. The RPI features historical and current sentiment analysis for key brands based on the overall market sentiment data. Subscribe for weekly reports on the top brands in the restaurant industry.