Closed Monday

Andy Jones is a Certified Hospitality Leadership Coach focusing on creating people-centric organizations that deliver exceptional, memorable experiences for their guests.  Andy improves both individual and organizational performance by focusing on the human side of any business. Andy hosts The Hospitality Leadership Podcast and has over a decade of leadership experience across hospitality, retail,...

With more than 10 years of experience helping restaurants optimize their online presence at companies like Yelp, Yext, and Marqii, Marqii Co-Founder and CEO Avi Goren lives and breathes the daily challenges restaurant operators face. He’s committed to teaching them how to reduce the time they spend on tedious online tasks and get back to doing what they love – cooking great food. Marqii is a one-s...

Connect with Closed Monday Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@closedmondaypodcast⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠kyle@four-turns.com⁠⁠⁠ Special Offers Take a screenshot of you listening to the show, and tag @closedmondaypodcast, and I'll send you a FREE Closed Monday t-shirt. Subscribe & Share If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and share it with your friends and network. Your support helps us bring you more actionabl...

Stepping into the world of dining at just 14, Devin Eichler quickly ascended from the humble beginnings of washing dishes to establishing the renowned chain of Crafty Cow restaurants. This episode takes us on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, as we sit down with Devin to understand the grit, determination, and the rock 'n' roll spirit that fueled his culinary empire. As the world shifts,...

In this episode, we dive deep into the critical crossroads between being a restaurant entrepreneur and navigating the complex world of home ownership. Join our host Kyle Inserra alongside Jacob Letwosky, Senior Loan Officer at Cross Country Mortgage - a veteran in steering numerous clients through their mortgage and home-buying process, and Eric Wilson, a seasoned expert in spirits, cigars, and Se...

This week, we sit down with a restaurant industry powerhouse, podcaster, coach and now author - Chip Klose! Not only has our guest coached countless restaurateurs to success, but they've also penned the game-changing book, "The Restaurant Marketing Mindset." Dive in as we unpack the principles behind restaurant marketing and how shifting your mindset can spell the difference between...

In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to operate multiple successful restaurant ventures. From a necessary paradigm shift to financing your dream, we cover all the angles. Whether you're a single restaurant owner looking to scale or a seasoned entrepreneur aiming for greater heights, this episode is your roadmap. Key Takeaways The importance of shifting your mindset from being a res...

FREE CLOSED MONDAY MERCH! Head over to Apple Podcasts, leave us a review, screenshot it, and DM it to us, and we'll get you either a Closed Monday t-shirt, or trucker hat to rock and make people jealous. Ever wonder why your favorite restaurants choose to set up shop where they do? We're diving deep into the hotly debated world of 'Key Money,' the huge sums that restaurants may for...

FREE CLOSED MONDAY MERCH! Headover to Apple Podcasts, leave us a review, screenshot it, and DM it to us, and we'll get you either a Closed Monday t-shirt, or trucker hat to rock and make people jealous. Have you noticed that the line between restaurant meals and your grocery store's prepared food section is blurring? In his episode as we dissect the fierce competition for what ends up on y...

Today we chat with Charlie Eblen Owner of Single Tree BBQ & Host of Single Tree Nation Podcast. Charlie has spent his entire career in the restaurant industry, except when serving in the United States Army as a Cavalry Scout. Following his mantra of F.E.E.D (Focus, Effort, Enthusiasm, and Discipline), he works tirelessly to produce and serve the best plate of BBQ every time. All while providin...

In this episode, we dive why Mr. Beast wants out of the restaurant game, and other trending topics and answer some of your questions. Plus I'll dive into the treacherous pitfalls that can lead to a crash and burn. From the dangers of over-expansion and the toxicity of micromanagement to the perils of ignoring data, I'll expose the ticking time bombs that could be hiding in your business ri...

This episode delves into the unseen challenges that often accompany running a restaurant. Host Kyle Inserra shares his personal journey of overcoming partnership conflicts, navigating through a divorce, and battling substance abuse, all while running a successful restaurant business. This podcast serves as a resource for restaurant owners who are facing similar struggles, offering insights into me...

This episode we'll examine the events leading up to this critical pivot, investigating how a hidden fee led to widespread customer outrage. But it's not all controversy and chaos. In a commendable display of accountability, Toast admitted their mistake and promptly eliminated the fee, which mitigated the uproar and reinstated trust in their brand. Through this journey, we'll explore th...

Today I chat with Justin Simmons, one-half of the dynamic duo behind the successful sandwich joint Tony & Pete's in Dayton, Ohio. After spending years as a bartender, Justin and his wife, Kathleen, took a leap of faith to create a neighborhood favorite that's celebrating its first anniversary. Listen in as Justin shares their challenges, from securing the right real estate to developin...

Title: Employment and Edibles: Adapting to Cannabis Legalization In this episode, we explore the increasing presence of cannabis in the restaurant industry and the legal considerations it raises for employers. Many chefs draw inspiration from cannabis, and some individuals (ahem!) admit to past instances of smoking before work. However, the evolving landscape prompts questions about appropriate bo...

In this episode, we have the pleasure of talking with Howard Solomon, a hospitality industry veteran with an incredible journey spanning over 40 years in restaurants and 30 years in executive leadership roles. Howard's rich experience includes holding company leadership roles with notable brands such as Hard Rock Café, Cheesecake Factory, and Wolfgang Puck Food Company. He also served as the V...

Today's episode centers around the evolving landscape of digital tipping, unraveling the layers and the impact "tipping everywhere" has on restaurants. It's a candid discussion on the digital tipping revolution, its benefits and drawbacks, and the fine balance between justified generosity and undue pressure. I discuss the impact of digital tipping prompts on their earnings and th...

Title: Are Cursed Locations Really A Thing, Opening A Restaurant w/ Your Best Friend, Chef's Stealing Recipes Today we are starting something new. We're going to delve into questions I've received on social, regarding, restaurant real estate, the risky business of opening a restaurant with a friend, and the eerie allure of so-called 'cursed' locations. We're diving deep int...

About the show: We see the world through the eyes of the independent restaurant owner - hospitality, integrity, hard work, community, and innovation. This is a show for the progressive restaurateur and the curious cook looking to take the next step. For more insights, tips, and expert advice on becoming a restaurant entrepreneur, subscribe to Closed Monday on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Connect...

This year at the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, I had the pleasure to speak with Brittney Yarbrough, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Programs at Atmosphere TV, to discuss how Atmosphere (@atmosphere.tv) helps restaurants take on the challenge of keeping customers engaged when they are in your restaurant. As a marketing expert with ten years of experience, Brittney has he...

"Can You Be A Great Parent And Run A Successful Restaurant? Description: In this episode, we dive into the balancing act of managing a busy restaurant when you have a family . We delve into the multitude of challenges that come with wearing both hats and how these can impact familial & business relationships. We outline practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries, enhancing your t...

Leveraging Technology To Increase Profitability Episode Summary: This episode looks at the bottom-line challenges restaurants face, including unprecedented cost increases, labor shortages, the shift to off-premises dining, and persistent supply chain issues. Key Points Discussed: Optimizing price without impacting frequency - We discuss McDonald's successful strategy of small, gradual price in...

In today's episode, we'll cover everything from conducting in-depth market research and analyzing your competition to adapting your business model and developing a robust marketing strategy. Drawing from real-world examples, we'll provide actionable advice that you can apply to your own restaurant business. We'll also discuss the importance of regular implementation and review to e...

Since opening Cali BBQ 12 years ago, his family-run restaurant and media business in San Diego has generated more than $30 million in sales. As a restaurateur who opened during the Great Recession, Shawn Walchef learned to use digital tools and big ideas to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Shawn and his Cali BBQ Media team have developed a scalable plan that is three times more profitable th...

Discover the future of dining in this episode as we explore how AI-driven customer service revolutionizes the restaurant industry. Learn about the various applications of AI, from reservation management and personalized recommendations to real-time feedback and data-driven insights. Find out how implementing AI solutions can improve customer satisfaction, boost retention, and give your restaurant...