FAST CASUAL - A podcast series by LANDED

In this special episode of the LANDED podcast, CEO Vivian speaks with Vladik Rikhter, cofounder of Watchpoint Labs, about the critical importance of security in hiring processes. They discuss common blind spots in data security, the significance of identity management, and how to operationalize security in hiring tech. Listen in to an engaging discussion on how restaurant and hospitality brands mu...

In this episode, LANDED  CEO  Vivian Wang sits down with Amanda Hyde , SVP of Operations at Krystal, to talk all things people, leadership, and culture. Amanda shares lessons from her journey in restaurant ops—from honoring legacy brands to driving innovation—and reveals why great guest experiences start with empowered teams. They dive into what it  really  takes to build a standout culture, attra...

In this episode of Fast Casual, host Miranda Copjec speaks with Kelly Gray, VP and Co-Owner of Hot Head Burritos, about her journey from commercial real estate to restaurant leadership. They discuss the importance of empowering women in hospitality, the unique appeal of Hot Head Burritos, and the significance of understanding customer needs. Kelly shares her insights on the transition between indu...

In this episode, Miranda Copjec chats with Sarah Kaehler and Alexei Leonard, Partners at Golenblock, to discuss the intersection of AI technology and recruitment law in the hospitality industry. They explore how AI can serve as an extension of the workforce, its evolution in employment practices, and the future of AI in the hospitality industry.

In this conversation, LANDED's Miranda Copjec interviews Gray Raines, managing partner of Raines Hospitality, discussing the growth of the family business, the importance of maintaining a strong company culture, and the challenges of work-life balance in the hospitality industry. Gray shares insights on the role of technology in their growth and how they navigate the evolving landscape of hospital...

In this episode of Fast Casual, LANDED's Miranda Copjec interviews Lauren Coulter, owner of Biscuit Belly, discussing her unique journey from pharmacy to the restaurant industry. Lauren shares insights on the growth of Biscuit Belly, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of customer feedback and technology in scaling the business. The conversation highlights the sig...

In this episode of Fast Casual, host Miranda Copjec speaks with Jamie Starner, a seasoned leader in talent acquisition. They discuss Jamie's transition from the hospitality industry to the beverage sector, emphasizing the importance of investing in HR teams to enhance employee experience and retention. Jamie shares effective recruitment strategies, the evolution of talent acquisition, and the role...

In this episode of Fast Casual, host Miranda Copjec interviews Mark Hauder, Regional Director of Operations at Hoogland Restaurant Group. Mark shares his extensive experience in the pizza industry, discussing his journey from working in restaurants as a child to leading operations for one of the largest franchisees of Marco's Pizza. The conversation covers various themes including the evolution of...

In this episode of Fast Casual, Miranda Copjec interviews Mark Lohmann, CEO of Birdcall, discussing the innovative strategies and leadership lessons that have driven the rapid growth of the fast-casual restaurant brand. Mark shares insights from his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining company culture during expansion, the significance of hirin...

In this episode of Fast Casual, LANDED's Miranda Copjec speaks with Mehdi Zarhloul, CEO and Founder of Crazy Pita. They discuss Crazy Pita's journey from a single location to a growing franchise, emphasizing the importance of hands-on leadership, adapting to change, and maintaining a customer-centric approach. Mehdi shares insights on innovative growth strategies, the role of technology in the res...

In this episode, LANDED's Miranda Copjec sits down with Steve Weigel, Chief Operating Officer of Goodberry’s, to explore how the beloved family business has grown into a household name. Steve shares the pivotal strategic decisions behind their success, from prioritizing wholesome ingredients to crafting their own unique mix. They delve into the significance of fostering a strong company culture an...

In this episode, Miranda Copjec engages with the executive team of CMG, a franchise powerhouse managing brands like KFC, Taco Bell, and Sonic. The conversation explores their journey from college friends to successful franchise operators, the operational challenges they faced while scaling their businesses, and the importance of maintaining quality and consistency across numerous locations. The te...

Join Miranda Copjec from LANDED as she sits down with Aaron Noveshen, CEO of Starbird, to explore his remarkable journey from chef to restaurant industry leader. In this episode, Aaron dives into key lessons on scaling a brand without compromising values, the impact of culture on employee retention, and why thoughtful hiring is crucial for success. Listeners will gain insights into the role of int...

In this episode of Fast Casual, we sit down with Fasika Melaku, SVP of HR and Chief Learning Officer at Denny’s, to explore the transformative power of access, mobility, and purpose in the restaurant industry. Fasika shares her inspiring journey from starting as a hostess to becoming a senior executive, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for growth at all levels. Throughout the c...

In the restaurant industry, the demand for unique, craft beverages is on the rise. Jason Valentine, Chief Strategy Officer of Botrista Technology, shares insights on how their automated beverage platform is transforming the way restaurants serve cold drinks. From his roots in the industry, influenced by his father’s experience with McDonald’s, to leading innovative beverage solutions, Jason discus...

In the second part of our conversation with Ben Van Leeuwen, CEO and co-founder of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, we delve into the essence of creating and maintaining a strong business culture. Ben shares his philosophy on leadership, the importance of hiring the right people, and how the company ensures consistent quality and service across all locations. He also discusses the significance of training a...

Join Ben Van Leeuwen, CEO of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey from operating a single ice cream truck to managing a growing network of scoop shops and grocery distribution across the United States. Discover the challenges and triumphs of introducing a premium product in a competitive market, the strategic decisions behind location selection, and the importance of mai...

In this episode, Na'im Muhammad, a seasoned transactional law attorney and Managing Partner & CEO at NDM Capital, LLC, delves into the complexities and strategies of raising capital globally and the impactful role of effective team development in the franchising business. Drawing from his extensive experience in investment banking and franchise management, Na'im shares insightful strat...

Join Marvin Alballi, a seasoned F&B executive and best-selling author, as he dives deep into the transformative trends in global hospitality. In this engaging podcast, Marvin shares his extensive experience across various sectors—from fast food to fine dining—and discusses the shift towards premium, chef-inspired restaurants and refined dining experiences. Discover the importance of innovation...

In this enlightening podcast episode, Aaron Harper, CEO & Owner of Rolling Suds Power Washing, delves into his dynamic transition from the entertainment industry to franchising, highlighting his strategic maneuvers within the franchise domain. With a sharp focus on franchise development rather than personal accolades, Aaron shares his journey through various industries before finding his niche...

In this insightful episode, Chris Ciavarra, Principal at Scotch Game, delves into the critical aspects of strategic growth for multi-unit retail and restaurants. He shares his rich background in hospitality and discusses the nuanced challenges of managing product, pricing, and marketing within the industry. Key topics include the importance of understanding market dynamics, optimizing operational...

In this engaging podcast episode, Clement Troutman shares his inspiring transition from Navy life to becoming the owner of a top-performing Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchise. He highlights key insights on leadership, community service, and the importance of building a strong team. Clement’s story illustrates how diverse experiences can forge a successful path in hospitality, emphasizing the role of...

In this fascinating discussion with Larry Linen, EVP & COO of HOA Brands, we explore the transformative journey of an iconic brand that has continuously adapted to market dynamics while staying true to its core values. From early adaptions to digital platforms and third-party delivery to innovative store models that fit local markets globally, Linen shares insights into how HOA Brands maintain...

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the profound changes and challenges the restaurant industry faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on inflation impacts and hiring dynamics. Jim, a seasoned hospitality consultant, shares his journey from operations to advisory, highlighting his experiences and the inception of his consulting firm, Benchmark Sixty. The discussion revolves around pr...

In this compelling podcast episode, Shawn Walchef, CEO of Cali BBQ Media, recounts his evolution from a traditional restaurant owner to a digital-savant entrepreneur. Shawn delves into the transformative impact of a robust digital presence in the hospitality sector, emphasizing the importance of social media storytelling and self-driven media creation. He provides insights into leveraging digital...