LATE CHECKOUT - A podcast series by LANDED

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Johanny Mateo, Director of Talent and People Operations at Tacombi, to explore the dynamic world of HR within a fast-growing restaurant chain. Johanny recounts her unexpected journey into HR, her passion for connecting individuals with their ideal roles, and how this has played a crucial role in Tacombi's expansion to 20 locations across the US. She r...

Join Mark Braver, Director of Operations and Partner at The Fifty/50 Group, for an engaging session on the art of expanding and diversifying hospitality ventures across states. Dive into the group's journey of launching unique concepts, from a hybrid bakery-cannabis dispensary in Illinois to a craft beer taproom in Indiana, and the Second City theater's debut in New York. Mark will share i...

Discover the secrets behind McNellie's Restaurant Group's impressive growth from Jim O'Connor, Director of Operations. From starting with just a few locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to expanding to 16 brands and 25 locations, learn how McNellie's navigated the complexities of the restaurant industry, adapted to challenges like COVID-19 and inflation, and prioritized employee well-bein...

Join Kayla Edidin, Sr. Director of Franchise Development at Ascent Hospitality Management, for a revealing session on her journey from operations to franchise development. Discover the unique challenges and rewards of expanding legacy brands like Huddle House and Perkins. Kayla will share insights on selecting franchisees who are true brand advocates, fostering community connections, and ensuring...

Yogi Mueller, VP of Leadership and Talent Development at Bluegreen Vacations, shares his profound insights on the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry post-Covid. He discusses the challenges of staffing shortages and the shifting priorities of both employees and leaders in this sector. Yogi emphasizes the importance of nurturing a culture that values, respects, and appreciates employees,...

Dive into an engaging conversation with Bonnie Iavaroni, Chief Operating Officer at Turning Point Restaurants, as she recounts her journey from joining a single-location operation to steering the company's expansion to multiple states. Bonnie sheds light on the strategic aspects of scaling up, including the complexities of managing franchisee support and multiple location openings. The discuss...

Dive into the world of quick-service restaurant (QSR) operations with Marshell J. Richards, Director of Franchise Field Operations at Zaxby's. In this episode, Marshell offers a rare glimpse into the dynamics of managing over 800 locations, sharing strategies that propelled Zaxby's through rapid growth and significant industry changes. We explore crucial topics like adapting QSR operations...

Dive into the world of franchise operations with Jesse Deshield, Sr. Director of Franchise Ops & Innovation at Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe, as she unveils the strategies behind managing rapid growth in the hospitality industry. This episode focuses on the unique challenges of scaling a franchise, including new store openings, staff training, and maintaining quality across expanding locatio...

This episode delves into the dynamic and challenging world of hospitality management with insights from Aimee Fyke, COO at Tharaldson Hospitality Management. Aimee explores key topics such as labor inflation, the art of retaining top talent in a competitive landscape, and the importance of a strong organizational culture. She sheds light on the innovative strategies used to maintain operational ex...

Dive into the complex world of human resources in the hospitality sector with Nancy Rose, Vice President of Human Resources at Tailwind Hospitality. Nancy brings her extensive experience to the forefront, discussing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining talent in the post-COVID era. The conversation covers the prevalent issue of 'ghosting' in job interviews and the implementat...

Join us as we explore the dynamic world of human resources in the hospitality industry with Jill Waller, HR Director at Max Hospitality. With a rich background in HR and a unique journey through different industries, Jill shares her insights on tackling the pressing challenges of recruitment and retention in today's evolving hospitality landscape. Discover how Max Hospitality is creatively add...

Join Ashley Kappa, Human Resources Director at One Off Hospitality Group, for an insightful discussion on the evolution of human resources in the hospitality industry, especially in the wake of COVID-19. With a background deeply rooted in various roles within the industry, Ashley brings a unique perspective on creating structured, positive work environments and adapting to the changing needs and e...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Curt Siverling, Senior Vice President of Operations at J & A Food Service, Inc, shares his journey from dishwashing to leading multiple franchises. He delves into the key challenges of finding and training the right people, maintaining quality staff, and managing supply and demand in a post-COVID landscape. Siverling also explores the dynamics of working with...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Ryan Nowicki, Senior Director of Operations Excellence & Strategic Initiatives at Dave & Buster's, discusses how technology and changing guest needs have transformed entertainment venues, emphasizing the importance of hospitality in creating memorable experiences. Gain insights into the challenges of rapid growth and the strategies employed to maintain...

In this engaging conversation, Stephanie Thomas, Associate Director, Launch Ops + Supply Chain, delves into her journey from finance to spearheading launches at Kasa, an innovative hospitality brand. She explores the intricate and inventive process of transforming new properties, emphasizing design, staffing, and addressing operational challenges in the dynamic post-COVID environment. Stephanie hi...

On this episode of Late Checkout Zell Henderson, the Regional Director of Operations at Noodles & Company, shares his experiences and the key factors behind his successful career. Zell discusses the importance of a strong, nurturing workplace culture in the hospitality industry and how it contributes to employee growth and retention. He also explores the challenges and opportunities in adaptin...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Jodi Latuszek, VP of HR, Legal and ESG at Biggby Coffee, highlights the key differences with Gen Z employees and discusses her corporate strategy to better retain them. Tune in to learn what Gen Z employees really want and get an insider perspective on effective retention strategies.

On this episode of Late Checkout, Francine Rodriguez, Director of Talent Acquisition at PLANTA, delves into the evolving landscape of talent acquisition in the hospitality industry post-COVID. She emphasizes the need to broaden recruitment strategies beyond traditional niches, focusing on transferable skills and a passion for hospitality. Francine also highlights the importance of benefits, growth...

As the year ends, hospitality and event management professionals gear up for strategic planning. Traditional methods often fall short. This podcast with Sue Jeon, General Manager from CSI DMC, offers a new lens for industry challenges. Learn from Sue’s transition from interpreter to event management leader, how to navigate post-COVID workforce changes, and excel in event planning. This episode imp...

On this episode of Late Checkout, Chad shares his unique entrepreneurial journey, starting from a young age and leading to his current role as Chief Operating Officer in the craft beer industry. He delves into the challenges faced by the restaurant and brewery sectors, especially in California, and discusses innovative strategies for staff retention and business growth. Chad's insights offer a...

As we step into a pivotal time for hospitality professionals, Jessica Hubsmith, General Manager at NDM Hospitality, leads an essential discourse, reshaping the conventional paradigms of the industry. In her enlightening conversation, Jessica navigates through the complexities of post-COVID workforce dynamics, the integration of cutting-edge technology, and culinary innovation. This session is a be...

On this episode of Late Checkout, Nelson Leiser, Regional Director - Talent Acquisition at Bluegreen Vacations, shares insights from his diverse experience in both the healthcare and hospitality industries. He discusses the unique challenges of recruiting in these sectors, highlighting the differences in talent acquisition strategies and the importance of adapting to market nuances. Nelson also de...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Rob Meister, Director of Operations for Levy Restaurants, shares his journey from entrepreneur to sports and entertainment hospitality leader. He emphasizes the importance of building a positive work culture, where staff are motivated, appreciated, and seen as individuals with unique goals and aspirations. Rob's approach focuses on proactive engagement with em...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Romain Taverne, Regional Director of Operations at AMAN, shares his unique journey from aspiring doctor to leading operations in the hotel and restaurant industry. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in hospitality post-COVID, emphasizing the need for a new business model that balances employee needs and consumer expectations. Taverne also explores the e...

In this episode of Late Checkout, Alex Mann and Brooks Ellis, Senior Vice President at Evolution Parking & Guest Services reveal key insights into the challenges and strategies of the hospitality industry, focusing on hiring practices, staff retention, and maintaining service excellence. Brooks shares his perspective on adapting to post-COVID trends, the importance of creating a compelling wor...