What if AI didn't replace great leaders... but made them even better?

In this episode of the ChatGTM Podcast, Michael Beck and Chad Horn sit down with Patrick Bobrukiewicz, technology leader at Thrive Restaurant Group, Google AI Influencer, and one of hospitality's most respected voices on AI and operational innovation.

While much of the conversation around AI focuses on automation and efficiency, Patrick offers a different perspective:

The future belongs to organizations that use AI to make people more human, not less.

From freeing General Managers from spreadsheets to empowering better leadership, improving employee culture, and creating more meaningful guest experiences, Patrick explains why AI should be viewed as an Iron Man suit, not a replacement for the person inside.

The discussion explores the intersection of leadership, technology, culture, and hospitality, offering practical insights for restaurant operators, franchise leaders, technology providers, and anyone preparing their organization for the future of work.

✅ Why AI should make leaders more human—not replace them

✅ Freeing General Managers from the back office

✅ Building trust in AI across restaurant operations

✅ The future of restaurant leadership

✅ Why EQ becomes more valuable in the age of AI

✅ Connecting POS, labor, guest feedback, and operational data

✅ How AI can improve culture and employee engagement

✅ The importance of designing technology around people

✅ Why frontline adoption determines AI success

✅ Creating personalized guest experiences through AI

💬 "Burn the kilowatt hours, not the man hours."

💬 "Return on Attention is becoming just as important as Return on Investment."

💬 "The companies that win in the AI era will focus on the humans first."

Patrick Bobrukiewicz

VP AI Strategy & Innovation | Thrive Restaurant Group

Google AI Influencer

Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-bobrukiewicz/

The ChatGTM Podcast features conversations with the founders, operators, executives, and innovators shaping hospitality, retail, AI, and Go-to-Market strategy.

Hosted by Michael Beck, CEO of Inc Tank GTM, and Chad Horn, each episode explores the people, ideas, and technologies transforming the industries they serve.

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Question for the audience:

Will AI replace great leaders...

...or give them more time to become even better leaders?

Tell us what you think in the comments.

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