In the debut episode of The Restaurant Roadmap, industry veterans Danny, Amanda Stokes, and Eric Lauer, together bringing 150+ years of experience, dive into what makes restaurant leadership truly effective. They explore why general managers are the linchpin of success and share practical strategies for building trust, setting clear expectations, and creating a culture of accountability, without micromanaging. From staffing and giving feedback to managing difficult team members and leading across generations, the hosts reveal how strong leadership drives both happier employees and better guest experiences.

The Restaurant Roadmap is your guide to building and running a successful restaurant. Each episode explores the full journey of operations—from planning and development to menu design, execution, and growth. Hosts Danny Bendas, Amanda Stokes, and Chef Eric Lauer bring decades of expertise, joined by industry leaders and restaurant professionals who share their insights and stories. Together, they uncover strategies, tools, and lessons that help operators improve performance, strengthen teams, and elevate the guest experience. Whether you’re opening your first location or refining an established brand, The Restaurant Roadmap equips you to navigate every step with confidence.