In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Peter Wiley, co-founder and marketing IT mastermind behind Hothead Burritos. They discuss the company's innovative use of technology and marketing strategies which have fueled their rapid growth. Peter shares insights on the importance of integrating marketing with IT, streamlining operations through digital ordering, and leveraging loyalty programs. The conversation also covers Hothead Burritos' unique offerings, including their variety of sauces, and their approach to catering and delivery. Listeners get a deep dive into how tech-savvy practices can lead to a more efficient and customer-focused restaurant experience.

00:00 Hot Head Burritos

01:13 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:41 Hothead Burritos: Brand Overview

04:18 Expansion and Locations

05:18 Customer Experience and Menu Customization

09:32 Digital Integration and Online Ordering

13:23 Third-Party Delivery and Integration

17:36 Catering and Large Orders

18:46 Creating an Online Ordering Menu for Catering

20:03 Evaluating Menu Offerings for Online and Catering

21:26 The Importance of Loyalty Programs

22:24 Incentivizing Catering Orders

27:19 Converting Customers Across Channels

30:35 Leveraging AI and Data Analytics

32:33 Popular Menu Items and Personal Favorites

34:39 Staying Engaged with Hothead Burritos

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian interviews Jason Ingermanson, the founder of Mokas Coffee and Eatery. Jason shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting a $30,000 coffee shop in a Kansas mall to growing multiple successful brands, including Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers. Celebrating Mokas 20-year anniversary, Jason discusses the development and franchising of Mokas, his focus on quality and community involvement, and the core values driving the brand's success. He also shares insights on local store marketing, guest loyalty, and support systems provided to prospective franchisees. Tune in for an inspiring story of passion, discipline, and dedication in the restaurant industry.

00:00 Mokas Coffee & Eatery

00:14 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:05 Jason's Journey: From Coffee Lover to Entrepreneur

03:02 The Birth and Growth of Mokas Coffee and Eatery

04:01 Navigating Challenges and Expanding During the Pandemic

05:21 Mokas' Unique Brand and Customer Experience

06:59 Commitment to Quality and Community

10:39 Franchising and Future Plans

18:13 The Story Behind the Name 'Mokas'

22:29 Franchisee Success Stories

23:14 The Importance of Transparency

23:41 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry

24:26 Expanding to New Markets

29:13 Local Store Marketing Strategies

32:06 Franchise Application Process

34:06 Discovery Day Experience

37:17 Master Franchise Opportunities

40:57 Connecting with Jason Ingram Manson

In this episode of the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, host Jeremy Julian converses with Paul Tran, a seasoned entrepreneur and franchise expert. With a 20-year journey in the restaurant industry, Paul shares his story of turning a student loan into a successful Cajun crawfish restaurant and subsequent experiences scaling major brands like Halal Guys and Pepper Lunch. Paul discusses the importance of selecting the right franchisee, maintaining operational consistency, and building strong relationships between franchisees and franchisors. He also offers insights on effective marketing strategies and operations that contribute to franchise success. The episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to scale in the restaurant industry or seeking entrepreneurial inspiration.

00:00 Paul Tran of Pepper Lunch

01:39 Introduction and Welcome

01:50 Meet Paul Tran: A Journey in the Restaurant Industry

02:35 Paul's Early Ventures and Lessons Learned

05:44 The Halal Guys and Franchise Experience

07:05 Pepper Lunch: A New Venture

09:27 Insights on Franchising and Finding the Right Franchisees

14:59 Challenges and Success in Scaling a Franchise

24:16 California Brands in Texas

24:54 Franchisee and Franchisor Relationships

26:02 Choosing the Right Franchisee

26:47 Healthy and Unhealthy Tensions

31:21 Marketing and Community Outreach

37:10 Pepper Lunch Concept Explained

42:36 Final Thoughts and Contact Information