Want to build a restaurant career that doesn't leave you burnt out? In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, we chat with Justin Khanna, a chef who's cooked at some of the world's best restaurants, before switching gears to become an educator and founder of Repertoire. Justin takes us behind the scenes of his days at Per Se and The French Laundry, sharing what those kitchens taught him about way more than just cooking great food. He explains why running a successful restaurant isn't just about having a superstar chef but about creating systems that work even when you're not there. Justin also dives into how his education platform helps restaurants keep their best staff by actually measuring what makes someone good at their job. If you want to level up your restaurant career or build a team that sticks around, you'll walk away with practical ideas you can use immediately.
Resources
- Connect with Justin Khanna on LinkedIn and TikTok 🔗
- Visit: Repertoire 📚
- Watch: Justin's YouTube Channel 📺
- 7shifts Restaurant Management Training Guide 📝
Chapters
- 0:00 - Justin's culinary background and content creation
- 2:12 - Fine dining kitchens
- 5:40 - What fine dining kitchen culture is really like
- 11:10 - Finding your own voice as a chef
- 15:35 - Restaurant concepts vs chef personalities
- 21:30 - From pop-ups to full-time content creation
- 23:30 - The evolution of restaurant content creation
- 27:55 - Why Justin created Repertoire
- 33:25 - Repertoire's focus
- 38:50 - Justin advice for aspiring hospitality content creators
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
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More 7shifts
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Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
AI is changing the restaurant marketing game in ways that can save you time while boosting your revenue. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, I chat with Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur who's truly mastered the marketing side of the business.
Josh breaks down how restaurants of any size can use AI tools like ChatGPT to create better email campaigns, design loyalty programs that actually work, and analyze menu performance - all without needing a marketing degree.
What I love about Josh's approach is how practical it is. He shows you exactly how to get started, even if you've never used AI before. And for just $20 a month, you can access tools that Josh says are like "hiring an expert instead of a teenager."
Restaurant owners drowning in spreadsheets and those looking to bring more guests through the door will find Josh's strategies helpful for saving hours each week while potentially adding thousands to monthly revenue.
Resources
- Connect with Josh on LinkedIn 🔗
- Check out JoshKopel.com 🌐
- Join Josh's monthly 5-day challenge for restaurant owners 🚀
- 7shifts: How Top Multi-Unit Restaurants are Using Tech to Grow📱
Chapters
- 01:27 - Meeting Josh Kopel
- 05:15 - Getting started with AI (even if you're intimidated)
- 07:05 - Creating marketing campaigns that actually convert
- 13:14 - Building loyalty programs inspired by credit card companies
- 19:39 - Using AI to identify menu winners and losers
- 22:44 - The future of restaurant tech that excites Josh
- 28:13 - Final advice for the overwhelmed restaurant owner
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Breaking free from being the "superhero" operator can transform your restaurant's future. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, we talk with Avery Ward, third-generation CEO of Little Italy Ristorante in Groveport, Ohio, about how he turned around his family's struggling business. Avery shares how his tech background helped him implement smart systems that let him step back from daily operations. He breaks down exactly how he delegates tasks, documents processes, and builds accountability at every level - allowing him to expand from a single location to a growing restaurant group. Both struggling operators managing everything themselves and successful owners looking to scale will find valuable takeaways in Ward's practical approach to working on your business instead of just in it.
Resources
- Connect with Avery Ward on LinkedIn 🔗
- Watch: Slice of Life on YouTube 📺
- Visit: Little Italy Ristorante 🍕
- 7shifts Restaurant Management Blog 📝
Chapters
- 00:00 - Introduction to Avery Ward (CEO of Little Italy restaurant)
- 01:19 - The 60-year history of Little Italy Restaurant
- 07:00 - How technology transformed restaurant operations
- 09:32 - Finding time to work ON your business, not just IN it
- 12:17 - Building accountability through clear expectations
- 20:05 - The "lightbulb theory" of delegation
- 23:57 - Creating company structure and role clarity
- 27:56 - The path to opening Main Ground Coffee
- 33:30 - Building an ESOP (employee stock ownership plan)
- 40:10 - Why documenting your restaurant's story matters
- 44:48 - Conclusion and Main Ground Coffee opening details
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Uncertainty seems to be the only certainty in today's restaurant industry. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, we sit down with Jay Ashton, Canada's Restaurant Guy, to discuss how Canadian restaurants can adapt to tariffs and economic challenges.
Jay shares practical strategies from his 35-year career. These go beyond simply raising prices to tactics like creating salads without lettuce and developing multiple revenue streams through newsletters and digital merchandising. Whether you're concerned about the current tariff situation or looking for always-relevant business advice for navigating uncertain times, Jay's approaches and timeless wisdom offer valuable insights for restaurants looking to thrive during economic shifts.
Resources
Connect with Jay on LinkedIn 🔗
Site: Canada's Restaurant Guy 🍁
Listen to The Late Night Restaurant Show 🌃
Strategies to offset tariffs newsletter 📰
Latest Updates on Canadian Tariffs | restaurantscanada.org 🇨🇦
Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Jay Ashton, Canada's restaurant guy
2:00 - Understanding the tariff situation for Canadian restaurants
4:00 - The impact of tariffs on restaurant inventory and pricing
7:30 - Menu innovation: "You can make salads without lettuce"
8:15 - The flex burger: Reducing costs through creative protein options
9:00 - Using the "why column" to evaluate every menu ingredient
12:00 - Preparing your business without panicking
14:00 - Cash flow is king: Smart inventory management
16:30 - Technology solutions for tracking costs and inventory
19:00 - Communicating price changes to your customers
22:00 - Why restaurants need five revenue streams
25:00 - Newsletter marketing as an additional revenue source
31:00 - Using Uber Eats as an e-commerce platform
33:30 - Developing CPG product lines and merchandise
35:45 - Final advice: Don't panic, have a plan
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
For many 16-year-olds, a first job is just a way to make some extra side cash—nothing more than a temporary gig. But for Julianna Blackhurst, a part-time job in high school became the foundation of her lifelong career.
In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, we sat down with the Senior Director of Franchise Operations at Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, to talk about two types of growth: career growth and franchise growth.
Resources:
- Check out Jeremiah’s Italian Ice 🍦
- Connect with Julianna on LinkedIn 🔗
- Follow Jeremiah’s on Instagram 📸
Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction and welcome
- 00:50 Juliana's career journey at Jeremiah's
- 03:33 The importance of company culture
- 05:48 Jeremiah's core values
- 12:25 The franchising model
- 17:17 Going outside of Florida
- 21:38 Leadership lessons
- 23:41 The 14-flavor offering model
- 25:16 Advice for young people
- 30:51 Juliana's favorite Jeremiah's menu item
- 35:40 Conclusion
Guest Bio:
Julianna Blackhurst, Senior Director of Franchise Operations, oversees the Operations for Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, responsible for the company’s 100+ locations in 11 states. She oversees the company’s ongoing expansion, as it is projected to reach 180+ units in 2025. In her previous role with Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, she was Director of Training and Operational Growth. Julianna was responsible for developing and administrating Jeremiah’s training program (“Cool School”) and the New Store Opening Process. Amidst her tenure, Ms. Blackhurst has been recognized by QSR Magazine in the 2021 issue of Young Leaders to Watch. Julianna takes pride in being active in the community, volunteering as a coach for Pop Warner sports. In 2017, Ms. Blackhurst received a Bachelor of Arts in History degree from the University of Central Florida and Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Finance, Rollins College 2021.
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
What if mandatory training didn’t have to be boring? With creative storytelling and an irreverent approach, ARROW UP Training makes engaging, effective training programs for restaurant teams.
In this episode, we’re joined by Jason Berkowitz, the founder and CEO of ARROW UP Training.
Jason offers insights into building consistent employee experiences and the role of continuous training in fostering a strong team—and a better guest experience. He also discusses the importance of structured onboarding, developing strong leaders, and the power of storytelling in training.
Resources
Check out ARROW UP Training ⬆️
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn 🔗
Connect with Jason on Instagram 🤳
Get Jason’s Book 📖
FREE video mini-course: Unlocking effortless restaurant scheduling 📲
Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
- 00:50 Meet Jason Berkowitz: From Restaurant Ops to ARROW UP
- 03:33 The Birth of ARROW UP
- 05:48 ARROW UP's Unique Training Approach
- 12:25 Implementing ARROW UP in Restaurants
- 17:17 Effective Onboarding and Training Practices
- 21:38 Growth Mindset in Restaurant Management
- 22:31 The Role of Supervisors
- 23:41 Building Effective Training Programs
- 25:16 Managing Friends and De-escalation Techniques
- 30:51 The Importance of Checklists
- 35:40 Customizing Training for Different Restaurant Cultures
- 37:49 Exciting Developments at ARROW UP
- 41:29 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Bio
Jason Berkowitz is currently the CEO and Found
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
In this episode, 'Restaurant Unstoppable' host Eric Cacciatorre teams up with industry experts James Schonzeit from Square and D.J. Costantino from 7shifts to tackle the pressing challenges of staffing and technology in the restaurant world.
Through a series of insightful discussions, they cover key topics such as hiring and retaining staff, leveraging technology for better operations, and balancing tech with genuine hospitality. The conversation offers practical advice, highlighting how flexible scheduling, proper training, and effective management practices can improve staff retention and satisfaction. They explore the use of kiosks and other tech tools to streamline processes and enhance customer interactions without losing the essence of hospitality. Additionally, the episode underscores the value of actionable strategies, like gradual tech integration, to boost profitability and team engagement. Real-life examples and survey insights provide a roadmap for restaurant owners and managers to navigate modern challenges and thrive in an evolving industry.
00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping
00:57 Meet the Hosts
01:53 Technical Difficulties and Introductions
04:47 Discussion on Restaurant Technology
05:49 Staffing Challenges in the Restaurant Industry
06:31 Survey Insights on Employee Retention
12:59 The Role of Technology in Employee Management
14:26 Customer Experience and Technology
28:08 Discussing Final Trends
28:40 Employee Training and Technology
30:08 Empowering Staff Through Continuous Training
30:49 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
31:36 Balancing Technology and Human Interaction
37:58 Addressing Staff Engagement and Retention
38:09 Q&A Session
38:47 Strategies for Improving Margins
48:27 Innovative Solutions for Staff Engagement
58:38 Closing Remarks
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, their strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
This episode of the Pre Shift Podcast focuses on Josh Sharkey, the founder and CEO of meez, an innovative recipe tool and culinary operating system. Josh shares his journey from a Michelin-starred chef to a tech entrepreneur. He discusses the motivation behind creating meez, driven by the loss of his recipe notebook and the need for a specialized tool for culinary professionals. Throughout the conversation, Josh elaborates on the challenges faced in transitioning to tech, the features of meez that enhance operational efficiency, and how it serves chefs and restaurant operators in maintaining consistency and profitability. Sharkey also highlights the importance of empowering teams with the right tools and maintaining a clear vision in business. Tune in for practical advice, real stories, and valuable insights into bridging creativity and profitability in the restaurant industry.
00:00 Introduction and Insight
00:29 Meet Josh Sharkey
01:21 The Birth of meez
03:03 Challenges and Solutions
05:42 Building the Company
08:30 Data and Recipe Management
22:47 Team Empowerment and Retention
27:12 Leadership and Vision
38:36 Exciting Developments
40:10 Conclusion and Farewell
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, their strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
In this episode of the Pre Shift Podcast, host D.J. Costantino welcomes Ross Groeneweg, Chief People and Strategy Officer at Pizza Ranch. They discuss the history of the family-owned business, which started in 1981 and grew into a 218-location franchise. Ross explains the company's successful franchise model and the relationship between franchisees and corporate, ensuring a consistent employee experience. He shares his personal journey within Pizza Ranch, starting from high school, advancing through various positions, and eventually becoming a leader. Ross emphasizes Pizza Ranch's core values, vision, mission, and benefits of collaborative franchisee relationships and shared learnings. The episode concludes with a sneak peek at upcoming company initiatives, including a new wing night promotion.
00:00 Introduction to the Pre-Shift Podcast
00:18 Meet Ross Groenweg, Chief People and Strategy Officer at Pizza Ranch
01:13 The Origin Story of Pizza Ranch
02:55 Franchise Model and Corporate Partnership
04:06 Ross's Journey Through Pizza Ranch
07:15 Core Values and Vision of Pizza Ranch
09:10 Challenges and Strategies in Employee Retention
13:41 Collaborative Nature of Pizza Ranch Franchisees
15:14 Career Growth and Opportunities at Pizza Ranch
21:12 Future Plans and Exciting Initiatives
22:09 Conclusion and Farewell
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, their strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
Mike Bausch, a certified master pizzaiolo and the brains behind Andolini's Worldwide joins DJ Costantino on the Pre Shift Podcast.
In this episode, Mike shares his journey from aspiring Marine Corps officer to leading a 12-restaurant empire in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Recognized nationwide for their exceptional pizza, Andolini's success is attributed to a commitment to quality and a no-half-measures philosophy. Mike outlines his leadership and staff training techniques, explaining why he avoids the term 'family' in favor of a more professional 'team' dynamic. He also discusses his transition into becoming a mentor and educator for the restaurant industry through his Unsliced Restaurant System. Mike offers insights on cross-training staff, maintaining low attrition rates, and the importance of structured employee evaluations. The episode is packed with practical advice and actionable takeaways for building and sustaining a high-performing restaurant team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Pre-Shift Podcast
00:23 Meet Mike Bausch: The Pizza Mastermind
01:19 Mike's Journey: From Marine Corps to Pizza Empire
03:04 The Turning Point: Mentorship and Mastery
06:39 Expanding the Brand: Beyond Pizza
09:42 Building a High-Performing Team
15:55 Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Training
16:42 Maintaining Low Attrition Rates
18:34 Employee Feedback and Evaluation Process
21:03 Team Building and Andomania
23:12 Mike Bausch: Mentor and Educator
24:59 The Unsliced Course and Restaurant Systems
26:15 Engaging with the Restaurant Community
31:49 Future Plans and Exciting Developments
32:22 Conclusion and Farewell
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, their strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
In the latest episode of the Preshift Podcast, host D.J. Costantino chats with Margaret Pak, chef and co-owner of Thattu in Chicago. Pak shares her inspiring transition from corporate life to culinary arts, detailing her journey from selling spicy ketchup to opening a successful food stall and finally establishing an award-winning restaurant. The episode delves into her passion for Kerala cuisine, her experience with food pop-ups, and her innovative no-tip service model. Pak also discusses the significance of transparent menu pricing, equitable staff wages, and her future plans, including participating in prestigious culinary events and creating retail condiments.
00:00 Welcome to the Preshift Podcast
00:17 Meet Margaret Pak: Chef and Co-Owner of Thattu
01:13 From Corporate to Culinary: Margaret's Journey
02:38 Falling in Love with Kerala Cuisine
03:41 From Prep Cook to Pop-Up Success
07:23 The Birth of Thattu: From Food Stall to Restaurant
10:41 Navigating the Pandemic and Reassessing Plans
11:59 Reopening and Expanding Through Pop-Ups
17:15 Innovative Business Model: No Tips, No Service Charge
27:19 Building a Collaborative and Equitable Team
31:06 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
36:42 What's Next for Thattu?
38:21 Closing Remarks and Thank You
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
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More 7shifts
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Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into building great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, their strategies, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D.J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
In this episode of the Pre-Shift Podcast, host DJ Costantino talks with Ellen Yin, founder and co-owner of High Street Hospitality Group. Ellen shares her journey from a high school summer job to running celebrated dining establishments. The discussion focuses on the importance of building a strong sense of community and belonging within her restaurants. Ellen emphasizes the significance of respecting and empowering employees and effective recruitment, training, and career development strategies. She also highlights the challenges and successes in maintaining a consistent and supportive team culture across multiple restaurant concepts.
00:00 Introduction to the Pre-Shift Podcast
00:14 Meet Ellen Yin: Founder of High Street Hospitality
01:14 Ellen's Journey into the Restaurant Industry
04:43 The Success and Longevity of Fork
06:55 Building a Strong Team Culture
14:00 Recruitment and Career Development Strategies
22:08 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
26:40 Future Goals and Exciting Developments
29:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Traditional tipping is broken, but there's a better way to pay your restaurant staff. In this episode of The Pre-Shift Podcast, we talk with Zach Feinstein, CEO of The Feinstein Group, about the innovative compensation model transforming his Tampa Bay restaurants. Zach explains how implementing a 20% service charge coupled with a commission-based pay structure for servers has dramatically reduced turnover, improved front and back of house relationships, and enhanced the guest experience. Instead of hoping for generous strangers, servers earn a guaranteed commission on sales while still collecting additional gratuities. Meanwhile, kitchen staff benefit from higher wages funded by the redistributed server hourly pay. This compensation revolution isn't just about money—it's about creating stability for your team and consistency for your guests. If you're struggling with retention or looking for a more equitable pay structure, Zach's practical insights offer a roadmap to transform your restaurant's culture.
Resources
Connect with Zach Feinstein 🔗
Visit: The Living Room 🍽️
Visit: The Black Pearl 🦪
7shifts Restaurant Staff Retention Guide 📝
Chapters
- 00:00 - Introduction to Zach Feinstein
- 01:40 - The Feinstein Group's restaurant history
- 03:08 - Why Zach developed a commission-based payment model
- 05:27 - How the commission model works in practice
- 08:57 - Customer response to the service charge approach
- 11:04 - Benefits for servers: eliminating "table bias"
- 15:21 - Improving front and back of house relationships
- 17:50 - Competing with other industries for talent
- 20:07 - Is this model right for every restaurant?
- 23:42 - Getting started with a commission model
- 24:42 - Lightning round: Training opportunities and inspirations
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
Great teams make great restaurants. On The Pre-Shift, restaurant operators and industry experts dive into what it takes to build great restaurant teams. We explore their stories, the strategies they use, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams. Hosted by D. J. Costantino. Presented by 7shifts.
In this episode, Pike Howard, co-owner and finance and development director of Felipe's Taqueria, shares the history of the restaurant chain founded in 2006, inspired by Felipe Herrera. Pike emphasizes the significance of having a strong foundational playbook for growth, the importance of transparency and profit-sharing with leadership teams, and the role of consistent execution in a high inflationary environment. He cites influences like Danny Meyer’s book, Setting the Table, and Chick-fil-A’s operational focus. Howard stresses the need for non-defensiveness regarding feedback and aims to exceed profitability expectations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pike Howard and Felipe's Taqueria
00:09 Founding Story of Felipe's Taqueria
00:23 Growth Strategy and Operational Philosophy
01:11 Leadership and Transparency
01:16 Profit Sharing and Employee Engagement
01:42 Consistency and Adaptation in Operations
02:20 Commitment to Quality and Inspiration
02:49 Operational Excellence and Feedback
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts is a deep dive into what it takes to run great restaurant teams.
Host DJ Costantino covers the restaurant industry with conversations featuring industry leaders and innovators sharing their business growth insights, backgrounds, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams.
On this episode, we’re joined by Hassel Aviles, Founder and Director of Not 9 to 5.
Hassel Aviles has built a career in the hospitality and foodservice industry for over two decades working primarily in restaurants, event production and entrepreneurship. In 2018, after years of struggling with mental illness and trauma, Hassel was inspired to co-found Not 9 to 5, a non-profit that empowers foodservice service workers like herself. Hassel’s strategic planning abilities helped grow Not 9 to 5 from a series of workshops, panels and webinars into a global vehicle for change. Her work has contributed to a worldwide hospitality revolution to create work environments that are inclusive and proactive, rather than top-down and reactive. Hassel has used her experience, her social capital and intelligence to speak up for those without the power to make change. She is a visionary and deeply dedicated to revolutionizing the industry for the better.
**Free Mental Health Course of 7shifts Academy**
Topics Covered:
- The contributors to poor mental health in the restaurant industry
- Defining what psychological safety means for the restaurant industry and the signs that a restaurant isn't psychologically safe.
- The causes and identifiers of burnout in restaurant work.
Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts is a deep dive into what it takes to run great restaurant teams.
Host DJ Costantino covers the restaurant industry with conversations featuring industry leaders and innovators sharing their business growth insights, backgrounds, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams.
In this episode, Chris Britt, Chief Operating Officer of Epic Restaurants, joins us.
For nearly five years, Chris has served in a leadership capacity at Agave & Rye, one of the fastest-growing restaurant concepts in the U.S. He has accumulated a diverse array of experiences since joining the Agave & Rye team in 2018, and through his expertise, Chris has helped continually grow the company into a now multi-brand restaurant group, touting such revered concepts as Agave & Rye, S.O.B. Steakhouse, Shindig Park—and the soon-to-be-unveiled, Trashy Dawg. Chris started as the GM of the original location in Covington, Kentucky, before taking the same position at Agave & Rye’s flagship location in Liberty Township, Ohio. Soon after, he was promoted to Regional Director, followed by a promotion to the Director of Operations role. Chris has been in his Chief Operating Officer role for more than a year, right in time for expansion plans in 2023.
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
In this episode of the Pre-Shift podcast, host DJ dives deep into the intricacies of managing successful restaurant teams with Stella Denig, co-owner and GM of Daytrip Restaurant in Oakland, California. Stella shares insights on building a restaurant prioritizing pay equity, equitable compensation, and a strong internal culture. She discusses their unique business model, the challenges of introducing equitable systems, and the importance of legislative change in the industry. Stella also touches on the role of collective thinking in their operations and the exciting personal and professional changes coming up for her and Daytrip. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to learn about innovative practices in the hospitality industry.
00:00 Introduction to the Pre-Shift Podcast
00:12 Meet Stella Denig from Daytrip Restaurant
01:02 The Journey to Opening Daytrip
02:20 Innovative Business Model and Pay Equity
04:14 Service Charge and Employee Compensation
09:51 Open Pay and Hiring Practices
14:08 Collective Thinking and Team Culture
25:19 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
29:19 Exciting Future Plans for Daytrip
30:52 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Bio
Stella Dennig (she/her) is the Co-Owner/GM of Daytrip, a fermentation-driven party of a restaurant in Oakland, CA. Core to Daytrip’s mission is to push toward a more equitable future for this industry and at the center of that, its workforce. Daytrip has been written up for its employment practices by publications like Bon Appetit, The New York Times, and the SF Chronicle. Daytrip was a Bon Appetit top 10 Best New Restaurant in America in 2023 and Co-Owner/Chef Finn Stern was a James Beard Semifinalist in 2024.
Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
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Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
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Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts is a deep dive into what it takes to run great restaurant teams.
Host DJ Costantino covers the restaurant industry with conversations featuring industry leaders and innovators sharing their business growth insights, backgrounds, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams.
On this episode, we’re joined by Chad Mackay, CEO of Fire & Vine Hospitality in Seattle, WA.
Chad Mackay, CEO of Fire & Vine Hospitality, leads a multi-concept operator of full-service restaurants and oversees the successful Revelers Club loyalty program, boasting 80K members and contributing 30% to the company’s revenue since its 2011 inception. El Gaucho, the flagship concept founded in 1996, spans five locations, while Fire & Vine owns AQUA by El Gaucho, Aerlume, and the Witness Tree lounge. The Revelers Club extends to independently owned properties like Walla Walla Steak Co., Crossbuck Brewing, and Yellowhawk Resort in Walla Walla, WA. Drawing from two decades of hospitality expertise, Chad founded Brigado, a consulting and technology firm. He actively serves on Oracle's Customer Advisory Board for the Global Food and Beverage Industry Group and has held leadership roles in associations like the Washington Hospitality Association and Visit Seattle. Chad is a sought-after speaker on adapting compensation models for full-service restaurants in response to the $15 minimum wage.
Links
Fire & Vine Hospitality
Brigado
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts is a deep dive into what it takes to run great restaurant teams.
Host DJ Costantino covers the restaurant industry with conversations featuring industry leaders and innovators sharing their business growth insights, backgrounds, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams.
On this episode, we’re joined by Irene Shiang Li, Cofounder of Prepshift & Mei Mei Dumplings in Boston, Mass.
Irene Shiang Li co-founded Mei Mei in Boston in 2013 and built the brand around ethical, sustainable sourcing and fair and transparent employment practices, including open book management. Mei Mei is now a dumpling company and Irene is now building Prepshift, a tech-enabled coaching and workforce training firm. Prepshift focuses on aligning food business teams around their common goals and empowering them with education and transparency. Irene believes that in restaurants, everyone can win. She is a Zagat and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, six-time James Beard Foundation Rising Star Chef nominee, and 2022 James Beard Foundation Leadership Award winner. In 2023, Irene and her sister co-authored Perfectly Good Food: a totally achievable zero-waste approach to home cooking with W.W. Norton.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts is a deep dive into what it takes to run great restaurant teams.
Host D.J. Costantino covers the restaurant industry with conversations featuring industry leaders and innovators sharing their business growth insights, backgrounds, and valuable lessons on running restaurant teams.
On this episode, we’re joined by Ji Hye Kim, Chef/Owner of Miss Kim in Ann Arbor.
Ji Hye was awarded one of Food & Wine's Best New Chefs in 2021 and a multi-time James Beard Award semifinalist. She also advocates for fair wages in the hospitality industry, working with organizations like One Fair Wage to enact change. We get into how staff are paid above the industry average at Miss Kim, the tools Kim uses to get her teams engaged, and more.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about running a restaurant better. Conversations with some of the biggest names, newest players, and industry innovators bring key insights into how they grew their businesses. Host DJ Costantino asks probing questions to get to know restauranteurs, chefs, and executives better and find out where they came from, how they got to where they are, and what lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode, we’re joined by Jason Hammel, Chef and Owner of Lula Cafe
Guest Bio
Chef and owner Jason Hammel grew up in New Haven, CT and is the product of a tight Italian family. He studied writing at Brown University and then traveled in Italy where an accidental stay in an apartment above a produce market left a lasting impact and presaged his career as a chef. Upon returning to the U.S., he received his M.A. in English and moved to Chicago where he met his wife, musician and Lula co-founder, Amalea Tshilds. They live in Logan Square with their two children, Ismene and Cass.
Hammel’s writing has appeared in Bon Appetit and Lucky Peach/MAD feed. He is currently working on a cookbook to be released by Phaidon.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about running a restaurant better. Conversations with some of the biggest names, newest players, and industry innovators bring key insights into how they grew their businesses. Host DJ Costantino asks probing questions to get to know restauranteurs, chefs, and executives better and find out where they came from, how they got to where they are, and what lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode, we’re joined by Kwini Reed, Co-owner of Poppy + Rose, Poppy & Seed, and Root of All Foods
Guest Bio
Kwini Reed is a Southern California native, wife, mother, and entrepreneur. She is the co-owner of brunch restaurant, Poppy + Rose in Downtown Los Angeles, Orange County dining destination, Poppy & Seed, and upscale catering company, Root of All Foods with husband and chef of these concepts, Michael Reed.
She and her husband Michael Reed have received numerous accolades for these concepts, including Orange Coast Magazine's “Best New Restaurant” (Poppy & Seed); and CBS Los Angeles’ “Best All-Day Breakfast Restaurants in LA” (Poppy + Rose) - among others.
She pioneers Poppy + Rose and Poppy & Seed's giving back initiatives as well, coordinating meal donations to organizations across LA, supporting first responders, social justice causes, youth development programs, and more. Kwini is active with local nonprofits, such as Brown Bag Lady, which provides meals to people experiencing homelessness in LA.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about running a restaurant better. Conversations with some of the biggest names, newest players, and industry innovators bring key insights into how they grew their businesses. Host DJ Costantino asks probing questions to get to know restauranteurs, chefs, and executives better and find out where they came from, how they got to where they are, and what lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode, we’re joined by Joe Kahn, Founder and CIO of Condado Tacos and Chris Artinian, CEO of Condado Tacos
Guest Bio
Joe Kahn is the Founder & Chief Innovation Officer at Condado Tacos. His passion for hospitality started at just 15 years old working at Sizzler and then Pizza Hut. Along the way, he learned to bartend and earned his first management position at The Outpost, a local Chicago venue. After decades of working in all aspects of the restaurant industry, Joe took the plunge to open his own restaurant—which failed. But instead of turning in his apron, he learned from his mistakes, borrowed money from his wife’s 401k, and founded Condado Tacos with several business partners. His focus on creating clean and craveable tacos in an environment that encourages creativity and community was a hit. By 2026, there will be 100 Condado Tacos restaurants! What’s Joe’s secret to success? Treating people well and really great tacos.
Chris Artinian serves as President & CEO at Condado Tacos. He has over 30 years of restaurant and retail experience with private and public companies and extensive experience in restaurant and consumer services. He first encountered Condado Tacos while working at The Beekman Group and loved the concept so much that he joined the company to help chart the brand’s meteoric growth because he has the chops. Chris previously held CEO titles at TooJay’s Gourmet Deli, Bakery & Restaurant, Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, and Morton’s. He’s recognized by industry peers for his deep operational experience in developing winning strategies and exceptional teams. he also serves on the Board of Directors of Another Broken Egg, Ted’s Cafe Escondido, and Condado Tacos.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about running a restaurant better. Conversations with some of the biggest names, newest players, and industry innovators bring key insights into how they grew their businesses. Host DJ Costantino asks probing questions to get to know restauranteurs, chefs, and executives better and find out where they came from, how they got to where they are, and what lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode, we’re joined by Michel Falcon, Founder & CEO of Brasa Peruvian Kitchen
Guest Bio
Michel Falcon is a restaurant entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and best selling author. His expertises are company culture, employee performance, and customer experience strategies. As the CEO & Founder of Brasa Peruvian Kitchen, he oversees all people and growth initiatives. Since August 2021, Brasa has succesfully opened three corporate-owned locations in Toronto, The company's next growth market in New York City in 2023.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
The Pre-Shift Podcast presented by 7shifts breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about running a restaurant better. Conversations with some of the biggest names, newest players, and industry innovators bring key insights into how they grew their businesses. Host DJ Costantino asks probing questions to get to know restauranteurs, chefs, and executives better and find out where they came from, how they got to where they are, and what lessons they learned along the way.
On this episode, we’re joined by Ron Hsu, Owner of Lazy Betty, Humble Pie, and Juniper Cafe
Guest Bio
Champion of fair wages, equality and great food. James Beard nominated Atlanta restaurateur Ron Hsu envisions an industry where the workforce doesn't rely on the goodwill of customers and strives for changes to the way things have always been done.
Additional Resources
📲 Connect with D.J.
DJ's Email
Follow on LinkedIn
More 7shifts
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts
Subscribe to Food Runner, our Monthly Restaurant Newsletter
7shifts on YouTube
Follow us on TikTok
Read the 7shifts Blog
About Us
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.
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Navigating Tariff Uncertainty for Canadian Restaurants with Jay Ashton | 057
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The end of boring training for restaurants with Arrow Up | 055
42:44
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Building an a kitchen OS | Josh Sharkey, CEO of meez | 053
40:38
The small town soul behind Pizza Ranch | Ross Groeneweg, Pizza Ranch | 052
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Mastering the art of pizza and business | Mike Bausch, Andolini's | 051
33:02
Building Chicago's Thattu | Margaret Pak, Chef/Owner | 050
38:54
Fostering community and belonging in the restaurant biz | Ellen Yin, Founder of High Street Hospitality | 049
30:36
Rethinking Server Pay: The Commission Model Revolution with Zach Feinstein
28:28
Leadership lessons from Felipe's Taqueria | Pike Howard, CEO | 047
43:04
The fight for psychological safety in food service | Hassel Aviles, Director of Not 9 to 5 | 046
30:25
Tacos, tequila, and teamwork at Agave & Rye | Chris Britt, COO of Epic Brands | 045
42:36
Making pay transparency work in restaurants | Stella Dennig, Co-Owner/GM of Daytrip | 044
31:44
How commission-based pay for servers transformed this restaurant | Chad Mackay, CEO of Fire and Vine Hospitality | 043
24:02
How restaurants exist beyond four walls | Irene Shiang Li, Cofounder of Prepshift & Mei Mei Dumplings | 042
24:04
Can open-book finance work for restaurants? | Ji Hye Kim, Chef/Owner at Miss Kim | 041
25:15
How Lula Cafe stays ahead, 25 years in | Jason Hammel, Chef and Owner of Lula Cafe | 040
18:57
Practical steps for a better staff experience | Kwini Reed, Poppy & Seed | 039
32:18
The QUESO code at Condado Tacos | Joe Kahn and Chris Artinian | 038
25:55
How Brasa redefines employee experience | Michel Falcon, Founder & CEO of Brasa Peruvian Kitchen | 037
38:05
Managing Michelin-star restaurant teams | Ron Hsu, Owner of Lazy Betty, Humble Pie, and Juniper Cafe
24:57