#387 🍸 Calling all mixology enthusiasts!

Prepare your taste buds for a savory adventure as we explore the evolution of poutine with the delightful Chef Kyla. Sink your teeth into the rise of this Canadian classic and how it has become a staple not just in its homeland but on menus worldwide. We'll unravel the magic of the traditional trio—fries, cheese curds, and gravy—while also celebrating the dish's transformation as a canvas for culinary innovation, capturing the hearts of the youngest foodies to the oldest gourmands. 

As we reminisce about the loaded fries of yesteryear, we'll tease your palate with the possibilities that contemporary twists bring to this nostalgic favourite. Imagine the aroma of fries crisped in duck fat or the luxurious taste of beef tallow-fried potatoes—indulgences that are more than just a side dish. 

Join us and Chef Kyla on this delicious journey where we pay homage to the timeless poutine while embracing the new trends that keep it excitingly relevant.

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We're not just talking products; we're bringing them to life, thanks to the wealth of knowledge shared by our special guest, Robin from McCain Foods. 

NEW Product drop with the Potato Ring! 

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Unlock the rich history and cultural impact of a kitchen classic as chef Kyla joins us to reveal the remarkable journey of Hellmann's mayonnaise. We're not just talking about a condiment here – Hellmann's has woven itself into the fabric of culinary traditions, becoming a staple in restaurants with quality and taste.  Chef guides us through the brand's evolution, from its humble beginnings in 1913 to the modern-day icon it is now, powered by its unwavering commitment to top ingredients like 100% Canadian free-run eggs and a rigorous six-time filtered process. You'll be entranced by the brand's ingenuity in marketing strategies that managed to ingrain it in our refrigerators and hearts, demonstrating how a legacy is built on much more than flavor alone.

We dissect how Hellman's is changing the game for eateries, offering a smorgasbord of mayo options – from vegan to spicy – designed to spruce up limited-time offers. Whether it's the NHL playoffs or the World Cup festivities, these strategic culinary plays are set to ensure fans can indulge in stadium-style snacking without ever leaving their living room. Tune in to hear how these innovative approaches are satisfying cravings and keeping viewers in the zone for the big games.

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Join Jay and Jeff, an employee at Bunge, as our guide through the history, values, and operations of a company that impacts our lives in more ways than you might realize. Get an inside look at how Bunge's core values - teamwork, excellence, and integrity - are manifested in their daily operations, and how they are committed to safety and sustainability. 

Ever wondered how crushing and refining canola seeds can have such a significant role in the food service industry? Well, wonder no more! We break down the process with an expert from Bunge, shedding light on their sustainable practices and their work with farmers to maintain the quality of their products. We also touch on their efforts to invest in renewable and zero-carbon energy sources. While it may seem tempting, we also explain why reusing oil for fuel isn't the best idea. 

Finally, we turn up the heat on the art of frying. From the importance of using high-quality oil to common pitfalls like improper filtering or cleaning, we cover it all. Learn how to extend the life of your oil and maintain its quality. And because knowledge is power, we also emphasize the importance of staff education on oils. Jeff's expertise is invaluable as we explore the challenges in the industry for the upcoming year and the need for preparedness and knowledge about products like oils. So tune in, whether you're in the food industry or a home cook, this episode is filled with essential takeaways.

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Ready for some game-changing insights on steering your restaurant to extraordinary heights? This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom as we chat with the restaurant industry's living legend, Roger, popularly known as the "Restaurant Rockstar". Roger opens up about his thrilling journey of owning and selling multiple successful restaurants, his pandemic survival strategies, and the innovative approaches he employed to keep his business in the limelight. We jump into the challenges that some may face in 2024, touching on topics like inflation and staffing shortages, and how strategic marketing can be a game-changer.

Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the power of branding and the vitality of a rich company culture. We stress how running a brand, rather than just a business, can be a magnet for customer loyalty and robust word-of-mouth marketing. By the end of this segment, you'll see how a positive work environment can be a golden ticket to your restaurant's success.

As we wrap up our chat, Roger shares some priceless nuggets of wisdom to turbocharge your restaurant's success. He illuminates the concept of transforming customers and employees into ambassadors for your business and the significant impact of brainstorming sessions with staff. We'll also underline the importance of being proactive in running a restaurant and investing in employee training. Plus, we'll discuss the power of unique hooks in setting your restaurant apart from the competition and the untapped potential of combining fundamentals with creativity in marketing. So, tune in and allow Roger's tips to catapult your restaurant to the pinnacle of success.

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Embark on a culinary adventure filled with delicious delights and captivating stories in our latest podcast episode featuring the energetic and passionate Chef Spencer Watts. Join us as we trace his culinary journey, beginning with a simple gingerbread competition that sparked his love for food, through the challenges and triumphs of his evolving career.

Discover the resilience of Chef Watts, fueled by his parents' unwavering support, and how it shaped his journey as a young chef. This episode transports you into Chef Watts' vibrant culinary world. Relive his early days at a beachside café and the unforgettable experiences at the esteemed Sea Restaurant, including the thrill of cooking for the legendary Joni Mitchell.

This episode isn't just about food; it's a celebration of the passion, creativity, and commitment that Chef Watts pours into every dish.

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In this episode, we engage in an enlightening conversation with Sarah Kircher, Director of ESG at Pactiv Evergreen. Sarah sheds light on how the restaurant industry can significantly contribute to the sustainability movement without compromising on quality or customer experience and how Pactiv is helping with this journey. 

We explore the shift in consumer preferences towards eco-friendly practices and how restaurants can adapt to these evolving demands. A significant focus of our discussion is on the importance of reducing food waste, introducing the concept of a Zero Waste Audit. This transformative approach enables restaurants to scrutinize and minimize their waste production effectively.

Furthermore, Sarah dives into the complexities of sustainable packaging in the restaurant industry. She discusses Pactiv's ambitious goal to have all its products made from recycled, recyclable, or renewable materials by 2030. An interesting aspect of our conversation is the revelation about the 'chasing arrow' symbol in recycling, highlighting how its interpretation varies across different cities. 

As the episode unfolds, we learn how Pactiv Evergreen is supporting restaurants on their path toward sustainability, providing a range of sustainable products tailored to meet specific needs. This episode is not just about understanding the current trends in sustainability but also about empowering restaurateurs with the knowledge and tools to make a real difference.

Don't miss out on this insightful and transformative discussion with Sarah on the forefront of restaurant sustainability.

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Unlock the secrets of consumer behavior and elevate your restaurant's performance with our special guests from Technomic, Margot Swindall and Robert Byrne. Dive into the intricacies of the restaurant industry, understanding the dynamics that drive diner behavior, especially in the context of how the pandemic has reshaped their habits. We'll delve into the reasons behind customer choices and the increasing popularity of limited-time offers, discussing strategies to draw customers back to your establishment.

In the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry, harnessing data is crucial. Join Margot and Robert as we sift through the clutter, highlighting how customer segmentation can provide a competitive edge to your business. Addressing the notoriously unpredictable Gen Z demographic, we'll explore their impulse buying tendencies and strategies to engage them effectively. Our discussion will also encompass the impactful role of limited-time offers, detailing essential aspects like quality ingredients, efficient supply chain management, and skilled staff.

But success isn't solely about the offerings—it's also about the approach. Authenticity and fostering a sense of community are now vital in marketing strategies, particularly for appealing to Gen Z. We'll dissect the concept of 'edutainment' and the role of technology in building genuine connections with customers. Concluding our session, we'll examine generational differences in dining preferences and how consumer confidence influences restaurant patronage. Tune in to transform your understanding of the restaurant industry and stay ahead of the curve.

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Ever wanted to know how inflation impacts restaurants? Tune in to our latest episode where we delve into this topic with our guest, David Hopkins, a seasoned pro in the restaurant scene. We'll explore the ways in which eateries are coping with inflation's challenges, including how rising prices affect customer spending habits. We'll also debate the old-school method of pricing based on product costs and offer more effective strategies for adjusting prices in today's market.

In the midst of inflation, choosing the right restaurant consultant has become more crucial than ever. With the consulting field growing rapidly, it's vital for restaurant owners to find a consultant who brings not just a track record of success but a deep understanding of all aspects of the business, from crafting menus to pricing. Our chat with David will also cover how staffing issues are being handled and smart operational moves, like strategically closing at certain times, to boost profits and enhance the dining experience.

Lastly, we'll dive into a riveting conversation about balancing value and profit in restaurants. Discover ways to enhance your product's appeal, like personalizing interactions with diners and focusing on the most lucrative service times. Plus, we'll give you a sneak peek at The 15 Group's new book, 'The Kitchen Sink', which could revolutionize how restaurant owners, managers, and chefs operate. This episode is packed with enlightening discussions and actionable advice for anyone in the restaurant business or simply intrigued by it. Join us and David Hawkin for an insightful journey through the dynamic world of the restaurant industry.

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Prepare to be whisked away on a journey into the future, where technology and customer loyalty programs blend seamlessly to create a new age of customer engagement. Our guest, Michael Patrick, guides us through this fascinating intersection of technology and customer experience using Starbucks Odyssey as a case study. We delve into how Starbucks has utilized technology to foster a sense of community and redefined the coffee experience by creating a digital third place for customers.

Ever wondered how blockchain and NFT technology could enhance customer loyalty programs? Well, you're in for a treat! We delve into this emerging field with Michael, discussing how Starbucks leverages these technologies to reward their loyal customers with tradeable stamps. Hear about the limited edition stamp drops that come with bonus points, driving members to strive for higher benefit tiers. We also highlight the unique experiences members can own and how these digital interactions augment their relationship with the brand.

As we round off our enlightening conversation with Michael, we focus on how small and medium-sized businesses can harness the power of technology to redefine customer interactions. We share strategies on how to implement NFTs and blockchain into loyalty programs, creating unique experiences tailored to your business, customer base, and the products or services you offer. It's not just about rewarding purchases - it's about making your customers feel valued and engaged. Join us to learn how you can elevate your loyalty programs with a dash of technology! 

Ditch the old and embrace the new with us on this journey into the digital age of loyalty programs. Whether you're a business owner looking to revolutionize your loyalty program or simply curious about the impact of technology on customer engagement, this episode promises to be a captivating listen. Don't miss out!

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