On this episode of the Data Delicacies podcast, Ken Clay, co-founder and CEO of Foode, shared insights into how his platform is redefining the dining journey. As we step into a future where technology and hospitality converge, platforms like Foode exemplify the power of personalization and purpose. By prioritizing trust, creating immersive experiences, and addressing pressing global issues, Foode is setting a new standard for the industry. This transformation not only enhances dining but also empowers consumers to make a positive impact through their everyday choices.Key Takeaways - * Redefining Personalization Through Trust - Foode’s approach prioritizes trust over subjective notions of "best." By utilizing advanced AI, the platform connects users with dining experiences tailored to their preferences and restrictions. This commitment to personalization ensures that recommendations feel meaningful and reliable, enhancing user satisfaction.* Dining as a Holistic Experience - Modern diners seek more than just good food; they crave memorable experiences. Foode integrates every aspect of the dining journey, from planning and booking to personalized in-venue interactions. This seamless approach transforms ordinary meals into unique, catered events that resonate with the individual.* Driving Social Impact Through Dining - Foode incorporates a social responsibility initiative by donating a portion of every transaction to local food security programs. This model empowers diners to contribute to their communities effortlessly while enjoying their meals. It exemplifies how businesses can combine innovation with meaningful action to address critical global challenges.Episode Links:* Visit Foode online* Follow Foode on Instagram* Follow Foode on Facebook* Follow Foode on Tik Tok* Connect with Foode on LinkedIn* Connect with Ken Clay on LinkedIn* Follow Ken Clay on XABOUT KEN CLAY:Ken Clay is a visionary entrepreneur and 2x tech founder with a successful recent exit from Chicago. Currently, he serves as the CEO and co-founder of Foode, an AI-enabled fintech platform dedicated to combating food waste and food insecurity. Foode's mission is to empower users to effortlessly impact these global crises by connecting them to trusted dining experiences and donating a portion of each bill to local food banks.Ken's innovative leadership at Foode integrates all dining needs into a seamless, personalized journey powered by advanced AI, allowing users to enjoy unique dining experiences while contributing to social good. His prior ventures and successful exit have provided him with the expertise and insight to drive Foode's mission forward.Ken's passion for leveraging technology for societal benefit and his deep understanding of the hospitality and restaurant industry position him as a thought leader and influencer in the space. He looks forward to contributing to discussions at the Prosper Forum that shape the future of the industry.

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar chats with Andrew Nakkache, Co-Founder and CEO of FIRST, a delivery platform redefining logistics for restaurant brands, delivery fleets, and ordering services. The discussion dives into how consumer expectations for delivery speed, efficiency, and experience have skyrocketed in recent years and how businesses can adapt to meet these demands. Andrew shares insights on the evolution of food delivery, the challenges in the current market, and the solutions FIRST offers to optimize operations and keep customers satisfied. Whether you're a restaurant operator or a delivery service, this conversation offers actionable strategies to thrive in a competitive landscape.Key Takeaways - * Scaling and Pivoting for Growth - Andrew shares how FIRST reached a milestone of 50,000 deliveries a month and $3 million in revenue but struggled to find a scalable path. The turning point came when major platforms like Uber and DoorDash opened their delivery APIs, allowing FIRST to pivot. By leveraging existing technology and integrating third-party delivery services, FIRST could offer a similar value proposition without handling deliveries directly, setting the stage for scalable growth.* Meeting Nationwide Demand - Andrew discusses the convergence of delivery and shipping in the restaurant industry, with companies like Giordano’s offering frozen pizzas for shipping. He emphasizes that restaurants with strong brand presence can meet nationwide demand by utilizing technology to simplify both delivery and shipping processes. By integrating these systems into a unified platform, technology allows restaurants to manage all customer orders efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience, whether it's delivery or shipping.* Leaning Into the Data - Andrew reflects on how, historically, restaurant operators have been too focused on the day-to-day operations to prioritize data. However, there's a shift occurring, as more restaurants are starting to value data to improve decision-making. He highlights a key challenge with third-party marketplaces—restaurants don’t have access to customer data. Andrew points out the significance of knowing who your customers are and how the lack of this data can prevent restaurants from making informed business decisions.Episode Links:* Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn* Visit First Delivery Online* Follow First Delivery on InstagramABOUT ANDREW NAKKACHE -Andrew is the Co-Founder & CEO of FIRST, the delivery platform built for Restaurant Brands, Delivery Fleets, and Ordering Services to give businesses what they need to scale sales, reduce costs, take control over their delivery experience. Previously, Andrew started Habitat Logistics, where him and his team offered Delivery-as-a-Service to restaurants, and they fulfilled over 1M orders with a fleet of 500 drivers serving nearly 1000 restaurants. FIRST is backed by the same investors who backed Uber, DoorDash, and Instacart, and powers deliveries for thousands of restaurants to fulfill their end-diners appetite for both on-demand delivery and catering. ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.*

In this special episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar brings you some of the most interesting and compelling excepts from recent episodes of the show! Dive into the future of the restaurant industry with four visionary leaders who are shaping the way we think about technology, consumer experience, and market strategy:Jason Valentine, Chief Strategy Officer - Botrista: Shares the game-changing role of automation in scaling operations and the best practices for testing new models.Mateen Habib, Head of Product - GoTab, Inc.: Explores the evolution of experiential dining and the rising expectations of today’s consumers.Patrick Bobrukiewicz, Vice President of Business Development - Nigel: Redefines the POS landscape by advocating for tailored solutions that empower operators to choose what works best for their unique business needs.Justin Ulrich VP of Marketing - eVocalize: Highlights the untapped potential of smaller markets and the critical need for targeted marketing strategies in these areas.Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting your journey in hospitality, this episode is packed with insights to help you adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.ABOUT JASON VALENTINEChief Strategy Officer Jason Valentine brings more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including leadership on both Franchisee and Franchisor sides. Most recently, he was President of the national brand Zoup! Eatery and completed a successful acquisition plan. Valentine has been listed on Restaurant Business News' Power 20 list and has been a featured speaker at the Restaurant Leadership Conference and the Fast Casual Executive Summit.* Connect with Jason Valentine on LinkedIn* Visit Botrista Online* Follow Botrista on Facebook* Subscribe to Botrista on YouTube* Follow Botrista on Instagram* Connect with Botrista on LinkedInABOUT MATEEN HABIB Mateen Habib has a diverse work experience spanning over a decade. Their most recent role is as the Head of Product at GoTab, Inc., where they started in March 2022. Prior to that, they served as a Product Manager from October 2021 to March 2022 at the same company. Before joining GoTab, Inc., Mateen worked as an Account Growth Specialist from August 2020 to October 2021.Earlier in their career, Mateen held the position of Director of Operations at Jupiter, Drake's Brewing, and Triple Rock Brewing from February 2010 to October 2020. In 2015, they also served as a Co-Owner at Arthur Mac's Tap & Snack from November 2015 to September 2018.Mateen Habib earned a Bachelor's degree in Business/Managerial Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Mateen attended the university from 2005 to 2009.* Connect with Mateen Habib on LinkedIn* Visit GoTab Online* Connect with GoTab on LinkedIn*

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Techtris CEO/Co-Founder Jonathan Fetter to explore how technology is reshaping the hospitality industry. Jonathan shares insights on how Techtris leverages data analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations. They discuss the importance of integrating technology to personalize guest experiences, improve staff efficiency, and drive revenue growth. Jonathan also highlights real-world success stories and the challenges businesses face when adopting new tools. This episode is a must-listen for hospitality professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.Key Takeaways - * From Freemium to Freedom - Freemium models from platforms like DoorDash and Toast have introduced many restaurant owners to apps for the first time, some of whom were previously hesitant. However, limitations such as restricted customization and lack of control over the brand experience are becoming evident. Jonathan Fetterman suggests this will lead to a shift toward custom solutions that offer greater flexibility and ownership, as restaurant operators look for ways to stand out amid app fatigue and market saturation.* Taking Back Control of the Guest Ordering Experience - Consumer expectations, shaped by personalized platforms like Amazon and Netflix, are setting a high bar for restaurant ordering experiences. Jonathan Fetterman highlights the need for agile, API-first solutions that allow restaurants to meet these demands with quick iterations and custom interfaces. Traditional tech providers often struggle to keep up, but flexible systems give restaurant owners the tools to deliver seamless, future-ready experiences that match evolving guest preferences.* Creating Seamless Checkout Experiences - Fragmented restaurant apps, which rely on external links or iframes for retail or catering, can frustrate users with clunky interfaces and multiple logins. Jonathan Fetterman emphasizes the importance of a unified, native checkout experience powered by APIs. By integrating external tools like Shopify while maintaining a consistent interface, restaurants can provide a smooth, guest-friendly experience that feels truly custom without sacrificing functionality.Episode Links* Connect with Jonathan Fetter on LinkedIn* Visit Techtris Online* Follow Techtris on Facebook* Follow Techtris on X* Follow Techtris on Instagram* Connect with Techtris on LinkedInABOUT JONATHAN FETTERJonathan is a seasoned hospitality leader and the CEO/Co-Founder of Techtris, a company delivering custom digital ordering solutions for restaurants. With over 15 years in restaurant operations and 5 years in hospitality technology, he brings a unique blend of operational expertise and technological innovation to the industry.Previously, Jonathan served as VP of Operations at Planaday, a hotel tech startup. Prior to that, he held a key role at Bbot, where he drove significant sales performance and product innovation, contributing to the company's successful $15M Series A and subsequent acquisition by DoorDash. His deep understanding of restaurant operations, combined with expertise in sales, product development, and design, enables him to bridge the gap between technological solutions and real-world operational needs.

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Mateen Habib, VP of Growth at GoTab, to explore the future of dining experiences. From the popularity of food halls to the growing importance of hybrid service models, they dive deep into how the industry is adapting to post-pandemic challenges like rising costs and labor shortages. Mateen explains why restaurants are embracing experiential components—like entertainment and immersive dining experiences—to stand out in competitive urban markets. Discover how technology, such as GoTab’s innovative solutions, is enabling operators to meet these changing demands while providing flexible, engaging options for guests.Key Takeaways - * Experiential Dining is Essential - Mateen discusses how the restaurant industry, already struggling with rising costs and labor shortages since COVID-19, has increasingly shifted toward an "experiential" dining model. He notes that in today’s market, simply offering good food may not be enough, as many areas already have high-quality dining options. Instead, he suggests that successful restaurants now often incorporate unique elements—like entertainment, food halls, or other immersive experiences—to create a memorable atmosphere that draws guests in. * Hybrid Service Models Are The Future - Mateen highlights how the restaurant industry, hit hard by rising costs and labor shortages since COVID, is increasingly turning to experiential dining to attract guests. With the market now saturated with quality food options, restaurants need something extra to stand out—whether that’s entertainment, food halls, or even elevated fine dining experiences. This trend toward hybrid service models, which combine great food with unique, engaging experiences, has become almost essential for operators to create meaningful connections with guests and encourage repeat visits.* GoTab’s RFID Tech is Revolutionizing Guest Experience - Mateen explains how GoTab’s RFID and Easy Tab features streamline the guest experience while reducing labor needs. With Easy Tab, customers receive a text with their tab that allows them to order more, move freely, and pay directly from their phones, making it ideal for venues like food halls or entertainment spaces where guests are mobile. This flexibility not only enhances the guest experience but also enables operators to run large venues with minimal staff during off-peak times by activating only certain areas as needed, optimizing both space and labor efficiency.Episode Links* Connect with Mateen Habib on LinkedIn* Visit GoTab Online* Connect with GoTab on LinkedIn* Follow GoTab on Facebook* Follow GoTab on YouTube* Follow GoTab on InstagramABOUT MATEEN HABIB -Mateen Habib has a diverse work experience spanning over a decade. Their most recent role is as the Head of Product at GoTab, Inc., where they started in March 2022. Prior to that, they served as a Product Manager from October 2021 to March 2022 at the same company. Before joining GoTab, Inc., Mateen worked as an Account Growth Specialist from August 2020 to October 2021.Earlier in their career, Mateen held the position of Director of Operations at Jupiter, Drake's Brewing, and Triple Rock Brewing from February 2010 to October 2020. In 2015, they also served as a Co-Owner at Arthur Mac's Tap & Snack from November 2015 to September 2018.

In this episode of Data Delicacies, Arun Kumar welcomes Patrick Bobrukiewicz to discuss innovations in restaurant point-of-sale (POS) technology. Patrick shares how Nigel was born from a partnership between an experienced restaurant operator and a POS technology provider. Together, they aim to meet the evolving needs of restaurants by addressing operational challenges and enhancing the customer experience. Patrick discusses how they approached upgrading legacy POS systems to provide more value, better sales tools, and improved features for staff, driven by insights into what truly benefits restaurant operations.Key Takeaways - * The Unique Foundation of Nigel - Patrick shares how Nigel was founded through a unique partnership: a 40-year restaurant operator teamed up with a POS provider to directly tackle the practical, day-to-day issues restaurants face. This pairing set the foundation for Nigel’s mission to redefine POS systems, not just from a technical standpoint but as a collaborative tool that genuinely serves restaurant operators and staff.* Replacing Legacy Systems with Operational Value - Nigel’s approach is not to push restaurants into using all of its technology but to offer flexibility and adaptability. Unlike many POS providers that require users to adopt an entire tech stack, Nigel allows restaurants to control their own setup. By focusing on an open API architecture, Nigel’s POS is designed to integrate smoothly with other tools, making it easy for restaurants to adjust as the market changes without being locked into outdated systems or expensive upgrades.* Meeting Future Needs through Continuous Innovation - Patrick highlights how Nigel’s ongoing development is fueled by the real-life operational needs of its restaurant partners. He explains that Nigel continuously integrates feedback from the field to innovate and stay ahead of changing customer demands, ensuring that the technology evolves alongside the restaurant industry.Episode Links* Connect with Patrick Bobrukiewicz on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%90%A7patrick-bobrukiewicz-9b11234/)* Visit Nigel Online (https://nigel.com/)* Connect with Nigel on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/nigel-hospitality-suite/)* Follow Nigel on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nigelserves/)* Follow Nigel on X (https://x.com/nigelserves/)ABOUT PATRICK BOBRUKIEWICZ -As Vice President of Business Development at Nigel, Patrick is a strategic leader, exceptional at driving results, achieving profitable growth, and delivering industry-leading technology solutions. He has broad experience in both the restaurant and IT industries ranging from operations, systems management, project management, development and business development. ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.* Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/)* Data Delicacies on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW)* Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH)* Visit Incentivio Online (https://www.incentivio.com/)* Follow Incentivio on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/)Produced by

In this episode of Data Delicacies (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW), hosted by Arun Kumar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/) of Incentivi...

In this episode of Data Delicacies (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW), hosted by Arun Kumar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/) of Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/), David Ganton (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidganton/), VP of Partnerships at 7shifts (https://www.7shifts.com/), explores the intersection of data, technology, and hospitality. They delve into the challenges of labor management in the restaurant industry and discuss how data-driven solutions are helping businesses tackle these issues, especially in the post-pandemic world. David also shares insights on building successful partnerships and fostering growth in organizations, blending both art and science in his approach.Key Takeaways -* Tackling High Turnover with Data-Driven Solutions: David Ganton, VP of Partnerships at 7shifts, highlights the costly impact of replacing workers and the operational strain it places on restaurant operators. To address this, 7shifts leverages data-driven tools that track key metrics, allowing managers to proactively identify potential issues, make informed staffing decisions, and ultimately improve retention by fostering a more engaged and satisfied workforce.* Learning and Leading Through Partnerships: David Ganton reflects on his journey in the world of business partnerships, emphasizing that success comes from embracing a mindset of constant learning. He shares insights into his passion for partnerships, particularly the importance of building high-performing teams and crafting innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs. * Embracing Flexibility Amid Industry Consolidation: As the restaurant technology industry moves toward greater consolidation, David Ganton advocates for a more tailored strategy, focusing on specialized clusters of technology that cater to the specific needs of individual restaurants. This approach ensures flexibility, allowing operators to customize their tech stack without being tied to a single platform, ultimately providing more adaptable and effective solutions.Episode Links* Connect with David Ganton on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidganton/)* Visit 7shifts Online (https://www.7shifts.com/)* Connect with 7shifts on LinkedIn (https://www.7shifts.com/)* Follow 7shifts on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/7shiftsinc/)* Follow 7shifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/7shifts/?hl=en)* Follow 7shifts on Tik Tok (https://www.tiktok.com/@7shifts.com)ABOUT DAVID GANTON -David Ganton has a diverse work experience spanning several industries. David is currently the Vice President of Partnerships at 7shifts, a team management software platform for restaurants. Prior to this, David served as the Head of Channel Partnerships at 1Password and held senior roles at Miovision, VMware, LG Electronics, Research In Motion, and Sandvine. Throughout their career, they have focused on building and managing partnerships, driving revenue growth, and developing channel programs.David Ganton attended Wilfrid Laurier University from 2000 to 2004, where they completed an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration in the field of Business Administration. Furthermore, they also obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a focus on Business/Managerial Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University, although the specific dates are not provided.

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Bryan Solar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansolar/), Chief Product Officer at Spot On (https://www.spoton.com/), to discuss how data and technology are revolutionizing the restaurant industry. Bryan dives deep into how point of sale systems have evolved from basic cash registers to becoming the operational "brain" of modern restaurants. He shares insights on the power of data, how Spot On curates top-tier technology solutions to simplify operators’ lives, and why prioritizing value over ego is key to long-term success. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a restaurant operator, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the future of restaurant tech.Key Takeaways - * Data is the Next Oil: In today’s hospitality industry, data is becoming as valuable as oil, fueling the advancements in AI and reshaping how restaurants operate. The evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems from basic cash registers to cloud-based platforms is transforming how restaurants manage their operations. With the influx of data, POS systems are becoming more proactive, offering real-time insights that help businesses not only track revenue but also optimize profitability. This shift is creating exciting opportunities for restaurant owners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and increase profits.* Simplifying Technology Maximizes Efficiency: The restaurant tech industry has often overwhelmed operators with too many choices, forcing them to navigate complex integrations themselves. Bryan Solar emphasizes that more options aren’t always better, as it adds unnecessary burden to operators already managing day-to-day operations. At Spot On, the goal is to simplify technology adoption by curating and integrating only the best solutions, reducing the complexity and "diligence-pain" for restaurant owners. By offering a few well-vetted, reliable options, Spot On aims to make technology more accessible and effective, allowing operators to focus on running their business.* Low Ego, High Value: Bryan Solar stresses the importance of providing high-value solutions over pushing proprietary products simply because they’re developed in-house. At Spot On, the focus is on partnering with the best tools, whether first-party or third-party, like Ovation, which Solar praises for its quality. This "low ego, high value" approach ensures that operators receive the most effective solutions, keeping the end-user’s best interests in mind. By prioritizing what’s truly valuable for customers, Spot On aims to create better tech stacks and foster longer, more meaningful customer relationships.Episode Links* Connect with Bryan Solar on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansolar/)* Visit Spot On Online (https://www.spoton.com/)* Follow Spot On on Facebook (https://facebook.com/SpotOn)* Follow Spot On on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/spoton/)* Follow Spot On on X (https://x.com/spoton)* Subscribe to Spot On on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/spotoninc)* Connect with Spot On on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/spoton/)ABOUT BRYAN SOLAR —Bryan is passionate about helping Restaurant owners and their staff live a better life through technology. As the Chief Product Officer at SpotOn, he leads a team on a mission to create innovative, user-friendly products that empower restaurants to grow their business, streamline their operations, and uplevel their customer experiences.Before joining SpotOn, he was was the GM and Head of Restaurants at Square, where he oversaw the Product, Engineering, Data Science, Marketing and Creative teams.

In this episode of Data Delicacies (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies), hosted by Arun Kumar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/) of Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/), Erica Anderman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericaanderman/), Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Foodini (https://www.getfoodini.com/us/) discussed the critical role that data plays in creating inclusive dining experiences for individuals with food allergies and dietary restrictions. As the prevalence of food allergies rises and restaurant menus become increasingly complex, Erica shares insights on how leveraging data can empower both consumers and restaurants to navigate these challenges effectively. Join us as we delve into the innovative solutions being developed to enhance transparency and accessibility in the dining industry, and learn how understanding customer needs can lead to better service and customer loyalty.Key Takeaways:* Emerging Trends in Food Allergies: Food allergies are increasingly common, affecting at least one in three Americans, especially among younger generations. This trend forces restaurants to adapt their menus to accommodate a wider variety of dietary needs. Addressing these needs proactively can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, while simplifying how restaurants manage complex menu information.* Empowering Inclusive Dining: Foodini aims to provide people with dietary restrictions accurate information to make informed dining choices. However, most restaurants lack structured allergen data. By partnering with restaurants, Foodini extracts data from allergen matrices and inventory systems, using AI to provide detailed menu information. This helps both consumers make better choices and restaurants stay on top of dietary trends.* The Urgency for Technological Solutions: Improved transparency around food allergies is crucial as outdated methods, like word of mouth, are unreliable and uncomfortable for diners. Foodini leverages technology to provide accurate data, empowering individuals to make safe choices without awkward conversations. This push towards better information not only benefits diners but also helps restaurants cater to health-conscious customers.Episode Links* Connect with Erica Anderman on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericaanderman/)* Visit Foodini Online (https://www.getfoodini.com/us/)* Connect with Foodini on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/getfoodini/)* Follow Foodini on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/getfoodini/)* Follow Foodini on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/getfoodini/?hl=en)* Follow Foodini on Tik Tok (https://www.tiktok.com/@getfoodini?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc)ABOUT ERICA ANDERMANErica Anderman is a leading expert in the hospitality industry, with over 15 years of experience in go-to-market and revenue strategy. She is also a founding team member at SinglePlatform (acq by Tripadvisor), Slice, and Seated, and lead the go-to-market teams at Odeko.Erica's deep understanding of the hospitality industry and her experience building innovative solutions for restaurants and consumers make her a valuable asset to the Foodini team. She is passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems, and she is excited about the potential of Foodini to make dining out safer and more enjoyable for everyone.ABOUT DATA DELICACIESData Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants.

In this insightful episode of Data Delicacies (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH), host Arun Kumar (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47) welcomes Nick Laidlaw (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-laidlaw-1720331/), Chief Technology Officer of Voicify (https://www.Voicify.com), for a deep dive into the evolving world of voice AI technology. With the restaurant industry at the forefront of voice AI adoption, Nick reveals how Voicify is blending AI innovation with structured controls to enhance customer interactions while maintaining precision and reliability. Join Arun and Nick as they discuss how voice AI is transforming industries, the unique challenges in deploying AI responsibly, and the future of conversational technologies. Tune in to hear how Voicify is leading the way in making voice AI smarter, safer, and more effective.Key Takeaways* Working Together for Better Voice Technology: Voicify's approach combines human-designed rules with AI capabilities to manage restaurant menus effectively. Instead of letting AI work autonomously, Voicify uses generative AI selectively to resolve unclear situations, while keeping the rest tightly controlled. This balance ensures both accuracy and a better customer experience.* Restaurants Lead the Way in Voice AI Adoption: Restaurants are at the forefront of adopting voice AI to solve urgent challenges, unlike slower-moving sectors like healthcare. Nick explains how restaurants’ willingness to innovate has allowed them to push the boundaries of voice AI, turning the industry into a testing ground for these technologies.* Keeping Voice AI Focused and Reliable: Voicify keeps its AI models tightly focused on restaurant-specific scenarios, ensuring they remain helpful and accurate. By setting clear boundaries, the AI avoids trying to answer unrelated questions, reducing mistakes and maintaining trust with customers. This controlled approach keeps interactions on track and reliable.Episode LinksVisit Voicify (https://www.Voicify.com) onlineConnect with Nick Laidlaw on Linked In (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-laidlaw-1720331/)Follow Nick Laidlaw on X (https://twitter.com/acenick8)ABOUT NICK LAIDLAW—Nick Laidlaw is co-founder and CTO for Voicify. He is part of a rare breed of technical executives who still knows how to work in the trenches while inspiring team members around him. He brings over twenty years of hands-on development and leadership experience in the marketing and advertising industry. Prior to Voicify, Nick was co-founder and CTO of Agency Oasis, a national digital advertising agency focused on web solutions. He helped to grow the agency over 16 years until it was acquired in 2016.ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.Listen to Data Delicacies (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH) on Spotify: Visit Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/)Online Follow Incentivio (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/) on Instagram Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

In a recent episode of Data Delicacies (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies), hosted by Arun Kumar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/) of Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/), Jeremy Theisen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytheisen), Chief Revenue Officer of Hang (https://www.hang.com/), provided insightful commentary on the evolving landscape of restaurant marketing, particularly the role of AI and loyalty programs in driving customer engagement. Theisen highlighted the challenges many brands face in utilizing the abundance of data available for customer retention, suggesting that AI could bridge the gap between tools and actionable insights, allowing brands to operate smarter with fewer resources.Advancing AI in Restaurant MarketingWith an abundance of tools available to capture data for customer attraction and retention, it is important to assess the need for skilled personnel to effectively utilize that data. Many brands struggle with maximizing these tools, opting to assign the task of managing complex loyalty campaigns to junior marketers. Jeremy Theisen believes the key to growth lies in continually expanding the database, and integrating AI-driven tools could bridge the gap, providing smarter insights and strategies without the need for large, highly experienced teams.Loyalty Programs as Revenue GeneratorsJeremy Theisen says when loyalty programs are operating correctly, vendors should have transparent conversations with brands about the true costs of implementing loyalty programs, including the required personnel, and the potential outcomes. He notes that loyalty programs are often viewed in a negative light, limiting their potential, leaving untapped potential for loyalty programs to be leveraged as key revenue generators.Emerging Tech Trends in LoyaltyCustomer engagement plays an important role in the success of any business. As business evolves, Jeremy Theisen foresees revenue recapture tools as an incoming wave within the loyalty space that will help businesses understand where gaps may exist and who should be tapped within the company to address them.ABOUT JEREMY THEISEN—With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Jeremy Theisen has built a reputation for driving growth, optimizing revenue, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operations. As the Chief Revenue Officer at Hang, Jeremy excels in creating dynamic, high-performing teams and fostering a vibrant company culture. His expertise in blending innovation with strategic leadership has helped numerous brands navigate the complexities of modern customer engagement and loyalty, positioning them for long-term success.ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies (Data%20Delicacies) is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKHIncentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Preston Junger, co-founder of Nift Restaurants and Mile Square Labs, joined Arun Kumar on Data Delicacies, powered by Incentivio, to share his expertise on the changing dynamics of technology, customer relationships, and the growing influence of AI in the hospitality industry.Evolving Customer Connection -The increased implementation of technology in business can decrease the customer connections created by human interaction. Preston Junger believes that technology is an addition to business, but operators must be intentional in taking advantage of opportunities for customer connection and maintaining that relationship.AI in Hospitality - AI integration has become nearly a necessity for current businesses. However, even with the increased digital presence, AI is still in the beginning stages as companies and customers continue to see what works best and AI companies continue to evolve into new, more efficient tools. Preston Junger believes that eventually, AI tools with staying power will surface and become a staple in the hospitality industry.The Value of First Party Data - Data collection is vital to business, but Preston Junger says that having the control of the first party data, or data collected directly from the customer, is extremely important. First party data, according to Junger, helps businesses manage, prioritize, and build on customer engagement.#podcast #interview #technology Episode LinksConnect with Preston Junger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonjunger/Visit Preston Junger Website: https://preston-junger.mystrikingly.com/?Follow Preston Junger on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pjunger/?hl=enVisit Nift Online: https://www.gonift.com/Visit Miles Square Labs Online: https://milesquarelabs.com/ABOUT PRESTON JUNGERWith over two decades of experience in scaling high-growth companies, Preston Junger is recognized for turning early-stage ventures into market leaders. His career highlights include launching Yelp's first NYC office, growing revenue from $2MM to $700MM annually, and expanding teams from 80 to 4,000 employees. Preston has also secured significant investments, including an $80MM Series C led by SoftBank in 2022. Known for his strategic vision and innovation, Preston excels in enterprise sales, business development, and talent acquisition. He combines his expertise with a global perspective, making him a key player in international expansion and startup growth. Outside of work, Preston enjoys sports, travel, and staying up-to-date with emerging technologies.Subscribe to Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpWSubscribe to Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH?si=652ca096d5c74ec8Subscribe to Data Delicacies onApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821Visit Incentivio Website: https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicaciesFollow Incentivio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/

Serial entrepreneur Troy Hooper (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtroyhooper/) shared his insights on how businesses can improve customer acquisition, maximize the value of their tech tools, and better communicate their brand’s value on the latest episode of Data Delicacies hosted by Arun Kumar (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47).With a background in developing successful hospitality brands, Hooper brings a wealth of knowledge on creating lasting relationships with customers and running efficient operations. Key Takeaways* Building Community is Customer Acquisition - Customer acquisition can be a difficult, expensive process for businesses. For Troy Hooper, the acquisition can come from building a community and a fan base to both create a customer pool and foster customer retention.* Simplification and Collaboration - With so many tech options in business space, it can become a task to figure out a tech stack that performs harmoniously. Luckily, Troy Hooper believes that things are trending in a direction of universal fits between tech options. However, according to Hooper, it is important to simplify the operation to maximize the value of the tools being used for their optimal purposes.* How to Explain What You Do - Ask more than you tell. Troy Hooper points to that as the foundational approach to finding solutions for customer issues. To Troy, it is important to find the person who is most capable of discussing the companies value and it is the company’s responsibility to listen and find solutions specific to customer needs.Episode Links* Follow Troy Hooper on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/apineappleperspective/)* Follow Troy Hooper on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@troyhooper)* Connect with Troy Hooper on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtroyhooper/)* Visit Pepper Lunch Website (https://www.pepperlunchrestaurants.com/)* Follow Pepper Lunch Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pepperlunchrestaurants)ABOUT TROY HOOPERTroy Hooper is a dynamic leader with a passion for connecting with those he mentors, inspiring them to surpass their own expectations. His career is guided by a commitment to balancing the needs of his team, the guest experience, and business profitability. Hooper's professional accomplishments span diverse sectors, from elevating properties to a Platinum Club of America 5-Star Rating and AAA 4-Diamond status, to managing complex hospitality operations including fine dining, casual venues, and large-scale events. He has overseen property remodels, implemented successful membership drives, and managed Caribbean-based operations. A lifelong water enthusiast, Troy is also a Master Dive Instructor and USCG Captain, often found photographing underwater marvels.ABOUT DATA DELICACIESData Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

On a recent episode of Data Delicacies by Incentivio, hosted by Arun Kumar, i40 Group CMO Brandon Overstreet shared invaluable insights into the evolving role of data in the restaurant industry. Overstreet, known for his data-driven approach, discussed how restaurants can harness data not just to understand the present, but to predict the future and optimize growth strategies.----Using Data to Predict the Future - Brandon Overstreet is an advocate for data and acquiring as much data as possible. Overstreet believes that data is not only a picture of what is happening in a restaurant, but a look into the future and a way to analyze costs.Breaking through the Glass Ceiling of Stagnation - As the world changes and technology evolves, Brandon Overstreet believes that many database platforms are antiquated and insufficient for customer loyalty programs. To maintain growth, specifically financially, Overstreet believes companies need to work hard to find the next best company on the rise to work with.Courageous Data Integration - Brandon Overstreet is a fan of the courageous pursuit of data. Then, having restaurants integrate that data into their business. However, Overstreet says it's best to use partners within the data cycle, and not try to go at it alone due to the amount of data there is to measure-----Episode Links:* I40 Group Online (https://i40group.com/)* Brandon Overstreet LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonoverstreet/)ABOUT BRANDON OVERSTREETBrandon Overstreet is an accomplished Chief Marketing Officer and Brand Strategist with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation across a wide range of industries. He excels in crafting and implementing comprehensive marketing plans that boost brand visibility, engage consumers, and build loyal customer bases, all contributing to strong business results. His expertise in understanding consumer behavior, technology, and market dynamics allows him to design campaigns that connect with key audiences. Overstreet has a strong track record of transforming both static and emerging marketing departments into top-performing teams, fostering an environment of creative thinking, data-driven strategy, and accountability. His leadership has been pivotal in launching new products, rejuvenating established brands, and delivering substantial revenue growth. With a passion for data-informed marketing, Overstreet consistently pushes for innovation and stays ahead of industry trends. He holds a film degree from the University of Southern California.ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.Incentivio* Subscribe to Incentivio on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH?si=652ca096d5c74ec8)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies onApple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821)* Visit Incentivio Website (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies)* Follow Incentivio on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/)

Incentivio Co-Founder and COO, Sash Dias joins Arun Kumar on Data Delicacies to discuss the importance of clean data, how personalization is the next chapter for AI and the ways that Incentivio leverages data to create healthier businesses. Takeaways* The importance of having “clean” data - One of the first things that Sash and his fellow co-founders at Incentivio learned when starting the business is the importance of having clean, usable data. This data-driven approach helps restaurants increase guest retention, optimize operations, and personalize marketing, leveling the playing field with larger chains.* Is Personalization the Next Chapter in the AI Revolution? - AI has unlocked an incredible new world of possibilities for business owners and what that means for the future of marketing, Sash highlighted the importance of personalization at scale.* How Incentivio Helps Businesses Improve Through Data - Incentivio has followed the same north star for the last 10 years and that is to help businesses develop a data-driven approach to building a healthier, better business. Episode Links* Connect with Sash Dias on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sash-dias-157180b/)* Visit Incentivio website (https://www.incentivio.com/)About Sash DiasSash Dias has over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. Sash began their career in 1999 as a Systems Analyst at John Keells Computer Services pvt Ltd. In 2002, they became a Program Manager at Virtusa. In 2007, they joined Nadastra as a Program Manager, where they implemented a Program Management Office for a $16bn property management company and managed the ramp up of an operations center in Asia for a Fortune 500 company. In 2008, they moved to Aeturnum as the VP Engineering & Client Services and later as the Director Engineering & Client Services. In 2016, they became the Co Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Incentivio.ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.* Subscribe to Incentivio on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH?si=652ca096d5c74ec8)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821)* Visit Incentivio Website (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies)* Follow Incentivio on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/)Data Delicacies is produced by Incentivio in partnership with Cali BBQ Media

On the latest episode of Data Delicacies (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies) powered by Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/) and hosted by Arun Kumar (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47), Bryan Rutcofsky (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanrutcofsky), co-founder and CRO of Marqii (https://marqii.com/), shared valuable insights on the evolving digital landscape for businesses, particularly within the restaurant and hospitality industries. Takeaways:* Customer Feedback Matters - For Bryan Rutcofsky, customer feedback is a key cog to the decision making process of consumers. Marqii is able to dig deep into that data and give actionable steps to the establishments to address what is being said, positive or negative.* AI Power Personal Responses - Answering customer feedback is necessary, but can be tedious. Instead of programming canned, generic answers, Marquii is able to use AI to help businesses create genuine, specific responses to customers.* Being “Crawlable” - Being searchable and crawlable is important to a business in today’s digital landscape. In order for business to accomplish this, Rutcofsky says three things matter, location, relevance, and prominence.Episode Links:* Visit Marqii Website (https://marqii.com/)* Follow Marqii on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/getmarqii)* Subscribe to Marqii on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@getmarqii)* Follow Marqii on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/marqii/)* Connect with Bryan Rutcofsky on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanrutcofsky/)About Bryan RutcofskyBryan Rutcofsky led sales at Yext from 2007 to 2017, beginning as VP of Sales for SMB and rising to SVP of Sales for Mid-market and Partnerships. During his tenure, he expanded the sales team to 140 members and helped generate nearly $100 million in revenue. Following his success at Yext, Bryan co-founded Marqii, where he now serves as CRO, providing software solutions for managing listings, menus, and reviews for the hospitality industry.About Data DelicaciesData Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.* Subscribe to Incentivio on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH?si=652ca096d5c74ec8)* Subscribe to Data Delicacies onApple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821)* Visit Incentivio Website (https://www.incentivio.com/data-delicacies)* Follow Incentivio on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/)Data Delicacies is produced by Cali BBQ Media (https://betheshow.media) and Incentivio (https://www.incentivio.com/)

On this episode of the Data Delicacies podcast powered by Incentivio, co-founder of Stream, an online menu management platform, Brett Berman, sat down with host Arun Kumar to discuss the origins of Stream, the significance of customer loyalty, and the emerging role of AI in the restaurant industry. Stream Origin Story - Brett Berman knew he had to pivot on the backside of the pandemic shut down. Using the resources he had, he and his team quickly went to work to help restaurants differentiate themselves and created Stream. Creating Loyalty - For Brett Berman, loyalty is based on the customer experience. The better the experience, the higher chance of creating loyalty, but it is important for restaurants to have a way for customers to leave that feedback.AI Usage in Restaurants - Artificial Intelligence is being used in almost all walks of life, and increasingly so in restaurants. However, Brett Berman believes that we are still in the very early stages of AI and machine learning and the possibilities of where AI can be applied are endless.Episode Links:Stream Online (https://www.streamorders.com/)Brett Berman LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettaksel/)ABOUT STREAMStream is revolutionizing an industry dominated by manual processes by building scalable, automated solutions. It offers self-service tools that empower restaurants to manage their online menus and seamlessly integrate orders directly into their POS systems. Whether it's a small family-owned business or a multi-billion-dollar tech company, Stream's mission is to equip them with the technology, intuitive UI/UX, and innovative strategies needed to run their businesses more efficiently.ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.Data Delicacies on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH)Incentivio Online (https://www.incentivio.com/)Incentivio Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/)Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media

Bill Lindsey, co-founder of COGS-well, shared valuable insights into how COGS-well helps restaurants optimize production, rebuild customer loyalty, and maintain a strong focus on hospitality on the latest episode of the Data Delicacies podcast powered by Incentivio.Key TakeawaysOptimizing Production Efficiency - COGS-well optimizes production by using historical data to predict the future of company costs. In doing so, Lindsey says they help lower costs for their restaurant partners.Rebuilding Customer Loyalty - There are valuable lessons that restaurants could have learned from the Pandemic. Now, post-pandemic, restaurants need to find ways to reengage customers and rebuild customer loyalty, which, when done correctly, Bill Lindsey says is absolute gold.A Hospitality Business, Not a Tech Business - Bill Lindsey still believes in the value of hospitality. For him, it is important for COGS-well to treat their customers as well as the customer would treat their customers so that no disconnects are present.Episode Links* Bill Lindsey on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-lindsey775/* COGS-well Online: https://www.cogs-well.com/* COGS-well on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cogs-well-llc/About Data DelicaciesData Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.Data Delicacies on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKHIncentivio Online - https://www.incentivio.com/Incentivio Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media - https://www.incentivio.com/ | https://betheshow.media