S2E58 - The Leadership, Culture, and Profitability Connection

About the Episode

In this conversation, Sam Fonseca  takes us through his fascinating journey, beginning with his first encounter with Raising Cane's in California, and the impactful career choices that followed. From record-breaking sales at Raising Cane’s to leading the busiest location of Dave’s Hot Chicken, Sam's story is a testament to the power of innovative practices and strategic career moves.

We also explore Sam's role as a restaurant coach, helping founders scale their businesses with his 'ops method'—a strategic approach to observation, planning, and implementation. Listen in as Sam shares his thoughts on "founder's fatigue," the importance of mentoring, and how a coach can uncover business blind spots. Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur or just setting out, Sam's insights and experiences offer invaluable lessons on leadership and growth in the restaurant industry. So, grab your headphones and get ready for an episode packed with wisdom and practical tips for success!

Takeaways

• Sam Fonseca helps founders scale their restaurant businesses.
• Leadership plays a crucial role in the restaurant industry.
• Founders fatigue can lead to a loss of passion for the business.
• Young, fun brands are exciting opportunities in the market.
• Operational improvements can lead to significant sales increases.
• A tailored coaching approach is essential for restaurant success.
• Common mistakes include lack of passion in hiring and operations.
• Having a coach can provide valuable insights and accountability.
• Understanding your people is key to improving operations.
• Success stories demonstrate the impact of effective leadership and systems.

Timestamps

00:00 Started working at In-N-Out for family. 03:43 The handshake matters more than the roast. 07:10 Seeking energetic, young, fun brands constantly excites. 12:22 Opening earlier increased sales by $2 million. 15:15 Successful career built on a proven formula. 18:41 Coaching tailored to various client needs. 20:07 Quick improvements for restaurants to improve operations. 25:02 Coaches provide valuable guidance and accountability. 27:28 What does working with Sam entail? 31:24 Online courses for restaurant management career growth.