https://simplecast.com Media Test Kitchen The Media Test Kitchen is where new media lives. We explore the intersection of technology and new media in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, learning how businesses are utilizing these tools to grow their business. en Fri, 8 May 2026 11:38:26 +0000 Fri, 8 May 2026 11:38:37 +0000 https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com Media Test Kitchen https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/0f5055e8-ffa1-4f7f-a1a3-d101714f8c5c/bdb2c33f-e553-4b6e-820f-f7525d645f26/3000x3000/media_test_kitchen_pod_100.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com episodic The Media Test Kitchen is where new media lives. We explore the intersection of technology and new media in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, learning how businesses are utilizing these tools to grow their business. Cali BBQ Media false https://feeds.simplecast.com/c_VPApfS Cali BBQ Media podcast@calibbq.media 97c15932-f097-42b0-96b0-10605d7ae400 Pitch The Tide - Christian Hilty: VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat In this Pitch the Tide session, Christian Hilty, VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat, shares how the company evolved from a college delivery startup into a nationwide catering delivery management platform built specifically for restaurants. DeliverThat helps operators streamline catering fulfillment through a combination of delivery orchestration technology, nationwide driver coverage, and integrations with major restaurant platforms. By supporting setup-focused catering delivery, real-time delivery visibility, driver management tools, and flexible fulfillment options, the platform helps restaurants protect high-value catering orders, improve operational efficiency, and create a more reliable guest experience at scale.

  • Catering Delivery Built for Restaurants – DeliverThat focuses specifically on catering fulfillment, providing setup-focused delivery, trained drivers, and nationwide coverage designed to protect high-value orders and create a more professional guest experience.
  • Flexible Delivery Management and Visibility – The platform gives restaurants real-time delivery tracking, setup photos, timestamps, driver performance data, and orchestration tools that help operators choose the best fulfillment option for each order.
  • Scalable Solutions for Growing Catering Programs – Through integrations with major restaurant platforms, white-labeled driver tools, and customizable fulfillment strategies, DeliverThat helps restaurants expand catering operations without relying entirely on in-house staff or drivers.

Episode Links

]]> Fri, 8 May 2026 11:38:26 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-christian-hilty-vp-of-partnerships-at-deliverthat-MHYwOik6 In this Pitch the Tide session, Christian Hilty, VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat, shares how the company evolved from a college delivery startup into a nationwide catering delivery management platform built specifically for restaurants. DeliverThat helps operators streamline catering fulfillment through a combination of delivery orchestration technology, nationwide driver coverage, and integrations with major restaurant platforms. By supporting setup-focused catering delivery, real-time delivery visibility, driver management tools, and flexible fulfillment options, the platform helps restaurants protect high-value catering orders, improve operational efficiency, and create a more reliable guest experience at scale.

  • Catering Delivery Built for Restaurants – DeliverThat focuses specifically on catering fulfillment, providing setup-focused delivery, trained drivers, and nationwide coverage designed to protect high-value orders and create a more professional guest experience.
  • Flexible Delivery Management and Visibility – The platform gives restaurants real-time delivery tracking, setup photos, timestamps, driver performance data, and orchestration tools that help operators choose the best fulfillment option for each order.
  • Scalable Solutions for Growing Catering Programs – Through integrations with major restaurant platforms, white-labeled driver tools, and customizable fulfillment strategies, DeliverThat helps restaurants expand catering operations without relying entirely on in-house staff or drivers.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Christian Hilty: VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat Cali BBQ Media 00:53:43 In this Pitch the Tide session, Christian Hilty, VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat, shares how the company evolved from a college delivery startup into a nationwide catering delivery management platform built specifically for restaurants. In this Pitch the Tide session, Christian Hilty, VP of Partnerships at DeliverThat, shares how the company evolved from a college delivery startup into a nationwide catering delivery management platform built specifically for restaurants. false full 22 948320fb-bd45-49cf-b1c1-7d685d238950 Rising Tides Live - Planning For The National Restaurant Show Shawn Walchef led this Rising Tides Live conversation focused on the National Restaurant Association Show, where operators and creators shared how to get the most out of one of the biggest events in hospitality. With so much happening, the group emphasized a simple truth: success at NRA comes down to showing up with intention. From planning key meetings to staying open to unexpected connections, the real value is not just in what you see, but in who you meet and how you follow up. You do not need to do everything. You just need to show up ready to engage and make it count.

Listen to the replay of the latest room where the participants discussed community service and follow Cali BBQ Media to keep up with the latest and join the rooms to tell your story and have your voice heard.

Every Wednesday and Friday at 10am PT, Shawn Walchef hosts the Rising Tides Live room streaming with StreamYard on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, and more. Leading voices in hospitality, and otherwise, from near and far join to discuss all things business and much more.

]]> Tue, 5 May 2026 20:26:34 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-planning-for-the-national-restaurant-show-TX27_MGj Shawn Walchef led this Rising Tides Live conversation focused on the National Restaurant Association Show, where operators and creators shared how to get the most out of one of the biggest events in hospitality. With so much happening, the group emphasized a simple truth: success at NRA comes down to showing up with intention. From planning key meetings to staying open to unexpected connections, the real value is not just in what you see, but in who you meet and how you follow up. You do not need to do everything. You just need to show up ready to engage and make it count.

Listen to the replay of the latest room where the participants discussed community service and follow Cali BBQ Media to keep up with the latest and join the rooms to tell your story and have your voice heard.

Every Wednesday and Friday at 10am PT, Shawn Walchef hosts the Rising Tides Live room streaming with StreamYard on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, and more. Leading voices in hospitality, and otherwise, from near and far join to discuss all things business and much more.

]]> Rising Tides Live - Planning For The National Restaurant Show Cali BBQ Media 01:04:54 Shawn Walchef led this Rising Tides Live conversation focused on the National Restaurant Association Show, where operators and creators shared how to get the most out of one of the biggest events in hospitality. With so much happening, the group emphasized a simple truth: success at NRA comes down to showing up with intention. From planning key meetings to staying open to unexpected connections, the real value is not just in what you see, but in who you meet and how you follow up. You do not need to do everything. You just need to show up ready to engage and make it count. Shawn Walchef led this Rising Tides Live conversation focused on the National Restaurant Association Show, where operators and creators shared how to get the most out of one of the biggest events in hospitality. With so much happening, the group emphasized a simple truth: success at NRA comes down to showing up with intention. From planning key meetings to staying open to unexpected connections, the real value is not just in what you see, but in who you meet and how you follow up. You do not need to do everything. You just need to show up ready to engage and make it count. false full 21 8c8d4ec4-0820-4039-a1de-d8cf48711510 Pitch The Tide - Justin Andrews and Darren Spicer: Co-Founders Cowboy Mud In this Pitch the Tide session, Darren Spicer and Justin Andrews introduce Cowboy Mud, a coffee-infused barbecue rub built from a third-generation family recipe and designed to stand out both on the shelf and in the wild. Packaged in a distinctive dip can for portability and brand identity, Cowboy Mud blends premium ingredients like Hawaiian sea salt and specialty coffee to create a versatile seasoning that works across proteins, vegetables, and even unexpected applications like popcorn and cocktails. Positioned as more than just a spice, the brand aims to live at the intersection of food, lifestyle, and storytelling.

  • Brand Is the Differentiator, Not Just the Product - Cowboy Mud is not trying to win by being another spice on the shelf. From the dip can packaging to the coffee infusion to Justin Andrews’ country music roots, the product is built around identity. The biggest opportunity is leaning fully into that story and lifestyle, making the brand as memorable as the flavor.
  • Content and Community Will Drive Growth - The strongest feedback from the room centered on content. Not polished ads, but real, rugged storytelling. Cooking videos, behind-the-scenes building, user-generated recipes, and collaborations with pitmasters and creators will create awareness faster than traditional retail expansion. The path to scale starts with attention.
  • Distribution Needs to Match the Audience - There are two clear lanes. Direct-to-consumer for accessibility and discovery, and larger format packaging for professionals like caterers and pitmasters. Making the product easy to buy, easy to try, and available in the right sizes will be critical to turning interest into repeat usage and long-term growth.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:47:19 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-justin-andrews-and-darren-spicer-co-founders-cowboy-mud-ciIqIViS In this Pitch the Tide session, Darren Spicer and Justin Andrews introduce Cowboy Mud, a coffee-infused barbecue rub built from a third-generation family recipe and designed to stand out both on the shelf and in the wild. Packaged in a distinctive dip can for portability and brand identity, Cowboy Mud blends premium ingredients like Hawaiian sea salt and specialty coffee to create a versatile seasoning that works across proteins, vegetables, and even unexpected applications like popcorn and cocktails. Positioned as more than just a spice, the brand aims to live at the intersection of food, lifestyle, and storytelling.

  • Brand Is the Differentiator, Not Just the Product - Cowboy Mud is not trying to win by being another spice on the shelf. From the dip can packaging to the coffee infusion to Justin Andrews’ country music roots, the product is built around identity. The biggest opportunity is leaning fully into that story and lifestyle, making the brand as memorable as the flavor.
  • Content and Community Will Drive Growth - The strongest feedback from the room centered on content. Not polished ads, but real, rugged storytelling. Cooking videos, behind-the-scenes building, user-generated recipes, and collaborations with pitmasters and creators will create awareness faster than traditional retail expansion. The path to scale starts with attention.
  • Distribution Needs to Match the Audience - There are two clear lanes. Direct-to-consumer for accessibility and discovery, and larger format packaging for professionals like caterers and pitmasters. Making the product easy to buy, easy to try, and available in the right sizes will be critical to turning interest into repeat usage and long-term growth.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Justin Andrews and Darren Spicer: Co-Founders Cowboy Mud Cali BBQ Media 00:54:36 In this Pitch the Tide session, Darren Spicer and Justin Andrews introduce Cowboy Mud, a coffee-infused barbecue rub built from a third-generation family recipe and designed to stand out both on the shelf and in the wild. In this Pitch the Tide session, Darren Spicer and Justin Andrews introduce Cowboy Mud, a coffee-infused barbecue rub built from a third-generation family recipe and designed to stand out both on the shelf and in the wild. false full 20 cca6c347-9458-4705-9094-7e007549c60d Rising Tides Live - The Power Of Showing Up Mike Bisceglia again filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, guiding a meaningful conversation around the power of showing up every day. Joined by operators, creators, consultants, and entrepreneurs, the group shared how consistent effort often matters more than perfect execution. From attending events, building businesses, and learning new technology to being present for family, health, and personal growth, each story pointed to the same truth. Progress is usually built in ordinary moments, not dramatic ones. Whether it is five minutes or five hours, showing up with intention creates momentum, trust, and opportunity over time. The takeaway was clear: success is less about waiting for the perfect moment and more about continuing to show up for what matters most.

  • Showing Up Builds Momentum – Progress often starts with simply being present. Whether it is attending the meeting, making the appointment, joining the conversation, or taking the first step, showing up creates opportunities that cannot happen from the sidelines. Consistent presence opens doors over time.
  • Being Present Matters More Than Being Perfect – Showing up is not just about physically being there. It is about giving attention, energy, and intention to the moment in front of you. A short window of real focus can create more value than hours of distracted effort.
  • Small Efforts Create Lasting Results – Success is rarely one giant leap. It is built through everyday actions that seem ordinary in the moment: checking in, following through, learning a new skill, supporting others, or doing the work when no one is watching. Those small efforts become the foundation of long-term growth.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:17:43 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-the-power-of-showing-up-0xBSWVvD Mike Bisceglia again filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, guiding a meaningful conversation around the power of showing up every day. Joined by operators, creators, consultants, and entrepreneurs, the group shared how consistent effort often matters more than perfect execution. From attending events, building businesses, and learning new technology to being present for family, health, and personal growth, each story pointed to the same truth. Progress is usually built in ordinary moments, not dramatic ones. Whether it is five minutes or five hours, showing up with intention creates momentum, trust, and opportunity over time. The takeaway was clear: success is less about waiting for the perfect moment and more about continuing to show up for what matters most.

  • Showing Up Builds Momentum – Progress often starts with simply being present. Whether it is attending the meeting, making the appointment, joining the conversation, or taking the first step, showing up creates opportunities that cannot happen from the sidelines. Consistent presence opens doors over time.
  • Being Present Matters More Than Being Perfect – Showing up is not just about physically being there. It is about giving attention, energy, and intention to the moment in front of you. A short window of real focus can create more value than hours of distracted effort.
  • Small Efforts Create Lasting Results – Success is rarely one giant leap. It is built through everyday actions that seem ordinary in the moment: checking in, following through, learning a new skill, supporting others, or doing the work when no one is watching. Those small efforts become the foundation of long-term growth.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - The Power Of Showing Up Cali BBQ Media 00:49:38 Mike Bisceglia again filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, guiding a meaningful conversation around the power of showing up every day. Mike Bisceglia again filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, guiding a meaningful conversation around the power of showing up every day. false full 19 c0218a3f-8681-4e83-a407-cfbd33707332 Pitch The Tide - Mary Pillow Thompson: Co-Founder and Director of Business Development of Zignyl In this Pitch the Tide session, Mary Pillow Thompson shares how Zignyl helps restaurants turn hard work into real results. By giving teams live sales goals, real-time progress tracking, and shift-based incentives, the platform helps employees know what winning looks like while the shift is happening. Built for operators who want stronger performance and lower turnover, Zignyl combines forecasting, labor planning, and motivation tools to increase profits, improve retention, and create better shift execution across every location.

  • Clarity Drives Performance – Most teams are willing to work hard, but effort alone does not guarantee results. When employees can clearly see goals in real time, they make better decisions and perform with more focus.
  • Incentives Change Behavior – When rewards are tied directly to shift performance, teams become more engaged and motivated. Shared incentives create accountability, stronger teamwork, and better execution during busy moments.
  • AI Should Improve Operations – Forecasting, labor planning, and automation are most valuable when they help teams run smarter shifts. The best technology supports people, reduces waste, and creates more time for hospitality.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:59:22 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-mary-pillow-thompson-co-founder-and-director-of-business-development-of-zignyl-W19s9d9Q-2_w8UmRK In this Pitch the Tide session, Mary Pillow Thompson shares how Zignyl helps restaurants turn hard work into real results. By giving teams live sales goals, real-time progress tracking, and shift-based incentives, the platform helps employees know what winning looks like while the shift is happening. Built for operators who want stronger performance and lower turnover, Zignyl combines forecasting, labor planning, and motivation tools to increase profits, improve retention, and create better shift execution across every location.

  • Clarity Drives Performance – Most teams are willing to work hard, but effort alone does not guarantee results. When employees can clearly see goals in real time, they make better decisions and perform with more focus.
  • Incentives Change Behavior – When rewards are tied directly to shift performance, teams become more engaged and motivated. Shared incentives create accountability, stronger teamwork, and better execution during busy moments.
  • AI Should Improve Operations – Forecasting, labor planning, and automation are most valuable when they help teams run smarter shifts. The best technology supports people, reduces waste, and creates more time for hospitality.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Mary Pillow Thompson: Co-Founder and Director of Business Development of Zignyl Cali BBQ Media 00:46:49 In this Pitch the Tide session, Mary Pillow Thompson shares how Zignyl helps restaurants turn hard work into real results. By giving teams live sales goals, real-time progress tracking, and shift-based incentives, the platform helps employees know what winning looks like while the shift is happening. In this Pitch the Tide session, Mary Pillow Thompson shares how Zignyl helps restaurants turn hard work into real results. By giving teams live sales goals, real-time progress tracking, and shift-based incentives, the platform helps employees know what winning looks like while the shift is happening. false full 18 affb66b3-a5a6-42aa-b29e-32f7a371351d Rising Tides Live - Small Decisions That Had A Big Impact Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation on how small decisions can create lasting impact in business and life. Joined by operators, founders, and entrepreneurs, the discussion explored the often overlooked moments that shape long-term outcomes, from saying yes to new opportunities and building better habits to making timely decisions and trusting your instincts. Stories of career pivots, personal relationships, leadership lessons, and daily discipline revealed a common theme. Major change is rarely one giant moment. It is built through consistent small choices. The takeaway was clear: the decisions that seem minor today often become the turning points you recognize later.

  • Small Decisions Often Become Big Turning Points – The moments that change your life or business are not always dramatic or obvious. Often they begin as small choices: saying yes to an opportunity, starting a new habit, sending the email, or taking the first step. What feels minor in the moment can create major long-term impact.
  • Consistency Compounds Over Time – Success is rarely built through one massive breakthrough. It comes from repeated daily actions, better habits, and small improvements that stack over weeks, months, and years. The businesses and people who stay consistent create momentum that others mistake for luck.
  • Action Beats Indecision – Waiting too long can be more costly than making the wrong call. Progress comes from deciding, learning, and adjusting in motion. The people who move forward are not always the ones with perfect answers, but the ones willing to act.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:10:42 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-small-decisions-that-had-a-big-impact-7ljNs2kM Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation on how small decisions can create lasting impact in business and life. Joined by operators, founders, and entrepreneurs, the discussion explored the often overlooked moments that shape long-term outcomes, from saying yes to new opportunities and building better habits to making timely decisions and trusting your instincts. Stories of career pivots, personal relationships, leadership lessons, and daily discipline revealed a common theme. Major change is rarely one giant moment. It is built through consistent small choices. The takeaway was clear: the decisions that seem minor today often become the turning points you recognize later.

  • Small Decisions Often Become Big Turning Points – The moments that change your life or business are not always dramatic or obvious. Often they begin as small choices: saying yes to an opportunity, starting a new habit, sending the email, or taking the first step. What feels minor in the moment can create major long-term impact.
  • Consistency Compounds Over Time – Success is rarely built through one massive breakthrough. It comes from repeated daily actions, better habits, and small improvements that stack over weeks, months, and years. The businesses and people who stay consistent create momentum that others mistake for luck.
  • Action Beats Indecision – Waiting too long can be more costly than making the wrong call. Progress comes from deciding, learning, and adjusting in motion. The people who move forward are not always the ones with perfect answers, but the ones willing to act.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - Small Decisions That Had A Big Impact Cali BBQ Media 00:51:44 Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation on how small decisions can create lasting impact in business and life. Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation on how small decisions can create lasting impact in business and life. false full 16 9d84d1b0-4bf0-4479-9d0c-83a4dcfb33ee Pitch The Tide - Jegil Dugger: CEO of Pye In this Pitch the Tide session, Jegil Dugger, CEO of Pye, introduces a flexible self-ordering kiosk platform designed to help restaurants improve labor efficiency, reduce wait times, and modernize the guest experience. Built for businesses ranging from food trucks to enterprise brands, Pye combines integrated hardware, payment flexibility, and POS connectivity into one adaptable system. By supporting cash and card payments, loyalty features, menu automation, and real-time upselling, the platform helps operators increase revenue while creating a smoother ordering experience for every guest.

  • Flexible Hardware That Grows With You - Pye’s kiosk is built for restaurants, food trucks, pop-ups, and future changes. One system can adapt as the business evolves, helping operators protect their investment.
  • Technology Should Support Hospitality - The kiosk handles ordering so staff can focus on guests. Instead of replacing people, it creates more time for service and better hospitality.
  • Data Drives More Revenue - The real value goes beyond checkout. Loyalty tools, guest insights, and smarter upsells help operators increase sales and bring customers back.

Episode Links

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:56:22 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-jegil-dugger-ceo-of-pye-Ykw8HCCs In this Pitch the Tide session, Jegil Dugger, CEO of Pye, introduces a flexible self-ordering kiosk platform designed to help restaurants improve labor efficiency, reduce wait times, and modernize the guest experience. Built for businesses ranging from food trucks to enterprise brands, Pye combines integrated hardware, payment flexibility, and POS connectivity into one adaptable system. By supporting cash and card payments, loyalty features, menu automation, and real-time upselling, the platform helps operators increase revenue while creating a smoother ordering experience for every guest.

  • Flexible Hardware That Grows With You - Pye’s kiosk is built for restaurants, food trucks, pop-ups, and future changes. One system can adapt as the business evolves, helping operators protect their investment.
  • Technology Should Support Hospitality - The kiosk handles ordering so staff can focus on guests. Instead of replacing people, it creates more time for service and better hospitality.
  • Data Drives More Revenue - The real value goes beyond checkout. Loyalty tools, guest insights, and smarter upsells help operators increase sales and bring customers back.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Jegil Dugger: CEO of Pye Cali BBQ Media 01:00:02 In this Pitch the Tide session, Jegil Dugger, CEO of Pye, introduces a flexible self-ordering kiosk platform designed to help restaurants improve labor efficiency, reduce wait times, and modernize the guest experience. In this Pitch the Tide session, Jegil Dugger, CEO of Pye, introduces a flexible self-ordering kiosk platform designed to help restaurants improve labor efficiency, reduce wait times, and modernize the guest experience. false full 15 b52fb263-72ff-420b-bd18-1bed6d71b692 Rising Tides Live - What’s Actually Working Right Now? Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation around one simple question: what is actually working right now? Joined by operators, creators, founders, and community members, the discussion focused on practical wins happening in real time. From early morning routines and protecting focused work time to asking for help, prioritizing health, celebrating progress, and showing up consistently, the throughline was clear. Growth is rarely one big breakthrough. It is built through habits, perspective, and steady action. The takeaway was simple: when you recognize what is working, repeat it, refine it, and keep building from there.

  • Small Habits Matter: Success is often built through simple daily routines like protecting focus time, exercising, waking up earlier, or starting the day with intention. Small actions repeated consistently create long-term momentum.
  • Community Fuels Growth: Progress happens faster when people ask for help, share knowledge, and support one another. Strong communities create opportunities, accountability, and encouragement that are hard to build alone.
  • Repeat What Works: Instead of only chasing the next goal, take time to recognize what is already producing results. When you identify wins, you can refine those habits, stay confident, and keep building forward.

Episode Links

]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:31:58 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-whats-actually-working-right-now-e4oKT5DH Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a thoughtful conversation around one simple question: what is actually working right now? Joined by operators, creators, founders, and community members, the discussion focused on practical wins happening in real time. From early morning routines and protecting focused work time to asking for help, prioritizing health, celebrating progress, and showing up consistently, the throughline was clear. Growth is rarely one big breakthrough. It is built through habits, perspective, and steady action. The takeaway was simple: when you recognize what is working, repeat it, refine it, and keep building from there.

  • Small Habits Matter: Success is often built through simple daily routines like protecting focus time, exercising, waking up earlier, or starting the day with intention. Small actions repeated consistently create long-term momentum.
  • Community Fuels Growth: Progress happens faster when people ask for help, share knowledge, and support one another. Strong communities create opportunities, accountability, and encouragement that are hard to build alone.
  • Repeat What Works: Instead of only chasing the next goal, take time to recognize what is already producing results. When you identify wins, you can refine those habits, stay confident, and keep building forward.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - What’s Actually Working Right Now? Cali BBQ Media 00:58:16 false full 14 dc15caf3-3d36-4c39-a17d-2e9fe61f9f35 Rising Tides Live - Balance Between Creative And Admin Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a candid conversation on the constant pull between creativity and administrative work. Joined by a room full of operators, creators, and entrepreneurs, the discussion explored a familiar tension: the ideas that drive growth versus the tasks that keep the business running. From building systems and scheduling creative time to recognizing personal energy patterns, the throughline was clear. Creativity does not just happen. It must be protected, prioritized, and practiced. The takeaway was simple: operators who intentionally create space for creative thinking, while building structure around execution, will move faster, think clearer, and ultimately build stronger businesses.

  • Creativity Has to Be Scheduled, Not Squeezed In - The biggest shift is realizing creativity doesn’t just happen when you “have time.” The operators who move forward are the ones who block time for it, protect it, and treat it like any other priority in their business.
  • Structure Creates Freedom, Not Restriction - From limiting your to-do list to three tasks to separating creative and admin time, the conversation made it clear: structure is what actually unlocks better thinking, clearer decisions, and less overwhelm.
  • You Can’t Do Everything — And You’re Not Supposed To - Growth requires letting go. Whether it’s delegating tasks, accepting imperfect execution, or asking for help, the operators who scale are the ones who stop trying to carry everything themselves.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 9 Apr 2026 19:47:58 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-balance-between-creative-and-admin-9AYEbCxz Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a candid conversation on the constant pull between creativity and administrative work. Joined by a room full of operators, creators, and entrepreneurs, the discussion explored a familiar tension: the ideas that drive growth versus the tasks that keep the business running. From building systems and scheduling creative time to recognizing personal energy patterns, the throughline was clear. Creativity does not just happen. It must be protected, prioritized, and practiced. The takeaway was simple: operators who intentionally create space for creative thinking, while building structure around execution, will move faster, think clearer, and ultimately build stronger businesses.

  • Creativity Has to Be Scheduled, Not Squeezed In - The biggest shift is realizing creativity doesn’t just happen when you “have time.” The operators who move forward are the ones who block time for it, protect it, and treat it like any other priority in their business.
  • Structure Creates Freedom, Not Restriction - From limiting your to-do list to three tasks to separating creative and admin time, the conversation made it clear: structure is what actually unlocks better thinking, clearer decisions, and less overwhelm.
  • You Can’t Do Everything — And You’re Not Supposed To - Growth requires letting go. Whether it’s delegating tasks, accepting imperfect execution, or asking for help, the operators who scale are the ones who stop trying to carry everything themselves.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - Balance Between Creative And Admin Cali BBQ Media 01:02:03 Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a candid conversation on the constant pull between creativity and administrative work. Mike Bisceglia filled in for Shawn Walchef on Rising Tides Live, leading a candid conversation on the constant pull between creativity and administrative work. false full 13 4e0b85ca-4a93-4070-95c9-ce15c4bca3ae Pitch The Tide - Trace Smith: CEO of Next Glass In this Pitch the Tide session, Trace Smith, CEO of Next Glass, introduces Untappd for Business, a menu management and marketing platform built to help restaurants streamline beverage programs and drive guest traffic. By leveraging a global database of drinks and a large community of engaged users, the platform simplifies menu updates while connecting operators directly to consumers, turning real-time changes into increased visibility, foot traffic, and revenue.

  • Smart Menu Data - Menu management is simplified through structured beverage data, allowing operators to instantly build and update menus with accurate details instead of manual entry.
  • Built-In Audience - NextGlass connects restaurants to a built-in audience of drinkers, turning menu updates into a discovery tool that brings new and returning guests through the door.
  • Time to Revenue - The platform delivers value by saving time on operations while also driving revenue, combining efficiency with measurable traffic and sales impact.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 2 Apr 2026 17:55:45 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-trace-smith-ceo-of-next-glass-zwR6cfZd In this Pitch the Tide session, Trace Smith, CEO of Next Glass, introduces Untappd for Business, a menu management and marketing platform built to help restaurants streamline beverage programs and drive guest traffic. By leveraging a global database of drinks and a large community of engaged users, the platform simplifies menu updates while connecting operators directly to consumers, turning real-time changes into increased visibility, foot traffic, and revenue.

  • Smart Menu Data - Menu management is simplified through structured beverage data, allowing operators to instantly build and update menus with accurate details instead of manual entry.
  • Built-In Audience - NextGlass connects restaurants to a built-in audience of drinkers, turning menu updates into a discovery tool that brings new and returning guests through the door.
  • Time to Revenue - The platform delivers value by saving time on operations while also driving revenue, combining efficiency with measurable traffic and sales impact.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Trace Smith: CEO of Next Glass Cali BBQ Media 01:00:34 In this Pitch the Tide session, Trace Smith, CEO of Next Glass, introduces Untappd for Business, a menu management and marketing platform built to help restaurants streamline beverage programs and drive guest traffic. In this Pitch the Tide session, Trace Smith, CEO of Next Glass, introduces Untappd for Business, a menu management and marketing platform built to help restaurants streamline beverage programs and drive guest traffic. false full 11 90a33ce1-1c48-41aa-8eee-07d626016be3 Rising Tides Live - Pushing Outside Of Your Comfort Zone Stepping outside of your comfort zone took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ryan Skrzypczynski filled in for Shawn Walchef and leaned into the challenge of hosting. What started as a moment of uncertainty quickly turned into a conversation about growth, confidence, and the value of putting yourself in uncomfortable situations. Operators, entrepreneurs, and creators shared real experiences of pushing past hesitation, learning in real time, and building resilience through action. A clear theme emerged: growth does not happen in comfort. When leaders are willing to step up before they feel ready, they unlock new opportunities, strengthen their voice, and create momentum that carries into every part of their business and life.

  • Growth Starts Before You Feel Ready – Waiting for confidence is a trap. Real growth happens when you step into new roles, challenges, or opportunities before you feel fully prepared.
  • Discomfort Builds Confidence Through Action – Confidence is not something you think your way into. It is built by doing, adjusting in real time, and proving to yourself that you can handle more than you thought.
  • Leadership Means Going First – Strong leaders model behavior. When you push outside your comfort zone, you give your team permission to do the same, creating a culture of growth, resilience, and continuous improvement.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:31:12 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-pushing-outside-of-your-comfort-zone-UVXYnxAz Stepping outside of your comfort zone took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ryan Skrzypczynski filled in for Shawn Walchef and leaned into the challenge of hosting. What started as a moment of uncertainty quickly turned into a conversation about growth, confidence, and the value of putting yourself in uncomfortable situations. Operators, entrepreneurs, and creators shared real experiences of pushing past hesitation, learning in real time, and building resilience through action. A clear theme emerged: growth does not happen in comfort. When leaders are willing to step up before they feel ready, they unlock new opportunities, strengthen their voice, and create momentum that carries into every part of their business and life.

  • Growth Starts Before You Feel Ready – Waiting for confidence is a trap. Real growth happens when you step into new roles, challenges, or opportunities before you feel fully prepared.
  • Discomfort Builds Confidence Through Action – Confidence is not something you think your way into. It is built by doing, adjusting in real time, and proving to yourself that you can handle more than you thought.
  • Leadership Means Going First – Strong leaders model behavior. When you push outside your comfort zone, you give your team permission to do the same, creating a culture of growth, resilience, and continuous improvement.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - Pushing Outside Of Your Comfort Zone Cali BBQ Media 00:57:41 Stepping outside of your comfort zone took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ryan Skrzypczynski filled in for Shawn Walchef and leaned into the challenge of hosting. Stepping outside of your comfort zone took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ryan Skrzypczynski filled in for Shawn Walchef and leaned into the challenge of hosting. false full 10 38fdb49c-fd09-4584-8cc0-238ed295dbe3 Pitch The Tide - Stephanie Olson: Founder and CEO of restauWant In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Olson, Founder and CEO of restauWant, introduces a data-driven marketing intelligence platform designed to help restaurants understand what actually drives guest traffic. Built out of firsthand experience running a restaurant marketing agency, restauWant connects fragmented data across POS systems, online ordering, reservations, and ad platforms to solve the industry’s biggest challenge: knowing which marketing efforts lead to real revenue. By translating complex analytics into clear, actionable insights, the platform empowers operators to make smarter marketing decisions, optimize spend, and focus more time on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

  • Know What Actually Drives Guests In – restauWant is built to solve one of the biggest gaps in restaurant marketing: understanding what actually brings people through the door. By connecting data across platforms, the system shows operators which campaigns lead to real visits and revenue, not just clicks and impressions.
  • Turn Marketing Data Into Clear Decisions – Instead of digging through multiple dashboards, restauWant brings everything into one place, giving operators a simple view of where guests are coming from. This allows restaurants to confidently shift spend toward what works and eliminate wasted marketing dollars.
  • Connect the Full Guest Journey – From first ad impression to repeat visit, restauWant helps stitch together the entire customer journey. By integrating with POS, loyalty, and digital channels, it gives restaurants a clearer picture of how guests discover, engage, and return, leading to smarter marketing and stronger retention.

Episode Links

]]> Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:25:48 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-stephanie-olson-founder-and-ceo-of-restauwant-MXceMg2g In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Olson, Founder and CEO of restauWant, introduces a data-driven marketing intelligence platform designed to help restaurants understand what actually drives guest traffic. Built out of firsthand experience running a restaurant marketing agency, restauWant connects fragmented data across POS systems, online ordering, reservations, and ad platforms to solve the industry’s biggest challenge: knowing which marketing efforts lead to real revenue. By translating complex analytics into clear, actionable insights, the platform empowers operators to make smarter marketing decisions, optimize spend, and focus more time on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

  • Know What Actually Drives Guests In – restauWant is built to solve one of the biggest gaps in restaurant marketing: understanding what actually brings people through the door. By connecting data across platforms, the system shows operators which campaigns lead to real visits and revenue, not just clicks and impressions.
  • Turn Marketing Data Into Clear Decisions – Instead of digging through multiple dashboards, restauWant brings everything into one place, giving operators a simple view of where guests are coming from. This allows restaurants to confidently shift spend toward what works and eliminate wasted marketing dollars.
  • Connect the Full Guest Journey – From first ad impression to repeat visit, restauWant helps stitch together the entire customer journey. By integrating with POS, loyalty, and digital channels, it gives restaurants a clearer picture of how guests discover, engage, and return, leading to smarter marketing and stronger retention.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Stephanie Olson: Founder and CEO of restauWant Cali BBQ Media 00:51:23 In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Olson, Founder and CEO of restauWant, introduces a data-driven marketing intelligence platform designed to help restaurants understand what actually drives guest traffic. In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Olson, Founder and CEO of restauWant, introduces a data-driven marketing intelligence platform designed to help restaurants understand what actually drives guest traffic. false full 9 283974e2-52c0-4165-a553-6cd5c51b2e60 Rising Tides Live - Communication And Digital Wellness Communication and digital wellness took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Marisa Cali filled in for Shawn Walchef and led a conversation on our relationship with technology. Operators, entrepreneurs, and creators shared real experiences navigating constant connectivity and the challenge of staying present. A clear theme emerged: technology is a powerful tool, but without intention, it can take control of our time and attention. When leaders set boundaries and prioritize presence, communication improves and leadership becomes more focused, human, and effective.

  • Digital wellness starts with intention - Technology should support your life and leadership, not control it. Setting boundaries around when and how you use your phone creates space for clearer thinking and better communication.
  • Human connection still wins - Text, email, and AI can enhance communication, but they cannot replace real conversations. The most effective leaders prioritize face-to-face interaction, tone, and presence.
  • Presence is a leadership skill - When you are fully present with your team, your family, or your guests, you lead better. Attention is today’s currency, and where you choose to focus it defines your impact.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:19:07 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-communication-and-digital-wellness-e6_sf7_L Communication and digital wellness took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Marisa Cali filled in for Shawn Walchef and led a conversation on our relationship with technology. Operators, entrepreneurs, and creators shared real experiences navigating constant connectivity and the challenge of staying present. A clear theme emerged: technology is a powerful tool, but without intention, it can take control of our time and attention. When leaders set boundaries and prioritize presence, communication improves and leadership becomes more focused, human, and effective.

  • Digital wellness starts with intention - Technology should support your life and leadership, not control it. Setting boundaries around when and how you use your phone creates space for clearer thinking and better communication.
  • Human connection still wins - Text, email, and AI can enhance communication, but they cannot replace real conversations. The most effective leaders prioritize face-to-face interaction, tone, and presence.
  • Presence is a leadership skill - When you are fully present with your team, your family, or your guests, you lead better. Attention is today’s currency, and where you choose to focus it defines your impact.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - Communication And Digital Wellness Cali BBQ Media 01:05:53 Communication and digital wellness took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Marisa Cali filled in for Shawn Walchef and led a conversation on our relationship with technology. Communication and digital wellness took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Marisa Cali filled in for Shawn Walchef and led a conversation on our relationship with technology. false full 8 bf459e49-4294-426d-929a-55b4a10802b0 Pitch The Tide – Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob, introduces a mobile-first hiring platform built for high-turnover, hourly workforces. Swob uses its AI assistant, Emma, to streamline job posting, screen candidates, and accelerate communication through real-time notifications and text-based outreach. The platform helps operators quickly identify and connect with qualified candidates, reducing time-to-hire while freeing managers to focus on training, culture, and in-store operations.

  • Speed Wins the Hire - Swob is built for immediacy, helping operators post jobs in minutes and connect with candidates instantly. By enabling real-time notifications and fast communication, the platform helps ensure qualified candidates don’t slip away in the first 24 hours.
  • AI That Gives Time Back - With its AI assistant Emma handling job descriptions, screening, and outreach, Swob removes repetitive admin work so managers can stay on the floor focused on training, team development, and guest experience.
  • Built for Hourly, High-Turnover Roles - Swob is designed specifically for frontline hiring, prioritizing local, qualified candidates and simplifying the application process. The result is a more efficient pipeline that improves hiring quality and supports stronger retention through better initial fit.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:45:18 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-stephanie-florio-co-founder-of-swob-a1l8YMZA In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob, introduces a mobile-first hiring platform built for high-turnover, hourly workforces. Swob uses its AI assistant, Emma, to streamline job posting, screen candidates, and accelerate communication through real-time notifications and text-based outreach. The platform helps operators quickly identify and connect with qualified candidates, reducing time-to-hire while freeing managers to focus on training, culture, and in-store operations.

  • Speed Wins the Hire - Swob is built for immediacy, helping operators post jobs in minutes and connect with candidates instantly. By enabling real-time notifications and fast communication, the platform helps ensure qualified candidates don’t slip away in the first 24 hours.
  • AI That Gives Time Back - With its AI assistant Emma handling job descriptions, screening, and outreach, Swob removes repetitive admin work so managers can stay on the floor focused on training, team development, and guest experience.
  • Built for Hourly, High-Turnover Roles - Swob is designed specifically for frontline hiring, prioritizing local, qualified candidates and simplifying the application process. The result is a more efficient pipeline that improves hiring quality and supports stronger retention through better initial fit.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide – Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob Cali BBQ Media 01:05:25 In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob, introduces a mobile-first hiring platform built for high-turnover, hourly workforces. Swob uses its AI assistant, Emma, to streamline job posting, screen candidates, and accelerate communication through real-time notifications and text-based outreach. The platform helps operators quickly identify and connect with qualified candidates, reducing time-to-hire while freeing managers to focus on training, culture, and in-store operations. In this Pitch the Tide session, Stephanie Florio, Co-Founder of Swob, introduces a mobile-first hiring platform built for high-turnover, hourly workforces. Swob uses its AI assistant, Emma, to streamline job posting, screen candidates, and accelerate communication through real-time notifications and text-based outreach. The platform helps operators quickly identify and connect with qualified candidates, reducing time-to-hire while freeing managers to focus on training, culture, and in-store operations. false full 7 d3f55316-ccbb-452b-9a75-26fe71356d62 Rising Tides Live - What Moment In Life Changed How You Lead? Leadership stories took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ward Olgreen filled in for Shawn Walchef and the community explored a powerful question: what moment in life actually changes how you lead. Operators, entrepreneurs, creators, and advisors shared deeply personal experiences that shaped their approach to leadership. From health crises and personal loss to early career lessons and moments of mentorship, each story revealed how difficult seasons often create the most meaningful leadership growth. A clear theme emerged: leadership is rarely learned in theory, it is forged in vulnerability, responsibility, and real life challenges. When leaders choose empathy, listen with intention, and support their teams during the hardest moments, leadership stops being about authority and starts becoming about service, trust, and lifting others along the way.

  • Leadership Is Often Forged in Hard Moments - Many of the stories shared showed that leadership lessons rarely come from success alone. Health challenges, loss, career setbacks, and personal adversity often become the moments that reshape how leaders treat their teams and approach responsibility.
  • Empathy Is a Leadership Skill - When leaders experience vulnerability themselves, they begin to recognize it in others. The discussion reinforced that strong leaders support their teams during mistakes, uncertainty, and pressure rather than using those moments to create distance or blame.
  • Example Matters More Than Authority - Several speakers highlighted the difference between being a boss and being a leader. The most effective leaders set the tone through preparation, effort, and consistency, showing their teams what great leadership looks like rather than simply directing others what to do.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:59:58 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-what-moment-in-life-changed-how-you-lead-5cyGsP8I Leadership stories took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ward Olgreen filled in for Shawn Walchef and the community explored a powerful question: what moment in life actually changes how you lead. Operators, entrepreneurs, creators, and advisors shared deeply personal experiences that shaped their approach to leadership. From health crises and personal loss to early career lessons and moments of mentorship, each story revealed how difficult seasons often create the most meaningful leadership growth. A clear theme emerged: leadership is rarely learned in theory, it is forged in vulnerability, responsibility, and real life challenges. When leaders choose empathy, listen with intention, and support their teams during the hardest moments, leadership stops being about authority and starts becoming about service, trust, and lifting others along the way.

  • Leadership Is Often Forged in Hard Moments - Many of the stories shared showed that leadership lessons rarely come from success alone. Health challenges, loss, career setbacks, and personal adversity often become the moments that reshape how leaders treat their teams and approach responsibility.
  • Empathy Is a Leadership Skill - When leaders experience vulnerability themselves, they begin to recognize it in others. The discussion reinforced that strong leaders support their teams during mistakes, uncertainty, and pressure rather than using those moments to create distance or blame.
  • Example Matters More Than Authority - Several speakers highlighted the difference between being a boss and being a leader. The most effective leaders set the tone through preparation, effort, and consistency, showing their teams what great leadership looks like rather than simply directing others what to do.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live - What Moment In Life Changed How You Lead? Cali BBQ Media 01:07:47 Leadership stories took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ward Olgreen filled in for Shawn Walchef and the community explored a powerful question: what moment in life actually changes how you lead. Operators, entrepreneurs, creators, and advisors shared deeply personal experiences that shaped their approach to leadership. Leadership stories took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Ward Olgreen filled in for Shawn Walchef and the community explored a powerful question: what moment in life actually changes how you lead. Operators, entrepreneurs, creators, and advisors shared deeply personal experiences that shaped their approach to leadership. false full 6 760827ed-9c88-457b-a37b-afbe0ab1775e Pitch The Tide - Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI In this Pitch the Tide session, Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI, introduces an AI-driven hiring platform designed for frontline roles. Cantaloupe uses a conversational AI agent, Cleo, to conduct interviews, assess candidates, and predict turnover risk. The platform delivers ranked candidates directly to managers, saving time and improving hiring quality in high-turnover industries.

  • AI Interviews Every Applicant - Cantaloupe’s voice agent, Cleo, conducts conversational interviews with every applicant, helping restaurants evaluate candidates beyond a traditional resume.
  • Faster, Smarter Hiring Decisions - The platform scores applicants for compatibility, experience, and turnover risk, delivering ranked candidates directly to managers.
  • Automated Recruiting for High-Turnover Roles - By handling screening, scheduling, and early interviews automatically, Cantaloupe helps operators save time and streamline frontline hiring.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:31:26 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-rich-simmerman-founder-and-ceo-of-cantaloupe-ai-qV2HY_iG In this Pitch the Tide session, Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI, introduces an AI-driven hiring platform designed for frontline roles. Cantaloupe uses a conversational AI agent, Cleo, to conduct interviews, assess candidates, and predict turnover risk. The platform delivers ranked candidates directly to managers, saving time and improving hiring quality in high-turnover industries.

  • AI Interviews Every Applicant - Cantaloupe’s voice agent, Cleo, conducts conversational interviews with every applicant, helping restaurants evaluate candidates beyond a traditional resume.
  • Faster, Smarter Hiring Decisions - The platform scores applicants for compatibility, experience, and turnover risk, delivering ranked candidates directly to managers.
  • Automated Recruiting for High-Turnover Roles - By handling screening, scheduling, and early interviews automatically, Cantaloupe helps operators save time and streamline frontline hiring.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI Cali BBQ Media 00:37:20 In this Pitch the Tide session, Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI, introduces an AI-driven hiring platform designed for frontline roles. Cantaloupe uses a conversational AI agent, Cleo, to conduct interviews, assess candidates, and predict turnover risk. The platform delivers ranked candidates directly to managers, saving time and improving hiring quality in high-turnover industries. In this Pitch the Tide session, Rich Simmerman, Founder and CEO of Cantaloupe AI, introduces an AI-driven hiring platform designed for frontline roles. Cantaloupe uses a conversational AI agent, Cleo, to conduct interviews, assess candidates, and predict turnover risk. The platform delivers ranked candidates directly to managers, saving time and improving hiring quality in high-turnover industries. false full 5 2ff25815-1cc5-4103-95e9-57f44deb44bf Rising Tides Live: Customer Success! Customer Success took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef, joined by co-host Ryan Skrzypczynski, and the community explored what the term really means across restaurants, technology, and entrepreneurship. While often associated with SaaS metrics like retention and churn, the discussion revealed a simpler truth: customer success is about helping people achieve the outcome they hoped for. From restaurant operators rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away, to sales professionals focusing on helping rather than selling, the conversation highlighted a shared principle. Whether B2B or B2C, the businesses that win are the ones that listen closely, anticipate needs, and deliver on the promise that brought the customer through the door in the first place.

  • Customer Success Starts With the Outcome – Success is not just good service or hitting KPIs. It is helping the customer achieve the result they hoped for, whether that is a restaurant guest enjoying the experience they expected or a business partner reaching their goals.
  • Listen First, Then Solve – Many stories in the conversation showed that the best operators listen closely before reacting. From rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away to proactively understanding a client’s needs, success often comes from anticipating problems and offering solutions.
  • Define Success Before You Try to Deliver It – A key lesson from the discussion was that businesses must clearly understand who their customer is and what success looks like for them. When teams define the goal upfront, they can align their actions, deliver value, and build long term relationships.

Episode Links

]]> Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:49:31 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-customer-success-6pOzKIa_ Customer Success took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef, joined by co-host Ryan Skrzypczynski, and the community explored what the term really means across restaurants, technology, and entrepreneurship. While often associated with SaaS metrics like retention and churn, the discussion revealed a simpler truth: customer success is about helping people achieve the outcome they hoped for. From restaurant operators rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away, to sales professionals focusing on helping rather than selling, the conversation highlighted a shared principle. Whether B2B or B2C, the businesses that win are the ones that listen closely, anticipate needs, and deliver on the promise that brought the customer through the door in the first place.

  • Customer Success Starts With the Outcome – Success is not just good service or hitting KPIs. It is helping the customer achieve the result they hoped for, whether that is a restaurant guest enjoying the experience they expected or a business partner reaching their goals.
  • Listen First, Then Solve – Many stories in the conversation showed that the best operators listen closely before reacting. From rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away to proactively understanding a client’s needs, success often comes from anticipating problems and offering solutions.
  • Define Success Before You Try to Deliver It – A key lesson from the discussion was that businesses must clearly understand who their customer is and what success looks like for them. When teams define the goal upfront, they can align their actions, deliver value, and build long term relationships.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live: Customer Success! Cali BBQ Media 01:08:58 Customer Success took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef, joined by co-host Ryan Skrzypczynski, and the community explored what the term really means across restaurants, technology, and entrepreneurship. While often associated with SaaS metrics like retention and churn, the discussion revealed a simpler truth: customer success is about helping people achieve the outcome they hoped for. From restaurant operators rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away, to sales professionals focusing on helping rather than selling, the conversation highlighted a shared principle. Whether B2B or B2C, the businesses that win are the ones that listen closely, anticipate needs, and deliver on the promise that brought the customer through the door in the first place. Customer Success took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef, joined by co-host Ryan Skrzypczynski, and the community explored what the term really means across restaurants, technology, and entrepreneurship. While often associated with SaaS metrics like retention and churn, the discussion revealed a simpler truth: customer success is about helping people achieve the outcome they hoped for. From restaurant operators rearranging seats to avoid turning guests away, to sales professionals focusing on helping rather than selling, the conversation highlighted a shared principle. Whether B2B or B2C, the businesses that win are the ones that listen closely, anticipate needs, and deliver on the promise that brought the customer through the door in the first place. false full 4 208fd5d6-6676-429d-8863-d573b2fd027d Pitch The Tide - Ron Goldman: Product Consultant at Zenzap In this Pitch The Tide session, Ron Goldman, product consultant at Zenzap, introduces a secure communication platform designed to separate work messaging from personal texts. Zenzap helps restaurant teams organize conversations, assign tasks, and keep operational information in one place. The platform brings structure, accountability, and AI-powered search to everyday team communication.

  • Separate Work From Personal Messaging - Restaurant teams often rely on personal texting apps, which mixes work communication with private conversations and makes information hard to track. A dedicated platform like Zenzap creates a clear boundary where operational conversations, files, and updates stay organized and accessible.
  • Organized Communication Improves Accountability - When messages, tasks, and files live in one structured system, managers can assign responsibilities, follow up on requests, and keep teams aligned across locations. Clear communication reduces confusion and helps ensure nothing important gets lost in group texts.
  • AI Makes Information Easier to Find - With AI-powered search and summaries, teams can quickly locate past conversations, documents, or decisions. Instead of scrolling through long message threads, operators can access the information they need faster and keep operations moving efficiently.

Episode Links

]]> Thu, 5 Mar 2026 19:29:32 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/pitch-the-tide-ron-goldman-product-consultant-at-zenzap-aEr5QtcI In this Pitch The Tide session, Ron Goldman, product consultant at Zenzap, introduces a secure communication platform designed to separate work messaging from personal texts. Zenzap helps restaurant teams organize conversations, assign tasks, and keep operational information in one place. The platform brings structure, accountability, and AI-powered search to everyday team communication.

  • Separate Work From Personal Messaging - Restaurant teams often rely on personal texting apps, which mixes work communication with private conversations and makes information hard to track. A dedicated platform like Zenzap creates a clear boundary where operational conversations, files, and updates stay organized and accessible.
  • Organized Communication Improves Accountability - When messages, tasks, and files live in one structured system, managers can assign responsibilities, follow up on requests, and keep teams aligned across locations. Clear communication reduces confusion and helps ensure nothing important gets lost in group texts.
  • AI Makes Information Easier to Find - With AI-powered search and summaries, teams can quickly locate past conversations, documents, or decisions. Instead of scrolling through long message threads, operators can access the information they need faster and keep operations moving efficiently.

Episode Links

]]> Pitch The Tide - Ron Goldman: Product Consultant at Zenzap Cali BBQ Media 01:00:11 In this Pitch The Tide session, Ron Goldman, product consultant at Zenzap, introduces a secure communication platform designed to separate work messaging from personal texts. Zenzap helps restaurant teams organize conversations, assign tasks, and keep operational information in one place. The platform brings structure, accountability, and AI-powered search to everyday team communication. In this Pitch The Tide session, Ron Goldman, product consultant at Zenzap, introduces a secure communication platform designed to separate work messaging from personal texts. Zenzap helps restaurant teams organize conversations, assign tasks, and keep operational information in one place. The platform brings structure, accountability, and AI-powered search to everyday team communication. false full 3 968704f8-a832-4ed3-83d2-540751ae382e Founder Led Storytelling Shawn Walchef led storytelling is one of the most powerful growth strategies in modern business. Shawn Walchef explains why leaders who build in public move faster, create trust, and unlock unexpected opportunities. By consistently sharing lessons, deals, and real experiences through digital media, founders create a public track record that partners and customers can discover instantly. The conversation explores how storytelling, consistency, and visibility compound over time to turn content into credibility and business growth.

  • Build in Public to Build Trust - Founder led storytelling allows customers, partners, and teams to see the human behind the brand. When leaders share their journey openly through video, podcasts, and social media, it creates authenticity and credibility that traditional marketing cannot replicate.
  • Visibility Creates Opportunity - Publishing consistently builds a digital footprint that others can discover. When founders share ideas, deals, and lessons publicly, potential partners can research them quickly and trust them faster, which often accelerates real business opportunities.
  • Consistency Compounds Over Time - The formula is simple: quantity + speed + consistency eventually leads to quality and ROI. Leaders who consistently tell their story build a library of content that continues creating awareness, trust, and opportunities long after it is published.

Episode Links

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 21:49:21 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/founder-led-storytelling-dEHnxsuL Shawn Walchef led storytelling is one of the most powerful growth strategies in modern business. Shawn Walchef explains why leaders who build in public move faster, create trust, and unlock unexpected opportunities. By consistently sharing lessons, deals, and real experiences through digital media, founders create a public track record that partners and customers can discover instantly. The conversation explores how storytelling, consistency, and visibility compound over time to turn content into credibility and business growth.

  • Build in Public to Build Trust - Founder led storytelling allows customers, partners, and teams to see the human behind the brand. When leaders share their journey openly through video, podcasts, and social media, it creates authenticity and credibility that traditional marketing cannot replicate.
  • Visibility Creates Opportunity - Publishing consistently builds a digital footprint that others can discover. When founders share ideas, deals, and lessons publicly, potential partners can research them quickly and trust them faster, which often accelerates real business opportunities.
  • Consistency Compounds Over Time - The formula is simple: quantity + speed + consistency eventually leads to quality and ROI. Leaders who consistently tell their story build a library of content that continues creating awareness, trust, and opportunities long after it is published.

Episode Links

]]> Founder Led Storytelling Cali BBQ Media 00:04:34 Shawn Walchef led storytelling is one of the most powerful growth strategies in modern business. Shawn Walchef explains why leaders who build in public move faster, create trust, and unlock unexpected opportunities. Shawn Walchef led storytelling is one of the most powerful growth strategies in modern business. Shawn Walchef explains why leaders who build in public move faster, create trust, and unlock unexpected opportunities. false full 2 5de6568e-87b7-4007-ab2b-0085711a78f4 Rising Tides Live: What’s One Old-School Principle That Still Wins? Old school fundamentals took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef and the community explored a simple question: what timeless tactics still work in a new school world? From eye contact, handwritten notes, and personal phone calls to showing up in person and learning people’s names, operators and entrepreneurs shared reminders that technology may change the tools but not the principles. A clear theme emerged: real connection still drives trust and opportunity. When leaders listen, stay present, and follow through on their word, the fundamentals of hospitality and business continue to build lasting relationships.

  • Human connection still wins - Eye contact, listening, learning people’s names, and being fully present in conversations remain powerful in a digital world. Technology can support communication, but real relationships are still built through genuine human interaction.
  • Follow-through builds trust - Old school accountability still matters. When you say you will do something, do it. Personal follow-up, keeping commitments, and owning mistakes are simple habits that continue to strengthen credibility in business and leadership.
  • Show up and stay involved - Whether it is meeting people in person, calling a friend, or participating in a community, progress comes from showing up consistently. Curiosity, engagement, and willingness to ask for help are timeless habits that drive learning and opportunity.

Episode Links

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 02:42:39 +0000 podcast@calibbq.media (Cali BBQ Media) https://media-test-kitchen.simplecast.com/episodes/rising-tides-live-whats-one-old-school-principle-that-still-wins-b0EI3OSR Old school fundamentals took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef and the community explored a simple question: what timeless tactics still work in a new school world? From eye contact, handwritten notes, and personal phone calls to showing up in person and learning people’s names, operators and entrepreneurs shared reminders that technology may change the tools but not the principles. A clear theme emerged: real connection still drives trust and opportunity. When leaders listen, stay present, and follow through on their word, the fundamentals of hospitality and business continue to build lasting relationships.

  • Human connection still wins - Eye contact, listening, learning people’s names, and being fully present in conversations remain powerful in a digital world. Technology can support communication, but real relationships are still built through genuine human interaction.
  • Follow-through builds trust - Old school accountability still matters. When you say you will do something, do it. Personal follow-up, keeping commitments, and owning mistakes are simple habits that continue to strengthen credibility in business and leadership.
  • Show up and stay involved - Whether it is meeting people in person, calling a friend, or participating in a community, progress comes from showing up consistently. Curiosity, engagement, and willingness to ask for help are timeless habits that drive learning and opportunity.

Episode Links

]]> Rising Tides Live: What’s One Old-School Principle That Still Wins? Cali BBQ Media 01:03:27 Old school fundamentals took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef and the community explored a simple question: what timeless tactics still work in a new school world? Old school fundamentals took center stage on Rising Tides Live as Shawn Walchef and the community explored a simple question: what timeless tactics still work in a new school world? false full 1