15 Best Restaurant Podcasts To Boost Your Expertise

Running a restaurant leaves little time for traditional learning, yet staying ahead in this competitive industry is crucial for success.

Whether you’re managing a busy kitchen, overseeing a front-of-house team or strategizing for long-term growth, restaurant podcasts offer a unique way to absorb expert knowledge during your busy schedule. While blogs and videos demand your full attention, podcasts let you learn while handling other tasks.

The best restaurant podcasts for owners combine practical advice, industry insights and success stories from those who’ve mastered the challenges you face daily. 

From marketing strategies and tech innovations to staff management and customer service, these 15 must-listen shows will help you transform your restaurant business in 2025.

1. Restaurant Unstoppable With Eric Cacciatore

[Source: Restaurant Unstoppable]

Leading the charge in restaurant industry education, Eric Cacciatore’s Restaurant Unstoppable podcast delivers invaluable insights through engaging conversations with successful restaurateurs. 

The show has aired over 1,100 episodes since its launch in 2012, establishing itself as a go-to resource for industry professionals.

Show format and focus

The podcast releases new episodes twice a week, specifically focusing on operational excellence and business growth strategies. Cacciatore’s engaging interview style encourages guests to share both successes and failures openly, creating an authentic learning environment for listeners.

Notable episodes and guests

Recent episodes have featured prominent industry figures discussing:

• Digital transformation and guest data platforms
• First-party data collection strategies
• Customer lifetime value optimization
• Modern payment solutions implementation

A particularly insightful episode featured Olo CEO Noah Glass, who discussed how restaurants can leverage technology to enhance guest experiences and maximize revenue.

2. The Restaurant Technology Guys

[Source: Restaurant Technology Guys]

Hosted by industry veteran Jeremy Julian, The Restaurant Technology Guys podcast stands out as a premier resource for understanding and implementing restaurant technology solutions. With over two decades of experience in restaurant technology, Julian brings practical insights to each episode.

Tech innovation coverage

According to recent National Restaurant Association data, 55% of operators are planning technology investments to improve service areas. Moreover, 60% are seeking solutions to enhance customer experience. The podcast addresses these trends through in-depth discussions about AI integration, digital transformation and operational efficiency.

Episode highlights

Recent standout episodes include:

• Deep dives into data-driven decision making with SignalFlare.ai
• Exploration of voice AI solutions with Kea.ai
• Discussions about delivery optimization with Empower Delivery 

Above all, the podcast emphasizes the importance of selecting technology that aligns with specific restaurant needs. 

3. Full Comp by Josh Kopel

[Source: joshkopel.com] 

Michelin-awarded restaurateur Josh Kopel brings his decades of experience to one of the most insightful restaurant podcasts in the industry. Created in partnership with Yelp for Restaurants in 2020, Full Comp delivers actionable strategies for restaurant success.

Industry insights

The podcast excels in unpacking complex industry challenges through one-on-one conversations with successful operators. Notably, recent episodes have explored essential topics like managing rising food costs, evolving revenue models and implementing efficient operational systems.

Guest expert profiles

Full Comp features an impressive roster of industry leaders, including:

• Barry McGowan (CEO, Fogo de Chão) discussing global scaling strategies
• Elizabeth Blau sharing insights on Las Vegas’s culinary renaissance
• David Zhao (Chubby Group) revealing innovative joint venture approaches 

Business growth lessons

Essentially, the show focuses on practical, implementable strategies rather than theoretical concepts. Kopel’s experience as a successful restaurateur enables him to extract valuable insights about:

• Building strong company cultures through transparent communication
• Transforming struggling operations into thriving enterprises
• Creating sustainable growth models that prioritize both staff and customer satisfaction 

The podcast consistently emphasizes that success in the restaurant industry requires a balance between innovation and practical implementation. Consequently, each episode provides specific, actionable steps that owners can implement immediately in their operations.

4. Restaurant Strategy by Chip Klose

[Source: Restaurant Strategy]

With two decades of operational experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, Chip Klose delivers a podcast focused exclusively on achieving exceptional profit margins in the restaurant industry.

Strategic content planning

The podcast targets independent operators generating between $1–5 million in annual revenue. Essentially, each episode breaks down complex restaurant management concepts into actionable strategies. 

Klose’s expertise spans from menu costing to market positioning, making this one of the best podcasts for restaurant owners seeking comprehensive guidance.

Profitability tips

The show stands out for its bold approach to restaurant economics, championing the idea of achieving a 20% profit margin while maintaining operational excellence. 

Key strategies covered include:

• Effective financial management and forecasting
• Strategic menu pricing
• Employee retention techniques
• Marketing framework development

Success stories

The podcast’s impact is evident through numerous success stories from its P3 Mastermind program participants:

• Gather Brewing Co.: Increased profitability from 5–8% to 18% in two months
• Righteous Que: Achieved 40% business growth and 28% net profit increase
• Seabirds Kitchen: Transformed two locations into profitable ventures within 60 days

What sets this podcast apart is its focus on practical implementation rather than theoretical concepts. The show consistently ranks among Apple’s Top 100 Marketing Podcasts, offering valuable insights for restaurant owners seeking to enhance their bottom line.

5. Restaurant Influencers

[Source: Entrepreneur]

Presented by Entrepreneur, the Restaurant Influencers podcast brings fresh perspectives on digital marketing through the lens of successful restaurateurs. Host Shawn P. Walchef’s weekly series has earned a perfect 5/5 star rating and attracted over 25 million viewers.

Social media strategies

Essentially, the podcast emphasizes that millennials are five times more likely to discover new restaurants through social media accounts. Similarly, Gen Z’s dining choices are heavily influenced by social content, with major chains reporting significant sales growth through TikTok engagement and pop-up events.

Influencer partnerships

Notably, the podcast highlights how restaurants can leverage different types of content creators, from food bloggers to local influencers. It emphasizes building authentic partnerships through collaborative efforts, ultimately creating content that resonates with target audiences.

Restaurant owners learn practical strategies for identifying and partnering with influencers whose values align with their brand identity.

6. The Digital Restaurant

[Source: Delivering the Digital Restaurant]

Carl and Meredith, hosts of The Digital Restaurant podcast, deliver essential insights about technology’s role in reshaping the restaurant industry. Their weekly discussions explore how digital solutions are becoming fundamental to restaurant success.

Digital transformation topics

The podcast examines how restaurants are adapting to changing consumer behaviors. The show primarily focuses on personalization strategies, exploring how major brands leverage data for tailored customer offers.

Online ordering insights

Essential discussions revolve around the evolving digital landscape, with online food delivery revenue projected to show an 8.29% annual growth rate through 2026. Key trends covered include:

• Early-week reservation patterns
• Same-day booking preferences
• Ghost kitchen innovations
• Delivery optimization strategies

Tech integration tips

The hosts emphasize practical implementation strategies for restaurants of all sizes. The podcast explores emerging technologies like drone delivery partnerships and robotic solutions, offering practical advice on selecting and implementing these innovations.

The show stands out for its data-driven approach, analyzing industry reports and providing actionable insights for restaurant owners seeking to enhance their digital presence.

7. Hospitality Hangout

[Source: Hospitality Hangout]

Blending financial acumen with hospitality expertise, Michael “Shatzy” Schatzberg and Jimmy Frischling bring a unique perspective to their podcast, Hospitality Hangout. Their combined experience in restaurant operations and finance creates engaging discussions about industry evolution.

Industry trends coverage

The show excels in exploring the intersection of hospitality and technology. Notable topics include:

• AI implementation in restaurants
• Digital transformation strategies
• Customer experience enhancement
• Operational efficiency improvements
• Future of delivery services

Investment insights

Essentially, the podcast stands out for its deep understanding of both operational and financial aspects of the restaurant industry. The hosts regularly engage with CEOs and founders to discuss capital allocation, technology investments and growth strategies.

Leadership lessons

The show emphasizes creating a customer-focused culture that drives satisfaction and loyalty. Ultimately, listeners gain valuable insights about:

• Building effective teams through continuous feedback
• Implementing crisis management tactics
• Adapting to emerging industry trends
• Streamlining processes for enhanced service delivery

The hosts bring their gregarious personalities to each episode, making complex topics accessible while maintaining professional depth. Their discussions with industry disruptors and tech innovators provide restaurant owners with practical advice on leveraging new technologies to enhance their businesses.

8. The Restaurant Coach

[Source: Spotify]

Industry veteran Donald Burns takes a unique approach to restaurant success through his podcast, focusing on the mental game behind running a thriving establishment. Known as “The Restaurant Coach,” Burns tackles leadership challenges and cultural transformation in the restaurant industry.

Operational excellence

Burns emphasizes the importance of implementing systems in every aspect of restaurant operations. His podcast primarily focuses on helping owners develop rock-solid management practices that enhance profitability and efficiency. 

Essentially, the show guides listeners through creating transparent processes that foster team engagement and motivation.

Team management

The podcast excels in addressing crucial aspects of staff management, including:

• Developing effective communication channels
• Creating positive work environments
• Establishing clear boundaries
• Implementing recognition programs
• Building strong team cultures 

Performance metrics

The podcast provides detailed insights into tracking vital performance indicators. Burns emphasizes the significance of monitoring metrics like rent per hour and fixed costs per hour. 

Ultimately, the podcast helps restaurant owners understand and implement data-driven decision-making processes to enhance operational efficiency.

The show stands out for its practical approach to leadership development, offering actionable strategies that restaurant owners can implement immediately. Through in-depth discussions about organizational culture and team dynamics, Burns helps listeners transform their management style and achieve sustainable success.

9. Give an Ovation

[Source: Ovation Up]

Focusing exclusively on creating exceptional guest experiences, Give an Ovation stands out as an ad-free resource for restaurateurs seeking to enhance their customer service. Released every Monday, this long-running podcast features conversations with multi-unit brands and industry experts about crafting memorable dining experiences].

Guest experience focus

The show excels in exploring how successful restaurants maintain impressive customer satisfaction ratings. Notably, one episode features Markus Pineyro of OOMI Digital Kitchen, who achieved a remarkable 4.9-star rating despite operating almost entirely through digital interactions.

The podcast emphasizes that positive guest feedback posted online helps build brand reputation and establish restaurants in local communities.

Feedback management

The podcast provides practical strategies for collecting and implementing customer feedback. Straightaway, restaurant owners learn how to leverage various feedback channels:

• POS system checkout surveys
• Email and text message follow-ups
• Review request cards
• Social media monitoring

Ultimately, the podcast emphasizes that establishing and following a customer feedback strategy is crucial for maintaining open communication with guests. Through interviews with successful operators like Rick Malir of City Barbeque, listeners gain insights into building and sustaining customer relationships across multiple locations,

10. The Feed

[Source: HNGRY]

Matt Newberg’s HNGRY media platform brings The Feed podcast, where cutting-edge food technology meets practical restaurant operations. This podcast explores how technology is reshaping the restaurant industry through in-depth conversations with innovators and industry leaders.

Food tech innovation

Each episode examines breakthrough technologies transforming the industry, from kitchen robotics to smart equipment that makes professional kitchens more efficient through IoT technology.

Future trends

The global restaurant digitalization market is projected to reach $29.6 billion by 2032, up from $7.9 billion in 2023. Notable trends covered include:

• AI-powered inventory management systems
• Automated order processing solutions
• Resource-efficient kitchen appliances
• Data analytics for customer preferences

Implementation strategies

The Feed provides guidance on: 

• Selecting appropriate technology solutions
• Optimizing inventory through data-driven insights
• Streamlining operations with automation
• Enhancing customer experience through digital integration

The podcast stands out for its thorough analysis of how restaurants can implement new technologies without disrupting existing operations.

11. Restaurant Marketing Secrets

[Source: YouTube]

The Restaurant Marketing Secrets podcast, hosted by Matt Plapp, focuses on innovative strategies and practical advice for restaurant owners looking to enhance their marketing efforts. 

Each episode delves into various marketing techniques that can help restaurants attract and retain customers. Topics include:

• Customer engagement
• Importance of video marketing
• Leveraging social media to amplify restaurant visibility

Marketing ROI tips

The podcast offers actionable advice on how to maximize marketing budgets while achieving a strong ROI. Plapp discusses systems that can streamline marketing efforts and improve customer retention.

Occasionally, the podcast features interviews with other industry experts who provide additional perspectives on successful marketing practices in the restaurant sector.

Examples of successful social media campaigns

In recent episodes, Plapp has explored his favorite social media campaigns designed for restaurants. He emphasizes the significance of engaging content across platforms like Instagram and Facebook, discussing how effective campaigns can drive customer interaction and loyalty. 

He analyzes successful viral posts that have resonated with audiences, providing insights into what makes them effective.

12. The Pre-Shift

[Source: 7shifts]

Presented by scheduling platform 7shifts, The Pre-Shift podcast delivers essential insights about running successful restaurants through engaging conversations with industry innovators. This podcast stands out for its practical approach to internal operations and team development.

Team management

The podcast excels in addressing crucial aspects of staff coordination and leadership. Essentially, episodes focus on how successful operators create effective communication frameworks that enhance team performance. 

The show emphasizes building strong relationships between management and staff through:

• Regular communication schedules
• Meaningful meeting structures
• Clear performance expectations
• Transparent feedback systems

Staff training

Primarily focused on practical implementation, the show guides listeners through creating effective training programs. The podcast highlights how successful restaurants achieve higher retention rates through structured onboarding and continuous development opportunities.

Culture building

The show delves into creating positive work environments that foster long-term success. Notably, episodes feature discussions about implementing “Ohana” culture — treating team members like family. 

The podcast emphasizes that a strong company culture must be:

• Embraced company-wide
• Shared consistently
• Practiced daily
• Reflected in every decision

The Pre-Shift uniquely focuses on developing authentic connections between team members and guests, moving beyond traditional transactional relationships. Through practical examples and real-world success stories, this podcast helps restaurant owners create environments where both staff and customers thrive.

13. Restaurant Rockstars

[Source: Restaurant Rockstars]

Host Roger Beaudoin brings over 25 years of industry expertise to this revenue-focused podcast, helping restaurant owners achieve sustainable growth through proven strategies. As an award-winning restaurateur, Beaudoin shares practical, proven strategies and actionable insights to drive operational success.

Success principles

The podcast emphasizes that successful restaurants implement foundational systems across multiple areas. Essentially, these systems include:

• Cost controls and profit maximization
• Staff training as brand ambassadors
• Trackable marketing campaigns
• Consistent brand experiences 

Revenue optimization

The show highlights how leading brands achieve remarkable results through disciplined revenue growth management (RGM). Notably, restaurants implementing basic RGM tactics and analytics see a 3–5% initial sales lift, while those adopting fully integrated approaches can achieve 6–10% growth over two to three years.

Brand building

Primarily focused on creating memorable experiences, the podcast explores how successful restaurants build lasting brands. The show emphasizes that effective brand building involves creating a distinct atmosphere through carefully chosen music, decor and staff interactions. 

Ultimately, the podcast guides owners through implementing strategic pricing gaps between menu tiers, encouraging customers to trade up while maintaining value perception.

This podcast stands out for its emphasis on measuring marketing ROI, noting that brands should choreograph decision-making across elements such as price, promotional offerings and menu compositions .

14. The Meez Podcast

[Source: Meez]

Josh Sharkey, professional chef and founder of Meez, brings culinary expertise to one of the best podcasts for restaurant owners. Through interviews with world-class entrepreneurs, this show explores how technology enhances kitchen efficiency and recipe management.

Efficiency tips

Primarily focused on practical implementation, the podcast reveals how leading restaurants achieve remarkable results. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus in the kitchen, noting that setting timers and creating uninterrupted workflow periods significantly improves productivity.

Culinary consistency

One of the standout features of The Meez Podcast is its commitment to promoting culinary consistency across multiple locations. Sharkey emphasizes the importance of standardized recipes and training processes to ensure that every dish meets high-quality standards, regardless of where it is prepared. 

This focus on consistency not only enhances customer satisfaction but also strengthens brand identity in a competitive market.

Guest Insights

The podcast features a diverse array of guests from various sectors of the culinary world, including Chefs, successful restaurateurs and technology innovators. These guests share their personal experiences and insights on navigating challenges in the restaurant industry. 

By learning from their successes and failures, listeners can gain valuable perspectives that can be applied to their own operations.

15. Rock My Restaurant

[Source: Savor]

Craveworthy Brands CEO Gregg Majewski shares transformative insights through this dynamic podcast series, focusing on scaling restaurants from local favorites to industry leaders. His extensive experience in growing restaurant chains provides listeners with proven strategies for sustainable expansion.

Innovation Strategies

The show emphasizes the vital role of systems and procedures in restaurant growth. Essentially, successful scaling requires operators to ensure their processes can function effectively without constant oversight. 

The podcast highlights how virtual brands can boost revenue without additional overhead, as demonstrated through case studies of successful implementations.

Brand development

The show excels in exploring brand identity development through:

• Culture-driven leadership approaches
• Team-first management philosophies
• Strategic pricing frameworks
• Operational excellence standards

Growth tactics

The podcast emphasizes paying staff above market rates to reduce turnover and boost productivity. It features discussions about innovative concepts like shared kitchens that optimize resources while maintaining quality standards.

This podcast’s strength lies in its emphasis on building strong teams and empowering employees for long-term success. Through detailed case studies and expert interviews, listeners gain valuable insights into creating sustainable growth strategies that prioritize both profit and people.

Embrace Continuous Learning for Restaurant Success

These 15 podcasts offer restaurant owners a wealth of knowledge across crucial business areas — from marketing and operations to technology and team management. Each show provides unique perspectives through expert interviews, case studies and practical strategies that busy restaurateurs can implement immediately.

Above all, successful restaurant owners recognize the importance of continuous learning. These restaurant podcasts make it easy to gain insights during prep time, commutes or while tackling administrative tasks. 

Whether you’re looking for operational tips from Restaurant Unstoppable or insights into digital transformation from The Restaurant Technology Guys, there’s something here to guide your success.

For even more support in your restaurant journey, OysterLink is your go-to platform. From insights from industry leaders to accessing salary trends and career advice, OysterLink is here to empower you with the tools and resources you need to thrive in hospitality.