Podcast – Big Ideas For Restaurants

The Bite Sized Audio Podcast For Independent Restaurants

Making A Great First Impression

Welcome to Big Ideas For Restaurants Podcast for independent restaurant and bar owners who want to take their business to the next level. This weekly bite-sized audio podcast delivers quick, actionable tips and strategies in just 5 to 10 minutes. Tune in every week for practical advice you can start using today!

Sam Young is a seasoned marketing strategist and hospitality industry expert with a passion for helping independent restaurants and bars thrive. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, email and SMS marketing, and customer communication, Sam has mastered the art of creating impactful campaigns that drive customer engagement and boost revenue.

Sam’s expertise spans various facets of the restaurant industry, from fast-casual and quick-service restaurants (QSR) to fine dining establishments. He’s well-versed in delivery logistics, including 3rd-party delivery platforms, and has a deep understanding of how to integrate modern POS systems for seamless operations.

As a leader in leveraging cutting-edge technology, Sam specializes in AI-driven solutions, loyalty programs, VIP initiatives, and gamification to foster customer retention and satisfaction. He’s a proponent of creative, unique promotions that stand out in a competitive market.

Through his podcast, Big Ideas For Restaurants, Sam shares actionable tips, insights, and success stories to inspire restaurant owners to think big and achieve even bigger results.

Your Host

Sam Young

Show Summary

Big Ideas For Restaurants, the ultimate podcast for independent restaurant and bar owners who want to take their business to the next level. Hosted by marketing strategist and hospitality expert Sam Young, this weekly bite-sized podcast delivers quick, actionable tips and strategies in just 5 to 10 minutes.

Whether you’re running a fast-casual eatery, a bustling QSR, or a fine dining establishment, Sam covers everything from digital marketing, AI, and loyalty programs to delivery logistics, POS systems, and unique promotions. Learn how to build stronger customer relationships through email and SMS marketing, motivate your team, and create standout experiences that keep guests coming back.

Show Structure

Episode Summary
Each episode will give you actionable information you can digest in 5 to 10 minutes while you’re commuting, walking, driving, working out or taking a break between lunch and dinner. Each episode is broken into 12 short segments, we call “The Delectable Dozen” for restaurant success. We move quickly from one segment to the next. For each episode they’ll be “show notes” on the website.

Topic Highlight
Each episode will highlight a different topic.

Listener Only Offers, Specials & Discounts
Every episode contains listener only offers, specials and discounts and I’ll provide DISCOUNT CODES within each episode. While the show notes and offers are open to all, you have to listen to the episode to get the deals

Episode Format
As far as the episode format goes, sometimes it’s just me, Sam, and other times they’ll be a guest or expert.

Each Episode's Delectable Dozen

The 12 Essential Areas Where Restaurants Win or Lose.

Segment 1: AI and Automation
Imagine streamlining your front of the house, customer communication and drive consistent repeat business while generating great reviews on autopilot. AI isn’t the future—it’s happening now.

Segment 2: Customer Acquisition & Retention
How to turn first-time diners into lifelong fans with strategies that go beyond discounts and promotions.

Segment 3: Customer Service
Great service isn’t just about being polite—it’s about creating memorable guest experiences that keep people coming back for more.

Segment 4: Staffing & Scheduling
How to build a dream team and make sure they’re in the right place at the right time without breaking the bank.

Segment 5: Cashflow & Credit
Managing cash flow is the lifeline of your restaurant. We dive into practical tips to keep the numbers in the green.

Segment 6: Banking & Borrowing
Need funding for that new expansion or remodel? We’ll cover banking and borrowing options tailored for restaurateurs.

Segment 7: POS & Payment Processing
Your point-of-sale system is the brain of your operation. Let’s make sure it’s working smarter, not harder.

Segment 8: Inflation & Food Costs
With rising prices, keeping your food costs in check is more critical than ever. I’ll share strategies to protect your margins.

Segment 9: Reviews & Reputation
Your online reputation can make or break you. We’ll cover how to rack up 5-star reviews and handle the occasional hiccup.

Segment 10: Delivery Done Right
Maximize your delivery revenue while minimizing the headaches, whether you’re using 3rd-party apps or running it in-house.

Segment 11: Gamification In Restaurants
Turn dining into a fun, engaging experience with gamification techniques that boost customer loyalty and excitement.

Segment 12: Promotions
We get creative with promotions that pack your restaurant, boost your revenue, and keep you top of mind.