The Restaurant Prosperity Formula

Most restaurant owners don’t realize they’ve become the system holding their business together until they try to step away. In this episode of "The Restaurant Prosperity Formula" podcast, David Scott Peters breaks down why so many restaurant owners stay trapped in the daily grind and what it really takes to build a restaurant that can run consistently without constant owner intervention. Listeners will learn why operational chaos often stems from undocumented systems, unclear standards and weak management structures, plus how accountability and repeatable processes create long-term freedom. Rather than focusing on working harder, this episode challenges owners to rethink leadership, delegation and what true operational control actually looks like.👍 Book a Profit Finder Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

If you’ve ever told yourself you’ll “build systems when things slow down,” this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast challenges that belief head-on. I break down why that mindset quietly keeps restaurant owners trapped in chaos and why the lack of systems is the very reason things never actually slow down. In this episode, listeners will learn why waiting costs more than they realize, how broken or “accidental” systems are already running their business, and where to begin without overwhelm. I also walk through simple starting points that help shift a restaurant from reactive survival mode to proactive leadership, all without requiring perfection or massive time investments.👍 Book a Profit Finder Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

What does it actually take to be a true restaurant professional? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I challenge the idea that success comes from motivation or talent and instead reveal a harder truth: it comes from commitment. Drawing on a demanding week of speaking engagements and a physically grueling rowing competition, I break down the mindset shift that separates amateurs from professionals. Listeners will walk away understanding why consistency matters more than motivation, how “trying” holds them back, and what it really looks like to lead a restaurant with discipline, accountability and intention.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

If there’s one number that quietly determines whether a restaurant thrives or struggles, it’s restaurant prime cost and most owners misunderstand it from day one. In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I take a different approach by sitting down with my AI assistant, Alex, who asks the same real-world questions about restaurant prime cost I hear from restaurant owners every day. Together, we break down what prime cost really is, why it’s the single most important number for restaurant profitability and how shifting from monthly to weekly tracking changes everything. You’ll hear what restaurant owners typically get wrong, what systems actually drive control and why your habits not your math are the real reason your numbers look the way they do.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

Running a restaurant can feel like constantly trying to hold chaos together with duct tape and adrenaline. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I challenge a belief many restaurant owners have: that their business struggles because they don’t have enough systems. But I have a different take. The #1 reason why restaurant systems continue to fail is often something deeper. It’s a decision problem. In this episode I walk through why clarity must come before systems, how to uncover the real root of operational problems and how restaurant owners can focus their leadership so systems actually work. If you’ve ever added another checklist, tool or app and still felt stuck, this episode explains why that happens and what successful restaurant operators do differently.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

What if the reason you feel overwhelmed in your restaurant isn’t the hours you’re working but the decisions you’re avoiding? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I challenge the belief that being busy is the problem and instead explore how unclear priorities, avoidance and unchecked control keep restaurant owners stuck in survival mode. Listeners will hear how perfectionism stalls progress, how leadership drift quietly erodes standards and how one clear decision can unlock momentum, profit and freedom. If you are ready to move from chaos to control and from busy to prosperous, this conversation will show you where to start.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

You can’t win by trying to fix everything in your restaurant at once. You have to develop a plan, and you have to have patience. To offer you, a restaurant owner, some ways to go about it, I sat down with Lyn Askin, a certified EOS Implementer. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, we dig into what it really takes to build a restaurant business that runs with clarity, discipline and consistency instead of chaos. We talk through the practical framework behind the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and the book “Traction,” and why it resonates so strongly with restaurant owners who feel stuck doing everything themselves. When you listen, you can expect to learn what EOS looks like in the real world, how it creates accountability without drama, how leadership teams get aligned around a shared vision and how operators turn big goals into focused 90-day execution that actually sticks.Reach Lyn Askin: [email protected]👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

If you’ve ever started a year full of optimism only to find yourself buried under half-finished projects and mounting stress, this one is for you. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I dig into why so many restaurant owners feel overwhelmed despite working harder than ever — and why the real issue isn’t a lack of effort, but a lack of clear decisions. This episode walks through a practical way to cut through the noise, decide what actually matters right now, and regain traction. Listeners can expect to learn how to distinguish urgency from importance, why too many priorities stall progress, and how focusing on the right work — at the right time — creates momentum, calm leadership, and real results.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

If you’ve ever had a powerful “aha” moment about why your restaurant feels out of control — only to find yourself right back in the chaos a week later — this episode is for you. In Part 2 of a two-part series focused on your inner game, I move beyond awareness and into execution, breaking down why insight alone doesn’t change anything unless it’s paired with structure and follow-through. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula,” restaurant owners can expect to learn why motivation and willpower aren’t enough, how habits and systems turn clarity into results, and what it really takes to create consistency, calm, and control in a restaurant. This conversation is about closing the gap between knowing better and actually running a better business.👍 Book a Discovery Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dsp🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-inVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/restaurant-transformation-coaching

Most restaurant owners spend their days obsessing over food cost, labor and sales — but what if the real driver of chaos isn’t on your P&L at all? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I pull back the curtain on the inner game that shapes every decision you make as a leader. From automatic thoughts and emotional reactions to old stories and personal triggers, this conversation is about the invisible forces that either keep you stuck or set you free. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working harder than ever but not getting ahead, this episode will help you understand why — and what awareness you need before real change can happen.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-call Sponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

If you’ve ever hired someone because you needed a body to work in the restaurant and then paid for it for months, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar. In episode 140 of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I sit down with Dwight Crain, managing partner of Eleserv, to talk about the real reason turnover keeps repeating itself and how better selection changes everything. You’ll hear what restaurant owners can expect to learn about the hidden costs of a bad hire, why most of us overrate our interviewing skills, how assessments and benchmarks can narrow the candidate pool fast and how the right hiring process protects your culture, your guest experience and your profit.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit Eleserv for more information on support for hiring in your restaurant: www.eleserv.comVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

You know things are bad in your restaurant when you’re so overwhelmed you forget to eat for three days and your debit card is declined at the gas pump. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I sit down with Kristi and Tracy Carter, owners of JAC’s Craft Smokehouse in West Monroe, Louisiana, to talk about how they went from that rock-bottom moment to running a profitable, values-driven barbecue restaurant with a management team that lets them travel without worrying. In our conversation, you’ll hear how they turned an award-winning sauce company into a full-service smokehouse, how they used systems to get out of survival mode, what changed when they finally embraced budgets and prime cost, how they rebuilt their marriage and work-life balance, and why they now feel confident opening a second concept. Tune in for a front-row seat to what it looks like when an operator fully commits to the Restaurant Prosperity Formula and uses leadership, systems, training, accountability and taking action to completely change their life.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” in your restaurant and still not getting the results you want, this podcat episode is for you. In this conversation with restaurant pro and digital media legend Shawn P. Walchef of Cali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media, we dig into why “build it and they will come” is a lie, why no one is coming to save your restaurant, and why that’s actually great news. Walchef shares how he went from struggling with a bad location during the 2008 economic collapse to building a thriving restaurant and media company telling his story online. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity” podcast, you’ll hear why every restaurant needs to think like a media company, what kind of stories really move the needle, how consistency beats perfection, why trolls and criticism are a sign you’re on the right track, and how using simple tools you already have can change your business, your brand and even your legacy.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.comFind Shawn P. Walchef on social media platforms: @shawpwalchef

I open this episode with a challenge: What if the difference between feeling chained to your restaurant and finally running it on your terms comes down to five leadership habits you can choose — every single day? In Episode 137 of the “Restaurant Prosperity Formula Podcast,” I dig into how visibility, consistency, development, clarity, accountability, passion, persistence, communication and action show up in thriving operations. You’ll hear real stories from owners who turned corners by documenting standards, steering with numbers, coaching their people and implementing systems that stick. If you’re wondering what leadership actually looks like in the trenches — and what you can expect when you commit to it — this one’s for you.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

I opened this episode with a simple truth: restaurants don’t win on one great meal — they win on the second and third visits. In my conversation with hospitality pro Darren Denington, we unpack what really drives repeat business right now: first impressions that stick, value guests can feel (beyond price) and service that creates a personal connection. You’ll hear how to turn a first-time guest into a regular, what “value” actually means to today’s diners, where operations quietly erode loyalty and how to use systems, training, accountability — and yes, secret shopping — to keep experiences scoring in the 90s. This is a playbook for owners who want more visits, higher check averages and a reputation that markets itself.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

Who doesn’t love a comeback story? In episode 135 of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I sit down with Linda Grace Zadoian, owner of Piccadilly Grace Café & Market in San Marino and South Pasadena, California, to trace her path from middle-market finance to multi-unit operator who rediscovered joy in the business. You’ll hear how she stabilized after inflation shocks, literal wildfires and personal loss — not through heroics, but by embracing leadership, systems, training, accountability and taking action. Expect to learn what changed in her mindset, the specific levers she started pulling, and why community and the right implementer turned overwhelm into momentum.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

What happens when the coach becomes the one in the hot seat? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I hand the mic to longtime friend and Mastery Plus member, Brian Sandel, co-owner of Creekwood Grill in Cypress, Texas. Sandel brings decades of restaurant experience to the table — and plenty of tough, thoughtful questions. Together, we dive into leadership lessons, the realities of restaurant ownership and even personal stories that shaped my journey. If you tune in, you’ll hear candid insights about success, failure, impostor syndrome, and why systems and processes are the foundation of lasting prosperity in the hospitality and restaurant business.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

When money’s tight, creativity has to be tighter — and that’s exactly what you’ll learn about in episode 133 of the “Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast. I share how the most resilient operators innovate without big tech, big teams or big checks. You’ll learn how to spot high-impact opportunities right under your nose, pressure-test ideas cheaply, measure what matters (so you stop guessing) and either scale the winners or kill the losers — quickly. You’ll also hear real results from fellow owners who trimmed food cost, simplified menus, boosted repeat visits and turned “dead space” into revenue. This is a blueprint for using leadership, systems, training, accountability and action to create momentum when the margin for error is paper thin.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Service with Style: www.servicewithstyle.com/dspVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

If your restaurant feels like it’s running your life, this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast is for you. I invited leadership expert and author of “Watch Me Rise Dr. Doug “Dr. Luff” Luffborough — who went from homelessness to Harvard and a career coaching leaders — to join me and talk straight to restaurant owners about why prosperity starts with leadership. We connect his story to the Restaurant Prosperity Formula I teach and focus on what you can expect to learn: how your personal life fuels your leadership, how your default style shapes results and how balanced teams create freedom and profit.Learn more about Dr. Luff at https://www.drluff.com🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: https://www.davidscottpeters.com

What does it take to go from pulling double shifts in your family’s restaurant to running four successful locations while still making time for family? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I sat down with Matt Jacobs, a Pennsylvania-based restaurant entrepreneur who built Ben Franklin’s Tap Room and now owns three Jersey Mike’s franchises. Matt shares his journey of starting out overwhelmed, underpaid and stuck in the day-to-day grind to creating systems, building a strong leadership team, and ultimately gaining both financial and personal freedom. Listeners will walk away with inspiration and clarity on what’s possible when you commit to systems, accountability and scaling with purpose.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

When restaurant burnout hits its peak, what comes next can be your most powerful transformation. In episode 130 of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I flip the script, literally. Longtime restaurateur and community favorite Bob Cady takes over the mic to interview me in a deeply personal and insightful conversation. We dive headfirst into the mindset challenges that make or break independent restaurant owners, the pivotal moments that lead to transformation, and why systems alone won’t save your business unless your brain is in the game. Whether you're exhausted from years in the trenches or just hitting your stride, this episode is a raw and energizing look at what it really takes to create a prosperous, sustainable business.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Ever wonder why some restaurants seem to hum along like a perfectly tuned engine while others grind through each shift with staff drama and burnout? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I dig into one of the most overlooked drivers of restaurant profitability and long-term success: staff well-being. This isn’t fluff. It’s about results — better retention, higher morale, and ultimately, more money in your pocket. You’ll learn why mental health, work-life balance and building a culture of safety and recognition aren’t just good intentions — they’re mission-critical strategies for thriving in today’s restaurant industry.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com 

What does it take to save a restaurant that’s drowning in costs, even when customers love your food and rave about your beer? In this episode of the Restaurant Prosperity Formula Podcast, I sit down with Ian McCall of ISM Brewing to unpack his journey from overwhelmed restaurateur to confident, profitable business owner. Ian’s story is a wake-up call for every restaurant and bar owner who thinks passion alone is enough to survive. In this episode, we reveal the behind-the-scenes struggles Ian faced and the game-changing moves he made to transform his brewpub into a success story—proving that with the right systems and mindset, you really can take control of your restaurant and your life.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

When restaurant owners dream of freedom from the grind — financial, operational and emotional — what they really need is a system. In episode 127 of the “Restaurant Prosperity Formula Podcast,” I sat down with CJ Lewis, co-founder and COO of Jolt, a restaurant operations platform that has redefined how accountability, food safety and systems should work in the real world. If you’ve ever struggled to get your team to follow checklists, keep temps in line or stay consistent without you breathing down their neck, this episode is for you. Lewis shares how Jolt was born out of frustration — and a $10,000 ice cream meltdown — and how it’s evolved into a must-have for restaurant operators serious about success.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

What happens when the coach becomes the one in the hot seat? In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula,” we shake things up with a special “Flip the Table” segment. This time, the questions come from restaurant owner Jeff Fitter, a straight-shooting operator with a knack for digging deep and cutting through the fluff. If you’ve ever wondered how restaurant coaching works behind the scenes, how to become a stronger leader in your restaurant, or how to truly build a business that serves your life — not the other way around — this is the episode for you.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – America’s Best Restaurants: https://dsp.coach/ABR-podcastVisit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Let’s be real — this industry is tough. In today’s podcast episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I dive deep into one of the most make-or-break elements of restaurant success: the guest experience. With fewer guests walking through the door and competition tighter than ever, delivering a memorable visit isn’t optional — it’s survival. Episode 125 is a masterclass in creating experiences so remarkable your guests can’t wait to come back. I explore what truly defines hospitality, why vague standards are your silent killer, and how lazy hiring — not “this generation” — is often the real problem. Whether you’re struggling to retain staff or haunted by bad Yelp reviews, this episode is your roadmap to turning things around.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this episode 124 of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I sit down with longtime friend, client and now colleague, David Militello. Militello is a restaurant owner in South Haven, Michigan, and one of the first five members I ever coached. Over the years, he’s evolved from a struggling operator to a master of restaurant systems and now serves as a member mentor in my group coaching program. In this episode, Militello shares his journey from burnout to balance, the lessons he’s learned about leadership, and why the shift from operator to owner is so critical. Listeners will hear what it really takes to implement systems, build empowered teams and stay disciplined even when the restaurant world pulls you in a thousand directions.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mark McShaffry, a seasoned restaurant owner with nearly 40 years of industry experience. After starting his career with Houston's, McShaffry eventually took the leap into independent ownership, opening The Backyard Grill in 2001. Since then, he’s grown to operate multiple concepts, including Creekwood Grill and Aero Crafters, all while becoming deeply rooted in his community.In this conversation, McShaffry shares his journey from corporate manager to thriving multi-unit owner, the tough lessons he learned along the way, and why systems, leadership and continuous learning have been the keys to his long-term success. If you’re a restaurant owner who wants to grow, get your life back and achieve true prosperity, you won’t want to miss this inspiring episode.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this special episode of the Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I turn the mic over to one of my longtime members and friends, Raul Gonzalez, for a segment we call Flip the Table. Gonzalez is not only an inspiring restaurant owner but also a shining example of what happens when you commit to systems, leadership and constant improvement. In this episode, Gonzalez asks the questions — diving into my background, the lessons I’ve learned and the core of what drives me to help restaurant owners every single day. You’ll get an inside look at the mindset and systems behind the Restaurant Prosperity Formula — and how Gonzalez used them to completely transform his business.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

One of the most common (and frustrating) issues restaurant owners face is managers who bring you every little problem instead of solving things themselves. If you feel like you can’t get anything done without being interrupted, I have some solutions for you. In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I tackle exactly why it happens and, more importantly, how to stop it. You’ll learn how to retrain your managers to think like owners, make decisions with confidence, and stop relying on you for answers—freeing up your time and restoring your sanity.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Running a restaurant can feel like an endless grind — long hours, constant stress and financial uncertainty. But what if you could step back from the day-to-day operations and still have a successful, profitable restaurant? In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula Podcast, I sit down with Deja Wakefield, a former teacher turned restaurant owner, who shares her journey from being overwhelmed by restaurant ownership to running two thriving businesses with systems that give her true freedom.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Running a restaurant is no small feat — especially when life throws unexpected challenges your way. In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I sit down with Tina Wary, owner of Dixie Grill Barbecue and Crab Shack in Hawaii. Wary shares her powerful journey from working behind the scenes in her family’s restaurant to stepping up as the owner after the sudden passing of her husband in 2020.Her story is one of resilience, leadership and the power of systems. After struggling with financial inconsistencies despite a great team and excellent food, Wary attended my seminar in Las Vegas. She left with the tools to transform her restaurant, and in this episode she shares her journey putting those systems in place and the other tools she’s found since.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

One of the biggest reasons restaurants struggle with sales isn’t always the food or service — it’s awareness. Either people know about you but don’t care, or they would care if they knew about you. My guest today, Josh Kopel, calls this the Awareness Formula, and in this episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, he shares powerful strategies that help restaurant owners become known in their market. Kopel has mastered a critical component of restaurant success: marketing. He is not just a restaurateur — he’s a tech pioneer, a Michelin-rated fine dining operator, and one of the best marketing minds in the industry. If you’ve been struggling with getting more customers in the door, keeping your tables full, and making marketing work for your restaurant, this episode is for you.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.comLearn more about Josh Kopel at www.JoshKopel.com and on his podcast Full Comp.

If you’ve ever struggled to get your managers on board with new systems or changes, you’re not alone. In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I dive into exactly why managers resist change, how you can turn that resistance into results and how to empower your restaurant managers to lead change. Managing your managers and getting them on board with change isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely necessary for your success — and theirs. I encourage you to listen to this episode, then pick one strategy and start implementing it this week. You will soon be on your way to a team of restaurant managers working with you rather than against you.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I had the privilege of chatting with Zack Oates, founder and CEO of Ovation. Ovation is a cutting-edge guest experience platform that helps restaurants collect and act on customer feedback in real-time. Oates’s passion for helping restaurants thrive shines through, and his expertise in using data to drive guest satisfaction and retention is something every restaurant owner should hear. We explored how gathering actionable feedback can lead to better operations, happier guests and, ultimately, a healthier bottom line. Check out this podcast episode to hear it all!🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, Vicki Moore, owner of a sports bar and grill in Illinois, joins me to share her journey from bartender to restaurant owner. After purchasing the struggling bar eight years ago, she transformed it by revamping the menu, improving quality, and creating an inviting atmosphere, growing annual sales from $275,000 to $1.2 million. Despite her success, Moore faced intense challenges, including overwork, stress and health issues, as she initially tried to do everything herself. She shares how being part of my coaching program taught her how to delegate, implement systems and empower her team, which allowed her to achieve both financial and personal freedom. This inspiring episode highlights the importance of leadership, systems and accountability in building a successful restaurant business.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In episode 114 of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast, I welcome Kris Schoenberger, a long-time member of my coaching programs and a highly successful restaurateur, for a special "Flip the Table" segment. In this episode, Schoenberger takes on the role of interviewer, asking me personal and professional questions that reveal insights into my career, work ethic and philosophy on success in the restaurant industry. Schoenberger shares his inspiring story of building a restaurant empire, including BBQ’d Productions and Station 51, after starting with a small catering business. Together, we reflect on out decade-long professional relationship, offering listeners actionable lessons on leadership, resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit. This episode is ideal for restaurant owners seeking inspiration, practical advice and a deeper understanding of the restaurant industry from two seasoned experts.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In the fast-paced, often chaotic world of restaurant ownership, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — constantly putting out fires, answering questions and making every decision yourself. If this resonates with you, there’s a way to reclaim your time, empower your team and find true freedom. It’s to define and share your why. In this episode of my “Restaurant Prosperity Formula” podcast, I discuss this game-changing principle. Listen to this episode for the explanation of the principle, why it’s so important for your restaurant business and then the action steps to help you transform your business and create a restaurant that thrives.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

My guest for this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula is Avery Ward, CEO of Little Italy Pizza in Ohio and a mentor in my coaching program for restaurant owners. Our discussion highlights Ward's journey from working directly in his restaurant to leading a thriving multi-unit business with a team of 80 employees. He shares key insights into leadership, building a strong management team and using tools like video to drive business growth. Ward also discusses his role as a mentor, where he helps other restaurant owners implement proven systems and navigate challenges to achieve success. The episode showcases how Ward applied the principles of the Restaurant Prosperity Formula to transform his business and his life, offering inspiration and practical advice for restaurateurs looking to do the same.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

My guests this week on The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast are two restaurant owners who've turned their business around and found their definition of success. Angie and Doug Brown, owners of The Cove Restaurant and Peninsula Golf Course in Long Beach, Washington, came from Big Tech careers. They both worked at Microsoft, spent time raising a family and then looking toward retirement, followed Doug's passion for golf and purchased a golf course and restaurant back in 2007. Their goal was to travel and enjoy retirement. Little did they know the learning curve they had in store for them! Let me just say that these two entrepreneurs really kicked butt when it came to systems but more importantly, they learned how to communicate with their team so they could take ownership of everything that needs to be done in the restaurant. Angie, Doug and I do our best to show every restaurant owner looking for change and freedom what the journey can look.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In this special “Flipping the Table” episode of my podcast, “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula,” Jonathan and Brianna Cowan, multi-unit restaurant operators, take control, turning the tables on me for an insightful interview. Here's a glimpse of our conversation, full of takeaways on leadership, persistence, and what it takes to thrive in the restaurant industry. I’ve known the Cowans for going on 15 years, and I’ve seen their transformation into prosperity firsthand. They own a 65-seat restaurant and cater around 100 weddings per year, offering a full suite of services from rentals to food to bar service. They’re currently building out a 12,000 square foot space with a restaurant on the main level and a wedding venue on the second floor. They’re documenting the process on their YouTube channel, Wooden Paddle. They also have a podcast, which they named based on something favorite restaurant coach says, “The Ready Fire Aim Podcast.”🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Building a strong restaurant team isn’t about luck — it’s about being intentional, setting the right tone and leading by example. Hire the right people, train them well, hold them accountable, and recognize their efforts. When you invest in your team, they’ll invest in you and that’s when your restaurant will truly prosper. In this episode of “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula,” restaurant coach David Scott Peters explores a topic that many restaurant owners overlook but is essential for success: team building. This episode is all about creating a team that is engaged, productive and aligned with your restaurant's vision.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

As a restaurant owner, you won’t want to leave your restaurant’s future to chance, but it can be overwhelming to set goals and develop the plans you need to achieve them. One proven way to get clear on your goals is to put them in writing. and share them with your team. This kind of vision, or a vivid vision, can give you the direction you need to drive sales, build a strong culture and ultimately achieve long-term success. In this episode of my podcast, “The Restaurant Prosperity Formula,” Matt Plapp and I talk about the importance of having a vision. Plapp is the dynamic founder and CEO of America's Best Restaurants, a trailblazing marketing agency dedicated to helping independent restaurants grow by telling their stories, acquiring customers and building unstoppable sales momentum. Plapp’s energy and passion for the restaurant industry are undeniable and during our conversation, we dove deep into the concept of having a "vivid vision" and how it can transform your business.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.comLearn more about Matt Plapp and his businesses – https://mattplapp.com/

Running a restaurant is no easy task. For Daniel Herrero, taking over his family's 48-year-old restaurant business in Panama meant inheriting four restaurants, a bakery, and a commissary — and all the chaos that came with them. It’s a familiar story for many restaurant owners, one of hard work, long hours and personal sacrifice. In this episode of the restaurant podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, Herrero shares his journey and shows that even when you're knee-deep in problems, there's a path to success — if you're willing to make bold decisions.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

This episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, launches a segment I call Flip the Table where a restaurant owner takes over the podcast and interviews me. Today’s Flip the Table features a longtime member of mine who is not only a top operator but over the years has coached and consulted with me: David Militello. He owns four different restaurant formats in a tourist town in Michigan. He and I have known each other for 20 years. He was one of the first five members of my mastermind group when I started coaching restaurant owners 21 years ago. He’s been to my workshops, coached with me, consulted with me and just been a great supporter over the years. He is now a Member Mentor in my restaurant owner coaching group. I thought it would be fun if the first Flip the Table was with a restaurant owner who’s known me through a lot of different versions of my coaching and services. He asks me the questions he thinks other restaurant owners would want to know.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

In the restaurant industry, success is defined by more than just the quality of food — it's about having control over your business and achieving financial freedom. One of the most crucial aspects of this journey is mastering food inventory management. In this episode of season two of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I’m sharing five advanced tips that can transform how you manage your inventory and, ultimately, boost your restaurant’s bottom line. Use what you learn in this podcast to elevate your restaurant and achieve the prosperity you've been working towards.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

When it comes to managing your restaurant’s cost, you absolutely can’t ignore labor. It is the second biggest expense in a restaurant – after an empty seat in the restaurant. Labor cost management is an essential topic for achieving restaurant prosperity and financial freedom. The last few episodes of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula podcast have been a collection of some of my best and most popular tips on three very popular categories for restaurant owners: food cost (Episode 101), systems (Episode 102) and leadership (Episode 103). In this episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I’m serving up a collection of some of my best and most effective labor cost lessons and tips. You’ll learn how to calculate labor cost, how to manage them and how to avoid common pitfalls.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Leadership is not just a buzzword; it’s the driving force behind every successful restaurant. By combining leadership with action, systems and training, you can create prosperity for yourself and your restaurant. In this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I’m sharing some of my best leadership insights from past podcast episodes to highlight the critical importance of leadership in the restaurant industry. I explore why leaders matter, the role of a growth mindset in developing leadership skills, and specific behaviors and attitudes that hinder effective leadership. Additionally, I’ll share four action steps to increase your management team's responsibilities, allowing you to lead your restaurant instead of merely running it.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

Today's special recap episode of my restaurant podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, is focused on systems and why they’re so important in restaurant management. You’ll learn what I mean by systems, why they are crucial and how you can use them specifically in the kitchen to safeguard your restaurant when you lack a culinary background. We'll also discuss how systems impact your restaurant and ultimately your life. And last but not least, I share a portion of an interview with restaurant employee Brandon Anderson, who helped his owner implement systems that significantly benefited the restaurant, the owner, and Brandon himself. Whether you're new to my podcast or a longtime listener, this is an episode you won't want to miss.🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com

For this special episode of my podcast, The Restaurant Prosperity Formula, I’m sharing some of the best tips from previous episodes, focusing on key areas such as food cost systems, leadership, and labor cost. This episode is dedicated to food cost. We’ll explore how high food costs are often self-inflicted, provide a quick walkthrough on calculating food cost, delve into the concept of ideal food cost, and finish with some menu engineering basics. Whether you're a new listener or a long-time follower, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let’s get started!🖥️ Get My Latest Training Video: https://dsp.coach/training-opt-in 👍 Book a Call ­– https://dsp.coach/podcast-ryan-callSponsor – Margin Edge: http://www.marginedge.com/dsp  Visit my website for more information about my restaurant coaching program: www.davidscottpeters.com