Send us a text

In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, host Sebastian Stahl chats with Christy LoPresto, a dynamic restaurateur and wellness entrepreneur redefining leadership in the hospitality industry. Christy takes us on a journey through her 20+ years in the restaurant business, sharing her evolution from server to owner of several acclaimed New York City eateries, including Kin, a fast-casual Thai concept, and Babbalucci, a Harlem favorite.

Dive into her experiences of navigating challenges like the pandemic, creating a thriving team culture, and balancing multiple ventures, including her wellness brand, Soakwell. Discover how Christy’s focus on mental health and self-care fuels her ability to lead with empathy, inspire her teams, and deliver exceptional dining experiences.

This episode is packed with actionable insights on scaling a business, embracing change, and building a strong community—perfect for seasoned restaurateurs and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

Connect with Christy LoPresto:

• Instagram: @christy_lopresto728
• Restaurants and Brands:
  • Kin NYC: @eatkinn.nyc | Website
  • Soakwell: @soakwell | Website

Get inspired by Christy’s passion for culinary innovation, wellness, and the art of leadership. Tune in to discover the recipe for success in today’s restaurant landscape!

Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl

Follow us on social media to stay updated:

Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb

Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!

Send us a text

In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, host Sebastian Stahl sits down with Randy Burks, the founder of Randy’s Steakhouse in Frisco, Texas. With over three decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Randy shares the journey of building his iconic steakhouse, navigating challenges like sky-high food costs, labor shortages, and even pandemic shutdowns. From starting as a dishwasher with a notebook of solutions to becoming a revered restaurateur in a historic 1869 house, Randy’s story is packed with insights, resilience, and some unforgettable tales (like the time he had to remove a pool due to skinny-dipping staff!).

Discover how Randy turned mistakes into loyal customer relationships, the secrets to leading a dedicated team for over 20 years, and his unique perspective on the future of the restaurant industry. Whether you're an aspiring restaurateur, seasoned pro, or just love a great story, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice you don’t want to miss.

Connect with our guest:
Website: www.randysteakhouse.com

Follow Randy’s Steakhouse on Social Media:
Instagram: @RandysSteakhouse
Facebook: Randy's Steakhouse

Listen now to dive into the world of steak, hospitality, and leadership!

Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl

Follow us on social media to stay updated:

Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb

Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!

Send us a text

In this episode of Restaurant Leaders Unplugged, we sit down with Mathieu Giraud, the visionary owner of Garçons de Café and L’Appart in downtown Los Angeles. Mathieu shares his incredible journey from training in hospitality in France to managing world-class establishments in LA and eventually stepping into entrepreneurship.

Discover Mathieu’s candid insights on:

• The realities of transitioning from corporate restaurant management to ownership.
• Building a lean, guest-focused team in the evolving restaurant landscape.
• Strategies for balancing creativity, guest experience, and profitability.
• How to navigate leadership challenges and maintain resilience in a highly competitive industry.

Mathieu also dives into the unique challenges of owning a restaurant post-pandemic and offers invaluable advice for aspiring restaurateurs, including the sacrifices, rewards, and mindset required for long-term success.

If you’re ready to learn what it takes to thrive in the restaurant business, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

Connect with our guest:
Social Media:
Garçons de Café
L’Appart

Website:
Garçons de Café
Air Food

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and gain insights to elevate your restaurant business!

Restaurant Leaders Unplugged with Sebastian Stahl

Follow us on social media to stay updated:

Instagram: @sebastian_stahlb | @breadthrestaurantmarketing
YouTube: @SebastianStahlb

Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help other restaurant leaders find us!