Data Delicacies

Driving Social Impact With AI

On this episode of the Data Delicacies podcast, Ken Clay, co-founder and CEO of Foode, shared insights into how his platform is redefining the dining journey. As we step into a future where technology and hospitality converge, platforms like Foode exemplify the power of personalization and purpose. By prioritizing trust, creating immersive experiences, and addressing pressing global issues, Foode is setting a new standard for the industry. This transformation not only enhances dining but also empowers consumers to make a positive impact through their everyday choices. Key Takeaways -  1. Redefining Personalization Through Trust - Foode’s approach prioritizes trust over subjective notions of "best." By utilizing advanced AI, the platform connects users with dining experiences tailored to their preferences and restrictions. This commitment to personalization ensures that recommendations feel meaningful and reliable, enhancing user satisfaction. 2. Dining as a Holistic Experience - Modern diners seek more than just good food; they crave memorable experiences. Foode integrates every aspect of the dining journey, from planning and booking to personalized in-venue interactions. This seamless approach transforms ordinary meals into unique, catered events that resonate with the individual. 3. Driving Social Impact Through Dining - Foode incorporates a social responsibility initiative by donating a portion of every transaction to local food security programs. This model empowers diners to contribute to their communities effortlessly while enjoying their meals. It exemplifies how businesses can combine innovation with meaningful action to address critical global challenges. Episode Links: * Visit Foode online [https://www.foode.us/meet] * Follow Foode on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/foode_app/#] * Follow Foode on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/FOODe.theapp] * Follow Foode on Tik Tok [https://www.tiktok.com/@foode_app] * Connect with Foode on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/foode-app/] * Connect with Ken Clay on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-c-82436137/] * Follow Ken Clay on X [https://x.com/kclay16] ABOUT KEN CLAY: Ken Clay is a visionary entrepreneur and 2x tech founder with a successful recent exit from Chicago. Currently, he serves as the CEO and co-founder of Foode, an AI-enabled fintech platform dedicated to combating food waste and food insecurity. Foode's mission is to empower users to effortlessly impact these global crises by connecting them to trusted dining experiences and donating a portion of each bill to local food banks. Ken's innovative leadership at Foode integrates all dining needs into a seamless, personalized journey powered by advanced AI, allowing users to enjoy unique dining experiences while contributing to social good. His prior ventures and successful exit have provided him with the expertise and insight to drive Foode's mission forward. Ken's passion for leveraging technology for societal benefit and his deep understanding of the hospitality and restaurant industry position him as a thought leader and influencer in the space. He looks forward to contributing to discussions at the Prosper Forum that shape the future of the industry. ABOUT FOODE: Foode is transforming the dining landscape through an AI-driven fintech platform that empowers consumers to effortlessly make a social impact. By integrating reservations, delivery, and payments into a single, seamless experience, Foode not only simplifies dining but also addresses critical global challenges like food waste and food insecurity. Our proprietary AI concierge, “E,” provides personalized restaurant recommendations, driving user loyalty and engagement, while our unique business model ensures that a portion of each transaction goes directly to local food initiatives. Providing an extra incentive for WHY users will choose to use Foode.  ABOUT DATA DELICACIES— Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. * Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH] * Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821] * Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio] * Visit Incentivio Online [https://www.incentivio.com/] * Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/27209367/admin/dashboard/] * Follow Incentivio on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/] * Connect with Arun on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] Produced by Incentivio [https://www.incentivio.com/] & Cali BBQ Media [https://betheshow.media/]

Navigating the Future of Delivery Logistics with Andrew Nakkache of FIRST

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar chats with Andrew Nakkache, Co-Founder and CEO of FIRST, a delivery platform redefining logistics for restaurant brands, delivery fleets, and ordering services. The discussion dives into how consumer expectations for delivery speed, efficiency, and experience have skyrocketed in recent years and how businesses can adapt to meet these demands. Andrew shares insights on the evolution of food delivery, the challenges in the current market, and the solutions FIRST offers to optimize operations and keep customers satisfied. Whether you're a restaurant operator or a delivery service, this conversation offers actionable strategies to thrive in a competitive landscape. Key Takeaways - 1. Scaling and Pivoting for Growth - Andrew shares how FIRST reached a milestone of 50,000 deliveries a month and $3 million in revenue but struggled to find a scalable path. The turning point came when major platforms like Uber and DoorDash opened their delivery APIs, allowing FIRST to pivot. By leveraging existing technology and integrating third-party delivery services, FIRST could offer a similar value proposition without handling deliveries directly, setting the stage for scalable growth. 2. Meeting Nationwide Demand - Andrew discusses the convergence of delivery and shipping in the restaurant industry, with companies like Giordano’s offering frozen pizzas for shipping. He emphasizes that restaurants with strong brand presence can meet nationwide demand by utilizing technology to simplify both delivery and shipping processes. By integrating these systems into a unified platform, technology allows restaurants to manage all customer orders efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience, whether it's delivery or shipping. 3. Leaning Into the Data - Andrew reflects on how, historically, restaurant operators have been too focused on the day-to-day operations to prioritize data. However, there's a shift occurring, as more restaurants are starting to value data to improve decision-making. He highlights a key challenge with third-party marketplaces—restaurants don’t have access to customer data. Andrew points out the significance of knowing who your customers are and how the lack of this data can prevent restaurants from making informed business decisions. Episode Links: * Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewnakkache/] * Visit First Delivery Online [https://firstdelivery.com/] * Follow First Delivery on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/_first_delivery_/] ABOUT ANDREW NAKKACHE - Andrew is the Co-Founder & CEO of FIRST, the delivery platform built for Restaurant Brands, Delivery Fleets, and Ordering Services to give businesses what they need to scale sales, reduce costs, take control over their delivery experience.  Previously, Andrew started Habitat Logistics, where him and his team offered Delivery-as-a-Service to restaurants, and they fulfilled over 1M orders with a fleet of 500 drivers serving nearly 1000 restaurants.  FIRST is backed by the same investors who backed Uber, DoorDash, and Instacart, and powers deliveries for thousands of restaurants to fulfill their end-diners appetite for both on-demand delivery and catering.  ABOUT DATA DELICACIES— Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. * Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH] * Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821] * Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio] * Visit Incentivio Online [https://www.incentivio.com/] * Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/27209367/admin/dashboard/] * Follow Incentivio on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/] * Connect with Arun on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] Produced by Incentivio [https://www.incentivio.com/] & Cali BBQ Media [https://betheshow.media/]

The BEST OF Data Delicacies!

In this special episode of Data Delicacies [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW], host Arun Kumar [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] brings you some of the most interesting and compelling excepts from recent episodes of the show! Dive into the future of the restaurant industry with four visionary leaders who are shaping the way we think about technology, consumer experience, and market strategy: Jason Valentine, Chief Strategy Officer - Botrista: Shares the game-changing role of automation in scaling operations and the best practices for testing new models. Mateen Habib, Head of Product - GoTab, Inc.: Explores the evolution of experiential dining and the rising expectations of today’s consumers. Patrick Bobrukiewicz, Vice President of Business Development - Nigel: Redefines the POS landscape by advocating for tailored solutions that empower operators to choose what works best for their unique business needs. Justin Ulrich VP of Marketing - eVocalize: Highlights the untapped potential of smaller markets and the critical need for targeted marketing strategies in these areas. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting your journey in hospitality, this episode is packed with insights to help you adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape. ABOUT JASON VALENTINE Chief Strategy Officer Jason Valentine brings more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including leadership on both Franchisee and Franchisor sides. Most recently, he was President of the national brand Zoup! Eatery and completed a successful acquisition plan. Valentine has been listed on Restaurant Business News' Power 20 list and has been a featured speaker at the Restaurant Leadership Conference and the Fast Casual Executive Summit. * Connect with Jason Valentine on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonvalentine15/] * Visit Botrista Online [https://botrista.com/] * Follow Botrista on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/botrista] * Subscribe to Botrista on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@Botrista_Beverages] * Follow Botrista on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/botrista_bev/] * Connect with Botrista on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/botrista/] ABOUT MATEEN HABIB Mateen Habib has a diverse work experience spanning over a decade. Their most recent role is as the Head of Product at GoTab, Inc., where they started in March 2022. Prior to that, they served as a Product Manager from October 2021 to March 2022 at the same company. Before joining GoTab, Inc., Mateen worked as an Account Growth Specialist from August 2020 to October 2021. Earlier in their career, Mateen held the position of Director of Operations at Jupiter, Drake's Brewing, and Triple Rock Brewing from February 2010 to October 2020. In 2015, they also served as a Co-Owner at Arthur Mac's Tap & Snack from November 2015 to September 2018. Mateen Habib earned a Bachelor's degree in Business/Managerial Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Mateen attended the university from 2005 to 2009. * Connect with Mateen Habib on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mateenahabib/] * Visit GoTab Online [https://gotab.com/] * Connect with GoTab on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotab/] * Follow GoTab on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/GoTabInc/] * Follow GoTab on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/GoTabInc] * Follow GoTab on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/gotab.inc/?hl=en] ABOUT PATRICK BOBRUKIEWICZ As Vice President of Business Development at Nigel, Patrick is a strategic leader, exceptional at driving results, achieving profitable growth, and delivering industry-leading technology solutions. He has broad experience in both the restaurant and IT industries ranging from operations, systems management, project management, development and business development.  * Connect with Patrick Bobrukiewicz on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%90%A7patrick-bobrukiewicz-9b11234/] * Visit Nigel Online [https://nigel.com/] * Connect with Nigel on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/nigel-hospitality-suite/] * Follow Nigel on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nigelserves/] * Follow Nigel on X [https://x.com/nigelserves/] ABOUT JUSTIN ULRICH As VP of Marketing at Evocalize, Justin Ulrich is known for his visionary approach and knack for leading innovative go-to-market strategies that drive real results. With a career spanning both B2B and B2C sectors, Justin has consistently delivered impactful marketing strategies across diverse industries, blending creativity with strategic insights to keep brands top-of-mind with target audiences and partners. His expertise spans brand marketing, partner and channel marketing, and demand generation, enabling him to bring unmatched value to every organization he serves. Justin is dedicated not only to achieving business goals but also to fostering a fun, engaging work environment. * Connect with Justin Ulrich on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinculrich] * Visit Evocalize Online [https://evocalize.com/] * Connect with Evocalize on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/evocalize/] * Follow Evocalize on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/evocalize] * Follow Evocalize on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/evocalize/] * Follow Evocalize on Tik Tok [https://www.tiktok.com/@evocalize] * Subscribe to Evocalize on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@evocalize] * Visit Taziki's Mediterranean Café Online [https://www.tazikis.com/] ABOUT DATA DELICACIES— Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. * Connect with Arun Kumar on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] * Data Delicacies on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Moho25817IAptekSS1NQJwx2AFLRBpW] * Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH] * Visit Incentivio Online [https://www.incentivio.com/] * Follow Incentivio on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/] Produced by Incentivio [https://www.incentivio.com/]& Cali BBQ Media [https://betheshow.media/]

Reclaiming Restaurant Tech: Freemium Models, APIs, and Seamless Guest Experiences

In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Techtris CEO/Co-Founder Jonathan Fetter to explore how technology is reshaping the hospitality industry. Jonathan shares insights on how Techtris leverages data analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations. They discuss the importance of integrating technology to personalize guest experiences, improve staff efficiency, and drive revenue growth. Jonathan also highlights real-world success stories and the challenges businesses face when adopting new tools. This episode is a must-listen for hospitality professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of technological innovation. Key Takeaways - 1. From Freemium to Freedom - Freemium models from platforms like DoorDash and Toast have introduced many restaurant owners to apps for the first time, some of whom were previously hesitant. However, limitations such as restricted customization and lack of control over the brand experience are becoming evident. Jonathan Fetterman suggests this will lead to a shift toward custom solutions that offer greater flexibility and ownership, as restaurant operators look for ways to stand out amid app fatigue and market saturation. 2. Taking Back Control of the Guest Ordering Experience - Consumer expectations, shaped by personalized platforms like Amazon and Netflix, are setting a high bar for restaurant ordering experiences. Jonathan Fetterman highlights the need for agile, API-first solutions that allow restaurants to meet these demands with quick iterations and custom interfaces. Traditional tech providers often struggle to keep up, but flexible systems give restaurant owners the tools to deliver seamless, future-ready experiences that match evolving guest preferences. 3. Creating Seamless Checkout Experiences - Fragmented restaurant apps, which rely on external links or iframes for retail or catering, can frustrate users with clunky interfaces and multiple logins. Jonathan Fetterman emphasizes the importance of a unified, native checkout experience powered by APIs. By integrating external tools like Shopify while maintaining a consistent interface, restaurants can provide a smooth, guest-friendly experience that feels truly custom without sacrificing functionality. Episode Links * Connect with Jonathan Fetter on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlfetter/] * Visit Techtris Online [https://www.techtris.dev/] * Follow Techtris on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TechtrisLLC] * Follow Techtris on X [https://x.com/TechtrisLLC] * Follow Techtris on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/techtris/] * Connect with Techtris on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/techtris-dev/] ABOUT JONATHAN FETTER Jonathan is a seasoned hospitality leader and the CEO/Co-Founder of Techtris, a company delivering custom digital ordering solutions for restaurants. With over 15 years in restaurant operations and 5 years in hospitality technology, he brings a unique blend of operational expertise and technological innovation to the industry. Previously, Jonathan served as VP of Operations at Planaday, a hotel tech startup. Prior to that, he held a key role at Bbot, where he drove significant sales performance and product innovation, contributing to the company's successful $15M Series A and subsequent acquisition by DoorDash. His deep understanding of restaurant operations, combined with expertise in sales, product development, and design, enables him to bridge the gap between technological solutions and real-world operational needs. Jonathan holds a BS in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from the University of Florida. ABOUT DATA DELICACIES— Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. * Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH] * Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821] * Subscribe to Data Delicacies on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@incentivio] * Visit Incentivio Online [https://www.incentivio.com/] * Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/27209367/admin/dashboard/] * Follow Incentivio on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/] * Connect with Arun on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] Produced by Incentivio [https://www.incentivio.com/] & Cali BBQ Media [https://betheshow.media/]

Navigating Hospitality's Future: Industry Trends and Insights with Jason Valentine

In this episode of Data Delicacies [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821], host Arun Kumar [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] sits down with Jason Valentine [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonvalentine15/], Strategy Officer at Botrista [https://botrista.com/], to explore the latest trends reshaping hospitality and technology. With years of experience and a finger on the pulse of the industry, Jason shares insights from his extensive travels and offers a front-row seat to the transformative changes impacting multiple sectors. Whether you're in hospitality, tech, or just love learning about innovation, this episode delivers an engaging and insightful conversation you won't want to miss. Key Takeaways - 1. The Efficency of Automation - Botrista’s drinkbot revolutionizes beverage operations by offering a wide variety of drinks, like smoothies, cocktails, and Boba tea, all within just 4 ½ square feet. It replaces 12 traditional machines, allowing restaurants to expand their offerings without additional space or labor. This automation boosts efficiency, ensures consistency, and drives sales growth for partner brands. 2. The Bar for Automation and Robotics - The success of any automation depends on employee acceptance and usability. Jason’s visits to multiple locations showed that Botrista’s drinkbot excels in ease of use and quality, earning positive feedback from staff. Automation that prioritizes user satisfaction is essential for long-term adoption and scalability. 3. Making Automation at Scale - Botrista refined its drinkbot by balancing automation with practical scalability, adding a simple manual step to overcome early challenges. This adjustment kept the technology efficient and economically viable for widespread adoption. Successful automation must combine innovation with operational feasibility to scale effectively. Episode Links * Connect with Jason Valentine on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonvalentine15/] * Visit Botrista Online [https://botrista.com/] * Follow Botrista on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/botrista] * Subscribe to Botrista on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@Botrista_Beverages] * Follow Botrista on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/botrista_bev/] * Connect with Botrista on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/botrista/] ABOUT JASON VALENTINE Chief Strategy Officer Jason Valentine brings more than 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including leadership on both Franchisee and Franchisor sides. Most recently, he was President of the national brand Zoup! Eatery and completed a successful acquisition plan. Valentine has been listed on Restaurant Business News' Power 20 list and has been a featured speaker at the Restaurant Leadership Conference and the Fast Casual Executive Summit. ABOUT DATA DELICACIES— Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. * Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/29ExS0n9X3Z3FyK4HuSPKH] * Listen to Data Delicacies on Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/data-delicacies/id1745336821] * Visit Incentivio Online [https://www.incentivio.com/] * Connect with Incentivio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/27209367/admin/dashboard/] * Follow Incentivio on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/incentivio/] * Connect with Arun on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunkumar47/] Produced by Incentivio [https://www.incentivio.com/] & Cali BBQ Media [https://betheshow.media/]