FAST CASUAL - A podcast series by LANDED LANDED

In the second part of our conversation with Ben Van Leeuwen, CEO and co-founder of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, we delve into the essence of creating and maintaining a strong business culture. Ben shares his philosophy on leadership, the importance of hiring the right people, and how the company ensures consistent quality and service across all locations. He also discusses the significance of training and developing staff internally, the challenges of scaling operations, and the satisfaction that comes from building a self-sustaining business. This episode offers valuable insights into the strategic decisions that have shaped Van Leeuwen's success and its future growth plans.

Join Ben Van Leeuwen, CEO of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey from operating a single ice cream truck to managing a growing network of scoop shops and grocery distribution across the United States. Discover the challenges and triumphs of introducing a premium product in a competitive market, the strategic decisions behind location selection, and the importance of maintaining a focused brand identity. Learn how Ben's passion for quality and his dedication to simple, superior ingredients have shaped the company's philosophy and contributed to its success in the ever-evolving food industry.

In this episode, Na'im Muhammad, a seasoned transactional law attorney and Managing Partner & CEO at NDM Capital, LLC, delves into the complexities and strategies of raising capital globally and the impactful role of effective team development in the franchising business. Drawing from his extensive experience in investment banking and franchise management, Na'im shares insightful strategies on obtaining offshore capital, the importance of scalable business models for franchise growth, and the art of cultivating a committed workforce. His approach not only underscores the financial aspects of franchising but also highlights the human element, emphasizing the importance of investing in people to foster brand loyalty and operational success. Listen to uncover the dual focus on capital and culture that powers franchise growth and sustains business success.

Join Marvin Alballi, a seasoned F&B executive and best-selling author, as he dives deep into the transformative trends in global hospitality. In this engaging podcast, Marvin shares his extensive experience across various sectors—from fast food to fine dining—and discusses the shift towards premium, chef-inspired restaurants and refined dining experiences. Discover the importance of innovation, fresh ingredients, and the evolving consumer expectations that are reshaping the industry. Marvin's insights offer a compelling look at the challenges and opportunities facing today's hospitality leaders, emphasizing the critical role of exceptional guest experiences in driving business success.

In this enlightening podcast episode, Aaron Harper, CEO & Owner of Rolling Suds Power Washing, delves into his dynamic transition from the entertainment industry to franchising, highlighting his strategic maneuvers within the franchise domain. With a sharp focus on franchise development rather than personal accolades, Aaron shares his journey through various industries before finding his niche in home services, emphasizing affordable entry points and wealth-building opportunities beyond traditional fast-food franchises. He outlines his transformative approach to franchising, which includes rigorous system overhauls and strategic growth through responsible franchising, aiming to establish a sustainable and ethical expansion model in the franchising community.

In this insightful episode, Chris Ciavarra, Principal at Scotch Game, delves into the critical aspects of strategic growth for multi-unit retail and restaurants. He shares his rich background in hospitality and discusses the nuanced challenges of managing product, pricing, and marketing within the industry. Key topics include the importance of understanding market dynamics, optimizing operational efficiencies, and the strategic use of data to drive decision-making. Chris offers valuable perspectives on balancing process with flexibility to achieve sustainable growth and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant business.