053: Strategies for Growth, Culture, and Empowerment in Restaurants with Eric Knott

This week, Troy welcomes industry leader Eric Knott to discuss his journey from childhood in upstate New York to becoming a prominent restaurant executive. Eric shares insights on the true essence of hospitality, making people feel welcome, and expands on the implementation of it throughout your business, from the staff to operations. Eric talks about how important culture, leadership, and empowering your staff is to create a resilient and connected team, especially as your company or restaurant grows and scales.

Eric also shares about his recent role at Tiki Taco, a vibrant fast-casual concept he is helping expand through strategic location placements, community engagement, and technological innovation. Important topics such as hiring principles, maintaining brand integrity, and envisioning future growth, including potential franchising and joint ventures are also discussed in more detail. This is a power packed episode you don’t want to miss!

Topics discussed in the episode

• The true meaning of hospitality and its importance in business
• Eric Knott’s background and journey into the restaurant industry
• Building and maintaining company culture as the brand scales
• Strategies for hiring, empowering staff, and reducing turnover
• Tiki Taco’s growth plans, community focus, and future expansion

Connect with Eric Knott:

https://www.tikitaco.com/

https://www.instagram.com/tikitaco/

https://www.facebook.com/tikitaco/

https://twitter.com/tikitaco_

https://open.spotify.com/user/l8dhha2fmgtwi7xe6ugkcbd1s?si=qxwFUBHIT8um13cuiuZoMw

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-knott-96504973/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tikitaco/

This show is sponsored by Pepper Lunch. Find a location near you!

Production and Administration work completed by Smart Podcast Solutions and Elevate Virtual Business Solutions.