Shows
Office Hours with David MeltzerKen Woodward, Diana Mereu, Shawn Walchef | Office Hours: The Human ExperienceKen Woodward
Ken Woodward's journey spans three decades of naval service and a transformative pivot to question-driven leadership. Beginning as a Submarine Radioman, Ken's 32-year Navy career evolved through teaching communications systems, contracting with the Navy, and ultimately serving as a Civil Servant acquisition professional in submarine imaging, mine warfare, and unmanned systems. In March 2025, Ken resigned from the Navy to pursue his true calling: Curated Questions, a coaching, consulting, and speaking venture that celebrates the transformative power of inquiry. This pivot represents more than a career change; it's a return to his authentic self. As a...
2025-12-0132 min
Digital HospitalityInside the Lessons Shawn Walchef Learned at Toast HQShawn Walchef shares the biggest lessons he has learned serving on the Toast Customer Advisory Board. From seeing how deeply Toast invests in customer success to understanding the power of real feedback loops, Walchef explains why every operator benefits from joining a larger community. He also reflects on how peers, storytelling, and brand advocacy helped shape his restaurant and media business. For Walchef, progress accelerates when operators learn together and choose to get involved.
Interview Takeaways:
Customer Success Starts with Listening – Toast’s advisory board shows how real operators shape better products. Bringing users into the...
2025-11-2807 minDigital HospitalityRising Tides Live – Solving the ‘Last Mile’ Problem in Restaurant TechJason E. Brooks steps in this week for Shawn Walchef as he leads a deep conversation about one of the most overlooked challenges in hospitality tech: the last mile. A keynote speaker, longtime operator, and industry veteran, Jason breaks down why tools that look perfect in a demo often struggle once they hit the chaos of real operations. He explores the gap between idea and execution, the friction points that derail adoption, and the misunderstandings that operators and tech builders often have about each other.
Interview Takeaways:
The Last Mile Determines Success – Most tech looks pe...
2025-11-2550 minOffice Hours with David MeltzerShawn Walchef, Nishit Mehta, Russell Rogers | IG LiveShawn Walchef
Shawn Walchef is a restaurant owner turned media visionary who built a full-scale content studio inside his BBQ brand long before it became industry standard. Through his weekly podcast, he has interviewed top tech founders, hospitality leaders, and hundreds of entrepreneurs, giving him a rare cross-industry perspective on leadership, innovation, and growth. His approach transformed his slow-smoked BBQ business into a storytelling engine reaching millions. Shawn is best known for his mantra, “Be the Show, Not the Commercial,” a philosophy he applies to marketing, partnerships, and company culture. Beyond business, he openly shares his experiences with...
2025-11-2535 minDigital Hospitality10X Your Media Output Immediately! 3 Time Saving Steps for Business OwnersShawn Walchef explains some core concepts that will allow you to 10X Your Media Output Right Now! Shawn Walchef is the owner of Cali BBQ Media and a leading voice in the restaurant and hospitality industry. He’s built a successful BBQ brand by embracing “Digital Hospitality”—helping restaurant owners think like media companies to stay relevant in the modern age. As the host of the Restaurant Influencers podcast, Shawn interviews top industry leaders, sharing insights on branding, technology, and the future of hospitality. He speaks at major events like the National Restaurant Association Show and International Pizza Expo, teaching...
2025-11-2008 minDigital HospitalityRising Tides Live: Stepping Outside Of Your Comfort ZoneIn this session of Rising Tides Live, hosted by Shawn Walchef, , the conversation focused on stepping out of your comfort zone and why growth only happens when you do. From live reports at RFDC in Las Vegas to community members sharing their own real-world stories, the group explored how discomfort fuels learning, leadership, and momentum. Operators talked about walking hallways to shake hands with industry titans, advisors opened up about reinventing careers through new technology, and creators shared the challenge of showing up even when life gets messy. The message was simple: being uncomfortable is unavoidable, but it is al...
2025-11-1839 minDigital HospitalityRising Tides Live: DelegationIn this session of Rising Tides Live, hosted by Shawn Walchef, the focus was on delegation—why it’s so difficult, how to improve, and what leadership looks like when you let go. Shawn admitted his own struggles as a restaurant owner trying to juggle manager and owner duties, and how becoming a father forced him to […]
2025-09-2354 minDigital HospitalityTurning AI into Daily Practice for GrowthIn this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef discusses artificial intelligence and its role in shaping modern storytelling. From Bulgaria, Shawn pressed David on what he would do if he had to rebuild Meltzer Enterprises today using AI. David’s answer was simple but powerful: he would take […]
2025-08-2700 min
The Bottom Line- Real Stories Behind RestaurantsStorytelling Is the Secret Sauce to Restaurant Growth with Shawn WalchefSend us a textIn this episode of The Bottom Line, Naki Soyturk sits down with Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media. What started as a single-location barbecue restaurant in San Diego has evolved into a national brand and thought leader in hospitality tech and digital storytelling.Shawn shares the philosophy behind turning every restaurant into a media company, breaking down how consistent storytelling builds brand equity and customer trust. From using content to drive catering sales to automating digital hospitality through smart tech, Shawn outlines a playbook any operator can...
2025-07-3032 minDigital HospitalityRising Tides Live: Ask Shawn AnythingIn this session of Rising Tides Live, the community gathered for a special Ask Shawn Anything, where host Shawn Walchef took questions from the group and encouraged everyone to do the same. From a former dishwasher turned GM sharing leadership lessons, to a barbecue pitmaster navigating burnout and balance, the conversation was honest, practical, and […]
2025-07-2900 minDigital HospitalitySocial Media Rule #1: You’re Going to Suck When You StartWhen Shawn Walchef connected with David Lissah in Sofia, Bulgaria, it wasn’t part of a grand plan. Shawn had simply followed David on Instagram, impressed by his honest storytelling and creator journey. A direct message turned into a podcast invite, and before long, two creators from opposite sides of the world sat down for a […]
2025-07-2118 minDigital HospitalityRising Tides Live: Post Production SpeedIn this session of Rising Tides Live, hosted by Shawn Walchef, the community rallied around a clear challenge: how can content teams move faster without sacrificing purpose? The guest was Scot Turner, a London-based hospitality consultant and creative thinker, who recently joined Shawn and their families on a vacation in Bulgaria. What started as a transatlantic DM […]
2025-07-161h 06
The Pre-ShiftAI is here, but your story is your superpower | Shawn Walchef, Cali BBQ | 064The restaurant industry is at a crossroads, with two powerful forces shaping its future. On one hand, there's the explosive growth of AI and automation, a major topic at the recent National Restaurant Association Show. On the other, there's the timeless need for genuine human connection. This episode explores both.First, D.J. considers the impact of AI on restaurant operations. Then, he dives into a conversation with Shawn Walchef, the founder of Cali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media, who champions the power of storytelling as a restaurant's ultimate competitive advantage. Shawn provides a practical guide for...
2025-06-1833 min
The Storytelling LabTurn Your Content Into a Show They Can't Stop Watching with Shawn Walchef“We make our media the same way we make our barbecue, and that’s low and slow.” — Shawn WalchefHow do you run a business and still find time to create content? In this episode, Rain sits down with Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ and founder of Cali BBQ Media, to explore how storytelling and content creation aren’t distractions—they’re growth engines. Shawn shares how he went from struggling restaurateur to building a thriving media company on top of his barbecue brand, and why every business today needs to think like a media c...
2025-06-1659 minDigital HospitalityWhy B2B Content Capturing Is Critical For Any Business OwnerShawn Walchef wants every business owner to understand one thing: B2B content isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. From his base at Cali BBQ in San Diego, Walchef has turned his restaurant into a content machine, showing that the future of marketing lies not in polished ads but in real stories that build trust. “It’s […]
2025-06-1104 min
Room For SecondsShawn Walchef is Building Community & Storytelling in the Restaurant IndustryFilmed at the site of the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, IL., Gregg Majewski sits down with Shawn Walchef—the podcast king of the restaurant industry, owner of Cali BBQ in San Diego, and founder of Cali BBQ Media. Shawn shares his journey from struggling barbecue joint to industry influencer, highlighting how building in public, embracing social media, and staying curious can transform a brand. This episode dives deep into why storytelling matters, the importance of community, and how even big names like Shaquille O’Neal rely on authentic relationships to grow successful restaurant brands. Tune in to disc...
2025-06-0318 minDigital HospitalityHow A Fight Night Nearly Bankrupt Cali BBQEveryone loves a packed house on fight night. The energy, the crowd, the sales. But for Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ, one of those early nights nearly cost him everything. “We were young, hungry, and broke,” Shawn said. “And we made a choice we thought was smart business—but it almost shut us down.” The […]
2025-05-2205 min
The Duce Raymond PodcastWhy ‘Be the Show’ Is the Future of Content & More with @CaliBBQMedia 's Shawn Walchef#podcast #socialmedia #bbq In this episode of The Duce Raymond Podcast, Duce sits down with Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, to dive deep into the power of digital storytelling for restaurant owners. They discuss why every operator should attend industry events like Catersource and the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show, how Cali BBQ achieved $52M in catering sales, and why content creation—not ads—is the secret to building trust and driving revenue. Shawn shares how to turn your brand into a show, book high-profile podcast guests, and embrace a “YouTube First” strategy in 2025. You’ll also hea...
2025-05-2040 min
The Pineapple Perspective050: Our 50th Episode is Live from Las Vegas at Pepper Lunch with Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ MediaIn this milestone 50th episode of The Pineapple Perspective, Troy Hooper sits down with longtime friend and returning guest Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, for the podcast's first-ever on-location recording at Pepper Lunch in Las Vegas. They reflect on the journey of launching and sustaining a media-driven business strategy in the hospitality industry, discussing how consistent storytelling builds brand authority, trust, and growth over time. Troy credits Shawn as the original inspiration behind starting the show, and they dive into topics such as overcoming fear of publishing content, building a personal brand through video and a...
2025-05-1531 minDigital HospitalityWe Tested Dynamic Pricing at Our RestaurantDynamic pricing isn’t new. Restaurants have used it for decades—Happy Hour, early bird specials, breakfast discounts. But as Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ, explained, using tech to automate those changes is what turns heads today. “Every restaurant has been doing dynamic pricing,” Shawn said. “The only difference now is we’re using tools to do […]
2025-05-1407 minDigital HospitalityDavid Meltzer & Shawn Will Takeover the National Restaurant Show 2025In this episode of Digital Hospitality, host Shawn Walchef and his mentor David Meltzer discuss how they’re transforming this year’s National Restaurant Association Show (NRA) into a powerful platform for business growth. Their partnership is rooted in Stage Theory—the belief that events are not just for networking but for capturing and amplifying stories that drive […]
2025-05-0814 min
Defining HospitalityBehind the Smoke: Media in Hospitality - Shawn Walchef - Defining Hospitality - Episode #198What role does media play in hospitality? This episode welcomes media expert and Owner of Cali BBQ, Shawn Walchef. Shawn discusses his journey from creating award-winning barbecue restaurants in San Diego to building a successful media platform. He shares insights on the importance of hospitality, storytelling, and the role of time in perfecting one's craft. Shawn also offers practical advice on leveraging digital media to build and grow a business, emphasizing the need to create consistent content and the power of being a curious and compassionate host. This episode is a must-watch for those looking to embrace their media...
2025-04-301h 02Digital HospitalityNo One Is Coming to Tell The Story of Your BusinessAt the California Restaurant Show, Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media took the stage to share an important lesson: Every business has a story that deserves to be told. While his session emphasized digital storytelling, it was a particular moment—his Orange Tree Story—that truly resonated with the audience. Walchef recounted the significance of an orange […]
2025-03-1214 minDigital HospitalityWhy Every Business Needs YouTubeShawn Walchef knows the power of digital storytelling. As the owner of Cali BBQ and founder of Cali BBQ Media, he’s spent 17 years building a brand that’s as much about content as it is about barbecue. But at the Google Restaurant Industry Influencers Summit in New York City, Shawn wasn’t just talking about restaurants—he […]
2025-02-2611 minDigital HospitalityHow to Produce Content in 2025Shawn Walchef steps into the guest seat for the very first episode of The Pineapple Perspective with Troy Hooper. As the CEO of Hot Palette America, Troy has spent years leading and innovating in the restaurant industry. Now, he’s amplifying hospitality voices with his new podcast. And who better to kick things off than Shawn, […]
2025-02-1200 minDigital HospitalityDavid Meltzer’s Master Class on Social Selling In 2025In this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef discusses “Social Selling in 2025” and how technology is reshaping the intersection of media, sales, and community building. Shawn and David dive deep into strategies for leveraging media as a sales tool, the importance of credibility and consistency, and […]
2025-01-2918 minDigital HospitalityLessons in Catering and Storytelling with Behind The Scenes AccessShawn Walchef, the owner of Cali BBQ in San Diego, is not just redefining barbecue; he’s reshaping how restaurants connect with their audience through storytelling and transparency. On a recent Saturday livestream, Shawn, alongside Director of Events and Hospitality, Steven Swiderski, gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the art of catering, technology integration, and the […]
2025-01-2300 minDigital HospitalityNobody Is Coming To Tell Your Story: Shawn Walchef and Scot TurnerIn this unique episode of Digital Hospitality, we feature an interview from Hospitality Huddles, where Scot Turner sits down with Shawn Walchef. Shawn shares his powerful philosophy: no one is coming to tell your story, so you must embrace the tools at your disposal to share it yourself. From building authentic connections to leveraging digital […]
2025-01-0800 minDigital HospitalityAmplifying Napoleon Hill’s Legacy for the Modern Era with David MeltzerThe Power of a Tagline In this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef explores the power of taglines, the evolution of modern marketing, and the timeless wisdom of Napoleon Hill. A tagline can encapsulate a life philosophy, a brand’s mission, or a personal mantra. For Shawn Walchef, […]
2024-12-2714 minDigital HospitalityWhy Storytelling Matters for Your Business: Shawn Walchef California Restaurant ShowIn today’s crowded digital landscape, it’s not enough to build a great business and hope people will show up. As Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media emphasized during his talk at the California Restaurant Show, storytelling is the key to connecting with your audience. “No one is coming to tell your story,” Walchef said. “Every […]
2024-12-0450 minDigital HospitalityDynamic Pricing vs Surge Pricing: Shawn Walchef Speech at MURTEC 2024Dynamic pricing is nothing new. It’s a well-established practice in industries like airlines and hotels, and even within restaurants through Happy Hours and Early Bird Specials. But as Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ shared during his speech at the 2024 MURTEC Summit, when restaurants adjust prices dynamically, it sparks a unique reaction—and understanding why […]
2024-11-2013 min
The Bar Business Podcast: Smart Hospitality & Marketing Secrets For Bar & Pub OwnersLeveraging Digital Marketing for Bar Owners with Shawn WalchefShawn Walchef from Cali BBQ Media shares his journey with us, from taking over a humble breakfast concept in 2008 and turning it into a family-friendly bar to becoming a digital marketing thought leader in the hospitality industry. Shawn unveils the secrets to overcoming public speaking fears and effectively utilizing free digital platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to tell compelling stories that resonate with customers. His insights into the importance of continuous improvement in digital marketing and the power of storytelling will leave you inspired and ready to take your bar business to the next level.Shawn...
2024-08-0746 minDigital HospitalityThe Return on Investing in Yourself with Shawn Walchef and Fast Casual PodcastShawn Walchef, Owner of Cali BBQ Media, made an appearance on Fast Casual by Landed that was a testament to his innovative approach to digital marketing and his deep understanding of the power of storytelling through video. Walchef has long advocated for the use of video to authentically showcase one’s business and personal brand online. […]
2024-08-0557 minDigital HospitalityCoaching Call with David Melzer: Gratitude, Community & Acting Now for SuccessIn this latest Coaching Call with entrepreneur, podcast host, and mentor David Meltzer, host Shawn Walchef discusses the importance of community, the power of storytelling, and how to leverage modern technology for business growth. Walchef shares his recent experience at Toast’s headquarters, emphasizing the impact of building connections and community. Meltzer emphasized the significance of […]
2024-07-2918 min
The Inspired Stories PodcastBe the Show, Not The Commercial: Shawn Walchef's Recipe for Restaurant Success | Restaurants & Franchises SeriesHow can a restaurant owner leverage digital storytelling to transform a struggling business into a thriving media empire and successful restaurant chain?In this episode, Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media and CEO of Cali BBQ, shares his inspiring journey from struggling restaurant owner to successful media entrepreneur. Shawn discusses how he built a thriving barbecue restaurant and media company by embracing digital tools and storytelling, driven by his desire to overcome initial business challenges and share valuable insights with other hospitality professionals.Shawn highlights the importance of...
2024-07-081h 02
Data DelicaciesUnlocking Deep Hospitality and Building Community with Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ MediaShawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, has a unique definition of hospitality. For Walchef, hospitality is more than just a warm greeting; it’s about creating lifelong relationships built on trust. While at the National Restaurant Association Show 2024 in Chicago, Walcef discussed the importance of building a community with host Arun Kumar. Listen now to learn more about loyalty in hospitality, the truth about advertising, and the power of opportunities and connections. Follow Incentivio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@incentivioEp...
2024-07-0315 min
The Duce Raymond PodcastFrom Struggles to Success: Building a BBQ Media Empire | Shawn Walchef | Founder | @CaliBBQMedia#bbq #success #interview #podcast Welcome to the first episode of The Duce Raymond Podcast! I'm thrilled to have Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, as our special guest. Shawn has significantly influenced my business journey, and today, he shares how he turned his struggles into a BBQ media empire. From his early days in his grandfather's restaurant to transforming a local BBQ joint into a media powerhouse, Shawn's story is one of resilience and innovation. He emphasizes that "if you build it, they will not come. You have to make them care by sharing your story."
2024-07-0247 minDigital HospitalityShawn Walchef Discusses Dynamic Pricing and Customer Loyalty on The Restaurant Growth ShowCali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media Founder, Shawn Walchef spoke on The Restaurant Growth Show powered by Dynpricing to discuss dynamic pricing and restaurants greatest fear. He also spoke to hosts Gordon Paterson and Jose Albis about incentivizing customer loyalty. Cali BBQ, have garnered national attention for implementing dynamic pricing. Often misunderstood as “surge pricing,” […]
2024-05-2226 minDigital HospitalityPersistence and Innovation Led to Gary Campbell and WineView’s Thriving Partnership with ToastGary Campbell, the CEO and Co-Founder of WineView, credits persistence and storytelling for his company’s burgeoning partnership with Toast. He understood the importance of knowing his market inside out, especially when it came to earning the major partnership. “You pretty much got to get in person.” he says to show host Shawn Walchef of Cali […]
2024-05-0741 minDigital HospitalityRising Tide LinkedIn Live: Repurposing ContentDo you believe that every piece of content has to be new and original? In the world where content creation is becoming a requirement for conducting business, it is also becoming increasingly important to have a strategy for doing so. Every Wednesday and Friday at 10am PDT, Shawn Walchef hosts the Rising Tide live room […]
2024-05-031h 07
Room For SecondsThe Power of Being #2 w/ Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ MediaIn a world obsessed with being number one, Gregg Majewski advocates for the power of being number two. Drawing from his experience at Jimmy John's, he spoke to Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media about the importance of focusing inward to perfect products and services. Listen now to learn about the power of not being first, prioritizing hospitality, and not diminishing customer experience in the digital era.Episode Links:Cali BBQ Media OnlineCali BBQ LinkedInCali BBQ Media InstagramCali BBQ Media YouTubeShawn Walchef InstagramTakeaways...
2024-05-0139 minDigital HospitalityCoaching Call with David Meltzer: Unlocking the Secret to SuccessDiscover the keys to thriving in the content creator economy with David Meltzer’s invaluable guidance, shared during a recent coaching call with Cali BBQ Media. Digital Hospitality host and Cali BBQ Media owner Shawn Walchef has had the pleasure of having world renowned entrepreneur, author, motivational speaker, and business coach David Meltzer as a friend […]
2024-04-2924 minDigital HospitalityDavid Meltzer is Cali BBQ Media MentorDavid Meltzer is the Co-Founder of Sports 1 Marketing. He is also a world renowned motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, business coach, and podcast host. For Cali BBQ Media founder Shawn Walchef, Meltzer is a mentor and friend. On Meltzer’s quest to empower over one billion people to be happy, he has made a number of […]
2024-04-2623 min
The Restaurant Growth ShowHow to Use Dynamic Pricing with Shawn WalchefIn this episode, we welcome Shawn Walchef, entrepreneur and owner of Cali BBQ, who shares his insights on leveraging dynamic pricing to grow a restaurant business. Shawn discusses his journey with Cali BBQ, the use of dynamic pricing on platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, and the impact it has had. He explains the difference between dynamic and surge pricing, emphasizing the importance of incremental price changes based on supply and demand. Walchef also dives into the challenges and opportunities of communicating pricing strategies to customers, the benefits of avoiding high traffic periods, and how technology can enhance customer...
2024-03-2820 min
HospitableCaliBBQ Media and Building a Media + Restaurant Business with Founder Shawn P. WalchefLive from Cali BBQ Media HQ in Sunny San Diego, California, episode 19 features CEO and Founder, Shawn P. Walchef.This episode covers ground, from embracing discomfort to crafting unforgettable experiences, Shawn's journey highlights the transformative power of storytelling and human connection. We dive deep into the intersection of technology, narrative, and hospitality as Shawn shares his experiences as a podcast host, content creator, and member of the customer advisory board at Toast. Join us as we explore the importance of going the extra mile and embracing discomfort to create m...
2024-03-0737 minDigital HospitalityClosing Hospitality Gaps with Jennifer Ryan of CrouxJennifer Ryan, the founder of Croux, identified a crucial gap in the hospitality industry during her experience launching a restaurant right before the onset of COVID-19. The challenge of finding flexible staffing solutions became a persistent pain point, leading Ryan to conceptualize Croux. She explained to host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media, “I had […]
2024-01-2938 minDigital HospitalityShawn Walchef Talks Quality Content Creation at the Western Foodservice & Hospitality ExpoShawn Walchef, the owner of Cali BBQ Media, delivered a compelling speech at the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo 2023, emphasizing the transformative power of the internet and social media. Walchef shared his philosophy of presenting his authentic self across various social media platforms, highlighting that he integrates his personal and professional life seamlessly. This […]
2024-01-1644 minDigital HospitalityPrioritizing Community Outreach with Avery Ward of Little Italy RistoranteAvery Ward, the CEO of Little Italy, stands at the forefront of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge solutions to enhance hospitality in the restaurant industry. Recognizing a critical pain point for his customers, Ward partnered with Shipday to address challenges related to communication and transparency. In this interview with host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media and […]
2024-01-0547 minDigital HospitalityBuilding Authentic Connections with Restaurant Owners Uncorked PodcastShawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media approach content creation and networking is a testament to the power of authenticity and vulnerability in the digital age.His willingness to “look stupid” by consistently posting on social media allowed him to connect with people he wouldn’t have otherwise. Walchef’s commitment to storytelling and consistent online engagement has not […]
2023-12-271h 16Digital HospitalityVideo Content Made Easy with Nick Capozzi of SpliceVideoGet to know Nick Capozzi of SpliceVideo Nick Capozzi, co-founder of SpliceVideo, is a visionary in the realm of digital content creation and marketing. In a recent discussion with Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media, Capozzi shed light on the underutilization of platforms like LinkedIn, emphasizing the vast untapped potential for businesses and influencers. According […]
2023-12-1838 minDigital HospitalityShawn Walchef talks The Answer to the Internet with Local Marketing LabLocal Marketing Lab host and VP of Marketing at Evocalize, Justin Ulrich, sat down with Cali BBQ Media co-founder, Shawn Walchef to discuss the importance of creating content. For Walchef, everyone is a creator in this current landscape. “Every single person is a creator. Every single person is a storyteller.” says Walchef. In […]
2023-11-1517 minDigital HospitalityShawn Walchef Talks Mastering Digital Marketing with The Meez PodcastWhen it comes to storytelling, very few have the passion for it like Cali BBQ Media co-owner, Shawn Walchef. The Digital Hospitality Host stopped by The Meez Podcast to discuss the power of doing digital marketing correctly. During this interview, Shawn speaks on his many inspirations that include his Bulgarian grandfather, who encouraged him to […]
2023-11-0851 minDigital HospitalityShawn Walchef Talks Smartphone Storytelling on The Top Business Leaders ShowThe Spot On Series Show put on by Rise25 invites guests to speak candidly about their experience with business. Cali BBQ Media founder Shawn Walchef was a guest on the show recently where he spoke about his journey with digital hospitality and the importance of businesses being digital first. Listen to this interview to […]
2023-11-0222 minDigital HospitalityThe Power of One Restaurant Location with Eric and Melissa RickmanEric and Melissa Rickman are the CEO and Operators of Wholly Stromboli (@wholly_stromboli) in Fort Lupton, CO. Now 14 years in, Wholly Stromboli was the manifestation of a lifelong dream for Melissa. “Melissa Rickman: It was something I wanted to do my whole life.” she tells host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media . […]
2023-09-2814 minDigital HospitalityExpanding by Outsourcing with Wayne Lipschitz of R&R FMGWayne Lipschitz is the CEO of Restaurant & Retail Financial Management Group (@rrfmg), or R&R FMG, where their goal is to grow your business. Whether your business needs help with daily financials, or a temporary Chief of Finance, R&R FMG is there for you. In this conversation with host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ […]
2023-08-2328 minDigital HospitalityAdding Leadership and Growing Your Business with Paul WalkerPaul Walker (@villageinn) is the President of Walker Group Restaurants. Since taking over the family business, it has grown rapidly. Though they weren’t fully prepared, Walker and company heeded the advice of his grandfather to “figure it out”. Now with expansion on the horizon, Walker sat with host Shawn Walchef at this year’s Restaurant365 Restaurant […]
2023-06-0814 minDigital HospitalityEnhancing Your Restaurant Atmosphere with Ben Sennet and Tammy Evrard of AtmosphereEvery year, restaurant and hospitality leaders gathered at the National Restaurant Association, or NRA show. This year, host Shawn Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) met with VP of Enterprise Platform Sales, Ben Sennet, and VP Sales & Brand Partnerships, Central Region, Tammy Evrard, to discuss how Atmosphere (@atmosphere.tv) helps restaurants take on the the challenge of keeping customers […]
2023-06-0118 minDigital HospitalityCreating New Technology Habits with Tim McLaughlinTim McLaughlin is a technology savant. His company, GoTab (@gotab.inc), pushes technology, such as QR codes, to the forefront of the hospitality industry by putting the guest at the center of the POS experience. “I would say get a demo if you want to actually know.” McLaughlin tells host Shawn Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) of calibbq.media. […]
2023-05-2542 minDigital HospitalityCali BBQ Talks National Restaurant Show 2023 with Kyle InserraThe National Association of Restaurant Show taking place from May 20 – 23 has been coined the “Super Bowl of the Industry” by some. Ahead of this year’s show, host Shawn Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) of Calibbq.media spoke with restaurant growth expert and commercial realtor Kyle Inserra (@kyleinserra) about why restaurant owners should attend the show and […]
2023-05-1623 min
The meez PodcastShawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media#10. Shawn Walchef is not only a restaurateur but an expert in digital media and storytelling. During the episode, he emphasizes the importance of taking time, making mistakes, and consistently learning. According to Shawn, storytelling is crucial in creating an emotional connection with customers, and he believes that technology can make barbecue more accessible to people.The podcast touches on the importance of connection in digital marketing and the long-term approach to building relationships. Shawn advises entrepreneurs to focus on being authentic and raw in their online presence, rather than trying to be commercial, believing that personal stories...
2023-05-1651 min
Closed MondayThe Don of Digital Hospitality Shawn Walchef, Founder - Cali BBQ MediaSince opening Cali BBQ 12 years ago, his family-run restaurant and media business in San Diego has generated more than $30 million in sales. As a restaurateur who opened during the Great Recession, Shawn Walchef learned to use digital tools and big ideas to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Shawn and his Cali BBQ Media team have developed a scalable plan that is three times more profitable than the traditional full-service restaurant model. Cali BBQ is working on a plan to repurpose 60 percent of their dining room into a commissary kitchen to service the additional “friendly” ghost kitchens they plan to a...
2023-05-1229 min
Blaze Your Own TrailHow to Leverage Your Smartphone to Win Business with Shawn WalchefAbout the guest:
Shawn P. Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) is the founder of Cali BBQ Media, podcast host, business coach, and proud dad.
Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, his family-run restaurant and media company in San Diego has generated more than $30 million in sales.
As a restaurateur who opened during the Great Recession of 2008, Shawn Walchef learned to use digital tools and big ideas to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Shawn and his Cali BBQ Media team developed a scalable plan that is three times...
2023-05-0543 minDigital HospitalityData Storytelling with Tom RutledgeTom Rutledge (@rdmsgroup), the owner of outsource accounting firm RDMS (Restaurant Data Management System), is a problem solver. Speaking with host Shawn Walchef (@shawnpwalchef) of https://calibbq.media at this year’s Restaurant Transformation Tour put on by Restaurant365, Rutledge speaks on how their systems have proven to be a valuable tool for his company since its adoption […]
2023-05-0427 minDigital HospitalityBeing Digitally Proactive with Troy Hooper and Massimo DeMarcoDigital Hospitality host Shawn Walchef (@shawnwalchef) of https://calibbq.media and special guests Troy Hooper, serial entrepreneur and Founder and CEO of Kiwi Restaurant Partners (@apineappleperspective) and Massimo DeMarco, CEO of Ghost Kitchen Brands and Founder of Kitchen United, as they discuss how the digital era is transforming the restaurant industry. In this episode, which took place […]
2023-04-2716 min
Brian Bogert - Flipping The Lid07: Stand In Your Truth with Shawn WalchefShawn Walchef is the founder of Cali BBQ Media, host of the Digital Hospitality podcast, a business coach, and a proud dad. Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, he has grown his San Diego restaurant and media company into a global brand using digital tools and smartphone storytelling.
Opening his restaurant during the Great Recession, Shawn learned to use the power of the Internet to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Cali BBQ developed a scalable growth plan that is three times more profitable than the traditional full-service restaurant model. Now, Shawn helps content leaders implement podcasting and digita...
2023-04-2052 minDigital HospitalityCreating Relationships that Stick with Nish Patel of Paperchase AccountancyIf humility is a prerequisite for hospitality, Nish Patel (@nishpcny), CEO of Paperchase Accountancy, has it in spades. In a sit down with host Shawn Walchef of https://calibbq.media/ during the 2023 Restaurant Transformation Tour put on by Restaurant365, Patel referred to his business as “small” despite having accounts internationally. Paperchase began when Patel and […]
2023-04-0619 minDigital HospitalityThe Beauty of Automation with David JosephDavid Joseph is the co-founder of DAVO by Avalara. What began as just an idea, has flourished into a near necessity of any business’ tech stack by filling the essential gap of handling business taxes. “In your business book, there are plenty of things to stress about,” says Joseph to Digital Hospitality host Shawn Walchef […]
2023-03-0252 min
Restauranttopia: A Show for Local Independent RestaurantsBuilding a Friendly Ghost Kitchen with Shawn WalchefEpisode 121 Building a Friendly Ghost Kitchen with Shawn Walchef https://restauranttopia.com/episode-121-building-a-friendly-ghost-kitchen-with-shawn-walchef/(opens in a new tab) About CALI BBQ Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, Shawn and Rositsa Walchef have incorporated the Bulgarian traditions of hospitality into every facet of their expanding business empire, from evolving their restaurant for 2020 and beyond with easy online ordering of BBQ online, to publishing podcasts and other digital media through Cali BBQ Media. Cali BBQ Podcast — Digital Hospitality Digital Hospitality is a weekly business and marketing podcast prod...
2022-08-0630 minRestauranttopia: A Show for Local Independent RestaurantsCourage – Restaurant Entrepreneurs embracing digital marketing with Shawn Walchef. Get out your phone and Record!Courage – Restaurant Entrepreneurs embracing digital marketing with Shawn Walchef. Get out your phone and Record! Show Notes About CALI BBQ Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, Shawn and Rositsa Walchef have incorporated the Bulgarian traditions of hospitality into every facet of their expanding business empire, from evolving their restaurant for 2020 and beyond with easy online ordering of BBQ online, to publishing podcasts and other digital media through Cali BBQ Media. Cali BBQ Podcast — Digital Hospitality Digital Hospitality is a weekly business and marketing podcast produced by Cali BBQ Media...
2022-07-1636 min
Life's Special Sauce Podcast - Chef Marshall O'BrienShawn Walchef - Are you curious?This week's episode features Shawn Walchef. He is the founder of Cali BBQ Media, podcast host, business coach, and proud dad. Since opening Cali BBQ in 2008, he has grown his San Diego restaurant and media company into a global brand using digital tools and smartphone storytelling. As a restaurateur who opened during the Great Recession, Shawn learned to use the power of the Internet to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Cali BBQ developed a scalable growth plan that is three times more profitable than the traditional full-service restaurant model.
IG@shawnpwalchef
calibbq.media
2022-05-0802 min
Food & Beverage Magazine Live!Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQCali BBQ Media is building the Amazon of Restaurants.With a rapidly expanding footprint physically and digitally, influential restaurant owner and digital media proponent Shawn P. Walchef #ShawnPWalchef thinks BIG when it comes to future-proof growth and exploring new ideas for his Cali BBQ Media company. #CaliBBQThe BIG idea is simple: Build the Amazon of Restaurants in San Diego using barbecue in the same way Jeff Bezos used books when he started Amazon in 1994.“Restaurants can no longer discriminate how guests eat by forcing them to travel to their br...
2022-03-1624 min
Dad Up PodcastEp. 114 - How A Business Owner Is Present with His Family! | Shawn Walchef and Bryan WardShawn Walchef is the founder of Cali BBQ Media. Cali BBQ is a San Diego BBQ To Go. Cali BBQ serves slow food — fast.
Their pit masters have dedicated themselves to the art of live fire cooking. They smoke our craft BBQ overnight in an Ole Hickory Smoker using aromatic California cooking woods. Don’t forget to also get their “Wicked” Peach Cobbler and Cali BBQ Cocktails-To-Go when you pick up your takeout food in East San Diego County.
You can order online in the link below.️ Order BBQ online for...
2021-12-2638 minDigital HospitalityThe Secret Sauce to Smartphone Storytelling for Business | FSMA Webinar | DH123Smartphone Storytelling doesn’t have to be difficult. These tips will help you learn to tell your story online. Speaking as a guest of honor at a Foodservice Sales and Marketing Association (FSMA) webinar, Shawn Walchef (Cali BBQ Media) shared the secret sauce to online storytelling, digital marketing for business, more inspiration and ideas. ➤ FSMA […]
2021-11-1829 min
COFFEE CULTURE with Holly ShannonShawn Walchef: Amazon Prime of BBQ Winning with Digital HospitalityShawn Walchef Instagram Shawn Walchef Tiktok Shawn Walchef Linkedin Cali BBQ website Holly Shannon’s WebsiteZero To Podcast on AmazonHolly Shannon, LinkedinHolly Shannon, InstagramHolly Shannon, ClubhouseMusic by Paco Hallak
2021-11-1144 min
Closed MondayNRO #89: Shawn Walchef | Cali BBQ MediaSince opening Cali BBQ 12 years ago, his family-run restaurant and media business in San Diego has generated more than $30 million in sales. https://calibbq.media
As a restaurateur who opened during the Great Recession, Shawn Walchef learned to use digital tools and big ideas to stay in business. During the Pandemic, Shawn and his Cali BBQ Media team have developed a scalable plan that is three times more profitable than the traditional full-service restaurant model.
Cali BBQ is working on a plan to repurpose 60 percent of their dining room into a commissary kitchen to service...
2021-11-021h 02Digital HospitalityHow To Become Your Own Media Company | Best Served Podcast + Cali BBQ Media on Clubhouse | DH112Hailing from all corners of the country, Cali BBQ Media is combining low-and-slow cooking with sharp and strategic content creation. Led by Founder Shawn Walchef in San Diego the restaurant lead turned Digital Hospitality Host has assembled a team of writers, video editors, web builders and marketers to become their own media company and spread […]
2021-09-031h 12Digital HospitalityTruth + Transparency Creates Compelling Content | Josh House (Pickles & Bones Barbecue) | DH101Josh House and Shawn Walchef may have been separated at birth. The Pickles & Bones Barbecue co-owner in Milford, OH and the Cali BBQ founder from La Jolla, CA may not have grown up in the same home, but they found each other in a familiar house just the same. “I’m a big podcast guy […]
2021-07-0144 minDigital HospitalityDigital Discoveries | Shawn Walchef Interview on Name Drop San Diego Podcast | DH099Take a deep dive with Shawn Walchef and Name Drop San Diego on all things Digital and Hospitality in this podcast episode. The San Diego Union-Tribune puts out a really good San Diego local podcast with the weekly Name Drop San Diego show, hosted by Abby Hamblin and Kristy Totten and featuring the people that […]
2021-06-1738 min
The Pre-ShiftEmbracing Digital Hospitality at Cali BBQ | Shawn Walchef, Founder | 003This episode was originally published as part of the Restaurant Growth Podcast. It has been rebranded as part of The Pre-Shift Podcast as of January 2023. The information presented may no longer be up-to-date and may differ from the viewpoints and insights currently shared on The Pre-Shift Podcast.In this episode of the Pre-Shift, D.J. interviews Sean Walchef of Cali Comfort BBQ and Digital Hospitality Podcast. Sean shares insights about their journey, including the decision to open a ghost kitchen in Downtown San Diego, emphasizing a community-focused approach. He discusses the advantages of ghost kitchens for expansion...
2021-04-0516 minDigital HospitalityInside the Business Coaching Call – 2 Minute Drill | Mentor David Meltzer | DH087Sit in on a 2021 business coaching call with Cali BBQ Media Founder Shawn Walchef and his mentor David Meltzer. *** On this special episode of the Digital Hospitality podcast, the mentor/mentee talk shop about season 1 of David Meltzer’s competition reality show, 2 Minute Drill and our $5,000,001 Cali BBQ Media pitch on episode […]
2021-03-1818 minDigital HospitalitySam the Cooking Guy Makes 5 Epic and Easy Recipes for Toast Live at Home | Chris Comparato (Toast Inc) interviews Sam Zien and Shawn Walchef | DH084Watch Sam the Cooking Guy show how to make 5 epic and easy recipes for toast LIVE for the company Toast from his home in San Diego. *** Toast Inc CEO Chris Comparato interviewed Sam Zien and Shawn Walchef for this Toast company call in February 2021 about owning and operating restaurants, operating a […]
2021-02-2545 minDigital HospitalityDigital Resources and Help to Inspire Restaurant Owners | Shawn Walchef on Corner Booth Podcast | DH071There’s a reason we recommend every restaurateur read Restaurant Startup and Growth and join RestaurantOwner.com. Having up-to-date information aggregated from experts in the industry is vital to staying current in any business, especially for restaurant owners and operators. As we built up Cali BBQ and evolved the restaurant over the years, a vital and inspiring […]
2020-12-2154 minDigital HospitalityHow to Turn Your Business into a Media Company | Shawn Walchef on Full Comp Podcast | DH068If you want to survive and thrive in business then you have to start operating and thinking like a media company. Being in business in 2021 and beyond is about creating memorable moments online and offline. The world is changing and we all need to keep up. Digital Hospitality guest Josh Kopel shared our Cali […]
2020-12-0732 min
Restaurant Unstoppable with Eric Cacciatore765: WORKSHOP Media First/Restaurant Second Shawn WalchefOver the last 12 years Shawn Walchef's restaurant, Cali Comfort BBQ, and media business has generated over twenty five million dollars in sales in San Diego, California without ever adding another single location. His greatest location curse became his greatest gift as it forced him to focus on all things digital just to stay in business. Currently his team has developed a plan to scale with a new bbq media model that is three times more profitable than his first business. Check out Episode 675: The Power of getting Involved in Your Community with Shawn Walchef Check...
2020-12-031h 29
Feeding Your PassionPart2 Shawn Walchef - Owner of Cali BBQ & Digital HospitalityShawn WalchefOwner of Cali BBQ & Creator of the Digital Hospitality PodcastSan Diego (Spring Valley), CAPART 2Shawn Walchef, Founder of Cali BBQ Media, Digital Hospitality Podcast Host, Restaurateur, New Dad and Sports Entertainment Fanatic.As owners/operators of Cali BBQ in San Diego, Shawn Walchef and his wife Rositsa have evolved over the dozen year run of their restaurant to swiftly shift with the times, while always staying true to the community.They opened Cali BBQ in 2008 at the height of the economic recession with...
2020-11-2336 minFeeding Your PassionPart1 Shawn Walchef - Owner of Cali BBQ & Digital HospitalityShawn WalchefOwner of Cali BBQ & Creator of the Digital Hospitality PodcastSan Diego (Spring Valley), CAPART 1Shawn Walchef, Founder of Cali BBQ Media, Digital Hospitality Podcast Host, Restaurateur, New Dad and Sports Entertainment Fanatic.As owners/operators of Cali BBQ in San Diego, Shawn Walchef and his wife Rositsa have evolved over the dozen year run of their restaurant to swiftly shift with the times, while always staying true to the community.They opened Cali BBQ in 2008 at the height of the economic recession with...
2020-11-1628 minDigital HospitalityBrand Building in a New Era | Shawn Walchef on The Cantore Show | DH063At Cali BBQ we learned early on that to get people to care about us, we had to reach out to them online. Veteran broadcaster and notable San Diego media personality Chris Cantore (our former podcast guest) featured our Cali BBQ Media story on his The Cantore Show podcast. Recording in his surf hut studio, […]
2020-11-1632 minDigital HospitalityPlanting Roots in Your Community | Shawn Walchef on Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast | DH061Getting involved and planting roots in your community as a business owner shows that you care about your village. Once you have a platform — and you use your voice to talk about the entire community, and not just your own business — everything starts to change. Restaurant Unstoppable podcast host Eric Cacciatore visited Cali […]
2020-11-081h 40Digital HospitalityYou Can Win At Life with a Good Mentality | Shawn Walchef on You Winning Life Podcast | DH059Two days after the passing of the legend Kobe Bryant, I had a tremendous and rich conversation on the You Winning Life podcast about finding a Mamba Mentality and mental health. This special episode of Digital Hospitality is a way to let you in on the awesome talk I had earlier this year with You […]
2020-11-021h 06Digital HospitalityBecoming a Digital Media Machine | Aaron David Roberts (Rising Tides Creative) | DH045How does a business become a media company? One of the first steps is by hiring a creative team to help you turn your life into digital content. In 2019, Aaron David Roberts, the president and founder of Rising Tides Creative, was called upon by restaurant owner and podcast host Shawn Walchef to help him and […]
2020-08-0748 min
The Chris Cantore ShowThe Cantore Show: Shawn WalchefSince 2008, Shawn Walchef has owned Cali Comfort BBQ in East San Diego County. In order to survive, Shawn knew he had to operate his family restaurant and sports bar like a media company. As you will hear, this approach has paid off big time in a COVID-19 age. In addition to owning a successful restaurant, Walchef operates Cali BBQ Media while hosting the Digital Hospitality Podcast. Operate a business? You could learn a lot from this discussion.
2020-06-2432 min
The Winning Brand PodcastS3 Ep 98 Understanding Digital Hospitality with Shawn WalchefThis week on The Winning Brand Podcast, Chase Hunter interviews Shawn Walchef, Creator of Digital Hospitality which is more than just a new video podcast for restaurant owner Shawn Walchef — it's a way of life. Since 2008, Shawn has owned Cali Comfort BBQ in East San Diego County. In order to survive, Shawn knew early on to operate his family restaurant and sports bar like a media company.
2020-06-0223 minDigital HospitalityThe Hottest Fires Forge the Hardest Steel | Forged part 2 (DH 026)Still catching your breath from the mountain hike with FORGED? Well, Navy SEALs and Marines don’t slow down so neither will we. On this second part of our interview with FORGED, CEO Mike Sauers and Marketing Manager Samantha Bonilla joined Digital Hospitality’s Shawn Walchef as they head to South Bay Rod and Gun Club for a […]
2020-03-2732 minDigital HospitalityMarketing with Influence | Farmers Insurance Open (DH 017)Hop into a golf cart and go behind-the-ropes of the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open with CEO Marty Gorsich to learn about modern marketing tactics and running a massive operation with tons of moving parts. On this episode of the Digital Hospitality podcast, host Shawn Walchef gets a first-hand tour of the majestic Torrey Pines […]
2020-01-231h 06Restaurant Unstoppable with Eric Cacciatore675: Shawn Walchef on The Power Getting Involved in Your CommunityThe University of San Diego graduate, Shawn Walchef, opened Cali Comfort BBQ in 2008. Since then, the Walchef family has incorporated the Bulgarian tradition of hospitality into every facet of the Cali BBQ business, from hosting cooking competitions, to publishing podcasts, to catering events of all sizes. Yes, you heard me say publishing podcasts. On top of being recognized as one of the best places to get BBQ in Southern California, if not THE BEST place, Walchef is the founder of Digital Hospitality where he guides fellow restaurateurs via video and audio content, through an ever-evolving...
2019-12-121h 47
My Worst Investment Ever PodcastShawn Walchef – Let the Pain of Failure Fuel Your SuccessShawn Walchef is a restaurant owner, digital entrepreneur and a proud father. Since 2008, Shawn has owned Cali Comfort BBQ in San Diego County. In order to survive, Shawn knew early on to operate his family restaurant and sports bar like a tech company. Now whether it’s his annual #BETonBBQ “Turf and Surf” tasting event in August or his expanding catering empire in San Diego, Shawn’s many business ventures all incorporate technology, especially the kind you use everyday on your cell phone. That’s how he discovered podcasting. Since Shawn first started a business and BBQ-th...
2019-08-1224 min
Wealth Tactic RebelsWTR Interview: Shawn Walchef, Digital Media Will Save and Improve Your BusinessPerhaps digital media is mysterious to you. Maybe you know how important it is, but just haven’t gotten around to it much. Or maybe you’re a digital media rock star. Any way you look at it, digital media is here to stay and is an integral part of all our lives. However, if you’re an entrepreneur or in business for yourself, it will be the most important part of any of your marketing. Often, it can be your savior. Meet Shawn Walchef of Cali Comfort BBQ and Behind The Smoke podcast. He took it upon himself to lea...
2019-08-0134 min