Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona Episode: June 4, 2025 - "Dinner w/Doug Hopkins Had John Seeing We've Given In To Bad Service - BO"

Host/Author: 98KUPD | Hubbard Radio
Description: Holmberg's Morning Sickness on 98 KUPD is Arizona's #1 Morning Radio Show. John Holmberg attempts to entertain, question, and disturb as many listeners as possible with assistance from Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo. Tune in or log onto 98KUPD (97.9fm, the 98KUPD app or www.98kupd.com) weekdays 5:30a-10a.

Introduction

In the June 4, 2025 episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness, host John Holmberg, along with his co-hosts Brett, Dave, and Byron, delve into a pressing issue affecting the hospitality industry: the noticeable decline in customer service quality. The episode weaves through personal anecdotes, societal observations, and humorous takes on contemporary challenges in the service sector.

Segment 1: Decline in Restaurant Service Quality

A. Personal Dining Experience at Toca Madera

The discussion kicks off with Brett and Dave recounting their recent visit to Toca Madera, a local restaurant. Dave shares his observations:

“...this isn’t an age thing. It is just across the board that nobody can find good help...”
[02:43]

They describe the pervasive "dead face strangeness" exhibited by staff members, highlighting a general lack of attentiveness and engagement.

B. Broader Industry Trends

The hosts extend their conversation to the broader trend of diminishing service quality across various establishments. Dave elaborates on how restaurants are increasingly resorting to hiring underage workers solely to manage basic tasks:

“...they can hire a 14-year-old if your kid wants to be here. We just want bodies in the building.”
[02:39]

This tactic, however, does not translate into improved service, as the immaturity of younger staff often leads to inefficiencies and further customer frustration.

Segment 2: The OnlyFans Phenomenon and Its Economic Impact

A. Selling Bodily Fluids as a Side Hustle

The conversation takes a turn towards the unconventional methods individuals are employing to manage financial strains. Dave narrates the story of Leticia Jones:

“She couldn’t keep up with demand. She was drying out... she just punched the button.”
[05:35]

Leticia, a 22-year-old former medical student, shares her experience of selling her bodily fluids on platforms akin to OnlyFans to alleviate $30,000 in debt. Her venture into selling spit and other secretions has surprisingly garnered substantial income:

“I could make $11,000 a week selling now just her spit.”
[05:33]

B. Societal Reflections

Dave uses Leticia's story as a springboard to comment on the evolving gig economy and the lengths to which individuals will go to secure financial stability. The juxtaposition of exorbitant restaurant bills with such side hustles underscores the economic disparities and the diminishing returns of traditional employment.

Segment 3: The Role of Digital Culture in Service Decline

A. Impact of Screen Time on Interpersonal Skills

The hosts discuss how the pervasive influence of digital screens has eroded basic communication skills, particularly among younger generations:

“People in their 30s and plus are really struggling with people 25 and lower because the 25 and youngers have had screens their whole life. They don’t have personalities.”
[10:24]

This digital dependency contributes to the antisocial demeanor observed in service staff, making meaningful interactions scarce.

B. Comparison with Traditional Service Models

Brett and Dave contrast current service experiences with establishments like Hillstone, which still uphold high service standards without relying heavily on youthful staff. They suggest that maintaining a seasoned workforce could significantly enhance customer satisfaction.

“It’s only one place that I know that is still a machine when it comes to the service. I mean, it’s just Hillstone.”
[14:13]

Segment 4: Anecdotes Highlighting Service Failures

A. Repeated Service Mistakes

The hosts share specific instances of poor service management, such as waitstaff forgetting orders and failing to follow through on requests:

“...the waiter just goes and says, 'Are you Dave Pratt? ... Don't say that. I'm Dave Pratt.'”
[16:07]

These anecdotes emphasize the frustration customers face due to inattentive or disengaged staff.

B. The Paradox of Appearance vs. Performance

While some establishments focus on aesthetic appeal, as seen in Toca Madera's visually appealing yet service-deficient environment, the hosts argue that substance should accompany style to ensure a holistic dining experience.

“It smelled like a fire in there for a little bit and a fire alarm went off and I'm like, this is going to be the most gloriously pretty stampede you've ever seen in your life.”
[15:07]

Segment 5: Solutions and Recommendations

A. Emphasizing Training and Retention

The discussion suggests that investing in thorough training and retaining experienced staff could combat the service decline. Brett mentions the exceptional service at Hillstone as a benchmark.

“There is no one at Hillstone that's under like 35. You're gonna get the best service platoon.”
[14:19]

B. Encouraging Personal Responsibility and Professionalism

The hosts advocate for a cultural shift where employees take pride in their roles, leading to enhanced customer interactions and overall service quality.

“They have personalities. They don't understand how come you need to see me to do stuff. Like, doesn’t food just show up?”
[10:44]

Conclusion

The June 4, 2025 episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness sheds light on the critical issue of declining customer service in the hospitality industry. Through a blend of personal stories, societal commentary, and pointed observations, the hosts underscore the need for a renewed focus on employee training, retention, and fostering interpersonal skills to restore the quality of service that customers rightfully expect. The episode serves as both an entertaining and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by modern service establishments.

Notable Quotes

• Dave Vesely at [02:43]:
  “...this isn’t an age thing. It is just across the board that nobody can find good help...”

• Dave Vesely at [05:33]:
  “I could make $11,000 a week selling now just her spit.”

• Dave Vesely at [10:24]:
  “People in their 30s and plus are really struggling with people 25 and lower because the 25 and youngers have had screens their whole life. They don’t have personalities.”

• Brett Vesely at [14:13]:
  “It’s only one place that I know that is still a machine when it comes to the service. I mean, it’s just Hillstone.”

• Dave Vesely at [16:07]:
  “He knows this market up and down and his message is simple and straightforward. He wants to buy your house for cash as is. No repairs or upgrades.”

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