Podcast
Barbecue Catering Smarts
Hosted by CaterZen · EN
Barbecue Catering Smarts is your go-to podcast for mastering the business of BBQ catering. Hosted by Michael Attias—founder of CaterZen Catering Software and longtime catering strategist—this show dives deep into the systems, stories, and smarts behind the most successful BBQ catering operations in the country.
Each episode features conversations with pitmasters, smokehouse owners, and catering pros who share their proven tactics for scaling revenue, streamlining operations, building loyal fans, and turning smoky deliciousness into serious profit.
Whether you run a food truck, a full-service BBQ restaurant, or a booming catering department, you'll walk away with actionable ideas to elevate your BBQ catering game.
Tune in to Barbecue Catering Smarts—where smoke, strategy, and success come together.
23episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 20: Collaboration Over Competition — Inside the CaterLinked Movement with Terry Matthews
Oct 800:42:41Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, Michael Attias welcomes Terry Matthews, Co-Founder of CaterLinked, a fast-growing community built to connect, educate, and empower catering professionals. Terry shares how CaterLinked was born out of one big idea: that caterers don't have to compete alone—they can grow stronger together. Through online groups, in-person meetups, and the newly launched CaterLinked Academy, Terry and his team are creating a space where operators can collaborate, share best practices, and accelerate their success. Michael and Terry talk about the power of curiosity, connection, and community, and why open sharing—not secrecy—is the real key to innovation. They also dive into how education, culture, and technology all intersect to help restaurants turn catering into a scalable, profitable business. Whether you're a small operator looking for support or a multi-unit brand ready to grow, this episode will inspire you to rethink competition and embrace collaboration as your new business advantage. Restaurant Catering Smarts is sponsored by CaterZen Catering Software — trusted by restaurants nationwide to simplify catering operations, save time, and increase sales.
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Episode 2: Marketing Masterclass with Julie Wade, Taziki’s Head of Marketing
Jan 22, 202500:42:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, Michael Attias welcomes Julie Wade, Head of Marketing at Taziki’s Mediterranean Café. With over 15 years of experience in brand strategy and marketing, Julie shares insights on creating authentic customer experiences, leveraging technology like AI for personalization, and the importance of integrating catering into broader marketing plans. Julie discusses how Taziki’s combines fresh ingredients with the spirit of hospitality to stand out in the competitive restaurant industry. She also highlights her strategies for building loyalty programs, implementing AI in call centers, and using data-driven campaigns to boost catering sales. Packed with actionable advice and inspiration, this conversation is a must-listen for restauranteurs ready to elevate their marketing game. Learn from Julie’s career journey, creative campaigns, and her passion for storytelling in this exciting episode.
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Episode 1: Secrets to Scaling Catering Success with Jill Hammett, CaterZen’s COO
Jan 8, 202500:50:57Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, host Michael Attias interviews Jill Hammett, the new COO of CaterZen Catering Software. Jill shares her unique journey into the catering industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships, reputation, and technology in building a successful catering business. She discusses the challenges and strategies involved in catering growth, the role of personality in customer interactions, and the impact of CRM systems on sales. Jill also addresses common mistakes operators make and highlights future trends in catering technology, including the potential of AI. In this conversation, Michael Attias and Jill Hammett discuss the intricacies of the catering industry, emphasizing the importance of hiring experienced staff, the value of customer feedback, and the significance of leadership beyond titles. They explore the challenges and opportunities that come with career changes, particularly in the tech sector, and highlight the necessity of building strong relationships with clients to foster long-term success. The discussion also touches on the role of mentorship and the need for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving industry.
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