From washing dishes at 14 to leading operations for an international brand, Nimesh Patel’s journey is the definition of grounded leadership. Now the Vice President of Operations & Culinary at Boston’s Pizza, Nimesh blends deep frontline experience with a data-forward approach to scale, adaptability, and innovation.

In this episode, he shares the lessons learned from running a successful franchise, why strong vendor relationships matter more than ever, and how AI could be a game-changer for restaurants of every size. For operators, supply chain leaders, and restaurateurs looking to blend practical know-how with strategic thinking, this episode is a must-listen.

Takeaways:

• How a hands-on career path builds credibility and decision-making strength.
• Why adapting to market conditions is essential for long-term business sustainability.
• What a data-driven approach brings to inventory management and cost control.
• Why strong vendor relationships can prevent disruptions in your supply chain.
• How AI and emerging tech are creating new opportunities for restaurant innovation.

Quote of the Show:

• “I learned the hard way on how to run supply chain, and run it lean, and also run it effectively through the hardest time I think we've had in our history when it comes to restaurant supply chain. We've learned to stop being reactive and get in front of it.” - Nimesh Patel

Connect with Nimesh:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimeshpatelsmu/
• Company website: https://www.ownabostons.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast