Transforming QSR Industry Leadership with Jolene Clayton of Whataburger

In this episode of the Shifting People Podcast, co-hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough dive deep with Jolene Clayton, Operating Partner at Whataburger, to discuss effective people management and leadership in the QSR industry. Jolene reflects on her 17-year journey in food service, transitioning from casual dining to quick service, and the unique perspectives she brought along. Key topics include fostering employee morale, one-on-one coaching, the importance of recognizing team members, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Jolene also shares insights into her new leadership blog, 'People Over Patties,' aimed at revolutionizing leadership in the food industry.

Visit and subscribe to Jolene's blog, People Over Patties, here: https://www.peopleoverpatties.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Jolene Clayton: A Journey in Food Service

02:07 Transitioning from Full Service to Quick Service

03:37 The Whataburger Experience

10:14 Investing in Team Members

16:56 Creating a Positive Work Environment

24:56 Adapting Coaching with Compassion

25:28 The Shift in Job Priorities

26:17 Generational Changes in Job Seeking

26:53 The Role of Technology in Hiring

29:34 The Importance of Leadership Development

30:27 Finding and Developing the Right Managers

33:31 Launching a Leadership Blog

35:27 The Transferability of Leadership Skills

37:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections