This “Best Of 2025” episode of the WISKing It All podcast, hosted by Angelo Esposito, is a handpicked collection of the year’s most compelling conversations from across the restaurant and hospitality industry. The episode opens with Salem Najjar sharing his journey from accounting into multi-unit hospitality franchising, breaking down the key criteria he used to build his business and reflecting on the hands-on reality of successful restaurant ownership. Salem Najjar candidly dives into leadership, operational challenges, and the importance of embracing scalable systems and choosing a brand that aligns with both values and market opportunity.

The episode also features insights from industry experts like David Scott Peters, who reveals the foundational traits and practical systems behind restaurant prosperity, stressing the critical importance of leadership, accountability, and action. Yaro Tsyhanenko looks toward the future, describing how technology is seamlessly transforming restaurant operations and the customer journey through smart automation and digital-first experiences—without losing the vital human touch. Whether you’re a restaurateur or just passionate about the business, this highlight reel is packed with hard-earned wisdom, cutting-edge trends, and practical takeaways to inspire growth and innovation in 2025 and beyond.

• Salem Najjar learned that successful franchising requires hands-on involvement, not just passive investment.

• Salem Najjar prioritized strong leadership and a clear vision when choosing franchise brands.

• Profitability and smart financial management are essential for long-term success in hospitality.

• Labor market challenges require brands to stand out to attract and retain employees.

• Personal connection and pride in your business play a big role in franchise selection.

• Price increases in restaurants are both an art and a science, affected by rising costs and community needs.

• David Scott Peters found that passion for hospitality and persistence are key traits of successful restaurant owners.

• Leadership, systems, continuous learning, accountability, and taking action make restaurant operators prosperous.

• Accountability should be reframed as “answerability” to drive results in management.

• Chefs and managers must adapt from traditional methods to modern staff needs and management systems.

• Hospitality employees need proper training, structure, and fair treatment to stay engaged.

• Digital transformation is rapidly shaping the future of quick-serve restaurants.

• Yaro Tsyhanenko is building tech to improve labor efficiency, order accuracy, and customer journeys.

• Automating tasks can save managers time and enhance human hospitality.

• Seamless integration of digital and physical experiences is vital for modern restaurant operations.

• Personalized customer and driver experiences increase satisfaction and efficiency.

00:00 From Accounting to Franchise Success

04:55 Building A Standout Business Brand

09:24 Accountability Drives Success

10:10 Clear Expectations, Total Accountability

15:01 "Seamlessly Connecting Physical and Digital"

17:02 "Boosting Efficiency and Experience"

21:49 "Seamless Physical-Digital Customer Journey"

23:13 "Learn More About WISK"

In this episode, Angelo Esposito interviews David LaFleur, Senior Vice President at Cluster POS, discussing his journey in the hospitality and technology sectors. They explore the evolution of POS systems, the importance of choosing the right technology for restaurants, and common pitfalls to avoid.

David shares insights on the future of POS technology, emphasizing the need for user-friendly systems that empower restaurant owners while integrating modern solutions like AI.

The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of the restaurant industry and the critical role technology plays in its success.

• Cluster POS has evolved significantly in the last two years.

• David LaFleur's journey in hospitality began with IT support for restaurants.

• Choosing the right POS requires understanding your specific needs.

• Price shouldn't be the only factor when selecting a POS system.

• References should come from similar business models for relevance.

• AI is set to enhance efficiency in the restaurant industry.

• The restaurant industry has seen rapid technological changes in the last decade.

• Cluster POS aims to simplify onboarding and user experience.

• Future POS systems will integrate more features with less reliance on third-party solutions.

• Cash flow management is crucial for restaurant success.

00:00 Starting Out in IT Career

07:04 Career Journey in POS Industry

09:32 POS Tips for Restaurant Owners

11:12 "POS Basics: Focus on Essentials"

14:57 "Prioritizing Honest Client Alignment"

17:50 "Price vs Cost in Tech"

22:17 "Insights on Cluster's Role"

24:18 "Tech-Savvy Generation Fuels Innovation"

28:30 "Decade of Industry Transformation"

31:41 "Instant Funding Revolution for Restaurants"

34:53 "WISKing with Cluster POS"

In this episode, Angelo Esposito interviews Elvis Medina, the Media Director at SmartTab, who shares his extensive background in broadcast media and his transition into the hospitality industry.

Elvis discusses the unique offerings of SmartTab, a POS system designed for high-volume venues, emphasizing the importance of customer support and tailored solutions for clients.

The conversation also covers tips for restaurant owners on choosing the right POS system and the innovative features that set SmartTab apart in the market.

• Elvis Medina has a rich background in broadcast media spanning 35 years.

• SmartTab is designed specifically for high-volume venues, ensuring speed and efficiency.

• Customer support is a key differentiator for SmartTab, with 24/7 availability.

• SmartTab conducts site surveys to customize POS solutions for each venue.

• The new handheld device powered by iPhone 16 enhances service speed.

• SmartTab offers in-person staff training, which is rare in the industry.

• Elvis emphasizes the importance of a tailored POS system for generating revenue.

• The SmartTab app allows for seamless ticketing and ordering processes.

• Elvis encourages restaurant owners to prioritize customer support when choosing a POS.

• Demos for SmartTab are free, allowing venues to experience the system firsthand.

00:00 "Hands-On Success, Done Differently"

05:30 "Rise and Fall of Radio"

08:33 Nationwide IT Partner Network Launch

10:47 Choosing the Right POS System

14:37 "Hands-On Service, Hospitality Focus"

17:13 Seamless Ticketing and Dining Integration

21:17 From Hospitality to POS Expertise

23:18 "SmartTab: Fast POS for Venues"

27:23 "SmartTab POS Solution Overview"

29:48 "Instant Impact Through Demos"