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The gap between chaotic success and sustainable excellence often comes down to one thing: intentional leadership.

In this episode, Brett Russell, Director of Operations at Golden Mill, shares how he transformed a high-volume food hall by focusing on frontline insights and a people-first culture.

In a fast-paced restaurant environment, balancing leadership with the right technology is crucial. Smart tech solutions help streamline operations, track performance, and empower teams. Looking for scalable solutions? Check out RTI’s restaurant technology resources for tools that support labor management, financial visibility, and more.

Brett’s journey proves that understanding your people first—before financials or efficiencies—creates game-changing results. By training in every position, conducting one-on-ones, and mapping the guest experience, he uncovered insights no spreadsheet could reveal.

What makes this conversation so valuable? Brett’s practical, immediately applicable strategies. He shares how small systems changes—like defining guest greeting responsibilities or revamping interviews to identify natural hospitality skills—created massive improvements. His insight: "I'd rather teach the technical side to someone who knows how to make people happy than try to teach engagement"—challenges conventional hiring wisdom in the best way.

The transformation wasn’t easy. Brett discusses a full management team turnover, offering insights on balancing giving people opportunities with making tough decisions. The results? Engaged employees, consistent growth, and a team that proudly calls their workplace 'the best in town.'

Whether you're improving an existing operation or elevating your team’s performance, this episode delivers concrete strategies for building a people-first culture. Try one of Brett's approaches today—you might be surprised by the impact.

Resources:

Brett Russell

The Golden Mill

The Hospitality Leader's Roadmap

P.S. Ready to take your restaurant to the next level? Here are 3 ways I can support you:

1. One-on-One Coaching - Work directly with me to tackle your biggest leadership challenges and scale your operations with confidence. Learn more at christinmarvin.com
2. Multi-Unit Mastery Book - Get the complete Independent Restaurant Framework that's helped countless owners build thriving multi-location brands. Grab your copy at https://www.IRFbook.com
3. Group Coaching & Leadership Workshops - Join other passionate restaurant leaders in transformative group sessions designed to elevate your entire team. Details at christinmarvin.com

Podcast Production: https://www.lconnorvoice.com/