In this session, Spencer Michiel stepped up to present Back of House, a restaurant technology consultancy and marketplace that helps operators cut through the chaos of endless software options. A former steakhouse manager who learned firsthand how clunky tech can cripple efficiency, Spencer shared how Back of House flips that frustration into clarity. Acting as a “CIO on retainer” for independent operators and multi-unit groups, his team guides restaurants through POS upgrades, integrations, and cost-saving solutions, all while giving access to exclusive vendor deals and unbiased recommendations. Spencer’s pitch showed how Back of House does not just drop more tools into the mix, it simplifies the journey. Whether it is connecting a new point-of-sale, finding the right scheduling software, or mapping an entire tech stack, Back of House positions itself as the guide, not the hero, making sure operators save time, money, and headaches.

Interview Takeaways:

• Restaurant Tech Needs a Guide, Not Just More Tools: Back of House acts like a CIO on retainer, helping operators cut through the noise of endless software options and make confident, cost-effective decisions.


• The Point of Sale Is the Foundation: Spencer emphasized that every other piece of restaurant technology connects back to the POS, making it the most important investment to get right before adopting additional systems.


• Time and Cost Are the Biggest Barriers: Restaurateurs want new solutions, but limited bandwidth and tight budgets hold many back. Back of House helps remove those barriers by offering clarity, vendor discounts, and unbiased support.

Episode Links:

• Spencer Michiel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-michiel-b9764241/


• Back Of House On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-back-of-house/


• Back Of House Online: https://backofhouse.io/


• Cali BBQ Media: https://content.calibbq.media/


• Join Our Next Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/


• Shawn Walchef on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpwalchef/

About Our Sponsors
DAVO:

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Marqii:

Digital Hospitality doesn't have to be complicated and our partners at Marqii live that every day. Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences from first search to latest visit with their one-stop digital operations platform built for hospitality operators.

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