Unlock the secrets to a profitable bar with this week's deep-dive into the misunderstood world of Profit and Loss statements. I'm Chris Schneider, your guide through the maze of bar bookkeeping, and together we'll clarify the complexities of P&L that so often trip up bar owners. This is not just theory; it’s practical, actionable knowledge that will equip you with the financial acumen to lead your bar to success. Ever wondered how to categorize costs or revenue like a pro? This episode serve...
Mar 27, 2024•48 min•Season 2Ep. 54
Prepare to unlock the secrets of bar business success with industry virtuoso Jason Littrell as we tap into the gritty realities and marketing mastery that define today's bar scene. Jason dissects the challenges and opportunities that can make or break your establishment. This conversation isn't just about keeping your head above water; it's about thriving in a competitive market where every detail counts—from the accuracy of your online information to the allure of your marketing strategy. Jason...
Mar 20, 2024•53 min•Season 2Ep. 53
Ever wondered why your restaurant's masterpiece dishes aren't flying out of the kitchen as expected? It might all boil down to those sneaky menu design flaws that are inadvertently guiding your patrons' choices. In our latest episode, we're peeling back the layers on the five cardinal sins of menu design, laying bare the critical errors that could be siphoning off your profits. We promise you'll come away equipped with the know-how to craft a menu that not only dazzles the taste buds but also ca...
Mar 13, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 52
Ready to shake up the bar scene with some expert guidance on goal-setting? Let's raise the bar on your business's performance with the SMART goal framework – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This episode isn't just a lesson in terminology; it's a crafted cocktail of strategies that can lead to a staggering increase in profitability. We zero in on the importance of clear and strategic objectives, demonstrating the difference between aimlessly mixing drinks and concoctin...
Feb 28, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 51
Raise your glasses high—our 50th edition of the Bar Business Podcast is here, and it's a milestone worth celebrating! With heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support, I'm dishing out a masterclass on snapping professional-quality photos and videos with just the smartphone in your pocket. Imagine transforming your bar's online allure with captivating visuals that beckon potential patrons to your doorstep. This episode is your VIP pass to marketing success, as I reveal how to harness the p...
Feb 21, 2024•39 min•Season 2Ep. 50
From behind the bar, I've seen it all – the good, the bad, and the downright hypocritical. But what if I told you that the real secret to a successful bar goes beyond just the drinks and decor? This episode peels back the layers of the bar industry, revealing how a genuine mindset from leadership sets the tone for an establishment's culture and performance. As we navigate the evolution of the hospitality sector and the emergence of a new generation of employees, I emphasize the importance of aut...
Feb 14, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 49
Ever wondered what truly draws a crowd to their local watering hole? It's not just the promise of a cold beer or a fancy cocktail. Today's episode serves up a refreshing take on the allure of bars, tapping into the human need for community, belonging, and yes, sometimes an antidote to loneliness. We're not just quenching thirsts; we're fostering connections, and I'm here to reveal how understanding these profound motivations can revolutionize your bar's marketing tactics. By sculpting guest avat...
Feb 07, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 48
Unlock the secret formula to a cocktail list that not only captivates your patrons but also boosts your bar's profile! We go behind the scenes of the mixology world, revealing the art and science of curating a cocktail menu that resonates with your bar's unique ambiance and delights your clientele. From the perfect number of concoctions to feature, to the essential variety your selection must encompass, this episode serves up invaluable insights for any bar owner seeking to stir up success. Stra...
Jan 31, 2024•34 min•Season 2Ep. 47
Ever been bitten by a bad review? You're not alone. But, review sites are much more than an annoyance that we can ignore. In this episode, we dive into the world of online review sites and how to use them for reputation management. Including the vital role these sites play in bringing new patrons through our doors and the undeniable sway they hold over our establishments' reputations. We tap into some serious data kegs, including studies from Harvard and Berkeley, that show a star's difference c...
Jan 24, 2024•40 min•Season 2Ep. 46
Unlock the secret to a bustling bar and higher profits with our latest Bar Business Podcast episode, guiding you through the game-changing strategy of food-based happy hour specials. Imagine your patrons lingering for just one more drink, enticed by irresistible food discounts that perfectly complement your beverages. We'll dissect the numbers behind why offering mouth-watering deals on appetizers and snacks isn't just good for your customers' appetites—it's smart business. From navigating diffe...
Jan 17, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 45
Unlock the secrets to a successful bar purchase with our essential guide to seven bar purchase considerations on the Bar Business Podcast. This week, we're spilling the beans on everything from navigating the murky waters of stock sales versus asset sales, to dissecting the real fiscal health behind those too-good-to-be-true financial statements. If you've ever daydreamed about owning your own bar or are knee-deep in the process, this episode is your roadmap to sidestepping the common pitfalls a...
Jan 10, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 44
Ever wondered how to ensure your bar isn't just surviving, but actually thriving? Strap in for a masterclass as we unravel the secrets to menu pricing that marry competitiveness with profitability. We kick things off with a step-by-step breakdown of how to adjust your prices in response to supplier cost hikes—a timely move as we usher in the new year. Discover the formula for setting margins that keep your business booming, all while navigating the complexities of ingredient costs through practi...
Jan 03, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 43
Are you ready to glimpse the future? Tune in for an enlightening conversation about the upcoming 2024 bar industry trends. We're talking martini resurgence, the potential rum comeback, and the need for innovative ingredients. It's clear that flexibility and a focus on local communities will be key for bars in the post-COVID era. And, for those who appreciate a good drink, but not necessarily the buzz, we're discussing the rise of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, sober months, and the eme...
Dec 13, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 42
Ever wondered what separates a profitable bar business from the rest? Let's crack the code together! Join me, Chris Schneider, as we delve into the intriguing world of bars, spotlighting the vital yet often overlooked details that can skyrocket your business to new heights. From the significance of maintaining your physical and mental health to creating a seamless customer experience, we'll lay bare the essentials that make the best bars stand apart from the rest. We'll also break down how your ...
Dec 06, 2023•31 min•Season 1Ep. 41
Greetings Bar owners! As we head towards 2024, we've got your back on how you can set up your business to hit the ground running in the new year. This episode is chock-full of practical steps you need to take, and the strategies you need to implement. Buckle up as we talk about bookkeeping, managing your team, marketing your business, your physical facility, and setting big goals. We've got a treasure trove of insights on how you can leverage these key areas. We turn our lens to inventory, prici...
Nov 22, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 40
Wondering how to transform your bar business using social media? Unsure of which platforms to focus on or how to create engaging content? We've got you covered in this episode. We're taking a deep look at how you can leverage social media to not only strengthen your relationship with your existing customers, but to catch the eye of new ones. From choosing the right platforms to creating a unique hashtag, we're sharing all the secrets to successful social media bar management. But we're not stopp...
Nov 15, 2023•36 min•Season 1Ep. 39
Are you ready to revolutionize your bar business? We can promise you this: our latest episode will show you exactly how to build a robust leadership pipeline, even if you run a small bar with just a few bartenders. We discuss the utmost importance of a great manager — the backbone of any successful establishment and share secrets to creating a culture that will not just attract but also retain the best talent. Using the kitchen brigade system as a guide, we show you how to design a clear chain o...
Nov 08, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 38
Running a bar is no easy task, especially when you're introducing pivotal changes in procedures and policies. There's always the looming question: how do you ensure your team is well-informed and comfortable with these changes? Join us as we explore the landscape of change management in the bar business, diving into everything from effective communication techniques to the importance of creating resources that cement new practices. Running a bar isn't just about managing the literal bar; it's al...
Nov 02, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 37
Ready to decode the enigma of sales forecasting for your bar business? Strap in for an in-depth exploration as we, delve into the complex task of sales forecasting, whether you're running an established business, buying an existing bar, or starting a new venture. It’s no easy task, but we’re here to guide you through it, underlining the importance of this crucial tool in managing labor and orders, and steering your bar business to success. We'll dissect the key elements of forecasting sales - fr...
Oct 25, 2023•39 min•Season 1Ep. 36
Have you ever wondered why your bar's food and beverage costs are spiraling out of control? Brace yourself for an enlightening episode of the Bar Business Podcast, where we dissect Robert Petrie's list of 40 Thieves of Food Cost. Originally developed in 1972, this list remains a crucial tool in understanding the pitfalls of food and beverage service. We thoroughly examine areas that could be bleeding your profits dry - purchasing, receiving, storage, preparation, production, service, and sales. ...
Oct 18, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 35
Imagine a remarkable transformation for your bar business in a single episode! In this week's installment of the Bar Business Podcast, we unveil an exciting toolbox to help you achieve just that. Dive headfirst into the art of problem-solving for businesses, where we unravel the crucial elements of our framework: mindset, concept, and culture. Learn how to harness the incredible potential of continuous improvement to elevate your bar from good to extraordinary. We will guide you through an actio...
Oct 11, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 34
Uncork the potential of wine in your bar business! No matter the establishment - a neighborhood pub or a high-end lounge - wine can draw in a wide array of customers and open up an additional revenue stream. In this episode, we go into the nitty-gritty of incorporating wine into your bar - the do's, the don'ts, and everything in between. From offering a variety of wines to meet diverse customer preferences to how to pick house wines, we cover it all. Venture with us as we break down how a progre...
Oct 04, 2023•30 min•Season 1Ep. 33
Are you up for the challenge of hiring the perfect bar manager? We're here to guide you through this critical process that could make or break your bar business. We tackle everything from the fears and trust issues surrounding the decision to hire, to the practical considerations of whether to promote from within, hire externally, or even hire a friend. And it's not just about hiring - we've got you covered on how to effectively train and transition your new manager into their role, building the...
Sep 27, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 32
Ever wondered how you can attract and retain the best talents in the bar industry without breaking the bank? Well, you've come to the right place. In this compelling episode, we embark on a deep dive into employee benefits; discussing the cost-effective ways they can impact work culture and consequently, your bottom line. We break down benefits into three categories - those that everyone can do, those that require a little more investment, and the 'in a perfect world' benefits. Imagine being abl...
Sep 20, 2023•34 min•Season 1Ep. 31
Strap in as we unravel the art of designing your bar for success, blurring the line between functionality and style. We promise you a deep dive into the world of bar design, equipping you with the knowledge you need to create a more efficient, durable, and appealing bar space. Our journey begins with the exploration of various bar shapes and seating arrangements, where we discuss the importance of optimizing space and reducing your bartender's steps to expedite service. We also shed light on whe...
Sep 13, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 30
Ever wondered how to jazz up your bar's business for that much-needed boost? Join us in this power-packed conversation, as we navigate the exciting world of weekly bar events. We talk shop about everything from karaoke and trivia nights to poker showdowns and food-focused specials – illuminating their benefits, possible pitfalls, and how to weave them into your bar's unique fabric. Rest assured, by the end of this dialogue, you'll have discovered the art of enhancing your revenue by balancing th...
Aug 30, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 29
Ready to master the art of cocktail costing and pricing? Tune into this episode where we walk through the ins and outs of every element that goes into crafting and pricing a lucrative cocktail. This isn't just about the cost of the liquor, we're talking mixers, soda, and even that quarter of a lime. I promise, by the end of this session, you'll be able to maintain that golden 20% liquor cost, while ensuring your bar stays profitable! In this engaging discourse, we'll delve into the complexities ...
Aug 23, 2023•29 min•Season 1Ep. 28
Ever questioned the significance of a well-designed and maintained restroom in your bar business? Prepare to have all misconceptions shattered as we explore the unexpected impacts a bathroom can have on your guest experience. We'll debunk common bathroom design missteps. Not only this, but we'll also provide compelling reasons to avoid certain popular choices like wall hung sinks. Let's uncover the secret world of bathroom equipment and their maintenance. We'll discuss everything from toilets to...
Aug 16, 2023•31 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Imagine shaving your working hours at the bar without sacrificing success. Sounds like a dream, right? Not anymore! In our latest episode, we've got you covered on how to master your time, manage your bar effectively, and handle crises like a pro. We dedicate a good chunk of our discussion to time management, revealing strategies you can implement to get more done in less time. We delve into how you can improve your bar's management systems, and create a balance between your work and personal li...
Aug 09, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Ever wondered how to maximize your bar's revenue without losing focus on what truly matters - your customers? We're about to let you in on some secrets. This episode is packed with insights from my recent dining experiences. Get ready to absorb vital lessons on aligning every aspect of your bar, from atmosphere to cocktail selection, with your chosen concept. We're not just about the atmosphere, though. Buckle up as we navigate through nitty-gritty cash flow strategies like adding an ATM or usin...
Aug 02, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 25
