453: Growing step-by-step, courageously with Toa Green

In this episode with Toa Green we discuss:

• Opening a restaurant day-by-day, lesson-by-lesson. 
• Building your team. 
• Getting out, connecting with local media, and your community. 
• Paying attention to what your customers want. 
• When you're on to something lean into it and test the market slowly.
• Getting your people trained to the point where you can leave your restaurant. 
• The impact of doing a few things really well. 
• Giving up on one dream to pursue an even bigger dream. 

A graduate of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, before jumping into the culinary scene Toa Green had a background in Journalism, PR, and Marketing. It was during her time as chef and founder of Thai Orchid Cafe when she fell in love with making ice cream. In 2013 Crank and Boom Ice Cream was founded. 5 years later they've expanded the brand to two locations and 40+ Retail partners.

Show notes… Favorite Success Quote or Mantra.

"Step by step, courageously." 

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Knowledge bombs

1. Which "it factor" habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Being open minded. 
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   1. being more patient 
3. What's one question you ask or thing you look for during an interview?
   1. look for:
      • kindness and compassion.
      • people who are well rounded.
      • passion for serving. 
      • people who are fun to be around.
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Time.
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Honesty and openness.
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Go above and beyond for hospitality. 
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
   • Setting the Table : The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business
   • Creative, Inc.: The Ultimate Guide to Running a Successful Freelance Business 
8. Share an online resource or tool.
   • Slack
9. What's one piece of technology you've adopted in your restaurant and how has it influence operations?
   • Square
   • Jolt
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    1. Be yourself
    2. live freely and without fear
    3. love thy neighbor.

Contact Info

Toa@Crankandboom.com

Thanks for Listening!

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Huge thanks to Toa Green for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

 

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