Jorge goes back to where it all started, adds in some new thoughts he hasn’t shared before, and dives into one of our favorite topics: the real difference between managers and leaders. It’s a bonus mashup episode with a little bit of everything and a special guest.

In business, growth doesn’t always climb in a straight line. After years of breaking our own records, we’re facing a softer sales season and with it, tough decisions. In this episode, we talk candidly about what it means to lead through a slowdown: how we’re protecting our team by treating labor cuts as a last resort, where we’re tightening up expenses without sacrificing our standards, and how we stay committed to resilience and prioritizing people. It’s about navigating the dip with clarity, strength, and intentional leadership.

In this episode, we dive into the key differences between managing and leading in the restaurant industry. While both roles are essential, we emphasize how leadership and management are not the same—and why understanding that distinction matters. We share personal experiences and examples that highlight how great leadership can elevate team culture, drive performance, and create long-term impact. Whether you're new to the game or running the show, this episode is a must for anyone looking to grow in the industry.

In our very first episode, we kick things off by introducing Jorge — his journey, background, and what led him to where he is today. It’s a casual, behind-the-scenes conversation as we explore how this podcast came to be, brainstorm potential names, and reflect on the experiences that shaped us. No heavy topics here — just a laid-back intro to who we are and what you can expect from The Next Shift.