In this episode of Digital Hospitality, host Shawn Walchef sits down in Las Vegas with two industry powerhouses: Matt Plapp, CEO of America’s Best Restaurants, and veteran restaurant coach David Scott Peters. Together, they unpack why storytelling is the most powerful weapon independents have against chains and why events like Pizza Expo are vital for growth and energy. If you’re a restaurant owner searching for clarity, connection, or customers, this conversation is a must-listen.

• Compete with Restaurant Chains by Owning Your Story
  David Scott Peters, the original “restaurant coach,” stresses that independent operators must embrace storytelling to compete with chain restaurants. Sharing your “why,” your values, and your community connection can build loyalty that no ad campaign can buy.
• The Roadshow Effect
  Matt Plapp, Chief Energy Officer of America’s Best Restaurants, is helping operators get out of the shadows with the ABR Roadshow. Modeled after Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, his team has already filmed over 2,500 episodes spotlighting local restaurants on their own social media platforms.
• Why You Need to Leave Your Four Walls
  Both leaders push operators to get outside their restaurants—whether at Pizza Expo, Bar & Restaurant Expo, or other events. The networking, energy, and even two new ideas can transform a business. “You can’t stay within your four walls and only know what you know,” says Peters.

• Matt Plapp Online: https://mattplapp.com/
• Matt Plapp on Instagram: @mattplapp
• Matt Plapp on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattplapp/
• Matt Plapp on Facebook: @therealmattplapp
• Matt Plapp YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCskGP9q7UwhAwUvDFLjEU9A
• David Scott Peters YouTube Channel: @DavidScottPeters
• David Scott Peters on Instagram: @DavidScottPeters
• David Scott Peters on Facebook: @davidscottpetersbiz
• David Scott Peters Online: https://www.davidscottpeters.com/
• David Scott Peters on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/david-scott-peters/
• Pizza Expo Las Vegas: https://pizzaexpo.pizzatoday.com/

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