Where do I start with this one? Andrew Rincon is owner of CraigO's in Lakeway, currently one of the four independently owned locations in the Austin area. I was told of his heart and solid character and that we had to have him on the show! Our discussion reiterated what others had told me - heart of gold, this one. We discussed so much that is so valuable for fellow business owners to hear - Andrew is incredibly transparent.

Not sure if you've seen the news (or experienced it first-hand), but Texas was hit with historic snowfall, ice, and sub-zero temperatures in mid February. For a state that essentially never sees such weather, most were ill-prepared. Hundreds of thousands were without power, others were without water - some were without both…for DAYS. We discuss how Andrew, his team, and friends stepped up to serve the community during this time.

Discussion Highlights:

The Start

• Started in the restaurant business in 2006 at CraigO's
• Made the move to owning an insurance agency
• School, west Texas
• The restaurant business kept calling!

The Shift

• He answered the call!
• Bought the CraigO's Lakeway location in 2018
• Over three years grew the business exponentially (we're talking consistent double-digit growth year over year)
• Successfully navigated a global pandemic and a snowstorm that shut down the city

The Strategy

• Implemented out-of-the-box ideas to thrive in the face of COVID-19 restrictions
• Shifted a business model mid-pandemic
• Discovered the foundation required to thrive in the midst of catastrophic challenges
• Adopted new tools such as Popmenu

The Action

• Steps to streamline a franchise for increased efficiency and productivity
• Implemented best operational practices for a growing brand and business
• The tweak to their marketing strategy that changed everything
• The power of the email list

The Mindset

• Really unplug when not at work. And take off your Apple Watch!
• Take time to recharge
• Cook for loved ones
• Meet-up with local business owners

The Wrap-Up

If you could listen to one music artist for the rest of your life, who would it be? Turnpike Troubadours

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