Franchise Frontiers & Digital Transformation with Mike Axiotis

Rob Grimes August 26, 2025

Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of restaurant innovation with Mike Axiotis, the visionary President and CEO of Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group! This episode goes beyond traditional business conversations, offering a deep dive into the transformative world where hospitality meets cutting-edge technology.

Mike’s remarkable story begins with his roots as a young restaurant worker, learning invaluable lessons about hospitality from his uncle. Now leading a multi-brand restaurant organization, he shares profound insights into how technology can revolutionize the dining industry without losing its human touch. From AI-powered hiring systems to smart inventory management, Mike explores how innovative tools can free up time for what truly matters: creating exceptional customer experiences.

The conversation tackles critical industry challenges, including workforce development in an era of generational shifts. Mike passionately discusses how technology can be a powerful ally, not a replacement for human talent. He emphasizes the importance of engaging employees, listening to their ideas, and investing in tools that make their jobs more efficient and enjoyable.

Listeners will be fascinated by Mike’s perspective on emerging trends: smaller, eco-friendly restaurant footprints, the potential revival of automat-style dining, and the critical role of inclusivity in restaurant technology. His approach is refreshingly balanced—always keeping hospitality at the core of technological innovation.

Personal anecdotes add depth to the discussion, from Mike’s early entrepreneurial experiences to his current exploration of smart home technologies. He candidly shares how he uses tools like ChatGPT as a productivity partner, demonstrating a forward-thinking yet grounded approach to technological adoption.

This podcast is more than just a business conversation—it’s a roadmap for anyone interested in the future of dining, technology, and customer service. Join Mike Axiotis as he serves up a compelling vision of how technology, hospitality, and human connection can create extraordinary dining experiences in the 21st century!

Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | iHeartRadio