0:02 - 0:09 Introduction

• Host Steve Van Diest introduces the Sharpen Podcast by Acumen, a peer advisory growth community.
• The episode focuses on growth in business, particularly in the fast-casual food industry, while maintaining quality.

0:40 - 1:19 Guest Introduction

• Nick Usher, President of GQue BBQ, shares his background.
• Over 20 years in the restaurant industry, starting with Chick-fil-A.
• Joined GQue BBQ in 2016, shortly after its founding.

2:06 - 3:56 Growth Strategy and Maintaining Quality

• GQue BBQ has grown carefully, ensuring quality before expansion.
• Started in Westminster (2015), took three years to open a second location.
• COVID-19 slowed growth but reinforced the need for a strong foundation before scaling.

4:20 - 5:51 Scaling the Business

• Current employee count: 100-115.
• Expected growth to 200 employees by year-end with new locations and stadium expansions.
• Focus on culture and consistency amid growth.

5:22 - 6:42 Hiring Strategy: "Hiring from the Heart"

• Looks for attitude and coachability over experience.
• Prefers training newcomers over hiring those who "already know everything."
• Emphasis on core values and ongoing company culture evolution.

8:15 - 9:57 Managing Growth Without Losing Control

• Invests in leadership roles ahead of need to prevent reactive scrambling.
• Has three director-level positions even before hitting five locations.
• Growth strategy focuses on being proactive, not reactive.

10:07 - 12:37 Leadership and Team Accountability

• Trusts leadership teams but applies a "trust and verify" model.
• Managers are empowered to make decisions but held accountable.
• Emphasizes employee ownership and responsibility in maintaining company values.

14:45 - 17:37 Crisis Management: "Break in Case of Emergency"

• COVID-19 was a major challenge; restaurants had to pivot quickly.
• Prepares for weather issues, supply chain disruptions, and other external threats.
• Uses SWOT analysis to anticipate and plan for risks.

17:58 - 19:27 Personal Development and Leadership Growth

• Committed to self-improvement and continuous learning.
• Developing a financial literacy program for employees.
• Currently reading Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg.

20:29 - 22:21 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

• Key leadership principles:
  1. Hire from the heart
  2. Empowerment and accountability
  3. Trust but verify
  4. Be nimble and plan ahead
  5. Have an emergency plan for unexpected challenges

22:21 - 22:56 Closing and Acumen Community Plug

• Encourages business leaders to join Acumen's peer advisory groups in Colorado, Arizona, and Kansas City.