What does it take to build a multi-state bar empire while staying true to your roots? Join us for a masterclass in hospitality entrepreneurship with *ravis Tober, the bartender-turned-owner behind Texas's beloved Nickel City chain, Murray's Tavern, Old Pal, and a growing portfolio of distinctive concepts.
Travis shares the hard-won wisdom from opening his first venue in 2017 to now operating over a dozen properties across Texas and beyond, all while maintaining a "neighborhood bar" ethos.
He reveals his philosophy that "we're in the entertainment business, not the bar business," explaining how he approaches hiring like casting a film and trains teams to create genuine human connection. From implementing corporate-style systems without losing soul to the strategic discipline of knowing your numbers cold, Travis offers an unvarnished look at the grind behind the glamour.
Tune in for a candid conversation on balancing profitability with accessibility, building staff longevity, and why the world needs more bars opened by actual bartenders, not just millionaire investors.
This episode produced in association with J. Rieger & Co.
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Join us every Monday as acclaimed bartender, Erick Castro, interviews some of the bar industry's top talents from around the world, including bartenders, distillers & authors. If you love cocktails & spirits then this award-winning podcast is just for you.
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