Calen McNeil on Crew Culture, Chaos & Creating Restaurants People Love

In this episode, Shawn Soole sits down with chef-entrepreneur and hospitality operator Calen McNeil, founder of Zambris and Big Wheel Burger. Calen breaks down how he’s built loyal teams and passionate communities around two distinctly local brands — one rooted in elevated comfort and community dining (Zambris), and the other in iconic burgers with personality (Big Wheel Burger). This conversation bridges operational strategy, culture building, and creative hospitality that resonates beyond the plate.

🧠 What You’ll Learn

• Calen’s journey from first shifts to building two beloved hospitality brands focused on people first.

• The culture and DNA behind Zambris — how atmosphere, approachability, and intentional design create memorable guest experiences.

• Why Big Wheel Burger works as both local favourite and community hub — blending great food with genuine hospitality.

• How team culture, leadership style, and communication drive employee retention and guest loyalty.

• Live Q&A: managing growth, balancing creativity with consistency, and keeping hospitality human at scale.

⏱ Timestamp Highlights (Approximate)

• 00:02:30 – Calen’s early hospitality roots and the vision behind his brands

• 00:14:00 – Building culture at Zambris: craft, community, and experience

• 00:28:15 – The story of Big Wheel Burger: personality, consistency, and local love

• 00:42:00 – Live Q&A: scaling teams, operational clarity, and creative growth

• 00:56:45+ – What’s next: new ideas, community engagement, and future plans

🎯 Who It’s For

Restaurant owners, operators, chefs, beverage directors, and hospitality leaders who care about building brands rooted in culture, connection, and community — not just menus and margins.

✅ If You Loved This Episode

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