Behind the Review

Apr 9/2023

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  It should come as no surprise that a restaurant called Tattooed Mom is as eclectic as the name implies. Open for 27 years in Philadelphia, Tattooed Mom serves great food for everyone — omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike. Owner Robert Perry has built a community-first space by holding as many local events as he can[...]
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  Powell's City of Books is no mere bookstore; it's an institution, community, and treasure for bibliophiles. This literary haven offers new, used, and rare finds that beckon readers from every corner of the globe. Store Manager Bry Hoag helped Powell's flourish into a cultural icon with its unique blend of history, sustainability, and unwavering commitment[...]
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  Bonnie Mauldin has been hustling since she was a kid. At eight years old, she was knocking on doors offering to shovel driveways. After graduation, she entered the medical field, but quickly discovered it was not for her. Now, Bonnie owns two successful businesses, The Mauldin Group and Mauldin Production Company. Having learned a lot[...]
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  Erica Spitzley and Cassie Tucker are crazy about two things: marketing and happy hour. So when one happy hour turned into a four-hour conversation about the best and brightest marketing ideas, they knew they had to build a bigger table, so to speak. They created the Marketing Happy Hour podcast, where they have built a[...]
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  Chef Priyanka Naik took a very non-traditional route to success as a Food Network Champion. When culinary school didn’t align with her vegetarian upbringing, she didn’t let that stop her from pursuing her dreams of cooking on TV. Instead, she took a tech job to support her while working on becoming the best vegan chef[...]
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  Alessandro Farruggio and his family, owners of Il Canale in Washington D.C., are experts in the pizza business. Since Alessandro’s father immigrated from Italy in the 1970s, the family has been serving authentic Italian recipes in the D.C. area. Their delicious food, consistent customer engagement, and knack for adaptability has earned them recognition on three[...]
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  Tea and Milk owner Mathew Wong has gone to great lengths to create the best bubble tea possible, traveling as far as Japan to research and source his tea. He uses only the highest quality ingredients in all of his products, but found that they weren’t always popular with customers, who had grown used to[...]
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  It takes a village to raise a small business, as any entrepreneur will tell you. It sounds like a solo act, but the more advocates in a business’s corner, the more likely their success. This week Emily sits down with three of Yelp’s community managers to talk about their roles and what they can do[...]
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  Crystal Peterson, owner of Yo’ Mama’s, has kept service at the forefront of her strategy from day 1. Located in downtown Birmingham, the family-run comfort food restaurant targets the city’s busy visitors and workers during lunch hour with quick and friendly counter service. Reviewer Delia S. shares how her first experience in Yo’ Mama’s welcoming[...]
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  Nirvana Soul in San Jose isn’t your ordinary coffee shop. It’s loud, vivacious, and encourages community expression, whether in their regular open-mic nights or the colorful art on the walls. Sisters and co-owners Jeronica and Be’Anka created their coffee shop to serve up unique flavors like the White Rose Latte and a Hazelnut Mocha. But[...]
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  Lisa and Miguel Segura, owners of Miguel’s Artisan Recipes, always have an open seat at their table. The couple has spent the last three years finding new ways to share their jarred salsas and fresh Mexican recipes with their community. What started as pandemic deliveries to their circle of friends turned into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar[...]
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  In ep. 8 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we talk about how to get reviews without asking. An important part of managing your online reputation, especially on Yelp. From providing memorable experiences, responding to reviews publicly, and making the most of Yelp’s free features, this episode breaks down 5 things businesses can do to encourage[...]
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  Located in Humble, TX, Fall Creek Farmers Market is the perfect place to pick up produce and fresh foods while learning more about sustainable agriculture. Jonathan and Andrea, the husband-and-wife duo behind the market, integrate integrity and education about sustainable farming and the importance of food quality into everything they do. Reviewer Forest shares what[...]
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  Most people open their own business with a solid plan and a firm idea of what that business offers. Tomeka Wallace opened Happy Cafe with exactly that, but her ability to learn as she goes, pivot when needed, and “just roll with it,” as she says, led to many changes to her menu and her[...]
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  Sundae Scoop is an ice cream shop and community gathering place in Virginia Beach. Sibs and Philip Harrell opened the doors in 2021, bringing diverse flavors, and a fun environment for people to come together and try something new. Yelp Elite Aneesa P shares her first time at the business and what was so memorable[...]
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  In ep. 7 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we celebrate Black History Month and discuss identity marketing. Consumers want to connect with the businesses they support, and sharing your story and identity as the business owner is a way to create deeper connections - particularly when relevant to your business and offerings. Learn about ways[...]
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  James Beard Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson knows that the best things in life start simply, so he built his restaurant around one of life’s basic grains—rice. He then took his clean and healthy cooking to unlikely neighborhoods to make sure everyone has access to healthy and affordable food. That great tasting food plus data gathering[...]
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  Located in a strip mall in a Minnesota suburb, MT Noodles has become a local favorite. Justin and the team at MT Noodles integrate their Vietnamese heritage into everything they do, making sure that all customers can find homemade dishes that they will enjoy, regardless of whether or not they’ve tried Vietnamese dishes before. Hear[...]
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  In ep. 6 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we discuss how small businesses can utilize ChatGPT & AI as tools to help them with things like preparing their taxes, or putting together a social media content calendar. We also dig into some of the limitations of the technology and the importance of human oversight and[...]
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  The path between the entrepreneurial spark and finding that first great business opportunity was long and winding for Oakwell Beer Spa owners Jessica French and Damien Zouaoui. In fact, it was 14 months long and 25 countries winding. After trying out experiences across the globe, they settled on their business concept — a beer spa[...]
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   Ice cream is elevated to new and delicious heights at Salt & Straw Ice Cream shops, with flavors like honey lavender and peanut butter brittle caramel fudge. When the time came to expand beyond the shop’s West Coast roots, co-owner Kim Malek decided to embrace a new city — Miami — and introduce her unique[...]
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  In ep. 5 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we discuss tactical advice for small businesses on setting achievable goals for the new year. There needs to be a balance of both big-picture objectives and detailed planning. First, select a manageable number of goals, and break them into actionable steps. Regular check-ins and adjustments along the[...]
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  With hectic work hours and unique challenges, entrepreneurship can often feel like a lonely endeavor. After experiencing the struggles of solo entrepreneurship first-hand, Jill Salzman was inspired to create The Founding Moms, a community with the goal of connecting mom entrepreneurs. On this week’s episode, Jill shares her takeaways from her journey of “serial entrepreneurship”[...]
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  Located in Chandler, AZ, the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is a resort for any kind of trip—families, couples, and golfers alike can find exactly what they’re looking for during their time at the resort. Bill and the Wild Horse Pass team integrate customer service and a “can-do spirit” into everything they do. Hear[...]
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  Over the past decade, Bronco Pro Kleen Carpet Cleaners has become known as a reliable and efficient team within the Denver area. Travis and the Bronco Pro Kleen Carpet Cleaners team integrate customer service into each of their team’s actions, making customers feel like they can rely on the team for repeat services. Hear from[...]
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  Mignon Francois started her cupcake business, The Cupcake Collection, with the $5 she had left to feed her family for the week. 15 years later, The Cupcake Collection is a multi-million dollar operation, with Mignon still serving as CEO and “Director of Joy.” In this live episode, Emily brings Mignon back to the podcast to[...]
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  Boho Camper Vans co-owner David Sodemann was inspired to start his business after a trip to Maui when he realized traveling could become expensive quickly due to lodging. Fast forward to the pandemic, Boho Vans blew up when camper vans became the ideal way to travel while socially distanced. Hear how David uses communication with[...]
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  In ep. 4 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we discuss ways to connect with your customers online, and encourage them to share experiences with your business digitally! It starts by creating memorable in-person experiences, and then having your customers share that online. When they do, make sure you engage back! Also, collect contact information whenever[...]
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  When Ben and Jenny McAvoy struggled to get in touch with pest control providers in the Phoenix area, they took matters into their own hands. The couple created Insectek, a pest control business that puts communication and customer service at the forefront. And their efforts paid off — hear from reviewer Rosie P on how[...]
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  In ep. 3 of the “Biz Bites'' series, we discuss strategies for maximizing the holiday season. Like engaging with customers through social media, creating excitement around holiday offerings, and promoting your hardworking staff. We also dig into how to effectively collaborate with other businesses, participate in local events, and capture more content for promotion you[...]
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  Yelp Elite Gwyn C talks about how she evaluates businesses and how she chooses a star rating. Ranging from occasional freebies to general customer service, Gwen gives insight on how to form a great relationship with customers. She provides clarity on how she writes reviews, as well as the rationale behind each review. In this[...]
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  When Nate Bennett and Thanat Tanachon first decided to open their martial arts facility, they wanted to shatter the misconception that martial arts is a violent and aggressive sport by revolving their business around building a community based on respect. Now, Little Giant is a 5-star business on Yelp with tons of glowing reviews. Reviewer[...]
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  Our first "Biz Bites" episode explores the critical concept of translating your in-store consumer experience into a compelling online presence. Creating connections with your customers in-person is crucial, but the next step is to leverage online listings, review sites, and social media to reflect your uniqueness and attract new customers. By responding to reviews and[...]
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  Two years ago, Behind the Review featured Angela Shen and her longstanding food tour business, Savor Seattle. Since then, Angela sold Savor Seattle and started a new tour business, Savor the Wild, this time focused on novel food experiences in the wild, such as oyster shucking and mushroom foraging. Hear from Angela on what inspired[...]
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  Kei Concepts CEO Viet Nguyen takes the inspiration for his restaurant group from an unusual source — 14th century Italian banking dynasty Medici family — to build his own dynasty of eight restaurants, with more on the way, in Orange County. While the different restaurants are all separate concepts with their own menus, the consistency[...]
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  Stellar customer service is the core of every successful business. But the journey to get there is not always the easiest. How do you balance the resources, time, and methods to ensure that your employees are going above and beyond to provide customers with what they need? In this episode of Behind the Review, Jeff[...]
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  As the owner and solo employee at Trickery, a magic & comedy show in Chicago, Aaron Rabkin wears many hats — and not just ones with rabbits inside. To keep the show fresh and maintain his energy, Aaron adopts the motto “less is more,” creating intimate shows for audiences of up to 35 people. Hear[...]
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  Implementing feedback from all the reviews you receive as a business owner can be an overwhelming task but don’t make the mistake of overlooking their importance. In this episode of Behind the Review, Alok Ahuja, founder of Trexity, shares how he utilizes constructive criticism to guide the direction of his business. Even after finding success[...]
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  From reaching out after one of his clients misses a class, to providing an affordable one week trial for new clients, Ambitious Athletics makes connecting with clients their top priority. Ambitious Athletics strives to provide clients the tools they need to reach their goals, using a more personal approach for each individual. Hear from owner[...]
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  Emily chats with Spencer Horsman & Nicole Bailey, creators of an intimate magic experience that was ranked #2 in Arts & Entertainment on Yelp + Entrepreneur Media's first ever Top 150 Mom & Pop Shops list. Discover their captivating journey, engaging tricks on and off the stage, and how a personal touch creates memorable experiences.[...]
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  Wade Dickinson has been passionate about engraving since he was a young adult. He opened his business Heirloom Engravers and started taking on various clients, from large scale companies to individual projects. In this episode, Wade talks about his personal business philosophy and how he has learned to utilize online forums for communicating with his[...]
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  Sandra’s Next Generation, a soul food restaurant in New Haven, is #56 on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US in 2023. It’s not just the great food, like the famous fried chicken or rasta pasta, that makes Sandra’s a go-to place for good eating for more than 34 years. It’s the purposeful[...]
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  When customers write reviews on Yelp, they help others find great local businesses and provide business owners with valuable constructive feedback. Their words matter more than they might know. This week, Yelp’s Small Business Expert Emily Washcovick is joined by Community Manager Bailey Dixon to share how customers can write impactful reviews that help their[...]
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  This week, Yelp Small Business Expert Emily Washcovick sits down with three of the inaugural Yelp Luminary Fellows, female entrepreneurs who have built businesses from the ground up. They talk about the particular difficulties — and benefits — of owning a small business as a woman, how to listen to clients and reviewers, and how[...]
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  While building Starbright Floral Design, owner Nic Faitos has asked himself a lot of questions over the almost 30 years in business, but the biggest one to him is just two words: “Why not?” Emily sat down with Nic in New York City inside the floral studio to talk about how that simple question has[...]
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  Located in Queens, NY, Aigner Chocolates has been serving chocolate treats and sweets for 93 years. When Rachel Kellner bought the longstanding chocolate shop with her husband, she brought values from a previous career in social work, prioritizing community service on both a small and large scale. In this live episode, hear from owner Rachel[...]
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  Mexican Mom, Gina, started her restaurant from her home, canning sauces, catering to different events, and cooking for those around her. She touches people with her home cooked meals made with love and takes suggestions from her customers for new menu items. In this episode, Gina & her husband Jaime talk about the origins of[...]
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  Earth & Me owner Kayli Kunkel brought her mission of sustainability to New York City, creating the first zero-waste store in Queens. The store encourages customers to be environmentally conscious with refill stations for reusable items in sustainable containers. And partnering with eco-friendly brands. Hear Kayli and Yelp Elite reviewer Lina A. chat together about[...]
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  A powerful social media presence helped build MF Strong, a personal training business, from a one-woman operation to a network of professional trainers. But now that it has gone from virtual and on location training to a proper brick and mortar training studio, owner Miriam Fried knew she needed additional support to grow her business,[...]
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  In a pandemic, Chef Dave Dreyfus wanted to make people feel better, so he started making cookies. His friend Mo Sahoo saw an opportunity for a business and together they built Best Damn Cookies, a bakery in New York where every cookie has a unique story to tell. In this episode, Dave & Mo talk[...]
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  Social media strategy can seem daunting to small business owners, or like just another task that takes attention away from increasing revenue. In this episode of Behind the Review, Crystal Vilkaitis, owner of Crystal Media, says social media cannot be ignored by small businesses. She uses her expertise in the ever-changing landscape of social media[...]
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  There’s a coffee house on just about every corner in America now, so it can be hard to stand out among the crowds. That’s not a problem for Cream + Sugar in Cincinnati. Between the warm and welcoming atmosphere and the simple but delicious menu, owner Taren Kinebrew keeps people in her community coming back[...]
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  Around 15 miles away from Disneyland, Sunbliss Cafe echoes the bright happy energy of the theme park. With an Instagrammable interior and colorful dishes, Sunbliss has become a popular destination for smoothie bowls, coffee drinks, and avocado toast. Hear from owner Tani Ahmed how she brought her creativity to Sunbliss’s menu and fostered a sunny[...]
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  As Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine and author of Build for Tomorrow, Jason Feifer knows a lot about change. According to him, change is inevitable in any business, whether it’s a small bakery or a Fortune 500 company. How you adapt to that change is the key to turning that change into a success story. This[...]
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  Located in a strip mall in Oahu, Hawaii, Adela’s Country Eatery has grown a name for itself beyond its small takeout counter, winning the #5 spot on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat. Founded with a mission of sustainability, Adela’s integrates locally grown Hawaiian produce into its colorful noodle dishes. Hear from co-owner Millie Chan[...]
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  A sneak preview of Season Two of Behind the Review. The first episode drops on April 6!
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  Emily takes a walk down memory lane as Behind the Review celebrates 100 episodes of small business experience, talking about everything from review response to great customer service, to hiring and firing employees. It’s all in anticipation of Season Two of the podcast, launching in early April 2023. Behind the Review Ali Schwartz Meserole Sound
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  Growing up, Dogpatch Games owner Shannon Newton played board games as a way to connect with his busy family. Years later, Shannon created Dogpatch Games, a board game store, to connect members of the San Francisco community during the pandemic. In this episode, hear how Shannon used customer service and event planning to turn Dogpatch[...]
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  Small business owners know that they put their heart and soul into their businesses, but how much of their own personality should shine through? In some cases, all of who you are as a person and a business owner can make your product or service more meaningful to your customers. This week’s podcast takes a[...]
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  Reputation is important for any business, and especially so when selling through an online platform only. Since customers can’t enter your storefront and meet you in person, they rely on things like online reviews to make sure the seller is legitimate and has good quality merchandise. In this episode Emily sits down with her life[...]
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  First, build—then, expand. Most small business owners dream that their business will become successful enough for them to open another location; that dream came true for Candle Pour owners Misty and Dennis Akers. The Tampa, Florida couple kicked off their expansion plans months before the COVID-19 pandemic, which was just the first of a slew[...]
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  In this episode we hear Jason Feifer, host of Problem Solvers, share how he handled an angry customer’s email. Behind the Review host Emily digs into how responding to online reviews in a public forum is different, but the approach of engaging customers online is impactful. A recent survey commissioned by Yelp found that responding[...]
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  In this episode, Emily Washcovick, Yelp’s Small Business Expert, takes a look at the whys and hows of reviewing from the reviewer’s perspective. Some of the best advice comes not from business owners, but the customers themselves. Behind the Reviewers Ali Schwartz: https://linktr.ee/alischwar Meserole Sound: https://www.meserolesound.nyc/
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  Class-goers at Chrome Cycle Studio in California get a tough spin workout. But they keep coming back thanks to the welcoming culture. Ninette opened Chrome Cycle after years of working as a lawyer in the corporate world. Spin kept her going during a difficult time in her life, so she is passionate about providing well-run[...]
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  Boite de Fleurs in Phoenix, Arizona, is the perfect example of why small businesses are so important to communities. Business owner Tina keeps the same passion for her work and level of commitment to customer service as she did five years ago when she started the flower shop in her garage. In this episode, hear[...]
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  Chef Jason Helfer runs his family restaurant, Peasant Village, much the way his father did, and his father, and his father before him. In fact, at least one member of the Helfer family has been in the food business for hundreds of years, and those traditional family recipes anchor a unique, upscale dining experience in[...]
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  Cate Luzio spent two decades as a corporate banker—in 2018, she pivoted. With the goal of supporting women in their career journeys, Cate founded Luminary, a NYC-based professional networking space. Emily chats with Cate about her experience self-funding Luminary and how the community-centered business weathered the pandemic. Then, Luminary member and fellowship winner Gwen Beloti[...]
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  Ash Cordona never thought he’d own a donut shop, after years in trucking and transportation, but when an opportunity to buy Donutopia fell into their laps, he and his wife Sophea jumped at the chance to own a small business. They’ve turned it into one of the most popular donut shops in San Angelo, Texas.[...]
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  Technology can be a tricky thing for a small business. Used correctly, it can increase revenue and streamline operations. But bad technology can be devastating to the customer experience and a business’s bottom line. Jeremy Julian, host of the Restaurant Tech Guys podcast, says technology should always serve a purpose, be adaptable, and increase the[...]
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  Brandon Gardner has a long history in customer service, so it made perfect sense to use that expertise when he bought SoCo Taphouse in San Angelo, Texas in 2015. With a combination of knowledgeable staff, a warm and friendly atmosphere, and incredible craft beers, SoCo Taphouse has become a home away from home for regulars[...]
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  We know that digital presence is a critical part of business strategy, but how can business owners and marketing managers ensure that their plans are effective? In this episode, Emily is joined by the director of market insights at SOCi, Damian Rollison. SOCi is a data-driven platform that empowers brands to scale their presence across[...]
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  Business owner Kristin Near knows that patience is a virtue. At Botanica Skin and Brow Studio in Albuquerque, new staff members are trained throughout an internship that can last months. Brand awareness builds with incremental growth rather than large campaigns. Kristin’s successful strategy has sparked stellar customer referrals and online reviews, keeping Botanica in business[...]
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  Online reviews—positive and negative—can reveal a wealth of benefits for your small business. With the right review response strategy in place, you can capitalize on your customer feedback to make lasting, positive changes. In this episode, hear from several business owners about how they use online reviews to strengthen their business practices, boost morale, and[...]
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  For most business owners, your business is you—and you are your business. With identities intertwined in business plans and goals, setting boundaries between your work and personal life is a challenge. In this episode, Emily is joined again by Yauss and Sascha of the Texas craft bakery Skull and Cakebones, to take a deep dive[...]
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  Combining his passions for dogs and art, Josh White has created a unique dog grooming salon that keeps customers coming back. Dogue in West Hollywood does standard grooming, but also uses color to make dogs look extra snazzy. Most importantly, customers trust the experienced staff to go above and beyond, from expert grooming to teaching[...]
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  From the physical environment to interactions with employees, the Uncommon Closet experience is intentionally inclusive. Business-owner Korri has created a tailoring shop that is welcoming to all. That element has been built in since day one and the shop grew quickly within just a few years. With that growth came challenges, but the emphasis on[...]
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  Starbright Floral Design provides a high quality product and top notch customer service to all of their clients. In this episode, hear from owner Nic Faitos on how nearly 30 years into his business he’s still having fun and finding unique and creative ways to work with clients and celebrate flowers. Customer Ali joins the[...]
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  Sometimes picking just one thing and doing it well can turn around an entire business. Tres Lecheria Bakery in Seattle makes one thing, tres leches cakes, albeit in a number of varieties. After pivoting from an assortment of baked goods to just the most popular, Kevin Moulder’s business took off in some unexpected directions, and[...]
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  Owners Yauss and Sascha of Skull & Cakebones have made their bakery a haven for all kinds of people by paying attention to ingredients and being true to themselves. In addition to being vegan, their products are all delicious and nut allergy-friendly, and their staff is knowledgeable on product ingredients to help guide customers toward[...]
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  Robbins Brothers prioritizes a long-term relationship with their customers. The staff always aims to connect individuals with their dream piece by providing a welcoming environment, but the Robbins Brothers experience goes well into the future, including follow up interactions and annual cleanings. Tune in to hear Kevin’s engagement ring shopping experience and how general manager[...]
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  This week, small business expert Emily Washcovick sits down with Yelp social media manager Lara Betthauser for some frank talk about using your social media pages effectively, and how to get over the scary idea of video content by using existing resources — your employees.
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  Keith Zeiler knows a thing or two about pet nutrition, and wanted to share that knowledge with his community, so he opened Paws on Chicon, a boutique pet store that focuses on your furry friend first. Through a well-educated staff and a careful selection of products, he’s grown his business and added a second location[...]
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  Farm Ale Brewing stays true to the history of their old schoolhouse, while brewing exceptionally good beer. But they’re keeping things small and local to insure the highest quality ingredients, while supporting other local businesses in the area, and hiring employees for their potential, not necessarily their experience.
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  Have you seen the “Yelp Elite” badge on profiles on Yelp or encountered community managers in your city, but felt unsure about what their roles are in the business community? Emily sits down with Gabi and Aimee—two Yelp employees who got their start as community managers—to discuss the importance of community and explain the inner[...]
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  Nola Bliss Massage Therapy starts making its clients more comfortable before they walk in the door with user-friendly online booking. Once they’re inside, the client-forward service continues with personalized service, and a staff that reflects the diverse New Orleans neighborhood. Tune in to hear what keeps reviewer Swati coming back, and how owner Sara has[...]
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  If a picture is worth a thousand words, how valuable a video must be! The amount of online videos consumers are watching has doubled since 2018—to address this striking trend, Emily is joined by Yelp’s San Diego community manager, Anne, to chat about Anne’s success in creating video content for social media. Anne shares actionable[...]
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  A Mediterranean oasis in the middle of the Arizona desert, CALA offers its patrons seasonally-inspired dishes with a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails to accompany them. This business recently opened but has already made an impact with its quality cuisine, customer communication and exceptional service. Hear from general manager, Robert Meir, and learn[...]
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  For many entrepreneurs and business owners, it might seem impossible to balance the demands of the business with your own mental health needs and personal wellbeing. In fact, it’s often positioned as admirable and selfless to put your own needs aside in exchange for starting or running a business. It’s time to move away from[...]
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  Becoming a go-to spot isn’t luck—it takes consistency and a memorable experience. From the owners’ daily incense-burning to custom orders and spot on delivery service, Juicy Leaf does just that. In this episode, hear Felix and Felipe’s divide and conquer strategy that has made their boutique plant company a leader in the LA scene, and[...]
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  Getting your customers or clients to write reviews is no easy task. And on Yelp specifically, it’s against terms of service and content guidelines to solicit or ask for a review. So how can you naturally encourage them to share their experiences? Marketing expert Elizabeth Sexton shares how Aligned Modern Health, the multi-location holistic wellness[...]
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  Auto House goes beyond lukewarm customer service, prioritizing one-on-one bonds between buyers and sales partners to integrate themselves into the lives of the community they serve. Auto House has changed the car industry's narrative by implementing thoughtful, personalized help, whether it's loaning out a minivan to let a mom try out at practice or making[...]
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  How a business shows up online is a reflection of who they are in person. Oftentimes business owners worry more about coming across polished than being themselves. In this episode hear from Shawn Walchef on the importance of being authentic and professionally raw online. Shawn hosts a podcast in partnership with Yelp and Entrepreneur Media[...]
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  Rudy’s Bakery in Queens has been open since the 1930s. 40 years ago, Toni and her uncle bought it and kept many of the recipes alive. Now, they pride themselves on remaining non-commercial with seasonal items and an extensive list of gluten free and vegan pastries and deserts. Toni admits it hasn’t always been easy,[...]
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  Whether it’s a Yelp listing or another online review site, your reputation matters and is a reflection of the work you do in person with your customers. Having a strategy in place for responding to reviews can help you maximize that online presence, and spread the word about who you are and what you do[...]
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  At the mouth of Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf lies Paluca Trattoria, a “coastal chic” restaurant focused on keeping the history and authenticity of its location alive. Customers can watch aquatic life swim in the bay while eating delicious meals, and also observe the sense of community and camaraderie in the restaurant. Reviewer Valerie A. shares her[...]
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  Online reviews can be an important source of feedback to help improve your business. They’re a signal to what’s going well and what areas could be worked on. In this conversation with Jeff Toister, author of The Service Culture Handbook, you’ll learn how evaluating your reviews can save you time, and improve your business. Digging[...]
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  People are at the center of Norm Theard’s life, and his restaurant The Quarter Creole Cuisine is another example of that. As the youngest of six, Norm spent time helping his mom recreate recipes from generations past that he brings to life in his restaurant with innovative twists. Hear how Norm continues his family’s legacy[...]
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  Owning a small business can be an adventure, but according to Paper Route Bakery owner Aaron Seriff-Cullick, it can quickly turn into a crisis. When he made changes to the menu, many customers were disappointed to see favorites disappear, so Aaron showed them other wonderful treats he had cooked up. Aaron shares his experiences —[...]
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  Sometimes service can feel forced. At Alpenglow Sports, owner Brendan says 'if you don't love to help people you're not hired.' And that culture creates a customer forward approach to the atmosphere in the shop. Reviewer Sheena wanted to support a local business, and get some gear for a trip. The knowledge and expertise shared[...]
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  Purchasing a home is complicated, and realtor Brad Davis knows it. In fact, his career in real estate first began as a side hustle after buying his first home. Now, after years of working full time at Just Real Seattle, Brad shares his tips and tricks for navigating such a dynamic market. From maintaining organized[...]
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  Having been around since before the Great Depression, Chicago’s Music Box Theatre has seen a lot over the decades. From adding social spaces in the building to establishing seasonal events, current senior operations manager Buck LePard discusses the evolution of the historic venue, and how they’ve built such a tight-knit workplace culture. We’ll also hear[...]
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  Whether it be at weddings or quinceañeras, Tempoe Entertainment DJs in Southern California seeks to create a party atmosphere anywhere and anytime. Ryan, or DJ Tempoe, shares how teamwork, cross-training, and clear communication with clients are key to curating the perfect mood for any event. Reviewer Cassandra shares her experience with Tempoe, where the whole[...]
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  Shear Bliss Hair Salon owner Lana Kurayeva has qualifications under her belt, being a board certified colorist with over a decade of experience. Despite this, the thing that keeps her customers coming back isn’t just her knowledge of hair care, but the way she shares that knowledge and listens to their wants. In this episode,[...]
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  With friendly and attentive service, an eccentric selection of signature donuts, partnerships with other local businesses, and an expansive breakfast menu, Cranky Al’s is undoubtedly a staple of the Milwaukee area. Managed by Joey Carioti, the nephew of the original owners, Cranky Al’s has weathered the pandemic and successfully adapted to changing times. In this[...]
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  This episode takes a look at the best advice shared on Behind the Review in its first year. Business owners talk about the stressors and reality of online reviews, and consumers share what makes them want to write a review. You’ll also hear how entrepreneurs handle critical reviews, and what they consider the key to[...]
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  Closet America is all about organization, beauty and joy. It’s what they do, and how they do it, and each department works together to create a memorable customer experience. With communication at the center of their success, owner Skip shares how they stay connected over the extended process from getting a quote, to the final[...]
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  After embarking on countless memorable trips together to Greece and Turkey, Rob van den Blink and two of his friends had the idea of bringing the Aegean dining experience to their home in Miami. This resulted in DOYA, a unique meze style restaurant in the heart of Wynwood. In this episode, you’ll hear from Rob[...]
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  According to Megan and Tom Gibbings, communication is the most important component of their successful veterinary practice. They’ve found it’s what sets them apart, and when there’s been a challenge or a sticking point, it boils down to a lapse or failure in communication. Patient Courtney shares what stood out to her about West Coast[...]
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  Three years in, Bird Bird Biscuit has never stopped trying to make their biscuit just a little bit better. And this is representative of how they approach everything. From the customer experience, down to the employee experience, owner Brian Batch explains that with a core value of “this is fun for us,’ it’s important that[...]
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  What happens when two interior designers from opposite coasts merge somewhere in the middle? Adriele Graham and Elizabeth Berry, the duo behind interior design firm House Meraki, have been serving the Denver area since 2018. Over the years, they’ve established themselves as a client-driven firm and have adapted their practices to weather the pandemic. In[...]
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  Nestled in the crossroads of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, KC Wineworks is not your typical winery. Owner Lindsay Clausen takes advantage of the shop’s unique Midwestern location and multifaceted wines in order to create a welcoming, friendly wine tasting experience for customers of all experience levels. In this episode, Yelp reviewer Kristina discusses the atmosphere[...]
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  Self development and lifelong learning is Josh Campbell’s key to success. Tune in to hear former guest, and owner of multi-million dollar HVAC company - Rescue Air Heating & Cooling share what leadership means to him, and how developing that leadership in yourself and your team can help your company grow exponentially. You’ll hear first[...]
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  Customer experiences aren’t always going to be five-star, but it’s what you do with those imperfect experiences that matters. Lush Nail Bar admits that in their industry, imperfections happen. In the case of reviewer Maegen, pointing out those imperfections is what led her to become such a loyal customer. The Lush team was grateful to[...]
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  When Alissa Bayer first opened Milk + Honey in downtown Austin, TX, she set out to prove that you can take great care of your employees and still be a profitable, successful company. By focusing on employees and making sure they’re happy, they will take care of your customers. And your customers can ensure your[...]
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  Brick 3 Pizza has a lot of repeat business, and it’s not simply the fresh ingredients or the friendly faces that keeps customers coming back. It’s the consistency in both the food quality and the customer service. Reviewer Daniela shares what made Brick 3 stand out for her, and how it’s become her favorite pizza[...]
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  A quality product is important, especially when it comes to a New York bagel. But even with the best flavor, customer service is still key. In this episode, Vadim Nayman, owner of Bagel Master, shares how he believes he can solve any problem without saying no to his customers. He also shares the inside scoop[...]
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  Jeff Toister is an author, consultant and trainer who helps companies develop customer focused cultures. In this conversation he shares ways that business owners can glean insights and learnings from their online reviews, as well as best practices for responding and engaging with reviews. Discover the true impact of critical reviews on your online reputation,[...]
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  Perfect Pizza’s Tashia Robinson shares the elements—consistency, customer service, and community— that make her franchise a success. Perfect PizzaAli Schwartz Meserole Sound
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  Keene Addington shares his journey from selling his established restaurant chain to returning to his restaurateur roots by founding Tortoise Supper Club, a family-owned restaurant located in downtown Chicago. Tortoise Supper Club Ali Schwartz Meserole Sound: 
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  This week we speak to Rey Alaniz, third generation roofer and franchise owner of Eagle Eye Contracting Services, on what it takes to get repeat business from customers.
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  Aligned Modern Health takes pride in its exemplary customer service and attention to detail. To achieve this across 17+ locations, it takes the right staff and a positive employee culture. Hear from the health and wellness center’s marketing director Elizabeth, plus reviewer Atiya who shares her experience with other providers before finding her team at[...]
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  After struggling to find a gym that felt like home, partners Juan and Amanda decided to open their own strength training gym and nutrition business. With a focus on giving back to the military members and first responders in their community, they’ve built a welcoming place for their members, like our reviewer Josh. Josh shares[...]
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  Nic Faitos, Owner of Starbright Floral Design, shares his approach to critical reviews. Starbright Floral Design Ali Schwartz Meserole Sound
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  A great business idea solves a hole in the marketplace, creating something that solves a problem that no one had previously been able to solve. This doesn’t always mean coming up with a new idea, sometimes it just means identifying where an existing business could meet a need and starting there. That is what Shelly[...]
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  Uncovering why you want to start a business or what kind of business you want to start can be as easy as finding something you enjoy and not wanting that to end. And it’s the story of how co-owner James Morro started Urban Kayaks. They were dedicated to creating a great experience and learned from[...]
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  Being a true solo entrepreneur is not an easy job because, in essence, it’s all of the jobs. It’s never simple to start or run a business, but there is an added element of responsibility and often stress that comes with being the sole proprietor. Victoria Gasparro, owner of The Party Nail, shares what it[...]
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  Sometimes as a business owner you’re involved in a very pivotal moment in a consumer’s life. They are coming to you in a moment of need and have to trust that you’re going to help them through to the other side. Tim Lo, co-founder of career counseling service, Your Next Jump, finds himself in that[...]
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  Creativity and authenticity are two key factors in creating a successful business. For Matthew Wong, Co-Founder and CEO of Tea and Milk in NYC, channeling passion into creativity is a core operating principle. To create a product that could be a dime-a-dozen, but somehow rises above, is not an easy feat. This week hear from[...]
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  Business owners have enormous responsibilities and often have to navigate challenging situations. But when it comes to addiction and mental health counseling, the responsibilities go far beyond running a successful business. Dr. Church founded Wholeview Wellness because she felt there was a need not being met in the therapeutic community. Our Yelp reviewer Glori M.[...]
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  Customer expectations can be tricky sometimes and, as a business owner, they aren’t always in line with what you think they should be. Lucas Sin, owner of Nice Day Chinese in New York, has been expertly managing these challenges. Maintaining cultural integrity while meeting customer expectations is not easy - it takes work and dedication[...]
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  Some industries have higher stakes than others. As someone who deals with the pressure of such a high stakes business - in addition to all of the other elements that go into running a successful operation - Nahuel Hilal, owner of Iris Tattoo, has plenty of insights to share. We talk a lot about the[...]
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  Taking a walk in someone else’s shoes can have so many benefits. This week’s guest, owner and founder of Ritual Hot Yoga, uses that method in almost every aspect of her business. From a customer’s first interaction on the website, to the class itself, owner and founder, Lindsey Kaalberg, put extreme thought & care into[...]
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  Anticipating diverse customer needs takes thought, intention and mindfulness. It’s not something that comes without work and Alex Bradberry, owner and founder of The Sparkle Bar, is well aware of what it takes to create a truly inclusive experience for her customers. In this week’s deep dive, Alex, who we heard from in episode three,[...]
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  It’s nothing new to hear that hospitality should be a big priority for all business owners. But, for Cali BBQ, it’s all about Digital Hospitality. While that may sound like just another buzzword, it’s something that all businesses should be prioritizing. In this ‘Deep Dive’ episode, Shawn Walchef, Owner of Cali BBQ & Founder of[...]
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  This week we’re trying something a bit different and are introducing a Deep Dive episode where we’ll go deeper on one topic with one of our previous podcast guests. This week: Hiring and Firing with The Candle Pour’s Misty & Dennis Akers. They share their expertise and help business owners with how they might want[...]
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  Many people care about small businesses and philanthropic causes, but truly making a difference takes a little something more. In our final episode during Women’s History Month, I spoke with Angela Shen, owner and founder of Savor Seattle. Angela cares deeply about her local community, advocates for a number of social causes, and actively supports[...]
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  This week we talked with Amanda Scotese, owner + founder of Chicago Detours - a touring company that is always pushing the limits of what is expected to create an unforgettable - and more importantly, irreplicable - experience for their customers. That mindset enabled them to thrive during a pandemic when in-person tours are out[...]
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  When you create a business for the community, it’s the community that can make you successful-even when you open during a pandemic. Natasha Burton, founder & owner of Mixed Fillings Pie Shop in Jacksonville, FL, prides herself on her customer service and connection to the local community. It’s her “brand,” combined with the delicious, uniquely[...]
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  Building a business where people go to feel inspired and confident is much easier said than done. Replicating and franchising that concept, all while making the important things stick, is even harder. Jami Stigliano, owner and founder of dance studio franchise, DivaDance, managed to make it happen. This week’s Yelp reviewer, Emily A., shares her[...]
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  Creating a business isn’t always about the endgame of selling a product. For Clinton Jones, owner of Magnum Opus Hair Salon in D.C., it’s about creating a cultural exchange. In this week’s episode we take a look at the journey of Yelp reviewer, Diane M., who went seven months without a haircut in the pandemic,[...]
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  Some businesses are centered around a great product - others are about dependability, reliability and honesty. A great locksmith focuses on the latter. This week we talk with Jay Stofer, founder and CEO of NYC business, Lockbusters, who knows that his reputation is everything. This week’s reviewer, Charlotte B., turned to Yelp in a moment[...]
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  Having a product worth waiting in line for is something many business owners aim for - knowing that what you’re offering is worth both a consumer’s time and money. That’s what co-owners Sam Butarbutar + Wenter Shyu have achieved with Third Culture Bakery. We talk with Sam about how their commitment to quality has helped[...]
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  “The celebration is still on. Your birthday doesn’t care that it’s COVID.” In this week’s episode, we talk to Mignon Francois, owner of the Cupcake Collection about pandemic pivots but, more importantly, we hear from her on how she turned a business - started from nothing - into a two location success. Yelp reviewer and[...]
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  When it comes to selling a luxury product, it’s important to cultivate a relationship with your consumer and understand their motivations. Viviana  Langhoff, owner of Adornment & Theory, a jewelry shop in downtown Chicago, shares how she created five pillars for her and her staff to live by. Yelp reviewer, Shelby F., saw these pillars[...]
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  Being a great leader doesn’t come naturally to many - however, as a business owner you are thrown into a leadership role. Josh Campbell, owner of Rescue Air Heating & Cooling in Richardson, TX, gives his all to becoming a great leader - and it pays off. His staff follows his example & his customers[...]
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  Curating an inventory of hidden gems and quality antique pieces takes time, thought and a keen eye. On this week’s episode, we talk with Krisi Hora, owner of Baltimore boutique, Peg Leg Vintage & Yelp reviewer Hannah H., about Hidden Gems - both from a consumer and business owner perspective. Krisi, works to uncover unique,[...]
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  The pandemic has had an impact on all businesses - small, large, restaurants, fitness studios, nail salons, etc. We talked with the minds behind Cali Comfort BBQ in San Diego. Shawn Walchef, Owner, + Stover Harger, Digital Specialist have rethought everything they knew about running a sports BBQ spot + pushed their digital strategy to[...]
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  Delivering a truly unique and memorable experience is rare. It takes an exceptional amount of thought, time, business acumen, and maybe a little bit of luck. This week, hear from Misty & Dennis Akers—co-owners of The Candle Pour in Tampa, Florida—about how they brought their vision to life and made a hands-on business successful in[...]
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  Honesty may seem like an obvious pillar for business owners to follow, but it’s not always a given. This week we have our first home services business: an HVAC company in North Carolina. Temp Rite built its reputation on honesty, hard work and “word of mouth” marketing. This week’s reviewer, Sam A., a self-described “meat[...]
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  Making people feel special can be challenging. It’s a tough personal goal and an even tougher business goal. The Sparkle Bar, a makeup studio in Scottsdale, Arizona, nails it. Hear from founder & owner Alex Bradberry about how her focus on diversity & uniqueness makes her shop so memorable. Our reviewer, Kimberly Vickers-Martin, shares her[...]
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  Businesses with rooted values show intention and authenticity, and consumers appreciate that. This week, Chris Goode, founder of Ruby Jean’s—a Kansas City juicery—shares the meaning behind his business and how all of his decisions are anchored by his purpose. Our reviewer, Jes Steinberg, a KC educator, shows us how acting with intention makes all the[...]
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  Nic Faitos spent 15 years in finance before he decided to open a flower shop. Marla Frezza, full-time foodie, part-time cook, was the lucky recipient of one of Nic’s bouquets. The experience left her compelled to leave a review. We catch up with Nic and Marla to learn about why it’s all “in the details.”[...]

It’s no secret that business owners want to receive positive reviews and customers want to have a positive experience. In Behind the Review, Yelp and Entrepreneur dig a little deeper on both accounts. Hosted by Yelp’s Small Business Expert, Emily Washcovick, Behind the Review features conversations with reviewers and business owners about their experiences’whether it was one star or five stars’giving listeners behind-the-scenes insights into what was really going on. Restaurants, plumbers, florists, salon owners, fitness entrepreneurs, and more share how they create unique customer experiences that generate reviews and offer real-life lessons that business owners in any industry can apply to their own operations.