SHOW NOTES

Retail and hospitality associates want more than just more money. Employee satisfaction surveys reveal another common refrain: Feeling stagnant in their role.

With so many frontline workers in a haze about their career trajectory, how can directors and managers help steer them towards clarity and growth?

Ron Thurston sits down with Samantha Rubino, Director of Training & Communications at Pollo Tropical, to discuss how retail and hospitality leaders can remove the stigma of stagnancy in frontline work — and instead foster a culture of proud career paths.

They dig into:

• Debunking the misconceptions about today’s frontline careers
• How to take the pulse of the folks in your frontline to better support their needs and aspirations
• Tactics for building frontline career paths

Whether you’re a seasoned frontline leader or an aspiring manager, this episode promises valuable insights into driving the future of modern frontline careers in your organization.

GUEST BIO

Samantha Rubino, Director of Training & Communications, Pollo Tropical

Sam is a dedicated training and development professional with an unwavering passion for service and empowering others. Her mission: Helping individuals unearth their full potential and grow into the best versions of themselves.

Despite an initial calling to healthcare, Sam found herself drawn to the vibrant hospitality and restaurant industry. A wealth of experience at renowned establishments Ritz Carlton and Outback prepared her for her pivotal leadership role at Bolay Fresh Kitchen, where her L&D programs increased operational efficiency and streamlined communications between HQ and frontline teams. Today, she brings that expertise to her new leadership role at Pollo Tropical.

In a world where genuine mentors are rare, Sam stands out as a frontline advocate, embodying the essence of servant leadership and unwavering support.

HOST BIO

Ron Thurston is the host of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS. 

Ron is the co-founder of OSSY, a full-service agency platform that connects retailers, candidates, and solution providers to create thriving retail careers and businesses.

With 30+ years leading retail stores and operations for America’s most prominent brands, like Gap, Saint Laurent, Apple, Bonobos, and INTERMIX, Ron has developed a deep expertise in retail strategy, management, and innovation.

Ron is the author of RETAIL PRIDE, an Amazon bestseller that inspires retail professionals to take pride in their accidental careers. He hosts the RETAIL IN AMERICA podcast and tour, sharing the untold retail success stories and the incredible people behind them.

Ron’s work has set him up as one of the most influential voices in retail and retail tech, and he serves on the Advisory Board of YOOBIC and several emerging retail technology platforms, including Ometria, Reflex, and Vendoor.

ABOUT FRONTLINE FRIDAYS

FRONTLINE FRIDAYS WITH RON THURSTON is a live podcast for frontline leaders and advocates in retail and hospitality.

Ron Thurston has a question for leaders out there who are inspiring excellence in their frontline teams: “What do you do differently?” In this candid discussion series, he’ll sit down with them to find out.

Each episode of FRONTLINE FRIDAYS offers real-world strategy from retail and hospitality change makers on frontline leadership and personal career growth.