Finding effective ways to reduce employee turnover and enhance training programs has become imperative. In the latest episode of the Morning Sam, Morning Ralph podcast, hosted by Paul Molinari, Beth Hussey—founder of the groundbreaking restaurant application, Shifty—shares how her platform is transforming restaurant training.
The Concept Behind Shifty
Beth Hussey began developing Shifty during the COVID-19 shutdowns. As an experienced restaurateur, she recognized the challenges of maintaining consistent and effective training.
“I decided to dive in and turn the unique way of training restaurant workers that I developed in the early nineties into a tech platform,” she explains.
Shifty focuses on interactive, human-centered training. Unlike traditional methods that rely on shadowing and manuals, it digitizes and streamlines these practices. The mobile app combines training, engagement, and scheduling, creating a unified experience that ensures everyone—from servers to managers—is aligned.
Addressing Turnover with Technology
Hussey highlights the high cost of employee turnover:
“The cost of replacing one restaurant worker is almost $6,000,” she notes, citing the National Restaurant Association.
By offering a standardized and engaging training experience, Shifty helps reduce turnover—potentially saving restaurants up to $80,000 annually. The platform ensures consistency and supports operational excellence at scale.
Gamification and Human Connection
Shifty uses gamification to enhance retention and reduce onboarding stress. Its interactive flashcard system simplifies learning without overwhelming staff.
“It’s like we’ve taken the guesswork out of learning for people,” says Hussey.
The app also supports a mentor-mentee model, emphasizing the importance of real human interaction. Built-in face-to-face components ensure that digital training remains personal and connected.
Success Stories and Future Outlook
Hussey shared the example of Pita Way, a Michigan-based brand with over 50 locations, who called Shifty their “Wikipedia.” The tool has helped them standardize processes across sites, ensuring quality and cohesion during growth.
Looking ahead, the future of restaurant training will rely on a blend of technology and human touch. Platforms like Shifty exemplify how digital tools can support—not replace—personal engagement.
Embracing Technology in Restaurant Operations
Beth Hussey puts it succinctly:
“If you’re not turning to technology to manage any aspect of your business, you’re missing the boat.”
Effective adoption of tools like Shifty is key to staying competitive. It’s not just about using tech—it’s about leveraging it wisely to support people and process.
🎧 Watch the full episode: YouTube - Morning Sam, Morning Ralph with Beth Hussey
