How 2 Successful Independents are Navigating COVID-19

We recently interviewed long-time RestaurantOwner.com members Monica Dowen and Tricia Schleicher. Monica is the owner/operator of Monica's Waterfront Bakery & Café in Silverdale, WA. Tricia is the owner/operator of Magnolia Pancake Haus in San Antonio which was founded by her father, Chef Robert Fleming over 20 years ago.

In our discussion, Monica and Tricia provided many valuable insights and viewpoints into the following topics and issues -

• Transitioning quickly to delivery, takeout, curbside pickup
• Effective marketing and social media activities
• Community involvement and outreach
• Taking care of employees by enabling them to work while still obtaining maximum unemployment benefits
• Being a good leader, setting the example, communication and the importance of being authentic
• Taking care of themselves, staying positive, being responsive and not reactive
• What reopening may look like and what they're preparing for