GoTo Foods CEO Merges Meme-Hunting and Inbox-Zero in 12-Hour Workdays

Jim Holthouser, CEO of GoTo Foods, begins each of his 12-hour workdays by scouring the internet for memes, a habit that mirrors the digital routines of many Gen Z and millennial workers. This “meme-hunting” is part of his broader strategy to maintain personal connections, sending jokes and absurd humor to friends 365 days a year. Holthouser described the activity as a way to stay connected, rather than a focus on the humor itself [1].

Leading a food empire with more than $4.2 billion in system-wide sales since 2020 and spanning 7,000 restaurants globally—including Carvel, Cinnabon, and Moe’s Southwest Grill—Holthouser starts work at 8:30 a.m. His mornings include a workout routine that alternates between cardio and weight training, often to the soundtrack of 70s music. Unlike many Silicon Valley leaders who rise before dawn, Holthouser’s schedule is tailored to his own rhythm and energy [1].

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Holthouser’s time is dedicated to fostering a supportive work environment. He regularly tours the office, learning employees’ names and personal interests. Weekly one-hour meetings with his 10 direct reports are complemented by “skip-level” interactions with team members who do not report directly to him. These informal meetings often include lunch, beer, or casual conversations, emphasizing relationship-building over metrics. Holthouser also frequently accepts mentorship requests, offering monthly guidance to employees who show initiative [1].

His workday extends well beyond traditional hours. Holthouser often stays late into the night to engage in strategic networking, attending local political events to build connections that may prove valuable. These efforts are part of his broader vision to support GoTo Foods’ growth and success. When he finally gets some downtime, he spends time with his wife, plays the piano—a childhood passion—and unwinds before his final task of the day [1].

Like Mark Cuban and Anthony Casalena, Holthouser maintains an “inbox-zero” policy, reading all his emails each night. He receives approximately 100 messages daily, but estimates only 30% are truly important. Clearing his inbox is essential for his peace of mind, and he insists that if it’s not done by 11 p.m., he cannot sleep well. Communication with franchisees—his top priority—is seen as vital to the company’s operations [1].

The CEO’s lifestyle reflects a blend of digital connectivity, physical discipline, and personal accountability. While his day is long, it is structured around purposeful interactions and routines that support both his leadership and mental health. His approach offers insight into how a modern CEO balances the pressures of a billion-dollar company with personal well-being and connection [1].

Source: [1] Like Gen Z, the CEO of GoTo Foods starts his 12-hour workdays ‘meme-hunting’—and he has to hit inbox-zero every night, or else he can’t sleep (https://fortune.com/2025/08/05/goto-foods-ceo-jim-holthouser-lifestyle-memes-gen-z-morning-routine-exercise-mentorship-inbox-zero-emails/)