Grounded

Explore the intersection of scalable growth, people-first culture, and franchise leadership in this candid conversation with Mike LaRue, Vice President of Franchise Development and Franchisee at Angry Chickz. Mike shares how the brand has expanded rapidly while staying true to its roots through systematic franchise vetting, strong internal culture, and a memorable guest experience. In this episode...

What does it take to scale a restaurant brand while staying true to people-first values? Wade Allen, President at Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill, shares how leadership, innovation, and balance guide both his professional and personal life. In this episode, Wade discusses the importance of putting people before technology, leading through outcomes instead of just strategies, and ensuring innovation...

What happens when you blend an operator’s mindset with cutting-edge procurement strategy? Dan Gould, Director of Procurement and Logistics at Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants, shares how his background in operations shapes every sourcing decision. In this episode, Dan dives into the art and science of building strong supplier relationships, the role of technology in transforming procurement, a...

Step into the world of sizzling plates, franchise excellence, and global brand growth. Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palette America and Co-CEO of Pepper Lunch Worldwide, shares how he’s building a distinctive dining experience rooted in quality, consistency, and operational innovation. From global sourcing to guest engagement, Troy offers a masterclass in how to scale a brand while staying true to its...

Go behind the scenes of one of the fastest-growing foodservice brands with Joe Gordon, Chief Supply Chain and Technology Officer at Krispy Krunchy Chicken. With experience at household names like Wendy’s, Portillo’s, and Smashburger, Joe brings a sharp lens to innovation, growth, and resilience in supply chain leadership. In this episode, Joe shares how Krispy Krunchy Chicken is combining smart su...

From washing dishes at 14 to leading operations for an international brand, Nimesh Patel’s journey is the definition of grounded leadership. Now the Vice President of Operations & Culinary at Boston’s Pizza, Nimesh blends deep frontline experience with a data-forward approach to scale, adaptability, and innovation. In this episode, he shares the lessons learned from running a successful franch...

Step into the kitchen, and the boardroom, with a visionary chef who’s redefining what fast food can be. Daniel Patino, Co-Founder and Executive Chef at Salad and Go, shares how his early passion for cooking, shaped by his grandmother and his service in the Marine Corps, evolved into a mission to make healthy food accessible to all. In this episode, Daniel walks through his journey from fine dining...

Step into a conversation about people-first leadership, operational balance, and fostering growth in every direction. Amy Hom, Chief Operating Officer at Barcelona Wine Bar, shares how her servant leadership style, commitment to team well-being, and thoughtful tech integration are creating a stronger, more human hospitality experience. In this episode, Amy discusses how investing in employee devel...

Discover how thoughtful leadership, operational consistency, and authentic brand values come together to create a standout dining experience. Anthony Valletta, CEO and President of bartaco, shares how he’s growing the brand while staying true to its people-first philosophy. In this episode, Anthony dives into his leadership principles, bartaco’s focus on sensory-driven hospitality, and how buildin...

Take a deep dive into how heritage, innovation, and collaboration shape a resilient and forward-thinking supply chain. Jeff Burrus, Vice President of Supply Chain at El Pollo Loco, shares how he honors the brand’s legacy while driving operational efficiency, technological integration, and strategic sourcing. In this episode, Jeff explores what it means to lead with empathy, manage complexity throu...

Get an inside look at how simplicity, authenticity, and operations-first thinking can shape a powerful restaurant brand. Jonathan Weathington, CEO of Shuckin’ Shack, shares how he leads with clarity, fosters community engagement, and builds a guest experience rooted in listening and trust. In this episode, Jonathan breaks down how great operations double as great marketing, why choosing the right...

Explore how culture-first leadership, guest-centered service, and sustainable growth strategies can elevate a restaurant brand from the inside out. Chris Gannon, Founder and CEO of Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen, shares how lessons from family, sports, and entrepreneurship shaped the company’s purpose and success. In this energizing episode, Chris opens up about building a team that loves what they do,...

Take a deep dive into how visionary leadership, operational simplicity, and a people-first culture can fuel explosive business growth. Cameron McNie, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Hawaiian Bros Island Grill shares how he scaled the chain to over 66 locations using AI, strategic planning, and strong core values.  In this inspiring episode, Cameron unpacks the role of culture in building resi...

Please welcome today’s guest, Jeff Burrus, Chief Supply Chain Officer at FAT Brands Inc. Jeff engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss the importance of strategic partnerships in supply chain management, the need for improving operational efficiency while maintaining quality in the food industry, and navigating challenges in the franchising model. Jeff also shares insights into the role of tec...

Please welcome today’s guest, Mike Turner, Senior Vice President of Culinary & Supply Chain at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux. Mike engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss insights into restaurant growth strategies, the challenges of going global, and the importance of relationships in the food service industry. Mike shares insights to better their operations, relationship management, and gro...

Embark on a journey with us this week as host Lauren Mitchell, takes a captivating look back at the highlights of Season One on Grounded. Lauren sets the stage by unveiling the essence of the show and delving into the challenges, expertise, and compelling experiences of distinguished professionals and innovators within the food service industry. This episode serves as a masterful compilation, show...

Today’s guest is someone who has been highly active in speaking, presenting, and educating within the foodservice industry for over 30 years! Please welcome John Barone, the Founder and President of Market Vision. John sits down with Lauren Mitchell to discuss maintaining a deep understanding of economic factors, nurturing strong relationships within the industry, and staying adaptable in the face...

Join us in welcoming our esteemed guest, Sam Polk, Founder & CEO of Everytable, for an enlightening conversation with Lauren Mitchell! Together, they delve into the critical issue of health disparities in underserved neighborhoods and explore Everytable's mission to create a more equitable world. Sam provides valuable insights into the company's commitment to accessibility and profitability, m...

Welcome to another episode of Grounded! Joining us today, we have two special guests from the Buyers Edge Platform Fresh Division: Betsy Handelman, the Director of Food Safety and Compliance, and Chris Rheault, the Executive Vice President. Betsy and Chris join host Lauren Mitchell to provide insights around the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA 204) and food safety in general. Learn with Lauren...

Please welcome today’s guest, Jared Cannon, Founder & CEO of Simply Good Jars. Jared engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss what inspired Jared to create Simply Good Jars, how he overcame challenges, and his adoption of the direct-to-consumer model. Jared also shares insights on the incredible team that helped him grow the company. Don't miss out on the inspiring conversation! Takeaways:...

Please welcome today’s guest, Gabe Romero, Salesperson at The Nunes Company! Gabe engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss his personal vision on enhancing customer education, a shrinking workforce, and optimization strategies in his region. Gabe also shares insights into his diverse experience and how that enhances his relationship with Nunes. Don't miss out on this exciting conversation! Tak...

Please welcome today’s guest, Byron Theodore, Vice President and Quality Assurance at Inspire Brands! Byron engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss the principles that have made him, and the entire team at Inspire Brands so successful and positioned for growth! Byron also shares insights on prioritizing supplier collaboration and the importance of quality standards. Don't miss out on the insp...

Please welcome today’s guest, Kevin Quandt, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain & Sustainability at True Food Kitchen. Kevin engages with Lauren Mitchell as they discuss True Food’s production methods, how to source with integrity, and obtain sustainability status. Kevin shares insights on how his company uses unique ingredients that will make a positive impact on the planet. Don't miss out...

Welcome to the latest installment of Grounded! Join our guest, Tim Cunniff, Co-Founder of Little Leaf Farms, LLC. In this episode, Tim engages with Lauren Mitchell and shares the intricacies of understanding plant biology and physiology. Be prepared to gain valuable insights from Tim as he sheds light on the art of expanding more efficient plant fields to effectively scale your business! Takeaways...

Welcome to the newest episode of Grounded! Please welcome our guest, Michael Koziol, Chief Strategy Officer, CMO, and Advisor at AmplifiedAg, Inc. Michael engages with Lauren Mitchell as they delve into navigating through supply chains and the ever-evolving tapestry of the food industry. Michael shares insights into the world of horizontal greenhouses and vertical farms. Don't miss out on the extr...