The Hospitality Hangout | Restaurant Industry Trends & Hospitality Leaders

In this episode of Hospitality Hangout, Michael Schatzberg, “The Restaurant Guy,” and Jimmy Frischling, “The Finance Guy,” are joined by Mike Smith, Chief Brand Officer of Moe’s Southwest Grill, for a high-energy conversation packed with hospitality insights, real-world hospitality stories, and brand-driven restaurant transformation. Mike shares how Moe’s is leaning into emerging hospitality trend...

Big Chicken Joins Craveworthy Brands – Here’s What No One Else Is Telling You! On this episode of Hospitality Hangout, we explore the latest hospitality trends, strategies, and brand experiences with industry leaders Gregg Majewski and Josh Halpern. They take us behind the scenes of Big Chicken’s exciting move to join the Craveworthy Brands portfolio, breaking down how the deal came together and w...

In an industry built on human connection, Mike Fiato brings more than leadership. He brings a philosophy rooted in care, purpose, and emotional insight. His passion for hospitality lives not just in the roles he’s held or the book he’s written, but in the way he sees people. Hospitality, to Mike, isn’t a department. It’s a strategy. And he’s spent a lifetime showing what’s possible when you lead w...

Will Brawley and the ScheduleFly team have spent over a decade and a half proving that success isn’t just about scale. It’s about staying true to what matters. In an industry built on relationships, they’ve created more than a product that works. They’ve built a level of customer service that keeps independent restaurants thriving. Will’s passion for hospitality is reflected not just in the simpli...

With a career spanning finance, operations, and brand leadership, Liz Williams knows a thing or two about shaking up the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. She discusses the art of brand reinvention, sharing how El Pollo Loco is modernizing its look, embracing technology, and staying true to its bold, citrus-marinated flavors. Liz unpacks the growing consumer demand for fresh, high-quality f...

Chris shares how his unexpected first job in a Mexican restaurant set the foundation for a lifelong career in hospitality. From 13 years at Starbucks, where he witnessed its explosive growth, to leading operations at MOD Pizza, Chris has been instrumental in scaling iconic brands. Now at Voodoo Doughnut, he’s keeping the brand’s counterculture roots alive while navigating expansion into Miami, Los...

Chef Laurent discusses his culinary world. He tells us of his early days in France to becoming a renowned chef and restaurateur in the United Stated. His blend in fine dining techniques with accessible, high-quality food experiences has led to successful concepts and his latest venture into Philadelphia. Laurent shares his thoughts on the evolution of the restaurant industry, the role of social me...

Rob takes us inside Shake Shack, where passion for great food and hospitality perfectly blends. He shares how leading a fast-growing company comes with challenges, but Shake Shack knows how to scale big without losing what keeps the brand unique. Key takeaways: Shake Shack once thought 450 locations was a wild dream—now they’re aiming for 1,500. The secret? Confidence, high sales, and adaptability...

Jack Gibbons is turning hospitality into an art form. He shares his journey to becoming the CEO of FB Society, an innovative multi-concept restaurant group. Jack’s focus on creating unforgettable guest experiences fuels his passion and success. He has an eye for thoughtful detail and authentic care, revealing how to build brands that guests love and remember. Key Takeaways: FB Society focuses on r...

Victor shares the story of Big Mamma’s evolution—from a scrapped concept to a European dining sensation now setting its sights on the U.S. He discusses the brand’s commitment to immersive dining, bold hospitality, and innovative technology, including his latest venture, Sunday. Key Takeaways • Big Mamma was initially meant to be a French breakfast café, but after just six weeks, Victor and his tea...

David offers a behind-the-scenes look at steering a hospitality powerhouse, weaving stories of the brand’s ambitious growth, innovative concepts, and unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable dining experiences. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants is fine dining, private clubs, and new concepts, and continues to raise the bar for guest engagement and operational excellence. Key Takeaways: • A “Meet...

Mike provides insight into Foodbuy’s $32 billion in purchasing power and its mission to level the playing field for independent and multi-unit operators alike. He highlights how Foodbuy’s technology-driven approach helps operators unlock cost savings, streamline purchasing, and improve their bottom line. Key Takeaways: • Customized Solutions: Foodbuy’s programs are opt-in, allowing businesses to t...

Paul shares his rise from forklift operator to CEO, demonstrating the hands-on approach that defines UFSO’s commitment to its clients. He discusses how UFSO supports independent operators with tailored purchasing solutions, sustainable practices, and innovative technology to streamline supply chain management. Key Takeaways: • Purchasing Expertise: UFSO acts as the purchasing department for indepe...

Amer shares his journey from working with global powerhouses like ADP and Yahoo to leading iTrade Network, a technology-driven platform revolutionizing food traceability. He dives into the importance of compliance, particularly in light of the FDA’s FSMA 204 regulation, and explains how iTrade Network’s decade-long focus on traceability has given them an edge in navigating this evolving landscape....

Jason Himber takes us on a journey from his early days as a young bartender to leading one of the most successful restaurant groups in the industry. He started flipping burgers to mastering finance and strategy and his path is anything but ordinary. Jason shares how his unique blend of experience and passion drives the Mina Group's innovation as he reveals what it takes to turn challenges into opp...

Shannon shares her story from filing papers at her father’s pediatric office to leading one of the fastest-growing brands in the quick-service restaurant industry. Shannon talks about Habit Burger’s unique approach to consistency, innovation, and customer loyalty and the brands creative campaigns, how AI is shaping the future of their operations and, of course, award-winning burgers. Key Takeaways...

Get ready to dig into Greg’s journey, from his early days flipping burgers at McDonald's to leading the world’s largest franchise operation. With over 2,600 units across brands like Applebee’s, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby’s, Pizza Hut, Wendy’s, and Planet Fitness, Greg shares the recipe for his success, emphasizing operational excellence, strategic diversification, and the ability to adapt to market t...

This episode highlights the exciting growth of Daily Provisions, which continues its expansion with its sixth location on the Upper East Side and three additional sites under construction, including Rockefeller Center, Brookfield Place, and Jersey City. The conversation also touches on how Daily Provisions has successfully engaged younger audiences through its grab-and-go format, offering elevated...

Kevin Bazner reflects on his middle-class upbringing, where he learned early on that hard work was the motivator behind his achievements. Kevin started in the industry at just 14 years old as a dishwasher, Kevin’s story—rising to CEO and Chairman of a brand with over a century of history—stands as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and respect for every role in the business. Key Takeaways: •...

Jonathan talks about his days as a hungry college student struggling to find quick, healthy, and affordable meals. He and his friends, frustrated by hunger pangs and the lack of unprocessed, affordable options, discovered a dream to create sustainable, consistent, and delicious food that people could trust. He shares the philosophy of blending art and science, fueled by a culture of innovation. Sw...

Mario Del Pero's career shows how mentorship and dedication, combined with a clear vision, strategic partnerships, and innovative concepts like Mendocino Farms, Dom Food Group, and Neighborly, can transform the restaurant industry. His work serves as an inspiration for operators aiming to balance authenticity with growth. Key Takeaways: • Mario reflects on the skills he first gained from his fathe...

In this special edition of Hospitality Hangout, recorded live at the FSTech Conference in Grapevine, Texas, Schatzy and Jimmy welcome back Phil Crawford, Global F&B Head of Adyen. As a third-time guest, Crawford brings his expertise to discuss the intersection of payments, technology, and the evolving dining experience. Key Takeaways: • Phil explains how Adyen is addressing the challenges of fragm...

Eric’s roll as CEO of Tiki Taco shows how a clear vision, intentional technology, and community-first leadership can set the stage for growth while preserving the heart of a brand. Tiki Taco’s story is an inspiration to other operators looking to balance innovation with authenticity. Key Takeaways: • Eric discusses his focus on creating a balanced tech stack to solve real-world challenges for gues...

Brian grew up within Comcast, a multinational leader in telecommunications, entertainment, and digital solutions. As the largest internet service provider in the U.S., Comcast is redefining how technology supports businesses, including the hospitality industry. Key Takeaways: • Brian shares how Comcast Business evolved from serving small businesses to now supporting regional, national, and global...

Drew brings the energy behind some of the most innovative tech solutions that keep our favorite restaurants running smoothly from FOH to BOH. He has a knack for staying ahead of the curve and has helped countless brands tap into the power of IoT to streamline operations, cut energy costs, and transform kitchens into high-tech hubs. Key Takeaways: • Do restaurateurs prefer to use tech-enabled conve...