Hospitality Hangout | Expert Strategies & Industry Trends from Hospitality Insiders

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 trends.Greg’s story is a masterclass in hospitality leadership, offering valuable insights into running exceptional operations, exploring adjacent industries like fitness, and managing diverse portfolios that include both restaurants and real estate. He reminds aspiring operators that the true secret to success isn’t just financial strategy—it’s about delivering world-class hospitality day in and day out.This episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and actionable advice, along with engaging segments like "What’s Hot and Not," the Quickfire Round, and fan-favorite Trivia Tuesday. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, this rewind episode will leave you motivated and hungry for more. Don’t miss it!Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 hospitality that attracts repeat visits from this dynamic demographic. Chip Wade dives into the challenges of the “hospitality included” tipping model, addressing disparities in wages, guest confusion over pricing, and the eventual return to traditional tipping during the pandemic.The discussion further explores the hospitality industry as a career, with Chip and the hosts emphasizing the need to shift its perception from a temporary gig to a fulfilling, long-term career path. They also tackle the industry’s ongoing wage equity debate, particularly the disparities between front-of-house and back-of-house staff, and stress the importance of collaboration among industry leaders and government intervention to address these issues. Chip sheds light on how Union Square Hospitality Group navigated the challenges of the pandemic, including adapting their tipping model and reopening strategies to meet new demands.Additionally, Chip shares insights into Union Square Hospitality Group’s substantial investment in technology, with over $4 million allocated to tools like UKG and Seven Shifts over the past three years, improving operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. Throughout the episode, the hosts and Chip reflect on the importance of maintaining consistency and excellence in a rapidly evolving industry, while also diving into entertaining segments like “What’s Hot and Not,” “The Spice is Right,” and “Trivia Tuesday.” This rewind episode offers a mix of valuable industry insights, thoughtful discussions, and plenty of laughs, making it a standout Hospitality Hangout conversation you won’t want to miss!Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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:• Kevin’s respect for dishwashers and the invaluable lessons learned from working his way up in the restaurant industry.• A&W’s marketing strategy presents the brand’s history and traditions in a way that feels both genuine and authentic – offering uniqueness, flavor, authenticity, and experimentation to the Gen Z generation.• How is A&W recreating the classic drive-in nostalgia at the 80% of locations where the traditional format no longer exists?• Kevin talks beverage strategy, sharing the reimagining of A&W’s original, freshly made craft root beer into trends like dirty sodas, energy drinks, and cold brew.• A&W is mixing modern tech with classic hospitality, from kiosks in the U.S. to 90% self-ordering in Asia, all while keeping its Americana charm alive. Kevin shares how they’re catching up and standing out.• Hot takes: Kevin Bazner discusses the craft mocktail trend, Gen Z’s love for Instagrammable beverages, and how A&W’s 105-year-old classic frosty root beer is staying cool in a modern world.Plus, “Trivia Tuesday”, quick fire questions, and a Pretzel Party Pack price showdown. Thank you for joining us on Hospitality Hangout, brought to you by Branded Hospitality Ventures. Join us next time for more conversations with the leaders and innovators driving what’s next in hospitality.Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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. Sweetgreen's vision ensures that growth strengthens purpose, and for Jonathan, this isn't just a strategy—it's the soul of the company, bringing people back to real food.Key Takeaways:• Sweetgreen’s vision – a balance of convenience, flavor, and well-being in the fast-casual dining space.• Jonathan shares Sweetgreen’s commitment to the perfect blend of art and science – a blend where every detail, from the smallest ingredient to the grandest vision, is infused with purpose and passion.• With an innovation on American classics, like ripple fries made with 4 simple ingredients, Sweetgreen is the trusted haven where you can indulge in real, wholesome food.• Breaking News: Sweetgreen’s loyalty app relaunches in 2025 with a new point-based system.• Jonathan shares how Sweetgreen’s festivals embody the sweet life—where passion for food and purpose in community come together in unforgettable experiences.• Sweetgreen's foundation lies in sourcing sustainably grown ingredients, fostering close relationships with regional farmers, and crafting every dish from scratch.• Hot Takes: Jonathan Neman discusses drone delivery, fake meat, and tech-driven hospitality in fun games like “Hot or Not,” “Branded Quickfire,” and “Trivia Tuesday.”Thank you for joining us on Hospitality Hangout, brought to you by Branded Hospitality Ventures. Join us next time at the intersection of innovation, authenticity, and leadership—we invite you to stay connected for more conversations shaping the future of hospitality.Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 father, who strategically reinforced his work ethic, and how working for Ron and Greg Newman at Sharkeez ultimately “changed the direction of my life."• Mario describes Dom Food Group as a food venture studio that incubates and creates restaurant brands. His focus is on the "preschool" phase of these businesses—helping them start strong before building executive teams to guide their growth.• Jimmy invites Mario to share his vision for the future of the virtual kitchen.• Jimmy refers to the “impossible triangle” and asks if Mario can help solve the puzzle of balancing quality, affordability, and fair wages.• Schatzy and Mario discuss convenience stores and grocery stores disrupting the market by offering better food quality and innovative models, challenging traditional restaurants for market share.• Mario talks about Neighborly, an innovative concept that integrates multiple iconic dining experiences under one roof, maximizing space while offering diverse culinary options.• Mario turns the tables by asking the hosts about the applications of artificial intelligence in the restaurant space.Schatzy, Jimmy, and Mario wrap up with fun and lively games like “Trivia Tuesday,” “What's Hot and Not,” “Branded Quickfire,” and “What's Your Uber Rating.”Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 fragmented payment systems by unifying data to improve reconciliation, marketing personalization, and fraud prevention.• Phil predicts that biometric recognition, predictive technology, and seamless payment systems will revolutionize restaurants in the next five years.• Adyen’s global reach enables restaurants to meet guests' expectations across borders, delivering frictionless, tech-enabled dining experiences.• Phil’s reflections on tech trends – while QR codes may be fading, tap-and-go payments and data-driven menu personalization are laying the groundwork for what’s to come.• Phil emphasizes the importance of simplicity in tech adoption.• Phil flips the script, asking Schatzy and Jimmy which fictional hospitality characters they’d trade places with.Schatzy, Jimmy, and Phil deliver laughs, surprises, and sharp insights into the evolving world of hospitality and tech through their engaging discussions and games.Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 guests, team members, and executive leadership.• Eric talks about the pros and cons of integrated solutions versus all-in-one systems.• Tiki Taco prepares to expand from its three Kansas City locations (plus a food truck), Eric talks about the importance of staying true to the brand's identity as a “taste of home.”• Tiki Tacos support to local schools, churches, and organizations with donations and sponsorships. Eric believes the key to sustainable growth is building a strong, community-oriented culture that can be replicated in new markets.• Tiki Taco plans to add four to five new locations in the home market next year.• The KISS Principle: Keep It Simple, Stay True• Eric reflects on the importance of staying consistent with the core elements of a restaurant –great food, great service, and a cool atmosphere.• Eric asks Schatzy and Jimmy, “What advice would you give a CEO of an emerging restaurant brand?”Schatzy, Jimmy, and Eric deliver laughs, surprises, and sharp insights into the ever-evolving world of hospitality and tech through games like “Tech Time Warp,” “Talking Back,” “Hot or Not,” and “Branded Quick Fire.”Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 companies with managed tech solutions. He discusses Comcast’s commitment to integrating smart solutions into hospitality operations, addressing critical needs like security, compliance, and operational efficiency.• Brian discusses how Comcast strategically invests in companies, offering mentorship and leveraging its vast portfolio of partnerships to accelerate growth.• Comcast Smart Solutions connects the dots between AI, IoT, and automation. Brian explains how platforms like MachineQ automate tasks freeing up managers to focus on guests and drive revenue.• Jimmy debunks the myth of tech replacing human capital, emphasizing its role in redeploying staff to guest-focused activities.• Brian unveils LetzChat, an AI-driven language translation platform that supports up to 104 languages. Originally implemented on Comcast’s residential platform, LetzChat is now transforming the restaurant industry by reducing abandonment rates and driving revenue with seamless language recognition and analytics.• Brian predicts that AI will personalize guest experiences and simplify back-of-house operations in the next five years. He also discusses Comcast’s partnership with Nvidia to optimize its network backbone for latency-sensitive data transport, enhancing AI-driven communications.• Breaking News: Brian announces that LetzChat and other innovative tools are officially part of Comcast Business’s product offerings, signaling a major leap in smart solutions for the hospitality industry.Schatzy and Jimmy bring their signature energy with games like “Tech Time Warp,” “Talking Back,” and “Hot or Not,” wrapping up another insightful and engaging episode.Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

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 convenience in dining experiences? Jimmy drops key statistics from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) report.• Drew shares the importance of energy-efficient operations and reliable equipment maintenance to ensure a smoothly run restaurant, that costs are controlled, and the guest experience remains positive.• Powerhouse Dynamics’ IoT solutions allow restaurants to maximize operational efficiency, minimize downtime, and save on maintenance costs by providing real-time visibility and control over critical equipment across large networks of locations.• How the use of connected technology enhances operational reliability, reduces downtime, and optimizes performance for both large brands like Arby’s and individual operators.• Drew predicts a massive increase in connected equipment technology in the restaurant industry, primarily driven by necessity due to the technician shortage.• Jimmy shares his thoughts on what the next big trend or “push” will be for the restaurant industry in the segment, “Talking Back”Drew, Schatzy, and Jimmy join in on some fun and engaging games like “Energy Time Machine”, "What's Hot and Not, and Branded Quickfire.”Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

Chris shares his experience in marketing leadership at Hard Rock Café and Cracker Barrel, which led to him spearheading one of the fastest-growing full-service restaurants in the U.S. His story is a testament to the value of innovative leadership, effective branding, and employee well-being in creating a unique work-life balance within the competitive restaurant industry.Key Takeaways:• Chris discusses how his background as a former Chief Marketing Officer shaped his leadership style and brought the voice of the consumer into the boardroom.• Chris shares how First Watch strategically adopted technology, from Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) to online waitlist management, without compromising the personal touch that defines the brand.• Chris touches on First Watch’s "We Hear You" initiative, where leadership connects directly with employees to gather feedback, understand challenges, and continuously improve the work environment.• First Watch has over 500 locations – Chris talks about the importance of tenure, employee engagement, and maintaining high operational standards.• First Watch has unique operational hours (closing by mid-afternoon) foster a healthy work-life balance, helping attract and retain top talent in the industry.• Chris recounts his iconic Y2K marketing campaign that "owned" Times Square, a move that made waves and even sparked unexpected interactions with rock legend Keith Richards.• Chris reflects on the “everyone out of the pool” meetings— open forums for brainstorming strategies to influence creative problem-solving and flexibility within the leadership team.Schatzy, Jimmy, and Chris jump into "Trivia Tuesday", "Hot or Not", and "Branded Quick-fire," where Chris shares his thoughts on hospitality trends, and the trio buzz around tech, operations, and leadership.Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com