Restaurant Influencers

Nick Rodriguez, owner of Famous Creations, uses his bold baked creations and candid social media posts to spotlight the highs and lows of small business ownership. He's built a brand rooted in creativity, community, and staying unapologetically real.  Listen now to learn about building a successful cupcake brand, staying calm under pressure, and turning viral chaos into community support. Sponsored by:  • TOAST POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • NEXT INSURANCE: http://www.nextinsurance.com/calibbq

Giada De Laurentiis is a celebrity chef and founder of Giadzy, which blends Italian tradition with entrepreneurial vision. With an Amazon deal and curated product line, she's creating a platform to celebrate food and community. Listen to hear how Giada turned a demo into a long career, why she's focused on content and commerce, and what she's building with Amazon. Watch GIADI In My Kitchen on Amazon Prime premiering June 23. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • NEXT INSURANCE: http://www.nextinsurance.com/calibbq

Nicolas Jammet is co-founder of Sweetgreen, which grew from college startup into a public company. From recipe rewrites to festival stages, Jammet helped shape Sweetgreen into a brand defined by thoughtful food, and tech-driven innovation. Listen to learn how three college friends built the brand, why tech is the heart of hospitality, and how a salad company ended up on stage with The Weeknd. Sponsored by:  • TOAST POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • NEXT INSURANCE: http://www.nextinsurance.com/calibbq

Mike Burns took over the &pizza chain just as the brand was losing its edge. He quickly revived its cult following, bringing back the tattoo promotion that drew 2,700 fans and the Pi Day weddings where couples tie the knot — literally, with dough. Listen now to learn about turning customers into superfans, empowering staff, and building a brand that breaks the rules. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Frank Neri is a chef and founder of El Primo Red Tacos, known for bold flavor and Birria mastery. After closing his first restaurant just before Michelin came calling, he doubled down on simplicity and focus.  Listen now to hear how a trip to Tijuana changed his view on flavor, a WhatsApp group kept him in the game, and doing one thing well became his recipe for success. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Lisa Malikow, senior VP of the National Restaurant Show, has helped turn the popular event into a launchpad for the restaurant business. With over 2,200 exhibitors and a flow of new vendors, she focuses on helping attendees discover new ideas. Listen now to learn about running a massive event, helping operators grow, and why unexpected inspiration is the best part of the job Sponsored by:  • TOAST - https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Visit Team Toast at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago at Booth #6075.

Adrianne Calvo is a restaurateur and content creator who turned a cookbook win and a Montel Williams guest spot into a thriving hospitality brand. From dark dining experiences to heartfelt “love letters” from guests, she's built a career rooted in bold flavor, real storytelling, and digital connection. Listen now to learn about building confidence on TV, turning guests into loyal customers, and storytelling in the kitchen. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Sebastien Centner is the founder of Eatertainment, a hospitality company known for executing high-end events. After stumbling into catering, he built the company on what he calls the 5 Percent Rule. Today, he leads one of Canada's top catering brands alongside his wife Sheila. Listen now to learn about the 5 Percent Rule, the creative partnership with his wife, and delivering more than what's on paper. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Chef Eric LeVine is a Food Network Chopped champion, author, and industry veteran known for honesty and a relentless drive. After surviving cancer six times and transforming his life inside and out, he's built a reputation for leading with truth, rejecting ego, and showing up with purpose. Listen now to discover what happens when you strip away ego and live fully in the moment both in and out of the kitchen Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Michael “Schatzy” Schatzberg and Jimmy Frischling built Branded Hospitality to invest in tools that help restaurant operators win. Their podcast has become a key part of that mission—fueling awareness, driving deal flow, and building relationships across the industry. Listen now to learn how a unique blend of friendship, investment focus, and a ‘takes a village' mindset is helping hospitality brands grow with purpose. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

From butcher shops to fine dining, Chef Brad Wise has built a reputation for world-class steaks and top-tier hospitality. As his Trust Restaurant Group expands he's proving that smart risks, self-belief, and hard-earned lessons are the keys to scaling his business. Listen to learn about the power of trust, the balance between growth and hospitality, and the similarities of running a butcher shop and restaurant.  Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Justin Moore didn't just build a career in content creation, he built a playbook for making money. After years of landing brand deals with his wife, he saw most creators making costly mistakes. He wrote Sponsor Magnet to help them pitch better, secure partnerships, and get paid what they're worth. Listen now to learn how to perfect a pitch, what brands care about, and why storytelling is one of the most prized commodities. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Michel Falcon, founder of Brasa Peruvian Kitchen, is a restaurateur, author, and keynote speaker who has used unorthodox tactics to build his brand. From launching a hotline phone number so people can learn about Peru, to applying strategies inspired by Netflix, he's taking a unique approach to the restaurant industry. Listen now to learn about deep family roots, thinking outside the box, and why you won't forget 1-844-GO-BRASA. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

Amir Nathan, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded chef and co-owner of Sami & Susu, opened the restaurant during COVID as a general store before evolving it into one of NYC's premier dining spots, navigating financial scrapes, industry chaos, and the grind of New York hospitality. Listen now to learn about taking financial risks, reinventing a restaurant, and bringing Israeli flavors to New York City. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

At the Restaurant Industry Influencers Summit, Lisa Landsman (Head of Industry Engagement and SMB Success at Google) shared eye-opening search trends, top Google Business Profile tips, and key data insights shaping restaurants for 2025. Listen now to learn how Google's latest search trends are impacting the restaurant industry, the must-have online menu features, and the best ways to optimize your Google Business Profile Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christy Reuter, chair of the hospitality practice at Blank Rome LLP, isn't just an attorney — she's a fierce advocate for restaurant operators navigating high-stakes deals, brand growth, and industry evolution. Listen now to discover Christy Reuter's deep passion for hospitality, the crucial role of lawyers in the industry, and why she genuinely loves her clients. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After building The Meatball Shop into a national brand, chef and restaurateur Daniel Holzman experienced success's highs and multimillion-dollar failures. Along the way, he learned hard truths about leadership, workplace culture, and lessons that led to Danny Boy's Famous Original Pizza. Listen now to learn about the importance of authenticity, better workplace culture, and not letting ego get in the way of financial success. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eli Sussman, a James Beard Award-nominated chef and owner of Gertrude's in Brooklyn, uses humorous social media posts and memes to spotlight the realities of hospitality. As a chef, operator, and content creator, he's built a career that blends hospitality with digital influence.  Listen now to learn about the drive to keep opening restaurants, an unexpected collaboration, and the rise to meme royalty  Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 15 years in luxury hotel food and beverage programs, Auden Hospitality founder Scot Turner found his way to independent restaurants. It was there that the consultant and entrepreneur realized the opportunity for hotels to take pages from the restaurant playbook. Listen now to learn about authenticity and curated experiences in hotels, improving food and beverage programs, and leaning into digital storytelling Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alba Huerta is an award-winning mixologist and owner of Julep in Houston, Texas. She has spent more than a decade shaping cocktail culture. After countless awards, and 110 drinks on the menu, she has gained international acclaim for her bartending prowess. Listen now to learn about the art of mixology, embracing her Mexican-American heritage, and leading a James Beard Award winning cocktail program. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin Seo has had a colorful career. He achieved viral success with his NFT-themed restaurant, as well as a traveling pop-up restaurant centered around Sonic The Hedgehog. Fans can now enjoy Sonic's favorite chili dogs, cheese fries, and more. Listen now to learn about partnering with SEGA to bring Sonic The Hedgehog Speed Cafe to life, listening to fans, and running multiple businesses Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite not having any prior restaurant experience, Loycent Gordon breathed new life into Neir's Tavern, a historic Queens landmark made famous in the movie Goodfellas. Dubbed “The most famous bar you've never heard of” by PBS, the restaurant and bar is on its way to a 200 year anniversary. Listen now to learn about entering the restaurant business, telling the story of your business, and taking a leap of faith. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Kopel's journey from successful restaurateur to media personality and business coach is one of resilience, vulnerability, and a commitment to helping others. As the host of Yelp for Restaurant's podcast Full Comp, he has asked the hard questions and shared his battle scars through more than 400 episodes. Listen now to learn about making hospitality media, the benefits of scarcity, and elevating the restaurant industry. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Schwartz and Bobby Rutter, the dynamic leaders behind Forward Hospitality Group, have transformed the Midwest's entertainment scene. With 12 distinct concepts spanning multiple states and nearly 1,000 employees, their journey is a testament to adaptability, vision, and resilience. Listen now to learn about transforming the entertainment scene in the Midwest and reinvention as a business model Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monica Rothgery is a natural leader. She has trained army soldiers, managed fast-food restaurant teams, built international franchises, and wrote a book about it all. The former KFC Chief Operating Officer's leadership journey fueled her unique approach to restaurant management and her mission to uplift frontline leaders. Listen now to learn about frontline leadership, the value of good training, and Lessons from the Drive-Thru. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perry Rogers, CEO/founder of PRP, has managed superstars and built a restaurant company. As Shaquille O'Neal's superagent, those experiences prepared him to partner with his big client to create a truly larger-than-life restaurant brand. Big Chicken is a testament to collaboration, vision, and fun. Watch now to learn about building a food brand with Shaq, the power of collaboration, and the business of sports entertainment Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley Morris's journey from finance professional to the CEO of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop is a story of perseverance, and a relentless passion for quality. He has led Capriotti's from a regional favorite to a national franchised brand that is constantly expanding. Listen now to learn about buying his favorite sandwich shop, how to keep quality up while scaling, and operating a fast-casual franchise. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sohla El-Waylly went from dreaming of Michelin Stars to being a YouTube Star. Her unique perspective as a self-taught chef, rather than a traditionally trained writer, led to opportunities at higher-profile outlets like Bon Appetit, the History network, and the New York Times. Listen now to learn about making meals for the internet, secrets of YouTube success, and her personal tech stack. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As owner of Slutty Vegan, Pinky Cole knows the value of attention. Her authenticity and genuine connection with audiences have been instrumental to Slutty Vegan's success. She believes that people aren't just buying her meatless burgers — they're buying into her story, her personality, and her mission Listen now to learn about leaning into failure, going from TV producer to the restaurant business, and the value of good PR. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victor Lugger, co-founder of the restaurant group Big Mamma and the tech platform sunday, is no stranger to building memorable experiences that transcend mere dining. For Lugger, restaurants should be spaces filled with joy and emotion, encouraging guests to savor each moment.  Listen now to learn about building the Big Mamma Group, lessons learned through disaster and creating the sunday app for restaurants. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bill Oakley wrote some of the most memorable episodes of The Simpsons. Now he's an influencer who is building a brand centered around his love of food.  Before posting food content online, Bill Oakley had dozens of people following him on Instagram. Now he has 42,000+. Over on X he has more than 60,000.  Listen now to learn about his Steamed Hams Society, writing for The Simpsons, and the future of the television industry. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alison Roman is an author, chef, and digital creator known for her unfiltered, honest approach to food, lifestyle, and storytelling. She has carved her own path in a media landscape that often favors formulaic approaches, taking the helm of her content, and connecting deeply with her audience.  Listen now to learn about how Alison empowered herself through YouTube, the challenges of podcasting, and opening the First Bloom Corner Store. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chef Vikas Khanna's life story is a profound journey of resilience, humility, and purpose. Born with a congenital foot defect in India and facing discrimination and hardship, he defied expectations to become one of the most celebrated Indian American chefs in the world.  Listen now to learn about turning failure to triumph, hosting MasterChef India, and becoming an award winning filmmaker. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Berish, the dynamic CEO of Sovereign Brands, comes from a family with a long history in the wine and spirits industry. Yet he forged his own path, building a brand empire through creativity, resilience, and a passion for authenticity.  Listen now to learn about embracing authenticity, learning from “failures”, and partnering with Rick Ross, Jay-Z and more music icons. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For Celebrity Chef Marc Murphy, food is more than a career — it's a way to take care of others. Having built a name for himself through restaurants and TV appearances on shows like Food Network's Chopped, Murphy is driven by the gratification that comes from supporting his team. Listen now to learn about being on the Food Network, operating a pop-up restaurant, and the gratification that comes with having a business. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MìLà was founded by Jennifer and Caleb Liao and provides restaurant-quality dishes for people to eat at home. From food to how it intertwines with culture, the modern Chinese food brand uses design, videos, influencers, and more, to help tell a story that honors heritage while taking it into the future. Listen now to learn about learning to start a food business, amplifying modern Chinese food, and partnering with Simu Liu. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Palmer, CEO of McConnell's Fine Ice Creams since 2012, stepped into his role leading the legacy brand with a mission to breathe new life into an institution that had been delighting ice cream lovers since 1949 — without losing its cool factor.  Listen now to learn about revitalizing McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, rethinking social media strategies, and keeping it simple. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

CEO Scott Snyder's journey with Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii began as a mission to help the brand regain its footing, but it quickly evolved into a larger vision. Brought in initially to assist with turning operations around, he soon saw the incredible potential the brand held.  Listen now to learn more about revamping Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, building an experiential brand, and marketing to a diverse fanbase. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

After a prolific 20 year NBA career that saw Shaquille O'Neal also release platinum-selling music and star in box office smash movies, he brings his championship mentality and larger-than-life persona to new heights with Big Chicken. Listen now to learn about being resourceful in marketing, Shaq's social media strategy, and becoming a part of the Big Chicken team. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • WALMART BUSINESS: https://business.walmart.com/

Taylor Mason, CEO/founder of Taylor's Tacos, is on a mission to create the “In-N-Out of Tacos”. She's transforming her beloved taco concept into a streamlined experience that caters to the modern customer's craving for convenience. Listen now to learn about growing a restaurant business, using community resources to build a business, and the Good Morning America effect. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • WALMART BUSINESS: https://business.walmart.com/  

Gourmet Foods, founder/CEO of Cookie Jar Bakery, and creator of gourmet Nigerian restaurants, including iLÉ EROS. Listen now to learn about becoming “The Billionaire Chef”, his collaboration with Michael B. Jordan and Chase Sapphire, and the differences between West Africa and the US. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • WALMART BUSINESS: https://business.walmart.com/  

Celebrity Chef Eddie Jackson, known for his appearances on the Food Network, has successfully transitioned his culinary talents into a thriving business model that blends creativity, mentorship, and efficient operations. Listen now to learn about the advantage of food trucks, being mentored by Bobby Flay, and streamlining operations with restaurant technology like Toast. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • WALMART BUSINESS: https://business.walmart.com/

Sam Oches, editorial director at Informa Connect's Restaurant & Food Group, shares insights into the role new media plays in the restaurant industry in this interview live from the 2024 National Restaurant Show. As the largest event management company in the world, Informa has become an invaluable host of major industry happenings and content. Listen now to learn about hosting the National Restaurant Show, social media strategy, and creating a podcast network for the hospitality industry. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

If there's one commonality among restaurant operators, it's that there is just too much to do with too little time. That's why Popmenu is using AI and other new technologies to help restaurants get back more of life's most precious resource: hours in the day. Listen now to this interview with Popmenu co-founders Brendan Sweeney and Tony Roy about buying into restaurant tech, the benefits of industry events, and AI tools. Sponsored by: • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

San Pedro Fish Market became famous thanks to storytelling. Michael Ungaro and Henry Ungaro Jr. from the fish market are guests on this episode to talk about how the family business has persisted across multiple generations and leaned into video content to grow their brand. Listen now to learn about creating the Kings of Fish reality show on Amazon Prime Video, going viral, and running a profitable family business Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc  

Sebastien Silvestri's journey is a testament to the power of experience and effort. The Dinex Group CEO received formal education in finance and P&L management. Still, Silvestri attributes his most significant learning to his time in Las Vegas. Listen now to learn about development in the restaurant industry, diversification in business, and true hospitality. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn

Kelly Esten, Chief Marketing Officer at Toast, has a customer-centric marketing approach. She believes in the importance of understanding and engaging with customers to ensure that marketing efforts are not only impactful, but also authentic. Listen now to learn about her marketing journey, the importance of mentors, and the launch of the popular Toast Now app. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn

Sulhee Jessica Woo — known as the Bento Box Queen — catapulted to viral fame by sharing her simple, yet beautifully crafted, DIY bento-style lunches on TikTok, capturing the hearts of millions with her loving and creative touch. Listen now to learn about creating content with her children, using TikTok, and building a community in the creator economy. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn

7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to improve performance for restaurants. Founded in the back office of a sandwich shop in 2014, 7shifts was born out of CEO Jordan Boesch's desire to create simple solutions for complex team management challenges. Listen now to learn about engaging employees, simplifying product development, and why now is the best time to be a restaurant operator. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn

Chef Joe Flamm is the culinary director of Day Off Group, which runs popular Chicago restaurants Rose Mary and BLVD Steakhouse. He is also the winner of Top Chef. Early on, he learned the importance of telling stories whether on TV or social media. Listen now to learn about becoming a celebrity chef, perfecting Balkan cuisine, and keeping it real on social media. Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn  

Mayim Bialik was an actor on classic shows like "Blossom" and "The Big Bang Theory," as well as a host of Jeopardy!. She has crafted a unique space with the podcast Mayim Bialik's Breakdown and her popular YouTube channel — where she shares her authentic self. Listen now to learn about the mental health journey, starting a podcast, and the power of authenticity.  Sponsored by:  • TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc • OVATION - Guest Feedback Platform: https://ovationup.com/shawn