Together We Win

In this episode, MRA President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller sit down with industry experts Brian Connors - renowned professor and consultant—and Patrick Renna, CFO of Proof of the Pudding, to introduce the new MRA Restaurant Leadership Institute launching this fall. Designed to give independents access to the same leadership development resources as multi-unit and chain operations, the Institute is a game-changer. Hear how investing in team development can drive performance, retention, and long-term success—and why now is the time to get ahead.

On this episode of Together We Win, MRA PresidentSteve Clark and VP Kerry Miller sit down with former restaurant owner andseasoned industry advisor Paul Turano for a deep dive into what it really takesto build a successful restaurant—and keep it thriving. Drawing from his ownexperience and the many operators he now supports, Paul shares smart strategiesfor navigating challenges, leading teams, and creating a business that standsthe test of time. Whether you're in the trenches or planning your next move,this conversation is packed with valuable perspective.

In this episode of Together We Win, MRA President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller sit down with Jeff Bean, President of TriMark United East, and Steve Borelli of Sprague Energy, both exhibitors at the upcoming New England Restaurant & Bar Show on March 30th and 31st. They'll discuss what attendees can expect at this year's event, the latest industry trends, and why this show is a must-attend for restaurant and hospitality professionals.As key exhibitors, Jeff and Steve will share insights on how businesses can make the most of their time at the show, from discovering new products and solutions to networking with industry leaders. Tune in for a sneak peek at one of the biggest hospitality events of the year!

In this episode of Together We Win, MRA President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller chat with Chris Coombs, a former fine dining chef in Boston who made the leap from the kitchen to the court—founding Bosse Pickledom – A Premiere Pickleball Experience. Hear how his shift from fine dining to the world of pickleball changed his outlook on food, business, community, and life.

Join Together We Win hosts Steve Clark, President of the MRA, and Kerry Miller, Vice President, as they explore the fascinating world of alcohol in the hospitality industry. This month, they're joined by two esteemed guests: Rhonda Kallman, founder of Boston Harbor Distillery, who shares the art and science of crafting spirits, and Ryan Dion of 110 Grill, RA Ventures and more who provides insights into what's selling and why. From production to consumer trends, this episode is packed with valuable insight for anyone in the industry—or anyone who loves a good drink!

On this episode of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association's Together We Win podcast, President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller are joined by two expert leadership consultants to talk about what it takes to successfully lead in the restaurant industry. David Hyatt and Christopher Muller provide insight for managers, owners, operators, and anyone else who is looking to better communicate and run their business.

Listen in as President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association chat with two industry vets about the ever-changing MA restaurant and bar scene. Special guests Seana Gaherin from Dunn-Gaherin's in Newton and Gretchen Shelgren from Mamma Mia's in Plymouth share their thoughts on eliminating the tipped minimum wage and why you should vote ‘no' on Massachusetts ballot question 5.

In the August episode of the MRA 'Together We Win' podcast, President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller welcome two industry powerhouses: Lisa Flores, Director of Sales and Marketing at Columbus Hospitality Group, and Kelly Fay, Director of Events at Eastern Standard. As co-founders of the Society of Event Planners, these accomplished women bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, discussing the intricacies of event planning and the dynamic evolution of the catering and hosting industry. Join us for a deep dive into the latest trends, challenges, and future directions of event management with insights from two of the field's leading experts.

What's better than summer in Massachusetts? Pizza and beer during the summer in Massachusetts! Join Steve and Kerry as they sit down with brewery legends Adam Romanow of Castle Island Brewing Company and David Lombardo of Lombardo's Hospitality Group & Bardo's Bar Pizza. Together, they dive into the world of beer and bar pizza, sharing the origins of their businesses, the unique qualities of 'South Shore bar pizza,' and insider insights into the beer and bar industry. Tune in for a slice!

In the June episode of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, "Together We Win," hosts President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller are joined by two distinguished guests: Janelle Driscoll, Publisher for Boston Common Magazine and Moira McCarthy, Winter Outdoor Sports Editor and Travel Editor of the Boston Herald. Together, they delve into the burgeoning trend of experiential dining and explore how Massachusetts restaurants are rising to meet this growing demand. The discussion covers innovative dining concepts, unique culinary experiences, and the creative strategies local restaurants are employing to attract and delight patrons. Tune in to gain insights from industry experts on the future of dining in the Bay State.

How important is art in the design process of a restaurant? How important are the images you use in marketing your restaurant? Hear from one of Boston's most celebrated artists and muralists and Boston's premier restaurant photographer as they chat about all things art in the restaurant scene.

Expanding your restaurant to new locations involves research of new markets, great real estate partners, and planning. Talk to both a restauranter that has expanded with several brands and a real estate partner that houses numerous restaurant concepts.

Passing down a family business brings with it responsibilities, changes, and new demographics. Hear from those who have been through it and are changing the faces of their family businesses.

Let's talk brand expansion and elevated bar programs on this episode of Together We Win. Mix up your favorite cocktail and join Steve & Kerry as they sip alongside Chef Eric LeBlanc, Culinary Director for Burtons Grill & Bar as he talks about the brand's upcoming 20th location opening, and Emily Harding, Beverage Director for Legendary Restaurant Group about exciting bar program happenings and how a thoughtful bar program can boost business.

What's better than wine and social media scrolling time? Indulge in both on this episode of Together We Win as Steve and Kerry are joined by wine expert brother duo Jace & Kaden Chaffee of Vine Farmer and local influencer Paige Harding of Dining Boston. Amongst meatballs and vino, guests talk about the new voices of the food and beverage industries.

This month, sit down with MRA's Steve Clark and Kerry Miller for the official launch of Together We Win Season 2! Now available in audio and video format, listen (or watch) as the team talks ghost kitchens and creative marketing campaigns with Dan Dillon, VP of Marketing for Olga's Kitchen and Jon Paton, Director of Sales at Widowmaker Brewing Co. Grab a beer and your favorite takeout and tune in to sip along!  

This month, sit down with MRA's Steve Clark and Kerry Miller for the official launch of Together We Win Season 2! Now available in audio and video format, listen (or watch) as the team talks ghost kitchens and creative marketing campaigns with Dan Dillon, VP of Marketing for Olga's Kitchen and Jon Paton, Director of Sales at Widowmaker Brewing Co. Grab a beer and your favorite takeout and tune in to sip along!

It's June and President of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, Steve Clark and Vice President Kerry Miller welcome two new guests on the ‘Together We Win' Podcast to discuss creativity and innovation in the food and beverage industry. First, Jefferson Macklin, managing partner of several South End restaurants, speaks about what it's like to open a new concept and the role creativity plays. He is followed by Maureen ‘Moe' McGuiness, a longtime educator and owner/operator of Sylvester's and Roberto's who leads Western Mass in innovative ideas specifically emphasizing the use of technology in the industry.

In the this month's episode of the ‘Together We Win' Podcast, hosts Steve Clark, President of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association and VP Kerry Miller provide a recap of the 2023 New England Food Show. They welcome their first guest, CEO and President of El Mundo Boston, Alberto Vasallo III, speaking on the evolution of young Latino leaders in the area. Followed by Bob Jarvis, a successful restauranter in Cape Cod, who joins them to talk preparation as the busy season for the coast of Massachusetts inches closer.

In the March episode of the Together We Win Podcast hosted by President, Steve Clark and VP, Kerry Miller of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, listen in on upcoming opportunities in the restaurant industry. Special guests Nicole Olivier, Vice President of Sales at Martignetti Companies speaks to the changes in the liquor industry post COVID-19 while founder and CEO of the latest in restaurant review platforms, Paul English, discusses his new app, Deets, and what it means for the industry. Tune in for all the ‘Deets' with Steve and Kerry along with returning guest host, JP Faiella of Image Unlimited Communications.

Tune in as your hosts, Steve Clark, President of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association and Kerry Miller his VP, are joined by guest host JP Faiella of Image Unlimited Communications. They welcome their first guest, Boston sports royalty, Todd Angilly, the official anthem singer of the Boston Bruins to talk restaurant events and employment. Followed by Kathy Drew, Vice President of Commercial Operations at Trimark United East speaking on how they've worked to perfect their operation at Trimark as well as their roll in this year's upcoming New England Food Show.

In the February episode of the Together We Win Podcast hosted by President Steve Clark and VP Kerry Miller of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, listen in on upcoming opportunities in the restaurant industry. Special guests Nicole Olivier, Vice President of Sales at Martignetti Companies speaks to the changes in the liquor industry post COVID-19 while founder and CEO of the latest in restaurant review platforms, Paul English, discusses his new app, Deets, and what it means for the industry. Tune in for all the ‘Deets' with Steve and Kerry along with guest host, JP Faiella of Image Unlimited Communications.

Another year, another calendar turned! Steve Clark and Kerry Miller get excited about what's to come in 2023 with lots of ‘new' in the industry. JP Martignetti, Co-Owner of Sogno Italian restaurant in Woburn talks about what it's like to open a restaurant today. And Renee Guilbault, Founder of Essayer Food Consulting, chats about her upcoming book, A Taste of Opportunity.

Winter is upon us! The MRAs own Steve Clark and Kerry Miller hunker down for cold weather and warm conversation with some of Massachusetts' leading restaurant voices. This month's guests include: Ed Doyle, President of RealFood Hospitality Strategy and Design & Jen Ziskin, Co-Owner and Wine Director for La Morra, Heritage of Sherborn, & Punch Bowl Brookline.

Tune in to this episode of the MRA Together We Win podcast hosted by President and CEO, Steve Clark, and Vice President of Operations Kerry Miller, as the two are joined by two very different but equally intriguing guests. First we hear from nationally recognized and critically acclaimed comedian Tony V, followed by Co-Founder of Gastronomical Adventures Consulting and Professor at FIU Champlin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, Chris Muller.

Listen in as President and CEO of the MRA, Steve Clark, and Vice President of Operations, Kerry Miller, are joined at the table by their first ever in-person guest on the Together We Win Podcast. Chef Denise Herrera, Vice President of Food & Beverage at Burtons Grill and Red Heat Tavern kicks off the show in the hot seat. She then guest hosts as the three are joined by former Burton's Grill bartender turned independent business-owner, Justin Morales, President and Founder of Up n' Down, Rock and Bourbon.

The Fall is in full swing in Boston and this month JP Faiella from Image Unlimited Communications (IUCBoston) returns to join hosts Steve Clark, President of the MRA and Vice President of Operations, Kerry Miller at the table. This month's guests on the podcast are Vinny Lombardi, Senior Vice President Operations at The Lyons Group and Ryan Dion, Chief Operating Officer of 110 Grill.

Out with the old and in with the new as the MRA Podcast welcomes New MRA President Steve Clark and a new 3-host format along with Kerry Miller. This episode's guest host is JP Faiella from Image Unlimited Communications (IUCBoston) and features guests David Lombardo, Director of Operations at Lombardo's Hospitality Group and Christopher Tocchio, Director of Strategy & Operations at RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design.

It's officially summer season for the restaurant world—and that means outdoor patios are filled, chilled cocktails are clinked, and, for the MRA team, industry veteran, Bob Luz, is retiring. On this episode of “Together We Win,” the team sits down for an emotional send-off for Luz, and opens an exciting, new chapter for the MRA. Bob sits down with the new President & CEO of the MRA, Steve Clark, for an intimate interview as they verbally pass the baton along and cheers to new beginnings. Steve recaps all things Detroit-style pizza and opening a restaurant during the pandemic with Kris Gullapalli, Founder of Square Mfg. Co.. And Kerry Miller is joined by Chad Horn, Co-Founder of Partnerships at Devour, to discuss the benefits of intersecting blockchain and restaurants.

After an April episode hiatus to focus on the New England Food Show, the MRA team is BACK serving up new content for the restaurant industry. On this episode of “Together We Win,” the MRA team chats about an exciting and lively season to come for restaurants and Massachusetts sports fans alike. Bob Luz sits down with Sean Kennedy, Executive VP of Public Affairs at the National Restaurant Association, discuss all things restaurant news. Steve Clark chats with Chef Erin Miller of Cambridge's Urban Hearth restaurant about her time in the food show and what the slow food movement means to her. And Kerry Miller is joined by Brett Swanson, Senior Manager of Community Affairs & Social Impact at Grubhub, to discuss ways in which even large companies can support the little ones.

It's (almost) showtime! On this special New England Food Show episode of “Together We Win,” the MRA team is joined by various talent and vendors as they give a sneak peek of their stories before they hit the stage in April. Listen to Bob Luz chat with Jeff Bean of Trimark United East about his journey within the food service industry. Steve Clark sits down with celebrity chef, Andy Husbands, about all things BBQ, and maybe a little whiskey. And Kerry Miller is joined by Marian Leitner, Founder of Archer Rose Wines, about ruffling the feathers of the canned wine industry. After getting a taste of some of the talent to come, book your ticket at the show by heading to https://www.newenglandfoodshow.com/.

Winter is in full swing, mask mandates are being lifted, staffing issues remain. Local restauranteurs and restaurant industry folks alike are juggling an assortment of exciting and challenging factors as springtime approaches. On this episode of “Together We Win,” the MRA team looks towards an exciting future. Bob Luz sits down with Charlie Noyes, President of all 103 Ninety Nine Restaurant & Bar locations, to chat about how to keep a brand relevant over decades. Steve Clark chats with Joe Piantedosi of Piantedosi Baking Company about supply chain issues, bread, and getting back to business…in style, of course. And Kerry Miller is joined by Red 13 Creative's very own Mark Roberge and Shaun Lichtenstein, the team that makes this podcast magic happen! The crew discusses how they've pivoted their business and how they can offer support to help restaurants get back on their feet.

Out with 2021 and in with 2022! On this episode of “Together We Win,” the Massachusetts Restaurant Association crew talks about sports, politics, and lifestyle TV in the New Year. Bob Luz is joined by NBC's Lifestyle Expert, Anna Rossi, as they discuss her journey to becoming one of Boston's most beloved TV personalities. Steve Clark talks with Doug Bacon of Red Paint Hospitality Group about a changing financial climate within the restaurant industry and beyond, and the role legislation plays in all of it. And Kerry Miller chats with Travis Rafferty, Founder and CEO of Captain, about their revolutionary BYOD (bring your own device) POS system.

On this holiday episode of “Together We Win,” The Massachusetts Restaurant Association's podcast, the crew sits down to discuss the holidays and end of year happenings with exciting guests. Bob Luz is joined by the Food and Entertainment Editor of Boston Magazine, Scott Kearnan, as they discuss restaurant ratings and the…fluffernutter? Steve Clark has the honor of chatting with the podcast's first repeat guest, Frank McLaughlin, Partner at Antares Group, about prepping for end of year financials in the restaurant industry. And Kerry Miller speaks with Derek Canton, Founder and CEO of Paerpay about the past, present, and future of the POS system.

Have time on your hands while the turkey is in the oven? Pop in and listen to this special Thanksgiving episode of “Together We Win,” the official podcast of The Massachusetts Restaurant Association. Family is in town! Bob Luz interviews his brother, David Luz, about his vast experience working at everything from the national level at The Cheesecake Factory, a local, independent brand, and now his newest venture out in Arizona. Steve Clark interviews MRA's own Jennifer Almeida, Director of Education for MRA's Educational Foundation, about teaching the next generation of the restaurant industry. And Kerry Miller talks all things hospitality with Matt Camilleri, Managing Director of RealFood Consulting.

On this month's spooky Halloween episode, the “Together We Win” crew from The Massachusetts Restaurant Association chats about everything from trick-or-treating and the Red Sox the lack of diversity in Massachusetts's restaurant scene and to preparing for crises post-pandemic. Bob Luz sits down with Darryl Settles, President and Partner of Catalyst Ventures Development, to talk about his experience enhancing Boston while providing economic opportunities and increasing diversity. Steve Clark talks with John Napolitano of US Wealth Management about what we can learn financially from the COVID-19 pandemic. And Kerry Miller speaks with Kassandra and Courtney Pike about their Fliptable app, ranked #1 for finding and posting restaurant jobs.

With kids back in school, Congress back in session, & the Patriots back on the field, this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast covers new Fall beginnings and the end of the summer season. Bob Luz interviews Rhonda Kallman, Founder & CEO of Boston Harbor Distillery, about whiskey & her journey through the beverage world. Steve Clark talks with Arpit Patel of Baramor in Newton Centre about his experience as a local restaurant owner during the pandemic. And Kerry Miller speaks with transgender activist, CEO of Pollo West Corp, & Founder of the California Transgender Workplace Program, Michaela Mendelsohn about her role helping transwomen navigate and conquer the restaurant industry.

Temperatures are rising on this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, as the team discusses final summer happenings. Bob Luz interviews former Red Sox legend, Kevin Youkilis, about his transition from the baseball field to the craft beer world. Steve Clarke talks all about restaurant-centric politics with Shannon Meade, VP of Public Policy & Legal Advocacy at the National Restaurant Association. And Kerry Miller speaks with Leanne Gordon of ServeUp Savings about ways to save money during these strange financial times. Opening Segment: 0:00 – 7:54 Kevin Youlikis: 30:58 – 49:44 (Lightning Round Begins: 46:10) Shannon Meade: 49:45 – 1:08:17 Leanna Gordon: 1:08:18 – 1:23:39

With summer in full swing, on this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, the team discussed getting back to normal in the restaurant industry and beyond. Bob Luz interviews the ‘Nightlife King', Ed Kane, Owner of Big Night Entertainment Group. Steve Clarke talks with MRA publicist and CEO of Image Unlimited Communications, JP Faiella. And Kerry Miller speaks with Jeff Koons, VP of Construction Services at Trimark United East, about how restaurants and restaurant design may look moving forward.

On this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, the team celebrates life after vaccinations and discusses the past, present, and future of the restaurant industry. Bob Luz interviews Cindy Brown, CEO of the Boston Duck Tour Group, about her experience working with a Boston tourism staple. Steve Clarke speaks with MRA Chairman and Acquitane Group Partner, Jeff Gates, and Kerry discusses staffing shortage solutions with Todd Snopkowski, Founder and CEO of Snapchef Culinary Staffing & Training.

On this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, the team celebrates the arrival of Spring in Boston and talks what a post-covid Massachusetts looks like. Bob Luz interviews Billy Shore, the founder and executive chair of Share Our Strength, the parent organization for the No Kid Hungry campaign. Steve Clarke talks tax time with Frank McLaughlin, Partner and CPA at Antares Group and Kerry speaks with Lisa Flores Founder & President at SERV - Society for Event Planners Restaurant Venues.

On this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, the team talks March Madness and laments about the upcoming Spring in Boston. Bob Luz interviews Shayna Seymour co-host from the iconic show Chronicle on WCVB. Steve Clarke interviews Mike Whatley, Vice President, State Affairs and Grassroots Advocacy at the National Restaurant Association and Kerry chats up Ryan Jones, Vice President of Operations at the Lyons Group.

On this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, the team records the day before the 2021 presidential inauguration. Bob Luz interviews Chef Jason Santos. Chef Santos talks about coming up in the industry, his early days, Hell’s Kitchen, about his restaurants, opening his newest venture during the COVID-19 Pandemic (B&B Fish) and becoming the Sous Chef for Chef Gordon Ramsey. Steve sits down with Massachusetts State Senator Nick Collins and talks all things restaurants and Kerry chats up Chris Muller about the current state of the industry and what to look forward to in the not-so-distant future.

On this episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, Bob Luz interviews Jenny Johnson from NESN’s Dining Playbook, Steve Clark interviews John Schall from El Jefe’s Taqueria about the truth behind third party delivery including fees and “ghosting” and Kerry Miller chats with Energy Partner Sprague Energy about how COVID-19 has impacted restaurants.

On the inaugural episode of “Together We Win” – The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Podcast, Bob Luz interviews Mayor Marty Walsh Mayor of Boston and Kerry Miller chats with Martignetti Companies on the state of the beverage industry.