Shows
QuenchSeason 9 highlightsSeason 9 of Forktales brought together visionaries redefining what it means to lead, create, and serve in the food and beverage world. From heritage duck farms to plant-based dairies, family restaurants to city-shaping pubs, every guest offered a story rooted in passion and purpose.
Joey Jurgielewicz kicked off the season with a lesson in legacy and sustainability from Tasty Duck. Tom Moffitt explored the science and spirit behind plant-based dairy innovation. Edward Medina shared how Ramona’s Food Group turned a 78-year-old family brand into a modern Mexican food powerhouse. Sameer Malhotra revealed how Café Spice brought authentic Indian cuisine to Ame...
2025-10-3008 minVigorSeason 9 highlightsSeason 9 of Forktales brought together visionaries redefining what it means to lead, create, and serve in the food and beverage world. From heritage duck farms to plant-based dairies, family restaurants to city-shaping pubs, every guest offered a story rooted in passion and purpose.
Joey Jurgielewicz kicked off the season with a lesson in legacy and sustainability from Tasty Duck. Tom Moffitt explored the science and spirit behind plant-based dairy innovation. Edward Medina shared how Ramona’s Food Group turned a 78-year-old family brand into a modern Mexican food powerhouse. Sameer Malhotra revealed how Café Spice brought authentic Indian cuisine to Ame...
2025-10-3008 min
VigorCurtis Chin – Writer, filmmaker and storyteller of culture and community“Chinese restaurants are going to save America.” That’s the bold belief of Curtis Chin — writer, filmmaker, activist, and author of the memoir Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant. Growing up as a Chinese American in 1980s Detroit, Curtis found community, identity, and resilience inside his family’s landmark restaurant, Chung’s Cantonese Cuisine.
In this episode of Forktales, Curtis reflects on life lessons from the dining room, the power of service and conversation, and why family restaurants act as vital community glue. He also explores Detroit as a cultural crossroads and the lasting influence Chinese restaurants have had on...
2025-10-0241 min
VigorElliot Nelson – Restaurateur, real estate developer and future mayor of TulsaElliot Nelson is the founder and CEO of McNellie’s Group, the hospitality company credited with transforming downtown Tulsa’s dining scene. What began as a college business plan for a fictional Irish pub grew into a thriving portfolio of more than 25 restaurants and bars, as well as large-scale development projects that have reshaped the city.
In this episode of Forktales, Elliot shares how McNellie’s became Tulsa’s go-to destination for craft beer, his vision of creating a “living room” for the city, and the role historic renovations have played in revitalizing downtown.
2025-09-1150 min
QuenchSameer Malhotra – Food entrepreneur and leader in authentic Indian cuisineFrom growing up in his family’s New York restaurants to leading a $50 million food company, Sameer Malhotra has built Café Spice into one of the most recognized names in Indian cuisine. What began as a single bistro-style restaurant is now a nationally distributed brand supplying Whole Foods hot bars, private-label products, and ready-to-eat meals across the country.
In this episode of Forktales, Sameer shares how Café Spice made the leap from restaurants to large-scale manufacturing, the importance of balancing authenticity with approachability when introducing Indian flavors to American consumers, and why food demos are more powerful than discounts.
2025-08-2849 min
QuenchEdward Medina – Transformative leader in authentic Mexican cuisineEdward Medina is at the helm of Ramona's Food Group, steering the company with both tradition and innovation in mind. When Edward joined in 2012 as director of finance, Ramona’s was losing hundreds of thousands each month. By 2014, as CEO, he led a dramatic turnaround—streamlining operations, cutting costs, and standing firm on product value—which transformed the struggling company into a profitable, respected brand.
In this episode of Forktales, Edward shares engaging stories about Ramona's colorful journey, from delivering tortillas on buses to becoming a staple in the frozen food aisle. He talks about the importance of keeping things authen...
2025-08-1431 minVigorEdward Medina – Transformative leader in authentic Mexican cuisineEdward Medina is at the helm of Ramona's Food Group, steering the company with both tradition and innovation in mind. When Edward joined in 2012 as director of finance, Ramona’s was losing hundreds of thousands each month. By 2014, as CEO, he led a dramatic turnaround—streamlining operations, cutting costs, and standing firm on product value—which transformed the struggling company into a profitable, respected brand.
In this episode of Forktales, Edward shares engaging stories about Ramona's colorful journey, from delivering tortillas on buses to becoming a staple in the frozen food aisle. He talks about the importance of keeping things authen...
2025-08-1431 min
QuenchTom Moffitt – Pioneer in Plant-Based Dairy and Champion of Quality InnovationTom Moffitt is a seasoned entrepreneur and pioneering figure in the plant-based dairy industry, leveraging his extensive background as a food microbiologist. With a successful track record co-founding Commonwealth Dairy and leading its growth into a national powerhouse, Tom now spearheads Culture Fresh Foods, a company dedicated to developing innovative non-dairy products such as plant-based yogurts, sour creams, and cream cheeses.
In this episode of Forktales, Tom discusses his strategic shift from the dairy industry to plant-based products and the growing trend of plant-based products becoming interchangeable with traditional dairy.
2025-07-3147 min
QuenchJoey Jurgielewicz – Duck industry leader and champion of happy poultryWe’re kicking off Season 9 of Forktales with a deep dive into the world of duck.
Joey Jurgielewicz is Director of Client Service at Tasty Duck—one of the largest and most respected duck producers in North America. With a background in hospitality and a deep knowledge of the family business, Joey is helping lead the charge in bringing premium duck to chefs, retailers and consumers nationwide.
In this episode of Forktales, Joey talks heritage breeds, fat-to-meat ratios, and why duck belongs on more than just fine dining menus. He breaks down new product innovations, zero-waste sustainability efforts, and the comp...
2025-07-1731 min
QuenchSeason 8 highlightsSeason 8 of Forktales served up a fresh batch of bold voices and breakthrough ideas from across the food and beverage industry. From Sean Zecman’s insights on scaling a food distribution powerhouse to Kenny Morrison’s mission to normalize cannabis beverages, we explored innovation at every level.
Laurel Orley and Denise Woodard shared how mission-driven snacking can drive both purpose and profit, while Judy Joo redefined authenticity in modern Korean cuisine. We went local with Josh Kesler and Peter Newlin, global with Stephanie Jaeger and Clara Paye, and talked brand-building and hustle with Yanni Hufnagel and Jeff Broadhurst. Every guest brou...
2025-07-1118 minVigorSeason 8 highlightsSeason 8 of Forktales served up a fresh batch of bold voices and breakthrough ideas from across the food and beverage industry. From Sean Zecman’s insights on scaling a food distribution powerhouse to Kenny Morrison’s mission to normalize cannabis beverages, we explored innovation at every level.
Laurel Orley and Denise Woodard shared how mission-driven snacking can drive both purpose and profit, while Judy Joo redefined authenticity in modern Korean cuisine. We went local with Josh Kesler and Peter Newlin, global with Stephanie Jaeger and Clara Paye, and talked brand-building and hustle with Yanni Hufnagel and Jeff Broadhurst. Every guest brou...
2025-07-1118 min
QuenchKenny Morrison – Founder of VCC Brands and Pioneer in Cannabis-Infused BeveragesKenny Morrison is the founder of VCC Brands and CQ Drinks, and a pioneer in the world of cannabis-infused edibles and beverages. His expertise lies in crafting products that normalize cannabis consumption while staying ahead of shifting regulations, cultural trends, and consumer expectations.
In this episode of Forktales, Kenny talks about his journey from filming a cannabis dispensary to running one of the first in Los Angeles. He shares how CQ Drinks is challenging outdated stoner stereotypes by focusing on approachable, female-friendly branding and fast-acting THC delivery.
2025-06-0452 min
QuenchLaurel Orley – CEO of Daily Crunch and Innovator in Better-for-You SnackingLaurel Orley is the founder and CEO of Daily Crunch Snacks, a women-owned, mission-driven snack brand known for its sprouted, air-dried almonds and bold flavor combinations. With a background in advertising, Laurel brings a deep understanding of branding, storytelling, and consumer insight to her entrepreneurial journey.
In this episode of Forktales, Laurel shares the family recipe that inspired her product and how she carved out a space in the crowded snack aisle. She talks about the mental health mission behind the Daily Crunch brand and the power of flavor-forward innovation.
2025-05-2248 min
VigorJudy Joo – Chef, entrepreneur and leading voice in modern Korean cuisineJudy Joo is a chef, entrepreneur, and TV personality who left Wall Street to follow her passion for food. A graduate of Columbia and the French Culinary Institute, she trained in world-renowned kitchens and went on to become an Iron Chef and the founder of Seoul Bird, a fast-casual Korean fried chicken concept.
On this episode of Forktales, Judy talks about using her engineering and finance background to run restaurants, breaking barriers in male-dominated industries, and redefining what authenticity means in Korean cuisine.
2025-05-1643 min
QuenchDenise Woodard – CPG entrepreneur and advocate for allergy-friendly snackingIn this very special 100th episode of Forktales, we’re joined by Denise Woodard. Denise is the trailblazing founder and CEO of Partake Foods, a line of allergy-friendly snacks inspired by her daughter’s food allergies. As the first Black woman to raise more than $1 million publicly for a CPG food startup, Denise has become a powerful advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship, food equity, and consumer wellness.
On this episode of Forktales, Denise shares how a push from her nanny and a chance zoo encounter sparked her leap from corporate life to founder. She discusses the challenges of allergy-safe food manufacturing, evol...
2025-05-0834 min
VigorStephanie Jaeger – President of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI)Women make up more than half of the hospitality workforce, yet hold only a small fraction of leadership roles. Stephanie Jaeger wants to change that. Stephanie currently serves as President of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), a global organization dedicated to supporting and elevating women in food, beverage, and hospitality.
In this episode of Forktales, Stephanie shares how she got involved with LDEI, the power of mentorship, the need for representation in culinary leadership and how LDEI is expanding its global impact. She also highlights barriers women still face in today’s hospitality industry.
2025-03-2735 min
QuenchYanni Hufnagel – Founder of Lemon PerfectYanni Hufnagel knows how to build a winning team, whether on the basketball court as a former assistant coach for powerhouse programs like Harvard, Vanderbilt, and Nevada or in the beverage aisle. As the founder of Lemon Perfect, he’s turned a simple idea into one of the fastest-growing brands in the industry, proving that great taste and better-for-you ingredients can go hand in hand.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Yanni talk about the parallels between coaching and entrepreneurship, how an unplanned endorsement from Beyonce gave the brand a boost, moving the brand from Los Angeles to Atlanta (ju...
2025-03-1447 min
VigorJeff Broadhurst – CEO of Eat’n Park Hospitality GroupJeff Broadhurst has built a career centered on creating memorable dining experiences and bringing joy to guests with Eat’n Park’s iconic smiley cookies. As CEO, he’s helped shape Eat’n Park into more than just a restaurant, it’s a place where smiles are always on the menu.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Jeff talk about the success of the Eat’n Park and Parkhurst Dining brands, the joys of working in a family business, the importance of taking care of your team and some of the best things on the Eat’n Park menu.
2025-02-2641 min
QuenchClara Paye – Founder & CEO of UNiTE FoodIn this episode, we sit down with Clara Paye, founder and CEO of UNiTE Food, a company shaking up the protein bar industry with globally inspired flavors like Churro and Mexican Hot Chocolate.
Clara shares her journey from the plumbing industry to entrepreneurship, highlighting her mission to create a more inclusive wellness community by offering diverse and nostalgic tastes that resonate with a wide range of consumers.
2025-02-1344 min
VigorSeason 7 highlightsSeason 7 of Forktales was a feast of stories and insights from food industry trailblazers. We explored how Biscuitville’s secret recipe became a Southern staple, how Rubix Foods stays one step ahead of flavor trends and how RoboBurger reinvented the burger experience.
Highlights also included Ben Jacobs’ mission to elevate Native cuisine, Doug Renfro’s spicy salsa innovations, and Andy Gellert’s global food import expertise. From mastering hospitality in airports to preserving the glitz of Vegas' Golden Steer, each guest brought something extraordinary to the table.
2024-12-2020 minQuenchSeason 7 highlightsSeason 7 of Forktales was a feast of stories and insights from food industry trailblazers. We explored how Biscuitville’s secret recipe became a Southern staple, how Rubix Foods stays one step ahead of flavor trends and how RoboBurger reinvented the burger experience.
Highlights also included Ben Jacobs’ mission to elevate Native cuisine, Doug Renfro’s spicy salsa innovations, and Andy Gellert’s global food import expertise. From mastering hospitality in airports to preserving the glitz of Vegas' Golden Steer, each guest brought something extraordinary to the table.
2024-12-2020 min
VigorStephen Baldi – President of Baldi Management GroupPeople in airports are travelling for a variety of reasons. The common denominator? They all have to eat. That’s where Stephen Baldi and Baldi Management Group (BMG) comes in. BMG is an airport concessions and management consulting company that manages restaurants like Dunkin’, Smashburger and Jamba Juice in Reagan National Airport, JFK International Airport and Dulles International Airport.
In this episode, Michael and Stephen talk about the importance of hospitality and good customer service (especially in airports), the value of mentorship, how to hire good managers and how a pair of Air Jordans changed Stephen’s life.
2024-12-0250 min
VigorNick McMillan and Amanda Signorelli – Managing Partners of the Golden SteerThe Golden Steer is more than just a steakhouse, it’s a piece of Las Vegas history. Sinatra, Muhammad Ali and Elvis dined there. Mob bosses held dinner meetings in dimly lit Golden Steer booths, coming and going through a secret back entrance. Nick McMillan and Amanda Signorelli are the husband and wife team managing the legendary restaurant.
In this episode, Michael talks to Nick and Amanda about the importance of top-notch hospitality, the best way to cook a steak and how they’ve preserved the Golden Steer’s status as a living monument to the glitz, grit, and glamor of cla...
2024-11-1343 min
VigorAnand Gala – Managing Partner of Gala Capital GroupAnand’s life in the restaurant industry started at a very young age when his mother became one of the first franchisees for Jack-in-the-Box. Although he tried to escape the family business with a degree in biology from USC, the lure of the restaurant industry drew him back in.
Today, Anand is managing partner of Gala Capital Partners, an investment and holding company whose portfolio includes CiCi’s Pizza, Famous Dave’s Barbeque, Rusty Taco and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Anand discuss the process for choosing a successful franchise, what you can learn from c...
2024-10-2140 min
QuenchAndy Gellert – President of Gellert Global GroupGellert Global Group imports more than 5,500 unique food items from more than 60 countries and is one of the largest food importers in the world. Andy Gellert sits at the helm of that family owned and operated business where he leads the company’s vision of being a part of every food experience.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Andy talk about how to avoid conflict in a family-owned business, the benefits of networks like the Young Presidents’ Organizations (YPO), the impact of inflation on the import business and the role of trends in identifying new imports.
2024-10-1430 min
VigorEp 88: Shannon O’Shields / VP of Marketing for Rubix Foods and Gen Z whispererRubix Foods has its finger on the pulse of the hottest flavor trends and brings those trends to life for roughly 70% of the top QSR and FSR restaurant brands in the nation. Shannon O’Shields is the VP of marketing for Rubix and offers a sneak peek at how the company helps restaurants stay one bite ahead of the competition.
Among the topics Michael and Shannon dig into in this episode: Why it’s important to act quickly when responding to a trend, how social media helps Rubix identify trends, the impact of Gen Z on today’s menus, and Shanno...
2024-09-3044 min
VigorEp 87: Doug Renfro / President of Renfro Foods and Salsa Creator ExtraordinaireThis episode of Forktales is a spicy one thanks to Doug Renfro of Renfro Foods. Doug and his cousins oversee Mrs. Renfro’s salsas, a brand that has grown into one of the largest salsa names in the nation and the brand with the most unique selection of flavors.
On the menu, Michael and Doug talk about the benefits (and struggles) of family ownership, trend spotting, flavor development and eating ghost peppers for breakfast.
2024-09-0431 minQuenchEp 87: Doug Renfro / President of Renfro Foods and Salsa Creator ExtraordinaireThis episode of Forktales is a spicy one thanks to Doug Renfro of Renfro Foods. Doug and his cousins oversee Mrs. Renfro’s salsas, a brand that has grown into one of the largest salsa names in the nation and the brand with the most unique selection of flavors.
On the menu, Michael and Doug talk about the benefits (and struggles) of family ownership, trend spotting, flavor development and eating ghost peppers for breakfast.
2024-09-0431 min
VigorEp 86: Burney Jennings / Executive Chairman of BiscuitvilleMore than 60 years ago Burney Jennings’ father, Maurice, had a choice: He could have the family farm or his mother’s closely-guarded biscuit recipe. Maurice chose the biscuit recipe and grew that family secret into Biscuitville, a 70-location restaurant that has become one of the most popular fast food franchises in the south.
On the menu in this episode of Forktales, Burney tells the story of that legendary inheritance, talks about the importance of family ownership, how closing every day at 2 p.m. separates Biscuitville from its competition and the one-word key to a good biscuit.
2024-08-2132 min
VigorEp 85: Ben Jacobs / Chef, founder of Tocabe and Native local pioneerBen Jacobs is a chef and a tribal member of the Osage Nation. He’s also a leader in bringing Native American food to the forefront of the American culinary conversation. In 2008, he founded Tocabe, one of the only restaurants in Denver specializing in Native and Indigenous cuisine and one of only a handful in the United States.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Ben talk about the best way to prepare elk, Tocabe’s appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives (and how Guy Fieri saved Ben’s restaurant), Ben’s Seed to Soul mission and why it’s so hard to de...
2024-08-0143 min
QuenchAudley Wilson / Founder of RoboBurger and Shark Tank survivorEarlier this year, Audley Wilson and his partners took their dream – a revolutionary vending machine that makes fresh, made-to-order burgers – and pitched it to the investors (and to America) on Shark Tank. They walked away with a $1.5 million loan, but getting there wasn’t easy.
In this episode of Forktales, Audley shares the long journey to Shark Tank, the challenges with building a fully-functioning kitchen in a 12-square-foot vending machine and why he chose to devote himself to making hamburgers. Audley also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Shark Tank process and why each entrepreneur who appears on the show really...
2024-07-1837 minVigorAudley Wilson / Founder of RoboBurger and Shark Tank survivorEarlier this year, Audley Wilson and his partners took their dream – a revolutionary vending machine that makes fresh, made-to-order burgers – and pitched it to the investors (and to America) on Shark Tank. They walked away with a $1.5 million loan, but getting there wasn’t easy.
In this episode of Forktales, Audley shares the long journey to Shark Tank, the challenges with building a fully-functioning kitchen in a 12-square-foot vending machine and why he chose to devote himself to making hamburgers. Audley also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Shark Tank process and why each entrepreneur who appears on the show really...
2024-07-1837 min
VigorCraig Bernstein / Founder of Doc B's Restaurant & BarIf you’re a fan of great stories, you’re going to love this episode of Forktales featuring Doc B’s Restaurant & Bar founder Craig Bernstein. Craig shares tales about how a childhood meeting with Morton’s Steakhouse legend Allen Bernstein inspired his hospitality career and emotional stories about going above and beyond to make guests happy.
Also on the menu in his episode, Michael and Craig talk about slow and steady growth, the unique design of each Doc B’s location and the indispensable qualities in any good restaurant manager.
2024-06-2838 min
QuenchMartino Brambilla / President of Embassy IngredientsIf you’ve had a donut, brownie, cupcake or cookie in the past year, you’ve probably had a baked good made with ingredients from Embassy Ingredients. Martino Brambilla was just 17 years old when his father handed him the reins to the company. Since then he’s grown it into one of the world’s largest providers of flavors and ingredients in the world.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Martino talk about the personality traits of a successful entrepreneur, clean labels, flavor trends and why indulgence doesn’t have to mean unhealthy.
2024-06-1030 min
VigorBenjamin Calleja / CXO of Livit DesignEvery eight hours, a new Livit designed restaurant opens somewhere in the world and Benjamin Calleja is leading that charge. As the founder and chief experience officer of Livit Design, he’s overseen the design of some of the biggest names in the hospitality industry, including Burger King, Applebees, Subway, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and many more.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Benjamin talk about how great design can enhance brand performance, his involvement in an architectural marvel known as “The Line,” some of the biggest design mistakes restaurants make and how Livit created the most Instagrammed restau...
2024-05-2342 min
VigorDan Rowe / CEO of FransmartDan Rowe is known in the restaurant industry as The Chainmaker. He takes emerging restaurant brands and, along with the team at Fransmart, turns those brands into successful national restaurant chains. It’s a formula he used for Five Guys, Qdoba Mexican Grill and, more recently, Halal Guys – a thriving chain that started from a food cart in New York City.
On the menu in this episode of Forktales, Dan talks about what makes a good franchisee (and a bad one), the role of real estate in marketing a new brand, his recent project with rapper Pitbull and the question one...
2024-05-0947 min
VigorEp 79: Jason E. Brooks / Founder of HospiVationJason E. Brooks is a coach, a motivational speaker and an author with a lifetime of restaurant experience. That’s one of the reasons he created HospiVation, a leadership coaching clinic that helps restaurants build better teams. It’s also why he wrote the book, “Every Leader Needs Followers: 10 Keys to Transform Restaurant Managers into Hospitality Leaders.”
In this episode, Michael and Jason talk about the difference between managing, leading and coaching (and why all three are important), how to motivate teams, effective training plans and why we suck at meetings.
2024-04-1841 min
QuenchEmily Rugaber - VP of Marketing for ThanxWhy do so many restaurants fail to properly use data? What are the biggest mistakes restaurants make when designing loyalty programs? Two huge questions and Emily Rugaber answers them both. Emily is the VP of Marketing for Thanx, a leading loyalty and guest engagement platform for restaurants.
In this episode of Forktales, Emily talks about the most common challenge restaurants face when it comes to data, the problem with discount-based loyalty programs, and why personalized programs are so difficult.
2024-04-0433 minVigorEmily Rugaber - VP of Marketing for ThanxWhy do so many restaurants fail to properly use data? What are the biggest mistakes restaurants make when designing loyalty programs? Two huge questions and Emily Rugaber answers them both. Emily is the VP of Marketing for Thanx, a leading loyalty and guest engagement platform for restaurants.
In this episode of Forktales, Emily talks about the most common challenge restaurants face when it comes to data, the problem with discount-based loyalty programs, and why personalized programs are so difficult.
2024-04-0433 min
VigorEp 77: Betsy Hamm / CEO of Duck DonutsDuck Donuts is one of the fastest growing donut shops in the nation, with 32 new locations last year and another 45 planned this year. The brand’s fresh, made-to-order donuts are a big part of that successful formula. Leading that growth is marketer-turned-CEO Betsy Hamm.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Betsy talk about the Duck Donuts origin story, what makes an ideal franchisee, managing rapid growth and why donuts really are the key to happiness.
2024-03-2126 min
VigorEp 76: Jay Cipra / CEO of Broaster CompanyIf you live in Wisconsin and the surrounding region, you know broasted chicken and how good it is. And the only way to make broasted chicken is with pressure-frying equipment and ingredients from Broaster Company. Jay Cipra is the CEO of Broaster Company and one of the many people tasked with promoting and protecting that trademark.
On the menu in this episode of Forktales, Michael and Jay talk about global expansion, pressure-fried cheesecakes, the future of pressure-frying in the home and how a passionate consumer base can be a brand’s best police force when it comes to protecting a br...
2024-03-0733 min
VigorMark Schostak / Executive Chairman of TEAM Schostak Family RestaurantsMark Schostak is the third generation of a four-generation family business that oversees 150 restaurants throughout Michigan. It’s a portfolio of culinary options that includes Applebee’s, MOD Pizza, Wendy’s and the company’s own brand, Olga’s Kitchen.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Mark talk about core values, the challenges of instilling those core values on teams spread across 150 locations, how to retain talent, why looking within to recruit high-quality managers is always a good idea and how to keep tabs on your restaurant’s competitors.
2024-02-2227 min
QuenchRob Grimes / Founder & CEO of the International Food & Beverage Technology Association (IFBTA)As the founder and CEO of the International Food & Beverage Technology Association (IFBTA), Rob Grimes spends his time forecasting tech trends and helping brands apply those trends to stay one step ahead of the competition.
In this episode of Forktales, Rob joins us from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas where he offers his thoughts on what’s hot (and what’s not) at CES, drones, robotics, the rise of electric vehicles, and why we should all keep an open mind about plant-based steaks.
2024-01-1129 min
VigorAndrew Glantz / Founder of GiftAMealStudies have shown that 84% of Gen Z shoppers are more likely to purchase from a brand if the brand gives back and 71% of Millennials would pay more for a product if they knew that some of the proceeds were going to a good cause. That’s the inspiration behind GiftAMeal, an app created by Andrew Glantz that makes a donation to local food banks when diners take photos of their meals at participating restaurants.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Andrew talk about cause marketing, the profits-with-a-purpose business model, entrepreneurial spirit and how GiftAMeal beat out thousands of competitors to...
2023-12-1435 min
VigorJames Passafaro / Co-Founder of opsiJames has 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry and a strong vision for technology’s role in it. One day, while working as a chef de cuisine in an overworked, frenzied and disorganized kitchen, that tech vision and the need to create a more streamlined and organized kitchen became the inspiration behind opsi.
In this episode of Forktales, James talks about how opsi is changing how modern operators manage restaurants. James and Michael also talk about robots in restaurants, elk recipes and the light switch moment as an 11-year-old that made James pursue a career in the kitchen.
2023-09-2824 min
QuenchForktales Episode 71: Dan Costello / CEO of Home Run Inn PizzaDan Costello oversees nine Chicago area pizza shops and a thriving frozen pizza brand as the CEO of Home Run Inn Pizza. That position gives him a front row seat in the battle for hearts, minds and stomachs in the Pizza Capital of the World.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Dan talk about brand storytelling, creating synergy between restaurant brands and CPG brands and, of course, pizza. Specifically, they discuss the origins of the Home Run Inn Pizza name, which meat tops more Chicagoland pizzas (hint: it’s not pepperoni) and whether deep dish pizza is really just a...
2023-09-1323 minForktalesForktales Episode 71: Dan Costello / CEO of Home Run Inn PizzaHome Run Inn is a family owned & operated establishment with nine restaurants throughout the Chicago area. They’ve been making pizza since 1947 and began creating and selling frozen pizzas for grocery store distribution nationwide in the 1960s. Dan is the 4th generation leader of Home Run Inn Pizza. He started in the family business at the age of 13 as a busboy. Home Run Inn’s signature square-sliced pizzas originated in the 1940s when the tavern would slice the pizza into small sample-sized pieces to entice customers. The restaurant’s frozen pizza was born after a re...
2023-09-1323 minVigorForktales Episode 71: Dan Costello / CEO of Home Run Inn PizzaDan Costello oversees nine Chicago area pizza shops and a thriving frozen pizza brand as the CEO of Home Run Inn Pizza. That position gives him a front row seat in the battle for hearts, minds and stomachs in the Pizza Capital of the World.
In this episode of Forktales, Michael and Dan talk about brand storytelling, creating synergy between restaurant brands and CPG brands and, of course, pizza. Specifically, they discuss the origins of the Home Run Inn Pizza name, which meat tops more Chicagoland pizzas (hint: it’s not pepperoni) and whether deep dish pizza is really just a...
2023-09-1323 min
ForktalesForktales Episode 70: Joseph Szala / Digital Guru & Bullhearted AuthorJoseph is the former host of Forktales and is currently working as the VP of Digital Experience for 3 Owl. He’s also the author of “Stop Blasting My Mama” (a book about effective email marketing) and “The Bullhearted Brand: Building Bullish Restaurant Brands That Charge Ahead of the Herd.” Joseph’s book, “Stop Blasting My Mama,” tackles the topic of email marketing and how modern marketing is overrun with overly aggressive terms – like blast and campaign – to describe what should be a friendly and civil interaction with consumers. Consumers today have more power today and can ignore brands – or...
2023-08-2930 min
Roundtable TalkMeredith Sandland / CEO of Empower Delivery & Digital Restaurant DynamoThe 2008 recession sped the disruption of the retail industry and the COVID-19 pandemic ushered in the digital disruption of restaurants. Meredith Sandland understands that disruption – and why it’s a good thing – better than anyone. In this episode of Forktales, we chat with Meredith about the restaurant tech revolution, eliminating complexity in restaurant operations and how “Delivering the Digital Restaurant” is actually a whole lot easier than most people think.
2023-02-1039 min
Roundtable TalkAdenah Bayoh, One Woman Economic Engine, Restaurant Leader, FranchiseeAdenah is the living definition of the American dream. She came to the United States at the age of 13 after escaping a war torn Liberia. Today, she’s the owner of four IHOP franchises and the founder of four restaurants of her own, including three locations of her fast casual, farm-to-table, soul food restaurant, Cornbread, and her newest dining venture, Urban Vegan.
In this episode of Forktales, Adenah shares her amazing story about overcoming adversity, the importance of supporting often overlooked communities, and how the lessons she learned from her grandmother have helped make her the successful entrepreneur she is to...
2022-12-1742 min
Roundtable TalkEllis Winstanley / Founder of Axial Shift, Owner of El Arroyo, and Man of Many TalentsWhen Ellis Winstanley and his wife, Paige, bought El Arroyo in 2012, they were buying more than just a popular local Tex-Mex restaurant. They were buying a brand that would become internationally recognized – thanks in large part to the restaurant’s witty marquee messages – despite only having a single location in Austin, Texas. In this episode of Forktales, we talk with Ellis about El Arroyo and its iconic marquees. We also talk about Axial Shift, a software platform founded by Ellis that’s changing the way restaurants motivate and reward employees.
2022-06-2832 min
Multiply Your Success with Dr. Tom DuFore73. The Bullhearted Brain Leading the Charge for Smart Restaurant Evolution—Joseph Szala, Founder, Vigor BrandingDo you remember the story about Ferdinand the Bull? Or how about Babe the Blue Ox, the companion of Paul Bunyan? These characters have made for great stories, but have you ever thought about how they can teach you lessons for your business? If you’re like me, you probably have not, but our guest today, Joseph Szala shares with us his concept that he calls The Bullhearted Brain and how it can help you lead your business better. **DO YOU NEED HELP SELLING MORE FRANCHISES? Attend our Franchise Sales Training Workshop on November 17. REGISTER BY CLI...
2021-11-0129 min
The Proven Principles Hospitality PodcastRethinking Hotel Food & Beverage: Joseph Szala, Vigor BrandingJoseph Szala is the Managing Director at Vigor, a restaurant branding and marketing agency based in Atlanta.
Hotel F&B can be a puzzle. Declining capture rates, downward pressure on menu prices and lack of investment in the interior design have ensured that most hotel restaurants remain uncompetitive guest amenities rather than inspired destinations that draw in guests and surrounding locals.
The last 18 months has demanded re-thinking and re-evaluation of every aspect of the hospitality industry - and your hotel restaurant is certainly in that bucket.
But with limited resources and in many...
2021-09-0847 min
Obsessed Show163 - Back With the Bullhearted Joseph SzalaWe’re back with Vigor Branding principal, host of the Forktales podcast, and author of the new book, The Bullhearted Brand, Joseph Szala. If you’re a long-time listener, you may recall Joseph from all the way back in season one. Today we talk about his latest evolutions, including how the Grits & Grids podcast led to his new show, Forktales, and what led his to launch his latest book, The Bullhearted Brand on Kickstarter. So without further ado, please enjoy the latest conversation with Joseph Szala.
2021-08-3039 min
ForktalesTrailerHey all you hungry people out there. We’re gearing up to launch Forktales in a few weeks. Forktales will be a podcast and vidcast focused on bringing food, beverage, and hospitality leaders to the forefront of the conversation. We’ll be covering all sorts of topics from trends, forecasting, and challenges facing the industry. Every other week, a new Forktales episode will go live for you to enjoy.
Currently in the line up is Sam Slaugther, copywriter at Vigor, Kelli Valade, President of Black Box Intelligence, Betsy Hamm, COO of Duck Donuts, and many more. So, plea...
2021-03-2900 min
ForktalesTrailerHey all you hungry people out there. We’re gearing up to launch Forktales in a few weeks. Forktales will be a podcast and vidcast focused on bringing food, beverage, and hospitality leaders to the forefront of the conversation. We’ll be covering all sorts of topics from trends, forecasting, and challenges facing the industry. Every other week, a new Forktales episode will go live for you to enjoy.
Currently in the line up is Sam Slaugther, copywriter at Vigor, Kelli Valade, President of Black Box Intelligence, Betsy Hamm, COO of Duck Donuts, and many more. So, plea...
2021-03-2900 min
ForktalesTrailerHey all you hungry people out there. We’re gearing up to launch Forktales in a few weeks. Forktales will be a podcast and vidcast focused on bringing food, beverage, and hospitality leaders to the forefront of the conversation. We’ll be covering all sorts of topics from trends, forecasting, and challenges facing the industry. Every other week, a new Forktales episode will go live for you to enjoy.
Currently in the line up is Sam Slaugther, copywriter at Vigor, Kelli Valade, President of Black Box Intelligence, Betsy Hamm, COO of Duck Donuts, and many more. So, plea...
2021-03-2900 min
Roundtable TalkTrailerHere is a little taste of what's to come on the Forktales podcast and vidcast!
2021-03-2900 min
Small Bites RadioSmall Bites Episode 100
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The #1 listed “Food Radio show Philadelphia”, Small Bites with Glenn Gross and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com on Wildfire Radio is celebrating their 100th episode in style, and since it’s #Halloween this week we promise no tricks from us, only awesome #foodie treats with an amazing lineup! LIVE this Sunday, November 4th at 635pm Small Bites on Wildfire Radio with Derek away in Montreal, Quebec, we figured we’d double your pleasure and brought in studio to co-host the show QVC Guest Host, chef, and SAG-AFTRA Sag-Aftra Philadelphia actor John DiRenzo as well as Small Bites resident Vegan Fo...
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