Shows
Confessions Beyond the FoodLeading Beyond ComfortWhen friends and colleagues get together, you’re bound to learn—and laugh.In this episode, host Nancy Ridlen, Principal at W3 Sales, sits down with Shannon Tallon, VP of Merchandising at Edward Don & Company, for a candid conversation about growth, leadership, and facing fear head-on.Shannon pulls back the curtain on the moment her promotion felt both surreal and deeply earned. Together, Nancy and Shannon explore what happens after the big win: navigating new responsibility, choosing courage over comfort, and leading with intention in an industry that often prioritizes speed over...
2026-01-0637 minConfessions Beyond the FoodGrit, Grace, Gratitude, And PastriesWhat does it take to build a national pastry brand without losing your soul—or your partner? Nancy Ridlen sits down with KRMA Foods co-founders Rachel Oostman and Marine Crile to share the real story behind their QVC debut, late-night spreadsheets, and the values that kept them grounded when things got tough.They unpack how their partnership evolved, the principles that shaped their culture, and the moments that nearly broke the business before they finally hit break-even. Rachel and Marine also challenge old playbooks for women in food, showing how vulnerability, intuition, and aligned decision-making led them to...
2025-11-2532 minConfessions Beyond the FoodThe Bourbon Badass: Leadership with HeartFrom sales strategy to social influence — and a little bourbon in between 🥃 This week on Confessions Beyond the Food, Nancy Ridlen sits down with Anthony Salemi, VP of Strategic Sales at Ace Mart and the man behind Bourbon Badass. They talk about how the foodservice industry is evolving, what fuels his competitive spirit, and one powerful moment that brings it all back to what really matters. 🎧 Listen now — you’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and you might even tear up.
2025-11-1328 minConfessions Beyond the FoodFaith, Family, Then Food - A Frank Conversation with John FrankeWhat happens when a chef known for speed, standards, and scaling brands decides to flip the script and live “God first, family second, work third”? We sat down with our friend John Franke—chef, leader, and founder of Franke Culinary Consulting—to talk about faith in a high-pressure industry and how convictions hold up when tickets are firing, clients are waiting, and home life is loud.John opens up about the long arc from kitchen chaos to steady leadership, including a season when work paused, family tensions rose, and he had to choose surrender over spin. He shares h...
2025-10-3031 minConfessions Beyond the FoodComfort Food Crusade - Myles Powell's Food Network Survivor's TaleWhat happens when a civil engineer discovers his true calling isn’t in concrete and steel—but in cast iron and cornbread? Meet Myles, the founder of Myles Comfort Foods, who traded spreadsheets for skillets and built a frozen food brand that’s shaking up supermarket aisles.In this episode, Myles shares his extraordinary journey from corporate burnout to Food Network competitor to bold food entrepreneur. For him, the dinner table was always sacred—a place where southern comfort classics brought his family together. After just two days in an engineering job, an existential crisis led him back to...
2025-07-2430 minConfessions Beyond the FoodUnshakable: Women’s Wisdom from the Frontlines of Foodservice, Sales & StartupsNancy Ridlen shares ten hard-earned lessons for women in foodservice, sales and entrepreneurship, drawing from her 25 years of experience navigating spaces that weren't always built for women. These personal confessions offer a roadmap for staying authentic while confronting biases and building successful careers in any industry.Embrace Who You AreKnow You Will Face ChallengesUnderstand Communication PerceptionAddress Harassment and Microaggressions Head-OnBe Kind and Uplifting to Other WomenMentor the Next GenerationDo Your Homework on Company CultureConfront Bullying TacticsLeverage the Unique Strengths Women BringAvoid Reverse DiscriminationFollow our social media at W3 Sales. Please like, comment and subscribe.
2025-07-1024 minConfessions Beyond the FoodBeyond the Sale: How Jason Morgan Earns Trust and Delivers ResultsWhat separates a top-tier sales rep from the rest? Jason Morgan, DSR of the Month at Edward Don & Company, shares how a customer-first mindset, operational insight, and strategic problem-solving helped him earn one of foodservice’s highest honors.In this episode: • How Jason uses his restaurant background to anticipate customer needs • Managing multiple roles: sales, logistics, credit & more • Navigating industry shifts: price transparency, e-commerce & AI • Why relationships still matter more than ever • And yes—a memorable story involving a Willie Nelson concert 🎤🎧 Tune in to hear how putting customers first c...
2025-05-2925 minConfessions Beyond the FoodWork Hard, Laugh Harder: Real Strategies for Workplace Joy10 Real Things to Make the Job FunSo let’s be honest, work is work. But, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring, stressful, or something you just ‘get through’. At W3 Sales we believe that fun isn’t just a perk, it’s a part of the process. From inside jokes to team banter to real vacation and Think Tanks that spark some really crazy ideas we found that building a connected, energized culture makes everything better. So today we are sharing 10 real things we do to make the job fun. And spoiler...
2025-05-0718 minConfessions Beyond the FoodRestaurant Visionary: Mark Brezinski's Creative JourneyIn this episode of Confessions Beyond the Food, listeners are taken behind the scenes with restaurant industry veteran and creative powerhouse Mark Brezinski—author of Fork Fight and the visionary behind some of the country’s most iconic dining concepts. From the early days of Macaroni Grill to the launch of Pei Wei and collaborations with brands like Pizza Hut and Velvet Taco, Brezinski has left a lasting mark on the foodservice landscape.This conversation explores the emotional and often unpredictable journey of building a restaurant from the ground up. It’s a raw, revealing look at the sp...
2025-04-1739 minConfessions Beyond the FoodBeyond The Hustle: The Raw Truth About EntrepreneurshipWant the real deal on what it takes to build a successful food service business? Nancy Ridlen keeps it honest, sharing a decade’s worth of hard-earned lessons they don’t teach in business school.After landing two dream clients, she thought she’d made it—but real growth came from the unexpected twists, tough decisions, and learning to lead with clarity over people-pleasing.As an Enneagram Three “Achiever,” Nancy admits she used to run at 150 mph. But building W3 taught her that sustainable success takes patience, realistic goals, and strong relationships. The biggest shift? Letting go o...
2025-04-1029 minConfessions Beyond the FoodWhat’s Your Relationship Status with Food?!On this episode of Confessions Beyond the Food, Liz Oba takes us on a deliciously personal journey—from hospital dietitian to Real Food Mission Ambassador at Thomas Cuisine. Her story is filled with food love, health revelations, and plenty of myth-busting along the way.Food Was Her First Love: Growing up with adventurous-eating parents, Liz learned to try new foods without fear or pressure—whether it was a funky veggie or an exotic dish. Her Dad Was the Food Police: When her physician father linke...
2025-03-2533 minConfessions Beyond the FoodLeading with Legacy: A Father-Daughter StoryBill Burden and his daughter Jennifer Rolander explore the deep connections of family, legacy, and leadership that define their business journey. Their conversation reveals how childhood experiences shaped their professional paths and the critical importance of mentorship in family-run enterprises. • Bill's journey in Burden China from childhood involvement • Jennifer's early influences and desire for the family business • The significance of family values in business practices • The blend of science and craftsmanship in production • Importance of mentorship and knowledge transfer • Lessons learned from working together as a family
2025-02-2535 minConfessions Beyond the FoodScaling a Chocolate Empire without Sacrificing QualityJust in time for Valentines' Day! 😍 The Real Life Willy Wonka of the Midwest, Dan Abel Jr joins Nancy Ridlen on the latest episode. Dan shares how he scaled the family business without sacrificing quality. What is so fascinating about the company history is that the Bissinger's roots go back to 1668 in Paris, France, and revolve around King Louis the XIV & Napolean Bonaparte! For over 200 years, the company had the distinction of being Confectioner to the Empire. Once a brand reserved for Royalty in France is alive and well and still being enjoyed in the USA.Who...
2025-02-1125 minConfessions Beyond the FoodPassion and Perseverance: Jennifer Rolander’s Culinary JourneyJennifer Rolander's journey through the food service industry reveals the importance of passion, connection, and mentorship in achieving success. Her experiences highlight the value of lifelong learning and the profound impact of fostering relationships, especially among aspiring culinary professionals. • Jennifer’s early experiences in her family's pottery business • Transitioning from restaurant ownership to corporate roles • Pursuing an MBA later in life for personal and professional growth • The significance of relationships in the hospitality industry • Overcoming challenges and learning from failures • Engaging and mentoring students at the Culinary Institute of America • The role of giving back thr...
2025-01-2830 minConfessions Beyond the FoodSuccessful Sales Strategies - Top 10 Ways to Kick Off Your New YearCelebrating 10 years of W3 Sales provides a platform for reflection, growth, and valuable lessons learned. Nancy delves into the importance of learning from mistakes, nurturing team culture, adapting to market challenges, and embracing failure as part of the journey.• Reflecting on the past as a critical step for growth • Importance of learning from mistakes to avoid the insanity cycle • People-centered approach as the company's DNA • Establishing and maintaining a strong company culture • Importance of teamwork and building friendships in the workplace • Building a solid infrastructure to support clients • Navigating the complexities of the marketplace a...
2025-01-0924 minConfessions Beyond the FoodLeading a Successful Sales Firm in a People First CultureWe explore the importance of relationships and a people-first culture in the food service industry with Jeff Griffiths, President of eSource Miller & our host, Nancy Ridlen. From employee empowerment to customer connections, this episode is packed with insights on creating a thriving business environment. • Discussing the journey and experiences in the food service industry • Importance of relationships and culture in business • Empowering teams by understanding individual strengths • Cultivating a service-oriented organization • Navigating mergers while maintaining company culture • Emphasizing transparency and open communication • Finding inspiration and motivation in leadership
2024-12-2332 minConfessions Beyond the FoodEmbracing Tradition in a Digital AgeWhat if you could transform a century-old company's digital presence while preserving its cherished traditions? Caroline Webre, Ben E Keith's innovative social media marketing manager, shares her inspiring journey of revitalizing this well-established brand's online footprint. With a focus on meaningful interactions over mere follower counts, Caroline reveals her strategies for aligning Ben E Keith's family-oriented, reliable, and friendly culture with modern content platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. Her creative approach and passion have not only enhanced the company's visibility but have also strengthened connections with employees, customers, and vendors.The heart of our conversation beats with...
2024-12-0519 minConfessions Beyond the FoodFrom Cake Pops to Culinary Fame: Chef David Burke's JourneyHow did Chef David Burke rise from a time when being a chef wasn't highly regarded to become an international culinary ambassador? Listen as we promise to reveal the secrets behind his remarkable journey. From his inventive cake pop creations to his travels across 30 countries, Chef Burke's story is a testament to passion and perseverance in the culinary world.Managing multiple restaurants across states is no small feat, especially with the intense work hours and extensive travel. Hear firsthand about the evolving dynamics within the culinary industry, including the impact of the pandemic on wages and workforce...
2024-11-1544 min
Tips from Trestle: The Senior Living Food and Hospitality PodcastBeyond The PlateIn this episode of Tips from Trestle, host Aaron Fish interviews Nancy Ridlen, owner of W3 Sales, about innovative approaches to senior living dining experiences. Nancy discusses the importance of balancing aesthetics and functionality in tableware design, emphasizing the need for elevated dining experiences that feel like home. She highlights the significance of understanding each community's unique needs, collaborating with various stakeholders, and considering factors such as heat retention, breakage, and resident dignity. Nancy also shares insights on creating cohesive dining experiences across different service types and overcoming common challenges in senior living food service projects.
Tips...
2024-10-0124 minConfessions Beyond the FoodRedefining Senior Living Services with Aaron FishWhat happens when you blend the precision of computer science with the heart of hospitality? Join host Nancy Ridlen in this insightful episode of Confessions Beyond the Food as she interviews Aaron Fish, CEO of Trestle Hospitality Concepts.Aaron shares how senior living communities are transforming with strategic growth, creative revenue opportunities, and elevated dining experiences to meet the demands of a new generation. Discover how innovative culinary approaches, smart regional expansion, and technology are shaping the future of senior living, while providing chefs and hospitality professionals a chance to thrive. Tune in to learn how senior...
2024-09-1327 minConfessions Beyond the FoodMixology Masterclass with Rebecca DowdaJoin our host, Nancy Ridlen, as she sits down with Rebecca Dowda, CEO of More Than Mixology and iSi ambassador. Rebecca shares her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur in the world of handcrafted cocktails. She reveals her passion for fresh ingredients, expert mixology technique, and training the next generation of cocktail creators. Whether you’re looking to elevate your cocktail game or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips and insights that will inspire your next creation. Perfect for both seasoned mixologists and beginners alike.
2024-08-3029 minConfessions Beyond the FoodHow to Open a Restaurant with Bradford ThompsonJoin us as we sit down with the extraordinary Chef Bradford Thompson, a James Beard Award-winning chef, culinary consultant, and CEO of Bellyful Hospitality. Born and bred in New York City, Chef Bradford shares his experiences of raising a family in the heart of Harlem, where his kids have grown up with a love for cooking and an appreciation for the art of dining. From the bustling streets of NYC to opening over 40 restaurants across the country, Chef Bradford reveals the challenges and rewards of the culinary world.In this episode, Chef Bradford and Nancy explore what...
2024-08-1636 minConfessions Beyond the FoodLuxury Creations with Chef Robbie RenselIn this episode, Chef Robbie shares the essence of his culinary journey, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, quality, and passion in cooking. From humble beginnings to mastering the art of cooking, Chef Robbie highlights the value of hands-on experience, teamwork, and consistency in the kitchen.He discusses the often-overlooked challenges chefs face, from meeting high diner expectations to managing the complexities and costs of luxury dining. Despite these hurdles, Chef Robbie's unwavering passion for food drives him to innovate and adapt.The episode delves into the critical lesson that true success in the culinary world...
2024-07-1235 minConfessions Beyond the FoodLuxury Creations with Chef Robbie RenselIn this episode, Chef Robbie shares the essence of his culinary journey, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, quality, and passion in cooking. From humble beginnings to mastering the art of cooking, Chef Robbie highlights the value of hands-on experience, teamwork, and consistency in the kitchen.He discusses the often-overlooked challenges chefs face, from meeting high diner expectations to managing the complexities and costs of luxury dining. Despite these hurdles, Chef Robbie's unwavering passion for food drives him to innovate and adapt.The episode delves into the critical lesson that true success in the culinary world...
2024-07-1235 minConfessions Beyond the FoodThe Human Approach to Selling with Steven RogersIn this episode, "The Human Approach to Selling," we dive into the art of building genuine connections in the sales world with Steven Rogers, the Southwest Regional Sales Manager for Inteplast. Hosted by Nancy Ridlen, this week's episode brings you insightful conversations and practical advice on fostering meaningful relationships with clients. Steven shares his approach to connecting with new prospects, from researching their business to leveraging resources for deeper insights. He emphasizes the importance of transparency, honesty, and building authentic relationships. Learn how a simple smile can break down barriers and foster mutual understanding.Tune in to...
2024-06-2829 minConfessions Beyond the FoodFinding Light: Steps to Hope and Healing with Brett SmithFollowing "Hope in Hard Times: Faith Stories from the Trenches," Nancy and Brett dive even deeper into their journeys. In this part 2 episode, "Finding Light: Steps to Hope and Healing," they share the practical steps they've taken to find exactly that. Building on their raw and honest confessions, they outline the tools and strategies that have helped them overcome anxiety, addiction, and the pressures of life in the foodservice industry.Join them as they explore the tangible actions and spiritual practices that have been crucial in their paths to recovery and faith. Whether you're facing your own...
2024-06-1537 minConfessions Beyond the FoodHope in Hard Times: Faith Stories from the TrenchesIn this deeply personal episode, we pull back the curtain on the realities behind the food service industry’s shiny facade. Join Nancy Ridlen and Brett Smith as they share their raw, unfiltered journeys through anxiety, depression, and addiction, highlighting the often unseen battles faced by many.Discover how Nancy’s faith kept her afloat during the toughest times, even when she felt disconnected, and how meeting Brett during the chaos of 2020 led to a profound shift in her life. Dive into Brett’s story of recovery and questioning and how it ultimately led to fully embracing his fa...
2024-06-0832 minConfessions Beyond the FoodHow To Achieve Sales MagicWe're thrilled to introduce you to three dynamic women who are redefining sales in Central Texas and Oklahoma: Lori Cathey, Vina Finke, and Mallary Mann. These powerhouse sales leaders from W3 Sales share their unique insights, strategies, and personal stories that have propelled them to the top of their field.In this episode, Lori Cathey from Oklahoma discusses her approach to building strong client relationships and navigating the evolving sales landscape. Vina Finke and Mallary Mann, representing Central Texas, dive into their collaborative efforts and the innovative tactics they use to drive success in a competitive market.
2024-05-2336 minConfessions Beyond the FoodMillennial & Gen Z Creative OutletsStep into the vibrant world of W3 Sales and Marketing as we introduce you to the dynamic duo behind the scenes in our latest episode. Join Nancy as she sits down with Macy and Alex, two powerhouse members of our brand team.Discover how Macy and Alex found their footing in the industry, from diving into the unknown to embracing the challenges of inside and outside sales, social media, and marketing. Get a glimpse into their roles at W3 and their creative processes, where they bring fresh perspectives, energy, and creativity to the table.So...
2024-05-0937 minConfessions Beyond the FoodLeading in a Small BusinessKicking off a multi-series podcast to introduce the W3 team, Nancy Ridlen welcomes her first guests, Kevin Porter & Traci Hess. These three make up the leadership team at W3 Sales. Kevin, Traci and Nancy discuss what leadership looks like in today's ever-changing foodservice industry. They take a deep dive into what makes up a great sales team, coaching in sales, taking care of customers, creating a healthy team culture, and adapting to change. All of this, and how to have joy in the everyday (never a dull moment) work day.W3 has a truly...
2024-05-0333 minConfessions Beyond the FoodUnveiling the Visionary Journey of Larry Lavine, Founder of Chili’sIn this episode, we delve into the captivating story of Larry Lavine. Larry shares the evolution of his visionary journey - from the inception of Chili’s, to creating & working with some of the most well known restaurant brands, to what he is working on today. He always has a surprise up his sleeve!Discover the passion that drives Larry to build concepts that resonate with everyone, striving for quality and excitement tailored to each concept. Gain insights into the essential elements of creating a successful restaurant, from having the right vision to assembling the perfect team.
2024-04-1938 min