Shows
Women in Restaurant LeadershipGrief at Work: What Leaders Need to Understand (with Elizabeth Meltz)Listener note: This episode includes sensitive conversation around grief and loss. We invite you to listen in the way that feels most supportive to you.Grief doesn’t stay at home—it often comes to work with us. Yet many leaders are never taught how to recognize it, respond to it, or create space for it within their teams.In this episode of the WiRL Podcast, we’re joined by Elizabeth Meltz, founder of EM Path, and a longtime leader and advocate in the food and hospitality industry. Drawing from her leadership experience at org...
2025-12-1620 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipDesigning the Future of Guest Experience with Jessica KwaWhat happens when you combine restaurant-floor instincts, deep empathy, and industry-defining CX strategy? You get Jessica Kwa, Head of Customer Experience Strategy at Qualtrics, who helps some of the world’s biggest brands truly understand what customers need—and how to design experiences that turn insight into action.In this episode, Jessica breaks down:Why guest expectations are skyrocketingHow technology is shifting from “collecting feedback” to anticipating needsWhat operators still underestimate about the modern dinerHow to unify data, amplify frontline teams, and build a culture grounded in real-time listeningThe most exciting ways AI is reshaping CX without...
2025-12-0228 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipThe Unscripted Journey of Susan Wilcox and The Herb BoxWhat happens when a woman with zero preconceived notions steps into the food world and builds a 30-year culinary powerhouse?Last week, I sat down with Susan Wilcox, founder of The Herb Box, whose fearless leap into catering in 1995 sparked one of Scottsdale’s most beloved restaurant brands.Susan shared how she turned a whole-foods vision (long before it was cool) into a thriving business with two restaurant locations, private dining, and a full-service catering company — all while staying grounded in her mission to feed people well.If you need a dose of entr...
2025-11-1824 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipLifting as We Lead: Inside the WiRL x GLEAM Mentor ProgramIn this special episode, we’re diving into the brand-new WiRL x GLEAM Mentor Program, a first-of-its-kind partnership reshaping how women in restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality leadership grow, develop, and rise.You’ll hear directly from the leaders behind the program about why this mentorship model works, what women truly need to advance, and how this six-month experience will pair emerging leaders with seasoned executives for structured, strategic, career-shifting support.We cover: — Why WiRL and GLEAM joined forces — What makes a powerful mentor–mentee match — The research-backed leadership competencies women need today — How the...
2025-11-1137 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipThe Evolution of Edible, With CEO Somia Farid SilberEdible has been a household name for decades, but under CEO Somia Farid Silber, it’s no longer just a gifting brand. Today, Edible Brands is evolving into a multi-disciplined platform that spans fresh food and beverage, e-commerce, and fast casual dining.In this episode, Somia shares how she’s leading one of America’s most recognizable legacy brands through transformation, expanding opportunities for franchisees and small business owners while staying true to Edible’s core identity.If you’re passionate about innovation, leadership, and the future of legacy brands, this is one to queue up. #Wi...
2025-10-2121 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipCan Hospitality Be a Tool for Human Rights? With Emma’s TorchWhat if a restaurant could change a life?In this episode, I sat down with Kerry Brodie, founder of Emma’s Torch, a Brooklyn-based café and culinary training program that empowers refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking through the power of hospitality. Kerry shares how her background in policy and human rights led her to the kitchen, why food can be a tool for belonging, and what it really means to serve with purpose.To learn more about Emma's Torch: https://emmastorch.org/
2025-10-0731 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBONUS: Is Pumpkin Spice Past Its Prime?Pumpkin fatigue is real... but don’t tell its loyal fans. While nearly half of consumers say they’re over pumpkin, it’s still one of the most craved seasonal flavors. Meanwhile, apple is staging a comeback, and consumers are split down the middle on whether they want the classics or crave something new.In this bonus episode, I sit down with Shannon O’Shields, VP of Marketing at Rubix Foods, to dig into the fall flavor trends that have everyone talking (and tasting). From generational divides to menu opportunities beyond lattes and pies, Shannon brings the insights...
2025-09-2324 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipFrom Representation to Leadership: Yessica Perez on Empowering Latina Women in RestaurantsIn honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting Yessica Perez, Chief People Officer at Ojos Locos Sports Cantina—a brand built by and for the Latino community.Yessica’s story is one of representation, resilience, and results. From her own career journey to overseeing teams where more than half of management roles are filled through internal promotions, she is proving what’s possible when Latina women are given real opportunities to lead. In this episode, Yessica opens up about how Ojos Locos is creating economic mobility for Latina women, why representation matters at every level of leadersh...
2025-09-2324 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBONUS: Empowerment in the Pizza Industry, With Stephanie Swane and Laura MeyerIn this bonus episode of the WiRL Podcast, we sit down with two women shaping the future of pizza: Laura Meyer, award-winning pizzaiola and owner of Pizzeria da Laura, and Stephanie Swane, publisher at Modernist Cuisine and global pizza advocate.Together, they’re helping launch Fork to Future’s inaugural Pizza Industry Empowers conference—a first-of-its-kind gathering designed to educate, connect, and uplift underrepresented voices in the pizza world.We talk about what inspired this event, why inclusivity matters in food and hospitality, and how community and education can spark real change.🍕 Learn more abou...
2025-09-0917 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBehind the Bar With Rachel Kiley, CEO of Sneaky SpiritsShe started in hospitality, scaled a craft brewery, and is now redefining spirits as CEO of Sneaky Spirits. In this episode, we talk about her leap from beer to tequila, the lessons she’s learned as the first employee-turned-CEO, and how she’s challenging stereotypes in a male-dominated industry while building bold, memorable brands. ✨You can find Rachel's feature in FSR here: https://www.fsrmagazine.com/feature/behind-the-bar-with-sneaky-spirits-ceo-rachel-kiley/Rachel was also on this year's FSR 40 Under 40 List: https://www.fsrmagazine.com/slideshow/fsrs-rising-stars-40-under-40-are-shining-brighter-than-ever-in-2025/
2025-09-0930 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipLead From Any Seat, with Rhonda LeveneOn this episode of the WiRL Podcast, I sit down with Rhonda Levene, CEO of Ziosk and a powerhouse leader with more than 30 years of experience across brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. Rhonda shares how she navigated male-dominated industries, built confidence in the boardroom, and carved out space as one of the few women leading a tech company in the restaurant space.We talk about pivotal career moments, the lessons she carries into her role today, and why mentorship and advocacy for women leaders are at the core of her work. From digital transformation to building teams...
2025-08-2621 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipLet's Get Candid... with Tiana FeghaliTiana Feghali isn’t your typical franchise visionary—and that’s exactly the point. In this candid, conversational episode, she opens up about swapping a career in film and TV for the food franchise world, and why it’s anything but “cookie-cutter.” We talk about shaking up a male-dominated industry, bringing fresh eyes to her family’s legacy, and leading with empathy instead of ego. From busting myths about franchising to building a culture people actually want to work in, Tiana keeps it real about what it takes to do things your own way.
2025-08-1238 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBONUS: Culture, Care, and Scaling Fast with Kyla Hanaway-QuinlanStep into the heart of leadership with Kyla Hanaway-Quinlan, COO and Head of People at Feast & Fettle. As a mom of two and a senior leader at one of the fastest-growing food brands in the country, Kyla is passionate about creating spaces—at home and at work—where people can truly thrive. 🔥In this bonus episode of the WiRL podcast, Kyla shares what it means to operationalize empathy in a high-growth environment. From building psychological safety to supporting team members through substance recovery and reentry, her approach to people-first leadership is as powerful as it is practical. That's...
2025-07-2921 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipData, Decisions, and Doing the Work with Keren Novack and Rachel BussThis week, I’m joined by Curion’s dynamic duo: Keren Novack, President, and Rachel Buss, VP of Strategic Insights. Between the two of them, there’s no shortage of sharp insights, career wisdom, and laugh-out-loud moments. We talk leadership wins (and growing pains), how to blend analytics with intuition, and what restaurant brands get totally wrong about their customers. We also get real about climbing the ladder in male-dominated spaces, building cultures that actually support women, and the underrated power of everyday leadership. Spoiler: it’s not always the big moves that matter most. 👀
2025-07-2942 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipMarie Crawford’s Playbook for Operations SuccessStep into the growth of Protein Bar and Kitchen with ops leader Marie Crawford, as she shares her journey from getting started in hospitality to running operations at a fast-growing brand. 💪We chat about how she’s grown as a leader, staying true to her values while helping a brand expand through franchising, and what it takes to build your own voice in this industry. Plus, Marie drops some great advice for women stepping into leadership roles and how she uses her platform to make a difference in her community. ✨ Now that's what we call #WiRLPower!
2025-07-1522 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipWhat If the Best Way to Lead Is from the Inside Out? With Jennifer Thomas, Founder of Rooted ConnectionsJennifer Thomas believes leadership isn’t about powering through—it’s about powering down and tuning in. In this episode, the founder of Rooted Connections shares how she stepped away from the hustle and redefined leadership on her own terms. We talk about what it means to lead from the inside out, how to move forward when you’re feeling stuck, and why clarity and self-trust matter more than checking every box.🎟️ Want more? Join Jennifer live for Rooted to Rise: Wellness, Wisdom & the New Way to Lead—a free WiRL webinar on July 15th. Reserve your sp...
2025-07-0139 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipEven for a Day: How KFC’s Girls Takeover Initiative Is Rewriting the C-SuiteWhat if one day in the C-suite could change a young woman’s entire view of what’s possible? In this special episode of the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, we explore the transformative power of representation, partnership, and purpose through KFC’s Girls Takeover—a global initiative in collaboration with Plan International that invites young women to step into executive leadership roles, even if just for a day.You’ll hear from Shirlyn Huang, a student and youth advocate who stepped into the role of Chief People & Culture Officer at KFC as part of the initiative, as well as...
2025-06-1736 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipPower, Purpose & Pushing Past Doubt, with Hope Neiman and Judy ChanThis week on the official #WiRLPod, I'm handing the mic to two women who are leading at the intersection of hospitality and tech—and doing it with boldness, heart, and just the right amount of grit.Meet Hope Neiman, Chief Marketing Officer, and Judy Chan, VP of B2B Marketing and Demand Generation at Tillster. These two powerhouses are not only driving innovation in restaurant technology, they’re also proving what’s possible when women lead with purpose and confidence in traditionally male-dominated spaces.In this episode, we talk about what makes women-led teams different (and da...
2025-06-0335 min
Loud & LiftedQuick Lift: Lead Loudly, Build SlowlyIn this Quick Lift episode, we spotlight the standout moments from our interview with Satyne Doner, Associate Editor of Women in Restaurant Leadership at QSR and FSR magazines. Satyne isn’t just writing about industry change—she’s actively leading it by building a national platform that uplifts and connects women across the restaurant world.We’ll dive into three powerful takeaways you can put into action today—whether you're launching your own group, building authentic connections, or just figuring out how to lead from where you are. These micro-moments pack macro-impact.This less than 10-minute li...
2025-05-1507 min
Loud & LiftedYoung, Lifted & Leading: Rewriting the Narrative with Satyne Doner She’s 23, but don’t let the age fool you—she is already shaping the future of leadership in the restaurant industry.Satyne Doner is the Associate Editor of Women in Restaurant Leadership at QSR and FSR magazines—and she’s not just writing about change in the industry, she’s leading it. She’s playing a pivotal role in building a national platform that elevates, educates, and empowers women. In this episode, we dig into how she’s building a space for real connection and visibility for women leaders, and why you don’t need a corner offi...
2025-05-0829 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipChef Iliana de la Vega on Heritage, Motherhood & Mexican CuisineIn this heartfelt episode of the #WiRLPod, I sat down with Chef Iliana de la Vega—James Beard Award-winning chef, educator, and founder of El Naranjo in Austin, Texas. From her early days exploring the markets of Oaxaca to leading one of the country’s most respected Mexican kitchens, Iliana shares how heritage, memory, and matriarchal influence have shaped her journey.She opens up about the power of the maternal line in Mexican culinary tradition, the deep cultural identity woven into every dish, and the importance of honoring diversity in both cuisine and leadership. Iliana also reflects on b...
2025-05-0628 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipMarketing with Impact, with Cassie Pinckney (VP of Marketing, Gastamo Group)In this episode of Women in Restaurant Leadership, I sit down with Cassie Pinckney, Vice President of Marketing at Gastamo Restaurant Group, to explore her dynamic career journey from national brands like Velvet Taco and Pei Wei to leading innovative marketing strategies for a growing portfolio of fast-casual concepts. Cassie shares the key lessons she’s carried across roles, her process for immersing herself in new brand cultures, and the art of balancing creativity with calculated risk.We dig into how she navigates brand transitions, stays ahead of consumer trends, and drives relevancy in an increasingly digital wo...
2025-04-2225 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipHow Clean Eatz Tackles Ozempic, Gut Health, and the Wellness RevolutionCan a restaurant brand really change lives? 🤩In this episode of the WiRL Pod, I'm sitting down with Evonne Varady, Co-Founder of Clean Eatz, a health-focused fast-casual franchise that’s on a mission to transform lives. From its humble beginnings to becoming a leading player in the wellness space, Evonne shares her journey of building a brand that prioritizes more than just healthy meals — it’s about creating a community where judgment is left at the door, and wellness becomes a lifestyle.Evonne opens up about the challenges of franchising, how Clean Eatz stays true to its mi...
2025-04-0829 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipFrom Frontline to Future, with Sarah DiehlWelcome to the Season 2 debut!! ✨The restaurant industry is full of incredible career opportunities—if you know where to look. In this episode of the WiRL pod, I'm sitting down with Sarah Diehl, founder of Empowered Hospitality. She joins me to break down the evolving talent landscape in hospitality. 💪From shifting employee expectations to the power of employer branding, Sarah shares expert insights on how restaurant professionals can build long-term, fulfilling careers beyond the front line. Whether you're a manager looking to grow, an operator aiming to retain top talent, or someone eager to transition into a...
2025-03-2528 min
Peel: A PMQ Pizza PodcastEpisode 28: Kim Juda of Crust Pizza Co. (plus BONUS interview with MJ Riva, CEO of Pizza Factory)Kim Juda, VP of operations for Crust Pizza Co., joins the show to talk about her background and how she is helping Crust scale its footprint (3:05). Juda talks about some things she learned during her time with Quiznos, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and a few other brands, and gives a picture of how and where Crust Pizza Co. is growing its print. Later in the show, Satyne Doner, associate editor of the WiRL podcast, comes on to preview her interview with MJ Riva, CEO of Pizza Factory (26:08). Doner and Riva then discuss how Riva became the CEO of one of th...
2025-03-1755 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBONUS EPISODE: Women Shaping the Future of PizzaFor the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast SEASON ONE FINALE (can you believe it?!), we’re teaming up with our sister publication PMQ Pizza for a special bonus episode! PMQ senior editor Charlie Pogacar is leading the conversation this time, with pizza industry trailblazers Laura Meyer and Stephanie Swane. 🍕They dive into the future of pizza, innovation in the industry, and the importance of championing women in food. From pushing culinary boundaries to redefining leadership, Laura and Stephanie share their insights on what’s next for the world of pizza. #WiRLPowe #PizzaPower anyone? ✨💪
2025-03-1148 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipElevating Women in Food, with LDEI President Stephanie JaegerIn this episode of Women in Restaurant Leadership, I sat down to chat with Stephanie Jaeger, President of Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI), to explore how the organization is championing women in food, beverage, and hospitality. Stephanie shares insights on LDEI’s most impactful initiatives, the power of mentorship, and her vision for the future of women in the industry. She also reflects on her personal journey in hospitality, the global connections LDEI fosters, and even reveals which legendary chefs she’d invite to a dream dinner party. Thank you for tuning into this bite-sized episode of the o...
2025-03-1125 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipTossing Up the Future of Fresh Eats, With Darden Coors and Jenn RuppertWhat does it take to build a thriving healthy fast-casual empire? I'm sitting down to chat with Darden Coors, CEO of Salad Collective (and Coors family heiress), along with Jenn Ruppert, Salad Collective's VP of Marketing and one of our recent WiRL Together Summit speakers! Darden shares her unique journey from practicing law to leading MAD Greens, Tokyo Joe’s, and Snappy Salads under one roof. I'll explore how she blends her family’s legacy with her vision for growth, the challenges of scaling a mission-driven brand, and what’s next for Salad Collective. Plus, Jenn off...
2025-02-2534 min
I am Maria PodcastTurning challenges into stepping stones | With Satyne DonerJoin us as we explore the inspiring journey of Satyne Doner in this episode, "Turning Challenges into Stepping Stones". Discover how Satine transformed personal struggles and a difficult upbringing into opportunities for growth and leadership. From leaving a destructive home situation at 18 to finding her voice and creating a platform for women in restaurant leadership, Satyne's story is a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery. Learn about her tools for self-care, including grounding techniques, journaling, and the importance of connecting with nature and animals. Satiyne also shares her experience navigating the challenges of c...
2025-02-1739 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipChristine Johnson’s Path From the Courtroom to the CafeHow does a legal powerhouse transition into leading a beloved French café brand? ☕️✨🥐In this episode, we sit down with Christine Johnson, who was COO of la Madeleine at the time of this recording and now serves as executive vice president, to explore her unique journey from practicing law to overseeing operations at a national restaurant chain.Christine shares how her legal expertise has shaped her leadership approach, from strategic decision-making to navigating industry regulations. We’ll also dive into how she balances la Madeleine’s legacy with innovation, leads through change, and mentors the next generatio...
2025-02-1124 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipGrowth, Leadership, and Empowerment in the C-Suite, with Tropical Smoothie Cafe CDO Cheryl FletcherReady for another bite-sized episode to get your week started on a good note? In this episode of the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, I'm joined by Cheryl Fletcher, chief development officer at Tropical Smoothie Cafe. She shares her inspiring (and unconventional) journey to the C-suite and what it’s like to lead in the fast-paced world of QSR. Cheryl discusses stepping outside her comfort zone, her bold leadership style, and the strategies behind Tropical Smoothie’s rapid growth in recent years. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring women leaders, insights into balancing brand expan...
2025-01-2824 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipFinding Your Voice... with MJ Riva, CEO of Pizza FactoryIn this episode of Women in Restaurant Leadership, I sit down with MJ Riva, CEO of Pizza Factory, to explore her journey in the restaurant industry and the evolution of her leadership style. MJ shares powerful insights on finding your voice, embracing discomfort to grow, and navigating challenges with confidence and authenticity.We discuss how she’s used her unique perspective to drive brand growth at Pizza Factory, the role of mentorship in empowering others, and strategies for asserting authority in high-pressure situations. MJ also offers advice for emerging leaders on building support networks and fostering environments wh...
2025-01-1424 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipThe Woman Behind a Wellness Movement, with Vitality Bowls President and Founder Tara GiladHappy New Year, #WiRLFam! In this episode of the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, I’m joined by Tara Gilad, President and Founder of Vitality Bowls, a fast-growing superfood café franchise that has transformed the healthy dining landscape. Tara shares her inspiring journey from her health-conscious upbringing and entrepreneurial roots to founding a brand driven by a deeply personal mission—creating safe, nutritious dining options for those with food allergies. 🥗🍎🥕We’ll explore how Tara overcame early challenges to build Vitality Bowls into a nationally recognized brand with over 70 locations, her approach to innovation through ventures like Ha...
2024-12-3128 min
QSR UncutLessons in Leadership and Restaurant Success, with Dr. Emily Williams KnightDr. Emily Williams Knight, the CEO of Texas Restaurant Association, joins QSR editorial Danny Klein and WiRL associate editor Satyne Doner for a special crossover episode between QSR Uncut and our sister podcast, Women in Restaurant Leadership. We discuss everything from climbing the ladder to the industry’s most-pressing issues and regulatory challenges to this February’s upcoming WiRL Summit, and much more. If you're interested in learning more about WiRL or attending our February event, visit here: https://www.womenleadrestaurants.com/
2024-12-1939 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipTrisha Bovell’s Journey to Building Big Chicken’s Training PlaybookHow does a biology major become one of QSR’s Young Leaders to Watch? In this episode of Women in Restaurant Leadership, I chat with Trisha Bovell, Head of Training at Big Chicken, about her unconventional path into the restaurant industry, her rise from GM to training guru, and her hands-on approach to onboarding that’s helping Big Chicken grow!Trisha shares lessons from her time at Dutch Bros and Topgolf, her secrets to building a killer training program, and how she balances leading the charge at Big Chicken with co-owning her small business, Simply Charcuterie LV. We a...
2024-12-1021 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipMeredith Sandland on the Future of Food, Digital Restaurants, and Building Empower DeliveryIn this episode, I sit down with Meredith Sandland, author of Delivering The Digital Restaurant and founder of Empower Delivery, to discuss the transformative shift in how Americans consume food. Meredith shares her career journey, pivotal lessons learned along the way, and her passion for leading change in the restaurant and delivery industries.We dive into:🍴 How food consumption patterns are evolving in the U.S.📖 The inspiration behind her book and the hardest part of writing it🚀 The challenges and triumphs of founding Empower Delivery📦 What’s next for third-part...
2024-11-2629 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipGame On! How Devour Is Revolutionizing Restaurant Tech, with CEO Shelly RupelLet's talk tech! 👩💻🤖🎮This week, we're catching up with Shelly Rupel, CEO and Co-Founder of Devour—a next-gen engagement platform that's "feeding the future" by weaving seamless food ordering into the world of gaming and streaming.Shelly is a fearless leader in three traditionally male-dominated fields: restaurants, technology, and gaming. With Devour, her goal is to reach all 212 million U.S. gamers by meeting them where they are and going beyond the traditional means of engagement and loyalty. 🏆Check out her full story on QSR: https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/shelly-rupel...
2024-11-1224 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipChanging Lives One Sandwich at a Time, with Healey MendicinoToday I'm joined by Healey Mendicino, who shares her journey to becoming the president of Port of Subs, a beloved 52-year-old nationwide sandwich shop. We also dive into the nuances of franchising and what it takes to successfully grow in today's ever-changing environment. We also learn about Healey's favorite sub order!
2024-10-2931 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipThe Queen of Brunch Shares Her Recipe for Success, with Brandy BlackwellThis time on the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, we're joined by Brandy Blackwell, VP of Marketing at Another Broken Egg Cafe. Brandy opens up about her inspiring career journey, unique leadership style, and what it takes to thrive as a woman in a male-dominated industry. We’ll also dive into the “Brunch Boom” phenomenon and explore how Another Broken Egg Cafe continues to lead the way with fresh innovations in a competitive market.And don’t miss the fun bonus at the end—Brandy reveals her dream brunch guests and shares her ultimate brunch playlist!
2024-10-1535 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipBuilding a Career You're Proud Of, with CEO Jennifer DoddToday we're joined by Jennifer Dodd, CEO of Main Squeeze Juice Company! In this episode, we talk about everything under the sun when it comes to career growth. With over 30 years of experience leading successful turnarounds, driving strategic growth, and empowering diverse teams across brands like The Melting Pot, Tim Hortons, Dunkin’ Donuts, Applebee’s, Church’s Chicken, Arby’s, and more, Dodd’s leadership journey is unparalleled. Her story, which began at a Wendy’s drive-thru where she met her husband, adds a personal touch to her professional achievements.As a certified DiSC leadership assessment to...
2024-10-0136 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipUnlocking the Secrets of Modern Restaurant Loyalty, with Emily RugaberThis week I'm joined by Emily Rugaber, VP of Marketing at Thanx. She's a leading expert in digital transformation, loyalty, and data-driven restaurant marketing. Together, we explore how customer behavior has evolved over the past few years and the pivotal role that digital transformation plays in shaping loyalty programs today. Emily breaks down the latest loyalty trends, how data and personalization can help brands forge deeper emotional connections, and how restaurants can overcome the biggest challenges in customer retention. Whether you're looking to enhance member acquisition or understand the future of restaurant marketing, this conversation is packed w...
2024-09-1731 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipHow Wetzel's Pretzels Built a Snack Food Empire, with CMO Hillary FreiOnce upon a time, Wetzel's Pretzels was the go-to treat during your annual "school clothes shopping" marathon at the mall. Fast forward to today, and Wetzel's has stepped beyond the mall scene, spreading pretzel joy through food trucks, Walmart partnerships, and stand-alone bakeries.In this week’s episode, Hillary Frei and I dig into how Wetzel's is reshaping the snack game, one delicious, hand-held bite of happiness at a time. 🥨💛
2024-09-0323 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipCo-branded Concepts Are Making a Comeback... with Kristen HartmanAuntie Anne's. Cinnabon. Carvel. Moe's Southwest Grill. If these brands sound familiar to you, listen up! On this week's episode, Kristen Hartman, President of Speciality Brands for GoTo Foods (formerly Focus Brands), discusses the evolution of co-branded QSR concepts. She gets down into the nitty gritty of what makes a co-branded concept successful—she even shares a sneak peek into Cinnabon Swirl, the newest spinoff featuring all the best flavors of Cinnabon and Carvel. Need I say more?
2024-08-2027 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipHappy Employees Make for Happy Guests... With Mistie Boulton, Founder of EyeSpy Critiquing & ConsultingMistie's seen it all. From mystery shopping to operational development, team training, and more, she helps restaurants and hospitality companies enhance their guest experience through team building and culture development. We discuss some of the biggest challenges facing the industry today in terms of making employees feel seen, heard, and valued... because happy employees make for happy guests, right?
2024-08-0628 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipThe Rita’s Way, with CEO Linda ChadwickMeet Linda Chadwick, president and CEO of Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard. In today’s episode, we discuss her 25-plus years of experience in the industry, the moments that defined her leadership strategy, the fundamentals that shape Rita’s culture, and the idea of balancing nostalgia with innovation. Plus, I found out what her favorite Rita’s flavors are. I can’t spoil it here though!
2024-07-2328 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipFinding Your Groove with Julie ZuckerOn this week’s episode, we're joined by Julie Zucker, CMO of Branded Strategic Hospitality and WiRL advisory board member. We’re talking about all things balance. 🧘🏻♀️ How do you find and maintain balance as your priorities shift in your personal and professional life? By sharing her life experiences, Julie tackles the big feelings of guilt, motherhood, personal accountability, and finding your groove when you’ve fallen off the path.
2024-07-0943 minWomen in Restaurant LeadershipIntroducing the Women in Restaurant Leadership Podcast, with Mindy ArmstrongWelcome to Episode No. 1 of the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, a new initiative from the editors behind QSR and FSR magazines. We start by diving into the world of culinary with WiRL advisory board member Mindy Armstrong, who walks us through a day in her life as VP of Menu Innovation for beloved brands Perkins and Huddle House. We explore her role, what’s trending, and her advice for others in the industry. Listen and come join the movement! https://www.womenleadrestaurants.com/
2024-06-2528 min