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The Hospitality Hangout is where the restaurant industry gets real.
Hosted by Schatzy, the Restaurant Guy, and Jimmy, the Finance Guy, this funny, unfiltered hospitality podcast dives into restaurant trends, food service innovation, hospitality technology, and the investment strategies shaping the future of the industry.
With decades of hands-on experience operating restaurants and structuring capital markets deals, these two bring real-world insight from the kitchen to the boardroom. They connect the biggest operators, boldest founders, and sharpest investors in hospitality for conversations you won’t hear anywhere else.
Each week you’ll hear from C-suite restaurant executives, franchise leaders, emerging brand founders, hospitality tech innovators, and private equity investors who are building the next era of food and hospitality.
Expect insider stories, sharp opinions, real numbers, and plenty of laughs. No fluff. No corporate spin. Just honest conversations about what is actually happening in restaurants and food service.
If you care about scaling restaurants, raising capital, building brands, or staying ahead of hospitality trends, this is your show.
Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s talk shop.
Welcome to The Hospitality Hangout.
Hosted by Schatzy, the Restaurant Guy, and Jimmy, the Finance Guy, this funny, unfiltered hospitality podcast dives into restaurant trends, food service innovation, hospitality technology, and the investment strategies shaping the future of the industry.
With decades of hands-on experience operating restaurants and structuring capital markets deals, these two bring real-world insight from the kitchen to the boardroom. They connect the biggest operators, boldest founders, and sharpest investors in hospitality for conversations you won’t hear anywhere else.
Each week you’ll hear from C-suite restaurant executives, franchise leaders, emerging brand founders, hospitality tech innovators, and private equity investors who are building the next era of food and hospitality.
Expect insider stories, sharp opinions, real numbers, and plenty of laughs. No fluff. No corporate spin. Just honest conversations about what is actually happening in restaurants and food service.
If you care about scaling restaurants, raising capital, building brands, or staying ahead of hospitality trends, this is your show.
Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s talk shop.
Welcome to The Hospitality Hangout.
286 Episodes
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In this episode of The Hospitality Hangout, Jon Skogmo, Founder and CEO of LOST iN, shares his visionary approach to redefining travel media and hospitality content. Dive into how LOST iN is revolutionizing hospitality media by targeting younger, experience-driven audiences who crave authentic, local city exploration beyond traditional tourist guides.
Explore the shifting travel behaviors in the post-COVID world and why authentic storytelling is paramount for hospitality brands aiming to capture real engagement. Jon unpacks strategies hospitality executives and restaurant operators can leverage by using content creators and first-party data to strengthen brand connection and growth.
Beyond travel and hospitality trends, Jon reflects on his early digital media journey, sharing lessons that now shape his forward-thinking approach to hospitality leadership and media community building.
Listeners will also gain insider insights on airline loyalty programs, luxury travel perks, and emerging cultural trends influencing where and how people travel next. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry eager to stay informed on content strategies, hospitality leadership, and the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry podcast realm.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Andrew Katz, Chief Marketing Officer at Athletic Brewing Company, joins The Hospitality Hangout to share his expertise on the booming non-alcoholic beer market and its impact on the hospitality industry. Discover how Athletic Brewing has grown into a leading brand by reshaping drinking culture and innovating within the beverage segment.
Katz dives into brand growth strategies, evolving consumer preferences around wellness and socializing, and the important role of hospitality partnerships in scaling a modern beverage brand. This episode offers valuable hospitality insider insights for restaurant operators, hospitality executives, and anyone interested in hospitality leadership and restaurant growth strategies. Tune in to learn how industry trends are shaping the future of alcohol alternatives in the restaurant and hospitality business.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Hospitality Hangout, we welcome Aris Yeager, better known as the European Kid, to discuss his viral food comedy journey and insights into the hospitality industry. Aris shares how a college joke transformed into a viral persona captivating millions across social media, blending humor with commentary on American dining etiquette and culture.
Dive into the hospitality business side of creator culture as Aris explains launching Storytime, a platform forging partnerships between restaurants and creators. This episode offers insider insights on restaurant growth strategies, tipping culture, influencer marketing, and emerging hospitality trends.
We also explore differences between European and American food culture, viral restaurant skits, and the evolving role of creators in hospitality leadership and brand collaboration. Whether you're a restaurant operator or hospitality executive, this conversation is packed with valuable perspectives on the intersection of social media and the restaurant industry.
Join us for a wide-ranging discussion that combines humor with savvy hospitality insider insights, perfect for anyone interested in the restaurant industry podcast and hospitality media landscape.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Hospitality Hangout, Noah Chaimberg, Hot Sauce Expert and Founder of Heatonist, shares his unique insights on transforming hot sauce from a niche condiment into a dynamic cultural phenomenon within the hospitality business. Noah discusses how his approach to hospitality brand building blends retail and media, emphasizing the power of storytelling to drive restaurant growth strategies. He highlights the importance of collaborations, heat levels, and community engagement as pillars of success in the hospitality industry. Listeners will gain valuable hospitality insider insights on scaling a category-defining business while maintaining authenticity to the spice culture and hospitality leadership principles. Whether you're a hospitality executive, restaurant operator, or hospitality industry professional, this episode offers inspiring lessons on growing brands and innovating in the restaurant industry.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mike Kurtz, Founder of Mike’s Hot Honey, shares invaluable hospitality insider insights on building a successful hospitality business from the ground up. Discover how strategic restaurant partnerships and collaborations fueled the rapid growth of Mike’s Hot Honey, making it one of the fastest-growing food brands nationwide. Mike dives deep into hospitality trends shaping brand expansion from restaurant menus to grocery store shelves through effective CPG strategies.
Listeners will learn key restaurant growth strategies and what it takes to stay authentic amid intensifying competition. Mike also discusses menu innovation, flavor experimentation, and how hospitality executives and restaurant operators can create lasting brand trust while scaling their businesses without losing their unique identity.
Tune in for a wealth of knowledge from a hospitality industry leader that offers practical advice for anyone involved in the restaurant industry podcast landscape, hospitality media, or looking to elevate their hospitality leadership skills.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Danielle Parra, Chief Brand Officer of McAlister’s Deli, joins the Hospitality Hangout to share her expert insights on building and scaling a renowned hospitality brand. With over 500 locations and a billion-dollar presence in the hospitality industry, McAlister’s continues to lead with innovative strategies in fast casual dining. From pioneering data-driven loyalty programs to creative menu innovations like pickle-powered limited-time offers, Danielle reveals how guest-centered hospitality drives sustainable restaurant growth. This episode also explores catering strategies, beverage and mocktail trends, franchisee economics, and how authentic hospitality leadership remains a key factor in success. Tune in for insider hospitality trends, restaurant growth strategies, and much more!
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Hospitality Hangout, hospitality industry leaders Jason Morgan (CEO of The Original ChopShop), Kelly Gray (SVP of Hot Head Burritos), Lawrence Brown (Chief Development Officer of Rita’s Italian Ice), and Yann de Rochefort (CEO of Boqueria) come together to share their expertise on building iconic food brands. Dive into essential hospitality trends, restaurant growth strategies, and hospitality insider insights that are shaping the modern hospitality business.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of Zingerman’s Delicatessen, shares invaluable hospitality insider insights and leadership lessons from building one of the most respected brands in the hospitality business. As a pioneering restaurant CEO, Ari discusses how vision and community-building in the hospitality industry have driven their long-lasting success, all while staying true to core values rather than chasing fleeting hospitality trends.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Join Richard Schneider, COO and Chief Development Officer of Areas USA, on Hospitality Hangout as he shares insider insights into scaling one of the largest airport and travel plaza hospitality operators in the country. From his early start in restaurants at six years old to leading innovation in airport dining, Richard discusses why hospitality will always trump technology and how emerging brands are transforming food service across airports and highways nationwide. In this episode, explore hospitality trends and bold ideas that drive memorable guest experiences in the restaurant industry. Richard also reflects on leadership strategies, acquisitions, and the growth of local concepts in travel hospitality, offering valuable perspectives for anyone in the hospitality industry or interested in the future of food service and airport dining.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
John Dillon, CEO of La Madeleine, joins Hospitality Hangout to share his expert strategies on reviving a 42-year-old legacy brand by blending tradition with modern hospitality trends. Drawing on his journey through major restaurant chains like Blockbuster, Pizza Hut, and Denny's, John reveals how clarity, simplification, and execution drive sustainable growth in the restaurant industry.In this insightful episode, John discusses the power of third place thinking — creating welcoming spaces that encourage guests to linger — and how La Madeleine balances grab-and-go convenience with a hospitable atmosphere. He dives into how leveraging technology, social media trends, and thoughtful design innovation enhances guest experiences without losing the brand's unique charm.Tune in to hear insider insights on hospitality innovation, emerging food service trends, and bold ideas shaping today’s café culture, all from one of the industry’s leading CEOs. Whether you're a foodie, restaurateur, or hospitality professional, this episode offers valuable perspectives on evolving legacy brands in a competitive market.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nate Fowler, CEO of Long John Silver’s, joins Hospitality Hangout live from RFDC in Las Vegas to share insider insights on revitalizing a 56-year-old restaurant brand while maintaining its core identity. This episode dives deep into hospitality trends, focusing on how technology, loyalty programs, and strategic partnerships drive growth and innovation in the restaurant industry.Nate discusses his unique approach to leadership shaped by his background in banking and finance, exploring unit economics and franchise growth during a pivotal turnaround. Listeners will learn about the brand’s investment in technology, including a new mobile app, and creative marketing tactics like the chicken-focused logo stunt that reignited customer interest.The conversation also covers franchisee economics, procurement strategy, and the significance of partnerships with companies like Foodbuy for improving cost structures and attracting new franchisees. Packed with valuable hospitality industry insights, this episode is a must-listen for food service professionals, emerging restaurant brands, and anyone interested in the future of hospitality innovation.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Alex Dunn, CEO of Swig, shares insider insights on how Swig pioneered and scaled the dirty soda category from its Utah roots to a thriving national franchise. Explore key hospitality trends in the beverage and restaurant industry as Alex discusses personalization, premium fountain beverages favored by Gen Z, and how innovation drives brand authenticity and growth at scale. From franchising strategy to staying competitive amid major beverage players entering the space, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for food service professionals and hospitality insiders aiming to build bold, category-defining brands.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Featuring top hospitality leaders from Groucho’s Deli, Long John Silver’s, Tiki Taco, Cowboy Chicken, Crazy Pita, and Beans & Brews Coffee House, including Mehdi Zarhloul, Brittany Mercer, Eric Knott, Deric Rosenbaum, Doug Willmarth, and Tim Newton, this episode dives deep into the latest hospitality trends and technology shaping the food service industry. Recorded live at FS/TEC from Amazon Business Studios, Hospitality Hangout brings you insider insights on growth strategies, brand building, and innovating within the hospitality industry.Our guests share valuable perspectives on scaling both legacy and emerging brands while maintaining strong culture and operational excellence. The conversation covers key topics such as franchising, modernizing technology stacks, leadership best practices, digital marketing, and disciplined management needed to thrive in today’s competitive food service landscape.Join us for an engaging discussion that captures the energy of FS/TEC and offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs, founders, and hospitality professionals focused on long-term growth, innovation, and staying ahead in the evolving hospitality industry.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Kaleb Harrell, CEO and co-founder of Hawkers Asian Street Food, joins Hospitality Hangout to share hospitality insider insights on building an authentic restaurant brand rooted in Asian street food culture. Discover how understanding true hawker culture and hands-on hospitality leadership shaped Hawkers’ unique growth strategy and helped the brand stay genuine without feeling like a traditional chain.In this episode, Kaleb dives into early challenges of bootstrapping, balancing multiple ventures, and system-building, giving listeners an inside look at entrepreneurial strategies in the food industry. He also discusses disciplined investment decisions and partnership dynamics, offering valuable lessons for hospitality entrepreneurs navigating growth while preserving culture.Tune in for an engaging conversation that explores emerging hospitality trends, leadership in the food service industry, and the business strategies behind one of the fastest-growing authentic food brands. This episode is packed with insider stories and lessons any entrepreneur or hospitality insider won’t want to miss!
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mark Politzer, CEO of Norms Restaurants and a prominent figure among hospitality insiders, shares his extraordinary journey in the food service industry on Hospitality Hangout. From starting as a dishwasher to leading a beloved Southern California diner, Mark talks about the hospitality strategies and leadership principles that sustain Norms’ 76-year legacy. Featuring insights on maintaining a multi-generational workforce and fostering long-term loyalty, this episode explores how industry trends shape consistency and culture in established hospitality brands.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
André Vener shares the inspiring hospitality story behind DogHaus—from a late-night idea to a nationally recognized food brand. Discover industry trends in food service and hospitality strategies as André discusses the importance of food quality, guest experience, and how entertainment blends seamlessly with hospitality. This episode explores key investment and scaling strategies to grow a brand without losing its original soul. André also shares his experiences working with celebrity partners like Jake Paul and highlights why relationships and trust are just as crucial as business strategy in the hospitality industry. Perfect for entrepreneurs and hospitality professional's eager for insider insights and emerging brand success stories.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Kelli Valade, CEO of Denny’s and a leading hospitality insider, shares her purpose-driven leadership approach, and the powerful role hospitality plays beyond the dining room. In this special No Kid Hungry miniseries episode, explore how Denny’s commitment to fighting childhood hunger through a 15-year partnership and signing the CEO Pledge highlights impactful hospitality trends. Kelli dives into building culture at a legacy brand, staying relevant across generations, and leading with empathy in the food service industry. Discover insider insights into how hospitality strategies can serve communities and develop future leaders in this inspiring conversation.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jennifer Dodd, CEO of Main Squeeze Juice, shares her journey and insights into building an emerging brand within the food industry. Dive deep into hospitality trends around wellness-driven concepts, cold-pressed juice, and gut health, and discover how this innovative approach transforms food service experiences.Jennifer breaks down what sets Main Squeeze apart—from fresh, unpasteurized juice with a six-day shelf life to catering to fitness enthusiasts and GLP-1 users. She reveals the importance of educating customers on raw versus pasteurized juice and how plant-based options continue to expand in the growing wellness market.This episode also explores business strategies including leadership, franchise growth, and non-traditional expansion, giving listeners insider insights into the hospitality and food industry. Tune in for a compelling discussion on building a wellness-driven brand amid evolving industry trends.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Amy Hom, COO of Barcelona Wine Bar and a recognized hospitality insider, shares her leadership journey and insights into navigating hospitality trends through talent development and brand expansion. From early experiences at major food service brands to shaping the culture at Barcelona Wine Bar and its new concept Corsica Wine Bar, Amy outlines how investing in people drives success. She discusses mentorship, emerging leaders, and strategic hospitality strategies that foster long-lasting careers and strong talent pipelines. Tune in for a deep dive into industry trends and insider insights on scaling multi-unit operations while preserving brand identity, delivering valuable lessons for hospitality entrepreneurs and food industry professionals alike.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Suzie Tsai, CEO of Bonchon Chicken, joins Hospitality Insiders to share captivating insights into one of the most iconic Korean fried chicken brands shaping hospitality trends worldwide. Dive into the science behind perfect twice-fried chicken, explore Bonchon’s explosive growth through word-of-mouth, and learn about bold hospitality strategies driving their global expansion. Suzie also discusses innovative flavor development, the impact of K-culture on younger diners, and why kimchi might be the new natural wonder for health-conscious food lovers. This episode blends industry insights, business strategy, and memorable moments, making it essential listening for anyone passionate about the food service and hospitality industry.
Episode Credits:Sponsored by: DirecTVProduced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: GrodMediawww.thehospitalityhangout.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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