Every year, the National Restaurant Association Show takes over Chicago — and for anyone in hospitality, it’s more than just a convention. It’s where the industry shows up, shows off, and looks ahead.

In this episode of Hospitality Hangout, Schatzy sits down with David Henkes and Lisa Malikow from Technomic to break down everything you need to know about the NRA Show.

They get into how long “The Show” has been running, why it still matters, what trends are emerging this year, and how operators, brands, and suppliers can actually get value from attending.

If you’re planning to attend the NRA Show this is your inside look at what to expect, what to watch for, and how to make the most of it.

Whether you're a restaurant operator, hospitality executive, or industry vendor, this conversation will get you ready for one of the biggest foodservice events in the world.

Episode Credits:

• Sponsored by: DirecTV
• Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
• Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, Jimmy Frischling
• Producer: Julie Zucker
• Creative Director: Adam Levine
• Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
• Post Production: Three Cheers Creative

www.thehospitalityhangout.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former Greg Creed joins Hospitality Hangout for a masterclass in leadership, branding, and restaurant growth. Greg shares how he helped transform Taco Bell into one of the most recognizable brands in the world, from responding to a headline-making lawsuit to launching Doritos Locos Tacos and building Mountain Dew Baja Blast into a billion-dollar success story.

The conversation also dives into company culture, developing leaders, standing out in a crowded market, and why hospitality remains one of the most overlooked career paths today. For restaurant operators, marketers, founders, and anyone building a brand, this episode is packed with real-world insight from one of the industry's most accomplished executives.

Episode Credits:

• Sponsored by: DirecTV
• Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
• Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, Jimmy Frischling
• Producer: Julie Zucker
• Creative Director: Adam Levine
• Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
• Post Production: Three Cheers Creative

www.thehospitalityhangout.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tory Bartlett joins the conversation to break down the rise of PopUp Bagels and what it takes to turn a simple product into a cultural phenomenon. From washing dishes at Hooters to leading one of the fastest-growing brands in hospitality, he shares the journey behind building a business rooted in energy, simplicity, and experience.

The discussion explores how PopUp Bagels disrupted a legacy category by focusing on a limited menu, operational efficiency, and a highly engaging in-store experience. From long lines that feel like part of the product to organic growth fueled by collaborations and community, Tory breaks down how the brand scaled rapidly without relying on traditional marketing or paid promotion.

Along the way, the conversation dives into franchising strategy, the importance of choosing the right partners, and how maintaining brand consistency goes beyond product into culture and execution. The episode also highlights how authenticity, discipline, and a clear point of view can turn a neighborhood concept into a nationally expanding brand.

Episode Credits:

• Sponsored by: DirecTV
• Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
• Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, Jimmy Frischling
• Producer: Julie Zucker
• Creative Director: Adam Levine
• Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
• Post Production: Three Cheers Creative

www.thehospitalityhangout.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.