In this powerful continuation of Episode 1, the NDM Podcast dives deep into the minds of disruptive hospitality leaders. From scaling wellness-focused restaurant brands to redefining leadership and work-life balance, this episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone passionate about the future of food, wellness, and business.

🎥 Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://youtu.be/-p6r4ttkNhY

Hosts:

• Nick Falcone - CEO, NDM Hospitality
• Matthew Falcone - COO, NDM Hospitality

Guests:

• Sunny Ilyas - CEO, Vale Food Co.
• Casey Biehl - Group President of Savvy Sliders, BurgerFi, Fat Boy’s Pizza, & Happy’s Pizza

🧠 Key Topics Covered:

• The evolution of leadership in hospitality
• Challenges and wins in brand transformation
• Creating proprietary food experiences through global travel
• Supporting dietary restrictions and inclusive dining
• Work-life balance hacks for high-performing CEOs
• The future of restaurant growth and infrastructure
• Navigating delivery platforms and the “two landlord” dilemma
• Launching new revenue streams: supplements, e-commerce, and meal plans

📣 If you’re passionate about hospitality, wellness, or entrepreneurship, subscribe to the NDM Podcast for more disruptive insights.

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Welcome to the NDM Podcast, where hosts Nick and Matt Falcone connect with influential leaders across industries to explore insights, trends, and transformative journeys.

In this episode, Nick and Matt sit down with Sunny Ilyas, founder and CEO of Vale Food Co., and Casey Biehl, group president at Savvy Sliders, BurgerFi, Fat Boy’s Pizza, and Happy’s Pizza. Together, they share their unexpected paths into the food & beverage world.

🔹 Sunny opens up about his pivot from a medical career to launching a health-focused restaurant brand, driven by a passion for nutrition and a desire to bridge gaps in the industry.

🔹 Casey recounts his evolution from corporate sales to nightlife, ultimately finding his calling in restaurant leadership. His story highlights the power of adaptability and creative problem-solving.

The conversation dives deep into:

• The high-pressure dynamics of restaurant management
• Leadership strategies to combat staff turnover
• How COVID-19 reshaped the industry and accelerated health-conscious dining trends

Whether you’re in hospitality or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration.

Listen now and subscribe for more industry insights and compelling stories from the NDM Podcast.

NDM Podcast Trailer