Roman Maliszewski is the founder and CEO of Tapster, the innovative self-pour tasting room franchise reshaping the way communities connect over craft beverages. A Chicagoland native and Princeton University graduate, Roman began his career in San Francisco’s competitive advertising industry, […]
Since taking the helm at Bennigan’s in 2011, Paul Mangiamele has championed several game-changing initiatives aimed at revolutionizing the casual dining category and bringing his iconic brands back to their Legendary status. As chronicled in his 2013 book, “Bennigan’s Return […]
Liz Moskow is a Food Futurist and the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Saase (Service as a Service), a company redefining front-of-house operations with AI-assisted waitstaff solutions. A globally recognized trendologist with decades of expertise in restaurant operations and […]
Chad Offerdahl is the President of The Big Biscuit®, a modern All-American Breakfast and Lunch franchise concept that offers freshly prepared and generous portions of classic comfort food favorites with a creative twist that are served with genuine hometown hospitality. […]
James joined Ascent Hospitality Management (AHM) in 2023 as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). His career reflects a blend of quick service and fast casual restaurants and now includes family dining since joining AHM. Before taking the helm at Ascent, he […]
Steve Palmer is the founder, Chief Vision Officer, and managing partner of the hospitality and consulting company, The Indigo Road Hospitality Group. Founded in 2009 in Charleston, South Carolina, when Palmer began working with the celebrated restaurant Oak Steakhouse on […]
Cai Palmiter is a seasoned Marketing Consultant, overseeing six notable brands, including JINYA Ramen Bar, Paris Baguette, Gen Korean BBQ, The Baked Bear, Kung Fu Tea, and an exciting new concept launching in Spring 2025. Cai is also a Digital […]
Dustin Portillo is an influential figure in the hospitality industry, recognized for his thought leadership, expertise and transformational speaking. He has been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times and Wall Street Journal, and is the author […]
My mindset has not wavered over the years whether founding and operating restaurant chains or supporting operators, manufacturers, and others in the foodservice industry. Different is better than better. You are only as good as what you do next and […]
Rachel Richal is the Vice President of Training for Buffalo Wild Wings, part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. Inspire is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes more than 32,000 Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, […]
