Titans of Foodservice

This week, Nick Portillo catches up with Cody Wong, CEO of CW Management Services. With oversight of more than 120 franchise locations, Cody breaks down the operational strategies that fuel scalable growth, emphasizing the importance of strong systems, smart technology, and disciplined execution.

He shares firsthand insights into managing the complexities of human resources, accounting, and regulatory compliance, particularly in light of recent legislative changes that have driven up labor costs. They also discuss the critical balance between operational efficiency and creating a positive workplace culture, one that empowers teams to deliver exceptional customer service.

Listen...

Foodservice operators are embracing fresh, innovative marketing strategies that are essential for staying relevant and successful in today’s consumer landscape.

This week, Nick Portillo sits down with Kate Finley,  Founder of Belle Communication, to uncover the wide-ranging opportunities for financial growth in the foodservice industry. Kate shares how strategic storytelling and authentic brand communication can set companies apart in an increasingly crowded market. She shares insights from her extensive experience helping food brands build genuine connections with their audiences and explains why transparency and trust matter more than ever.

Listen as Nick and Kate exp...

In this episode, host Nick Portillo speaks with David Youngberg, CEO of Stonefire Grill, for an insightful conversation about the vast opportunities in the food service industry. Drawing on a career that spans more than 40 years, Youngberg shares how a commitment to operational excellence has been the cornerstone of his success. He reflects on his early days as a grill cook at McDonald’s, where he first developed a deep understanding of restaurant operations.

Together, Nick and David explore the evolving food service landscape, highlighting both time-tested practices and innovative strategies that are key to thriving in to...

This week, Nick sits down with Alison Patt, President and CEO of Thomas Cuisine, to explore how food can be a powerful catalyst for both personal and professional transformation.

Alison shares her inspiring journey through the food service industry, a career rooted in real food, genuine hospitality, and a passion for improving lives through nutrition. From her early experiences in luxury hotels to leading one of the nation’s most respected dining service companies, she reveals how her leadership blends strategic vision with heartfelt service.

Listen as Nick and Alison discuss the intersection of health, le...

This week, join us as we explore the culinary and leadership journey of Chef Franck, shaped by Brittany roots and Michelin-starred mentorship. From top kitchens to luxury hotel boardrooms, he shares insights on resilience, teamwork, and intentional growth. 

Nick and Franck explore his transformative path, from bustling kitchens of prestigious restaurants to the strategic boardrooms of luxury hotels, uncovering how his roots and experiences inform his unique approach to leadership. Chef Franck’s story goes beyond culinary success; it’s a testament to resilience, intentional growth, and the art of fostering teamwork and organizational culture.

RESOU...

This week, Nick explores the diverse paths to financial success in the food service industry, emphasizing that the key lies in identifying a single, effective approach. His guest, Shawn Walchef, a leading voice in restaurant storytelling and digital hospitality, shares insights shaped by years of experience. We examine the power of narrative in building authentic connections, highlighting Shawn’s innovative “smartphone storytelling” method, which has helped numerous leaders boost their visibility and influence. 

Tracing his evolution from restaurateur to media creator, Shawn shares the strategies that have allowed him to go beyond traditional marketing. 

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In this episode of Titans of Foodservice, host Nick Portillo sits down with Emily Reeves, Vice President of Capital Solutions at Bridge, to unpack the financial strategies every foodservice founder needs to know.

Emily shares how she has helped founders secure more than $300 million in growth capital in 2025, breaking down complex loan structures into practical, actionable insights. Together, Nick and Emily explore smart ways to leverage debt without giving up equity, overlooked financing opportunities, and proven negotiation tactics that empower founders to scale on their own terms.

RESOURCES

Portillo Sales

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In this episode, Nick Portillo dives into one of the industry’s toughest challenges: staffing and employee retention. He is joined by Luke Fryer, founder and CEO of Harri, a platform built to tackle these exact issues. 

With a career that spans decades in hospitality, including launching the very first Burger King in Australia, Luke brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective on how to rethink workforce management. They explore why talent has become the ultimate competitive advantage in foodservice and how technology can transform scheduling and compliance from pain points into opportunities. Luke also sha...

In this episode, Nick Portillo welcomes Michael Spinner, VP of Global Frozen Foods for a discussion on the diverse revenue streams within the food service industry. A trailblazer in the produce sector, Michael shares his extraordinary journey, including his pivotal role in introducing Mexican avocados to the U.S. market amidst significant legal and logistical hurdles. He offers valuable insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the critical role of innovation and adaptability in staying competitive. 

Listen as Nick and Michael take a deeper look into what it takes to succeed in this dynamic industry.

RESOURCES

In this episode, Nick Portillo welcomes Oli Ostertag, General Manager at PAR Technologies Operator Cloud. Together, they dive into one of the biggest shifts shaking up the industry: the rise of appetite-suppressing drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. With more than a quarter of Americans considering these medications, dining habits are changing fast, and restaurants are being forced to adapt.

Ollie shares how quick-service brands can turn this disruption into opportunity by offering smaller portions, lower-sugar options, and smarter menus, without sacrificing profitability.

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00:00 - Intro

00:44 - The Impact of Appetite-Suppressing Drugs...

In this episode, Nick Portillo sits down with Ryan Staniscavage, president of First Pick Produce, for an in-depth look at the fresh produce supply chain. Ryan breaks down how factors like weather impact pricing and availability, while also sharing strategies for navigating the ups and downs of crop markets. The conversation sheds light on why strong industry relationships and a commitment to quality are at the heart of First Pick Produce’s success, and why communication is key to keeping fresh produce moving to operators across the country. 

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00:00 - Intro

00:45 - Diving into...

In this episode, Nick Portillo and guest Ashley Hatfield, Senior Director of Ag Services North America at Lamb Weston, explore the surprising number of ways the humble French fry can drive revenue in the food service industry. Nick and Ashley discuss potato fields to the fryer basket, showing how innovation and sustainability shape every step.

They also talk about Lamb Weston’s forward-thinking farming practices, cutting-edge technology that helps farmers boost efficiency and crop health, and the company’s celebration of 75 years in business with an exciting new menu launch. Along the way, you’ll get an inside...

In this episode of Titans of Foodservice, host Nick Portillo explores the remarkable journey of Brian Hofmeier, Vice President of J.T.M Food Group, whose leadership has transformed the company’s food service division from just 10% to an impressive 95% of total sales. Hoffmeier shares key milestones from his 30-year career, including his instrumental role in launching the groundbreaking commodity processing program for the K12 sector, now a national standard in school food service. 

Listen as Nick and Brian take a deep dive into the strategies, innovations, and insights that have shaped both Hoffmeier’s legacy and the b...

In this episode of Titans of Foodservice, host Nick Portillo dives into the proven strategies behind successfully expanding food brands into new markets. Nick unpacks the essential steps brokers take to drive growth, from identifying the right operator profile to building strong distribution networks and leveraging the power of local broker relationships.

You’ll learn why purposeful sampling, strategic account targeting, and long-term relationship building are critical to gaining traction—and staying there. Nick also explains why growth isn’t just about good timing or luck—it’s about having a sharp, actionable game plan.

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With over 90,000 restaurants and a population of more than 40 million, the Golden State offers a dynamic and diverse market that’s as competitive as it is promising.

This week, Nick unpacks key strategies to boost your sales and marketing efforts and explores what it takes to stand out in such a saturated space. From navigating complex regulations to understanding regional trends and shifting consumer preferences, this conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to succeed in California’s fast-paced food service scene.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this episode will leav...

In this week’s episode, Nick sits down with Alex Strauch, CEO & Founder of Conza—a brand that’s making waves with their high-quality sourdough breadcrumbs. Together, they dive into the challenges of food service sales and discuss key tactics for growth and market entry, especially for new brands. Alex shares firsthand experience on navigating supply chains, positioning products for food service buyers, and scaling operations while maintaining quality.

Whether you’re an emerging brand or looking to sharpen your sales approach, this conversation is packed with strategic insights that will help you accelerate growth and carve out your...

This week, Nick Portillo welcomes David Garascia, General Manager of Food Service at Bell Brands, to explore how to grow a food service business within a retail-driven company. David shares strategies for building strong distribution networks, creating operator relationships, and delivering value beyond pricing. He also reveals how Bell Brands is evolving to meet shifting market demands, making this a must-listen for anyone in the food service space.

Listen to gain insider knowledge on the forward-thinking strategies Bell Brands is employing to meet changing market demands and customer preferences. 

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00:00 - Intro

This week, Nick is breaking down why so many food brokers fail early on — and what you can do to avoid the same mistakes.

It’s not about bad sales skills. The real issues come from not understanding how to run the business side of a brokerage. Drawing from real-world experience, listen as Nick unpacks the five critical mistakes that often lead to early failure in the food brokerage industry.

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00:00 - Intro

00:36 - Struggles of New Food Brokers

05:08 - The Five Biggest Mistakes Brokers Make

08:00 - Navi...

Nick explores the “force multiplier” effect—an elite military strategy—and how it applies to sales in the food service industry, this week on the Titans of Foodservice podcast. By building scalable systems, training teams, and leveraging tools like LinkedIn, sales professionals can expand their reach and grow their brands more efficiently. 

Listen for practical, high-impact strategies to help you work smarter and rise above the competition.

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00:00 - Intro

02:54 - Applying the Force Multiplier Effect to Food Service Sales

04:37 - Mindset Shift in Sales

08:02 - The Power of...

There are many ways to generate revenue in the food service industry. This week, Nick talks about the power of choosing one clear, effective strategy. Drawing from personal experience as a food broker, he shares three major missteps that stalled his growth but ultimately reshaped how he approaches business.

From the importance of strong market coverage to the importance of cultivating the right relationships, Nick sheds light on why strategic partnerships often matter more than widespread outreach.

Listen for tips to navigate the food service landscape with greater clarity, intention, and success!

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There are many reasons why so many brands struggle—and ultimately fail—in the food service industry. Spoiler: it’s not because their products aren’t good. It’s often because they underestimate two crucial factors—demand and logistics.

This week, Nick is breaking down the common misconceptions, especially among those moving from retail to food service. One of the biggest mistakes? Assuming that retail success will automatically carry over. The food service world plays by different rules, where product performance often matters more than packaging or branding.

Listen for practical strategies to help build real demand...

Nick is breaking down a core truth of selling in the food service industry: profitability is king. Buyers aren’t just looking for passion or a great product story—they’re focused on what drives their bottom line.

Listen as Nick unpacks why enthusiasm alone won’t close the deal and explores the real factors that influence purchasing decisions: profit potential, product performance, and availability. Through real-world insights and practical takeaways, he shows how aligning your pitch with these priorities can make all the difference.

If you’re ready to sharpen your sales strategy and speak the...

There is a game-changing distinction in the food service industry: the difference between brands that successfully generate demand and those that struggle to gain traction. Nick is breaking down this distinction through the lens of two hypothetical brands this week—Brand A, which takes a proactive approach by building strategic partnerships and driving demand, and Brand B, which remains passive and stagnates as a result.

By comparing these two paths, Nick highlights why simply getting into distribution isn’t enough. True success comes from actively engaging with key operators, building strong industry relationships, and consistently investing in mark...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo talks about why being adaptable in the foodservice industry is so important. He shares lessons from his 10 years as a food broker, including key strategies to stand out in a competitive market.

Nick shares how you can use tech and digital marketing—especially LinkedIn—to boost your brand and connect with the right people. Plus, he breaks down how data can help you understand what operators really want so you can target the best opportunities.

Listen as Nick highlights how strong relationships with big oper...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo dives into the many ways to make money in the food service industry—not just in theory, but through real, hands-on experience. Nick shares why true success comes from actively engaging with the key players in the field, building relationships, and staying adaptable—especially in the ever-changing post-COVID landscape.

Nick also shares why he will be shifting the podcast from a guest-driven format to a more personal storytelling approach, drawing from his own experiences as a food service broker. 

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This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Daniel Neeley, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Brown Food Service. Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Brown Food Service is a venerable establishment with a rich lineage dating back to 1942, originally serving mining communities in Appalachia. Daniel shares the intricacies of managing a multi-generational family business, emphasizing the paramount importance of trust, transparency, and steadfast family values as the bedrock of their operations. Nick and Daniel discuss the challenges and innovations that have shaped the company's trajectory, particularly in the wake of evolving...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with T. Shane Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran and the driving force behind Big Guns Coffee. T. Shane shares how he transformed a simple desire into a high-powered coffee brand inspired by his daughter's entrepreneurial spirit. Big Guns Coffee epitomizes innovation and resilience with a remarkable array of 38 coffee blends and the establishment of the first hydroponic coffee farm in North Carolina. T. Shane's narrative is one of overcoming adversity, from surviving life-threatening challenges to fostering a business that embodies motivation and community. Listen as Nick and...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Pat Phelan, CEO of Leap Companies, a distinguished entity that specializes in providing comprehensive hospitality services, including furniture and logistics for various dining establishments. Pat's entrepreneurial journey, which commenced with the acquisition of Leap in 2006, is marked by significant challenges, including the loss of a major client that nearly halved his revenue. Rather than succumb to adversity, Pat exemplified resilience by pivoting his business model and cultivating new opportunities, ultimately leading to sustained growth and innovation within the sector. Throughout the discussion, Pat shares invaluable insights...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Jeff Kyer, VP of Sales and Retail at Portillo Sales & Marketing. Nick and Jeff traverse the intricate landscape of food service and retail sales, elucidating the distinct methodologies and strategies employed within each sector. Jeff, with his extensive background in retail food brokerage and his recent ascension to Vice President of Sales at Portillo Sales and Marketing, provides invaluable insights into the operational differences and market dynamics that define these two realms. As they explore the robust food service market in California, which boasts over 90,000 restaurants...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with David Benowitz, President of Craft and Crew Hospitality. David discusses the challenges and rewards of working alongside his father, highlighting the need for open communication and the evolution of their relationship as they navigate the complexities of a family business. David elaborates on the entrepreneurial operating system (EOS) that has been pivotal in shaping their company's structure and success, illustrating how it fosters clarity and consistency in operations. David also expresses his commitment to building a legacy that not only supports their staff and families but...

This week marks our 100th episode on the Titans of Food Service podcast! Nick Portillo speaks with Joey Cioffi, the CEO and founder of the rapidly expanding Salad House chain. With a vision for healthier, fast-casual dining, Joey has successfully opened 20 locations and is set to scale even further across the Northeast and beyond. His story begins in his family's deli in New Jersey, where he learned the intricacies of the food service industry at a young age. Nick and Joey discuss the importance of community involvement, the challenges of maintaining quality in a franchise model, and the insights...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Charles Johnson, CEO of the Detroit Athletic Club, to discuss its rich history and significance in the community. With a legacy dating back to 1887, the DAC has evolved from an athletic club into a premier destination for fine dining and hospitality, showcasing Detroit's heritage and resilience. Johnson shares insights into the club's commitment to exceptional service. He also shares how employee engagement, allowing staff to voice their ideas and contribute to the club's goals, ultimately creates a culture of care for both members and colleagues. Listen...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Michael DiBeneditto, CEO of Golden Waffles. Michael shares insights into the evolution of his company and the unique all-inclusive waffle program they offer. Since its establishment in 1937, Golden Waffles has transformed from a traditional distributor to a pioneer in providing seamless service for waffle stations in hotels, restaurants, and more. Michael discusses his journey into the food service industry, highlighting the importance of community and personal connections that have shaped his career. He emphasizes the company’s commitment to customer experience and innovation, aiming to make fr...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Tim Petrillo, co-founder and CEO of The Restaurant People and Urban Street Development. Tim shares his remarkable journey in the food service industry and how he has significantly impacted South Florida's dining scene. With over 70 restaurants under his belt, Tim discusses the unique challenges and strategies involved in running a successful restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of hospitality over mere knowledge. He reflects on his early experiences, from starting as a busboy to working with renowned chefs, and how those formative years shaped his approach to...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Ralph Bauer, CEO of The Melt. Ralph shares his remarkable journey in the food service industry, highlighting how he quintupled the average revenue per unit from $700,000 to an astounding $3.5 million. With over 25 years of experience, including leadership roles at Popeyes and Domino's, Ralph emphasizes the importance of listening to team members and customers to drive success in the restaurant business. He discusses the transformative power of creating an "I love it here" experience for guests, which fosters loyalty and enhances sales. Ralph's insights into operational excellence...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Dr. Emily Williams Knight, the President and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association. Emily is a powerhouse advocate for the Texas food service industry, representing over 60,000 restaurants and 1.3 million employees. She shares her journey from a military upbringing to her prominent role in advocating for restaurant owners, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability. Dr. Knight discusses the unique challenges faced by the industry, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how her leadership has helped navigate these turbulent times. 

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(00:00) Intro

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Bill Lewis, the President and CEO of Frosty Acres Brands. They explore the critical role of independent food distributors and how Frosty Acres is leveraging data-driven insights to identify new growth opportunities in the industry. Bill shares his journey from Ohio to Georgia and his extensive experience in food distribution, highlighting the adaptability and customer intimacy that independent distributors offer compared to national broadliners. Nick and Bill also discuss the importance of technology and data analytics in enhancing relationships and driving profitability for suppliers and members...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Betsy McAtee, CEO of Dreamland Barbecue. Betsy shares the legendary history and cultural significance of barbecue in Alabama. The conversation highlights Dreamland's unique approach to barbecue, which includes cooking over an open pit and using a signature vinegar-based sauce, setting it apart from other regional styles. Betsy and Nick explore the deep connection between food and community, especially on game days when residents celebrate Alabama football with barbecue as a central element. 

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(00:02)  Introduction to Titans of Food Service

(00:29) Highlighting Al...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Elisia Flores, the CEO of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. Elisia discusses her remarkable journey with her family-owned restaurant chain, which has grown into a global brand with over 200 locations. Elisia shares her unique perspective on managing a large business while maintaining the authentic flavors that define Hawaiian cuisine. Nick and Elisia delve into the challenges and triumphs faced during the pandemic, highlighting how L&L adapted and thrived amidst the chaos.

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(00:00) Intro to Titans of Food Service

(01:37) Hawaii's Unique...

This week on the Titans of Food Service podcast, Nick Portillo speaks with Derrick Green, former Army veteran, and Alaska’s “breakfast king”. Derrick shares his inspiring journey of transforming personal health challenges into a thriving food business, Waffles and Whatnot. After facing significant health issues within his family, including cancer diagnoses for both his wife and mother, Derek turned to food not just as sustenance but as a means of healing. His company is built on the belief that food should nourish and promote wellness, and he aims to create the largest black-owned franchise in the U.S. Nick a...