
Nashville Restaurant Radio
By New Light Hospitality
This is a podcast made for and about the people of the Nashville Restaurant community. Our goal is to gain others perspectives and learn from their experiences. Listen for interviews with Chefs, Restauranteurs, authors, industry leaders, and much more! This is not a podcast where we talk about food, we talk about food people.

Nashville Restaurant RadioMar 21, 2025
00:00
01:21:15

Leesa Leclaire – Leading Nashville’s Hospitality Community
We’re thrilled to welcome Leesa Leclaire, President & CEO of the Greater Nashville Hospitality Association (GNHA), to the podcast today!In this episode, Leesa breaks down the important work the GNHA is doing to support and advocate for local restaurants and hospitality businesses. We dive into the current state of the industry in Nashville, the challenges operators are facing, and the exciting ways GNHA is stepping up to make a difference.From workforce development to legislative advocacy, Leesa is leading impactful initiatives that are shaping the future of hospitality in our city — and we were honored to have her join us in studio for this conversation.If you care about the restaurant and hospitality community in Nashville, you don’t want to miss this one.🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.📲 Follow us on Instagram @nashville_restaurant_radio for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Apr 30, 202501:21:34

Team Hidi 2025
This special episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio was recorded live at Team Hidi 2025, Giving Kitchen’s annual fundraiser hosted at iconic Truist Park in Atlanta, GA. The energy was electric, the cause was powerful, and the stories were unforgettable.We set up our mobile studio and spent the evening speaking with passionate supporters of Giving Kitchen, an organization dedicated to providing emergency assistance to food service workers. Our mission? To learn what drives these individuals to support the cause — and what Giving Kitchen means to them personally.In this episode, you’ll hear from:Megan McCarthy – Chef & Culinary ConnectorJim and Kelly Chasteen – Founders of ASW DistilleryJulie Wade – Head of Marketing at Taziki’s Mediterranean CaféEmma Backham – Event Manager for Tito’s Vodka (GA)Anita Hsu – Owner of Lazy BettyPhil Handley – Owner of Dash HospitalityWendy Gajadharsingh – Food influencer known as @thebubblytalkCourtney May – Senior Marketing Manager at Empire Distributors AtlantaAnd a heartwarming conversation with three generations of one family who volunteered together at the eventThis episode is a celebration of generosity, community, and the restaurant industry’s enduring spirit. Tune in and be inspired by the people who show up, give back, and lift others in times of need.
Apr 18, 202501:25:54

Jason Crews- Owner- C&B Linen
In this episode, we hit the road to Waynesboro, Tennessee, to sit down with Jason Crews, owner of C&B Linen. Get ready—this company is shaking up the linen rental industry in a big way.C&B Linen is all about transparency and simplicity. No contracts. No sneaky “creative” fees. Just top-tier quality and unmatched service. Sounds too good to be true? We thought so too—until we heard how they’re making it happen.Jason shares the story behind the business, what sets C&B apart from the rest, and why so many restaurants are making the switch to this more honest, customer-first model.Trust us—you’re going to want to take notes and get in touch with them.🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to subscribe wherever you're listening!📲 Follow us on Instagram for more: @nashville_restaurant_radio
Apr 06, 202501:04:36

Olivia Britton- Publisher- NFocus Magazine
Today’s guest is the amazing Olivia Britton – Publisher of NFocus Magazine and Executive Director of the Music City Food and Wine Festival!We dive deep into all the details of this year’s event – from how it’s coming together behind the scenes to what attendees can expect during one of Nashville’s most anticipated weekends. Olivia walks us through the full experience, including the highly-anticipated Iron Fork, which is happening right in the middle of the Grand Tasting!We break down the list of contestants, chat about who we think has the edge this year and why, and share some of our favorite Iron Fork memories from years past. Plus, we catch up on where life has taken us and what’s next on the horizon.This episode is packed with energy, stories, and a look behind the curtain of an event that celebrates the very best of Nashville’s food scene.🎟️ Grab your tickets now at musiccityfoodandwinefest.com – this is one event you don’t want to miss.Cheers!
Apr 06, 202501:03:08

Live from TN Flavors at the Randy Rayburn School for Culinary Arts
We’ve got something truly special for you today! This episode was recorded live from the TN Flavors event at Nashville State Community College, home of the incredible Randy Rayburn School for Culinary Arts. It was an amazing night filled with food, community, and conversation—and we had so much fun capturing it all!We spoke with a fantastic mix of chefs, entrepreneurs, city leaders, and hospitality pros—each with their own unique story and perspective. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Nashville’s food and hospitality scene so vibrant.👥 Here’s who you’ll hear from, in order of appearance:Lous the Sous & Chef Christopher from Café MargotTravis McVey, Founder of Heroes VodkaCarmelo & Corrado Savarino, Owners of Savarino’s CucinaTom Druffel, Director of Hospitality at Nashville State & Metro Council Member, District 23John Drake, Chief of Police, Metropolitan NashvilleLeesa LeClaire, President of the Greater Nashville Hospitality Association (GNHA)Craig Clift, Partner at Elliston Place Soda Shop & Midtown CaféAlyssa Gangeri, Partner at Buttermilk RanchJoy Styles, Metro Council Member, District 32Every conversation brought something fresh—from passion for local ingredients and entrepreneurship to the power of culinary education and community connection.🎧 Whether you’re in the industry or just love good food and good people, this episode is for you. Tune in, enjoy, and let us know what you think!🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your fellow food lovers!
Apr 01, 202501:40:57

From Sydney to Nashville – The Journey of Two Hands with Henry Roberts
In this episode, we sit down with Henry Roberts, the Founder and Owner of Two Hands in The Gulch and Franklin. Henry shares his incredible journey, from growing up in Sydney, Australia, to traveling to America, opening his first Two Hands location in New York City, and eventually expanding into Nashville.We dive into the challenges and triumphs of building a restaurant brand, his experiences in the industry, and what led him to Music City. Along the way, Henry reflects on meeting his wife, the lessons he’s learned as an entrepreneur, and what it takes to create a thriving hospitality business.We wrap up the conversation with a fun rapid-fire round, covering his favorite bands, best concert experience, favorite movies, and more.This was a fantastic conversation, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did!Tune in now and join us for an inspiring episode! 🎙️
Mar 21, 202501:21:15

Sean Lyons- Managing Partner for Up Hospitality (Germantown Cafe, Park Cafe, and Karrington Rowe)
Welcome back to another episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio! Today, we’re sitting down with Sean Lyons, Managing Partner of Up Hospitality, the group behind Germantown Cafe, Park Cafe, and their newest addition, Karrington Rowe in Brentwood.Sean shares his passion for community-driven restaurants, how Up Hospitality approaches hospitality and growth, and the story behind their Park Cafe acquisition. Of course, we also dive deep into their newest concept, Karrington Rowe, and what makes it stand out.We’re also getting into some hot industry topics, including:🍽️ Wages and tipping structures💰 Tip pooling – the good, the bad, and the challenges👨🍳 Restaurant leadership and culture🔍 General industry insights and trendsThis is a must-listen for anyone in the restaurant world or those who love getting a behind-the-scenes look at the industry!👉 Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!📲 Follow us on Instagram: @nashville_restaurant_radio#NashvilleRestaurants #HospitalityIndustry #RestaurantLife #NashvilleDining
Mar 15, 202501:01:45

From the South of France to Nashville – The Journey of Cocorico Bakery with Elodie Habert
In this episode, we’re joined by Elodie Habert, who made the bold move from the South of France to Nashville in 2018 and never looked back. She shares her inspiring journey of opening Cocorico French Bakery & Cafe, the challenges of securing her own brick-and-mortar space, and the importance of building a business rooted in community and local artisan support.We also dive into her exciting collaboration with Miel, happening on March 20—a can’t-miss event for food lovers! Grab your tickets now at Miel.com.👉 Visit Cocorico at Buddy Killen Circle (yes, that’s the dancing naked people roundabout—now you know the name!).Cheers to great food, hard work, and community! 🥐☕🔗 Follow & Subscribe: @nashville_restaurant_radio📍 Cocorico French Bakery & Cafe📍 Miel
Mar 10, 202501:01:03

Claire Crowell- President- A. Marshall Hospitality
We’re back with an all-new episode, featuring the one and only Claire Crowell! Claire is the President at A. Marshall Hospitality and the CEO of Hattie Jane’s Creamery. This marks her fourth time on the show, and she always brings incredible insights into the restaurant industry.Claire also writes The Out of the Weeds Collective, where she shares her thoughts on restaurant leadership and leadership in general.In this episode, we dive into:✔️ What brought Claire back to A. Marshall Hospitality✔️ A behind-the-scenes look at her typical day✔️ Her best leadership advice✔️ General industry talk—trends, challenges, and opportunitiesDon’t miss this one! 🎧📲 Follow us on socials: @Nashville_Restaurant_Radio✅ Hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform!#RestaurantIndustry #Podcast #Leadership #Hospitality #NashvilleRestaurants #ClaireCrowell #OutOfTheWeeds
Mar 06, 202501:14:29

TN Flavors feat Marcio Florez and Nick Dillard
We’re back with a special bonus episode featuring two incredible guests: Marcio Florez, owner of Limo Peruvian Eatery, and Nick Dillard, an Area Manager for Performance Food Service. But beyond their current roles, both Marcio and Nick are proud alumni of The Randy Rayburn School of Culinary Arts at Nashville State Community College!In this episode, we dive into TN Flavors, a premier culinary event that brings together the best of Tennessee’s food scene. We cover:✅ What is TN Flavors?✅ Where is it held?✅ Where does the money go?Plus, Marcio and Nick share how their time at Nashville State shaped their hospitality careers and helped them get to where they are today.We’re giving away two pairs of tickets to TN Flavors! Want to win?👉 Head over to Instagram and follow @Nashville_Restaurant_Radio👉 Find the post about this episode👉 Tag your favorite restaurant that you’re excited to taste at TN Flavors!Cheers, and happy listening! 🎧🍽️🎟️ The Importance of TN Flavors🎉 Ticket Giveaway!
Mar 05, 202534:38

Ken and Ian from Calexo
On this all-new episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio, we’re joined by Ken Pelltier and Ian Colon, the COO and CEO of Calexo!Calexo is a trailblazing hemp-derived THC beverage available in three refreshing flavors: Cucumber Citron, Citrus Rose, and Semi Tropic (my personal favorite!).In this episode, we dive into:✅ The process behind creating Calexo✅ The science that makes it unique✅ The brand’s origin story and conceptThis is Ken’s second time on the podcast—be sure to check out his first interview from January 2024 for more insights!You can find Calexo at fine liquor stores—and if they don’t carry it, ask them to stock it! For businesses, Lipman Brothers is your go-to distributor.Tune in now and enjoy the conversation! 🎧
Mar 02, 202501:08:19

Unlocking your restaurants hidden profitability with Marta Grumberg- Owner Grumberg Accounting
In this episode, we’re joined by Marta Grumberg, an accountant based in Charlotte, North Carolina, who specializes in restaurant accounting. Marta reached out to share her expertise on the unique financial challenges and opportunities in the restaurant industry.We cover a lot, including:How to identify hidden costs in restaurant operations 🔍Practical strategies to optimize cash flow 💡Why proper cost analysis is crucial for setting menu prices 📊How specialized accounting can drive growth and long-term success 🚀Adapting your financial structures to meet current food service trends 📈BONUS: Special tax strategies to help you maximize savings for the rest of 2025! 🛡️Whether you’re a restaurant owner, manager, or just passionate about the business side of food, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Feb 21, 202557:56

Jen Freeman- Owner- Haunted Murfreesboro
Guest: Jen Freeman – Owner of Haunted Murfreesboro, a walking tour exploring the haunted history of downtown Murfreesboro, TN.
👻 Episode Highlights:
Jen shares chilling ghost stories and the eerie past of Murfreesboro’s downtown square.
Brandon recounts his own supernatural experience from just last week.
Stick around until the end, where Brandon tells the incredible story of when Jen visited Mere Bulles to scout for a haunted dinner—and the shocking events that unfolded.
🍽️ Also in this Episode:
Celebrity Chef Kevin Des Chenes kicks things off, previewing an epic weekend of food and music at Humble Baron in March.
Get your tickets now at humblebaron.com.
📢 Connect with Us:
Follow us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Subscribe & leave a review—it helps more listeners discover the show!
🎧 Listen now and get ready for a spooky and delicious ride!
Jan 29, 202501:18:35

Stephen Faust- Chef/Owner- McGuffin Catering
On today’s episode, we’re kicking off the new year with an incredible guest—Stephen Faust, Chef and Partner at McGuffin Catering. Stephen takes us behind the scenes of life on film sets, sharing fascinating stories from the culinary world of entertainment. We also dive into his inspiring journey of 28 years of sobriety and discuss the challenges he faced evacuating his home during the California fires.
But that’s not all! In the intro, I’ll catch you up on everything I’ve been up to lately, introduce some exciting new sponsors, and share details about a brand-new alliance I’m forming. This initiative is all about helping you increase profits and strengthen relationships with our amazing partner vendors.
There’s so much to cover today—so grab your coffee, settle in, and stay tuned to Nashville Restaurant Radio!
Jan 11, 202501:03:32

Ray McBride- CEO- Black Sheep Tequila
In this episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio, we’re thrilled to welcome Ray McBride, CEO of Black Sheep Tequila, a Nashville-based tequila brand that’s making waves in the spirits industry.
Ray brings his high-energy style and passion for tequila as he shares:
The story behind Black Sheep Tequila and what inspired the brand’s unique name.
Why their tequila is considered the best in the world, with their Añejo earning double gold at the San Francisco Spirits Competition three years in a row.
How Nashville became the perfect home base for their operation.
If you’re a tequila enthusiast, a restaurant professional, or just someone who loves hearing about bold ideas and big wins, this episode is for you.
About Our Guest:Ray McBride is the visionary leader behind Black Sheep Tequila, a brand that’s redefining premium tequila. With a commitment to quality and an unconventional approach, Ray has helped position Black Sheep as a standout in the industry, earning accolades and growing a loyal following.
Dec 16, 202457:56

The Chandler James Team at Lee & Associates
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Miller Chandler and LeeAnn James, the powerhouse duo behind the Chandler-James team at Lee & Associates here in Nashville. Together, they share insights into their work, what drives their passion, and their dedication to helping businesses find the perfect location to grow and thrive. With deep expertise in the Nashville market, they know how to pinpoint the ideal spot for any business.
Miller and LeeAnn discuss the most overrated and underrated areas in Nashville for commercial real estate, giving listeners an insider’s perspective on where to look and where to steer clear. If you're thinking about expanding your business, now is the perfect time to reach out to them to start crafting a strategic plan tailored just for you.
Nov 13, 202452:31

John Stephenson- Hathorne
John Stephenson made the difficult decision to close his beloved restaurant Hathorne early this past September. We have never really done an episode where we talk to someone who just closed their place, but John was willing to come on and discuss some of the factors that helped him make that tough decision. We want to say a big thank you to John for the vulnerability to share his experience.
Nov 09, 202401:29:17

Joe Muer Seafood- Michael (GM) and Marino (Exec Chef)
This episode has the longest intro we have ever done, almost 45 minutes. After the intro, we talk with Mike and Marino from Joe Muer Seafood. They tell the story, and a lot of operational content as well. Stay tuned next week for John Stephenson, and The Chandler James Team the following week.
Nov 02, 202401:52:17

Best of Nashville Acceptance Speeches
Chris Chamberlain (Nashville Scene Writer) and D. Patrick Rodgers (Editor of the Nashville Scene) join Host Brandon Styll as they talk to Chef's and Restaurant owners about their BON 24 wins, and of course, the acceptance speeches.
Featuring..
Jon and Wilson from NOKO- Best Restaurant (readers pick)
Hrant Arakelian- Owner- Lyra- Best Mediterranean
Andrew and Anne- Owners- The Villager- Best Dart Bar
Andy and Cody- Owners Bad Luck Burger Club- Best Burger. Best Food Truck (with special surprise appearance from Big Daddy Sean Porter of Daddy's Dogs)
Tiffani and Andy- The Catbird Seat- Best New Chef addition
Ben Norton- Chef- Husk- Best Restaurant (writer's pick)
Edger Victoria- Owner/ Chef- Alebrije- Best Chef
Oct 30, 202402:19:32

Chef Vasisht Ramasubramanian (Chef V)- The Flavorsmith
Chef V joins the show to talk about his new line of sauces called The Flavorsmith. Crystal and Brandon also taste them all. Chef V also tells his story of coming up through the ranks of Jean-Georges, and moving to Nashville to open Maneet Chauhan's first restaurant Chauhan Ale & Masala house. He left there to pursue a restaurant called the Hook with Dale Levitski, and ultimately opened several restaurants for the Honest company. His story is awesome, and inspirational, and we are so excited to share it with you today!
Oct 15, 202401:13:03

GFS Show Part 2 (Multiple Interviews)
Morgan Castillo- Owner- Tin Fish- Newburg, IN 3:14
Ed Schwartzman- Owner Gable's Bagels- 17:00
Eric Jones and Jason Smith- Smokeshow BBQ-29:22
Bad Luck Burger Club- Andy and Cody- 40:10
Andrea Chaires- Owner- The Rosepepper- 55:00
Howard Jones- Owner- Kingdom Cafe 1:06"30
Oct 05, 202401:17:11

Gordon Foodservice Show- Part 1 (multiple interviews)
Patrick Cairoli- North American Customer Solutions Manager 3:04
Paul Hunter- New Business Development Manager- GFS Nashville- 18:41
Alan Laderman- Owner- Sammies and The Grind -Martin, TN 34:38
Michael Spencer- Owner- Nash Dogs- 49:42
David Parker- Owner- Prime Time Pub and Grille- Newburg, IN 1:01"53
Bill Laviolette- Owner- Shotgun Willies- Nashville 1:15"52
Oct 04, 202401:36:10

Brandon's Book Club- Debra Sunderland
We are talking about the 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership with Debra Sunderland.
Sep 26, 202401:08:08

Jarrett Steiber- Owner/ Chef- Little Bear
Little Bear is an Atlanta restaurant that is a gold certified Farmer Champion by Georgia Organics. Today Jarrett talks about truly being Farm to Table, and why that is important to him. His restaurant is the definition of locally owned and operated, and I personally can't wait to go back to eat there. This episode is also available on Atlanta Restaurant Radio.
Sep 19, 202401:15:10

Debra Sunderland Coaching
Brandon's Book Club is Back!! We are reading the 15 commitment's of Conscious Leadership with facilitator Debra Sunderland. We are constantly talking about leadership, but what does conscious leadership look like? It's about being intentional, and living above the line. Its about being our most authentic selves, leaving judgement and blame in the rearview mirror. This book has changed my life, and now if your chance to take control of your business and keep it moving forward. We will be doing a LIVE episode on Sept 24, and we would love to have you be a part of it.
Sep 05, 202401:15:54

Rich Bryant- GoTab
Rich Bryant is the captain of the relation-ship at @gotab.inc Today we talk about his job at GoTab, and all the fun stuff. (GoTab is an all in one POS Solution that only one restaurant in Nashville takes advantage of. And they are awesome. #notasponsor) but the real gem of this conversation in at about 53 minutes in where he tells the story of his heart attack earlier this year, and it just goes from there. Wow, this is a powerful episode. Nothing like facing death to give you perspective. Stay tuned Monday as we will release the new @brandon_nrr_bookclub book of the month. The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership. If you struggle with defensiveness, your team not performing well, profitability, really anything, this book will help put it all together in perspective. I can’t wait to share it with you, and we will have @sunderland.coaching along for the ride to help you understand the concepts better. We will be doing a LIVE show at the end of September, and we would love to have you join us. So stay tuned, and enjoy this episode with Rich Bryant wherever you listen to podcasts.
Aug 30, 202401:18:30

Abhinav Kapur- CEO and Co-Founder-Bikky
This episode is VERY important if you are a restaurant Owner or Manager!! Abhinav Founded a company called Bikky, based around his mother in laws (who owns a restaurant) need to market and thank the right people for eating at her restaurant. What he created was a solution to identify who your guest is, and what their behaviors will tell you. I would guess 99% of local, independent restaurants do not use this, and would benefit greatly. The problem is, there is SO MUCH DATA, that only chains really take full advantage as they have the staff to take the information and put it to use. I content that this is why chains flourish, and local restaurants close at an alarming rate. Watch as Crystal De Luna-Bogan and Brandon Styll ask the questions that matter to most small restaurant Owners. We always think it's a compliment when the guest says" that was fun, I haven't been asked those questions before" The actual interview with Abhinav starts at the 19 minute mark.
Aug 23, 202401:18:59

Dottie and Kasi- TAFM (TN Assn. of Farmers Markets)
Kasi is the President, and Dottie is the VP of the Tennesee Association of Farmers Markets. Today they stop by to talk about National Farmers Market week. (this week!) Listen in as they talk about what they do and why it is so important to support your local farmers market. Thier interview starts at around the 45 minute mark.
Aug 07, 202401:51:45

Jim Hagy- Owner- Chef's Market
Jim Hagy has owned the Chef's Market for 27 years, and has been in the industry his whole life! Today we catch up with Jim and he tells us about the ups and downs of operating one of the largest catering companies in the city. We also welcome Crystal back, and get all caught up!
Aug 03, 202401:42:03

Charley Augello- Owner- E. 48th St Market
Charley has been the proud owner of the E. 48th St Market in Dunwoody for 37 years. Every member of his family has worked at the market at some point. They proudly serve authentic Italian heroes. According to Charley, an authentic Italian market must have genuine Italian groceries, condiments, and, of course, WINE! After 62 years of marriage, Charley has a wealth of wisdom to share with us today.
Jul 28, 202457:35

Chris Hall- Owner- Unsuckay- (Co-Founder- Giving Kitchen)
Chris Hall is one of the Co- Founder's of Giving Kitchen. He is also a Partner at Unsuckay (UN-SUCK-A) which includes.. Muss and Turner's, MTH Pizza, Roshambo, Local Three, and Warhorse Inventments. In this episode Billy Kramer, Owner of NFA Burger co-hosts the episode which we recorded LIVE at The Distillery of Modern Art. In this episode, we discuss tipping, reviews, service models, storytelling, and lot's of just getting to know you stuff, and a lot about Giving Kitchen.
Sponsor Information-
All Star Fire Protection- 615-865-5600- Rob Baughman
Gordon FoodService- 615-945-6753
SuperSource- 770-337-1143- Jason Ellis
Cali Sober- 980-297-6481- Michael Dean
Chandler James team- 615-473-2452- Michael Dean
Robins Insurance- 863-409-9372- Matthew Clements
Campo Bravo-919-624-0113- Ian Cox
Jul 19, 202401:49:26

Jen Hidinger Kendrick and Leah Melnick- Giving Kitchen
This may be one of the most important episodes that we do around here, and we ask that you help by sharing this story, and getting involved, or just ask for help! IN this episode, Jen Hidinger Kendrick, the Founder of Giving Kitchen, and Leah Melnick, Senior Director of Field Operations, tell their stories, and talk about all of the facets of Giving Kitchen. Billy Karmer from NFA burger is our Co-Host of this episode.
Sponsor information-
All Star Fire Protection- Rob Baughman- 615-865-8500
Supersource- Jason Ellis- 770-337-1143
Robins Insurance- Matthew Clements- 863-409-9372
Cali Sober- Michael Dean-980-297-6481
Gordon Food Service- Paul Hunter-615-945-6753
Chandler James Team at Lee & associates-
Miller Chandler- 615-473-2452
Lee Ann James-731-335-1121
Jul 11, 202401:01:29

Billy Kramer- Owner- NFA Burger (Atlanta)
In our very first episode of this Atlanta Restaurant Takeover for July, we are talking with Billy Kramer, Owner of NFA (not foolin around) Burger in Atlanta. Billy talks about how he isn't a traditional restaurant guy, and what he has learned since becoming one. NFA Burger was named best burger in Georgia by Food and Wine Magazine, and the next time you are in the Dunwoody neighborhood in Atlanta, you simply must give it a shot! Follow the all new Atlanta Restaurant Radio on IG @Atlanta_restaurant_Radio
Jul 10, 202401:23:24

Alexis Soler- Old Glory. No 308. Drift Hotel- The Sun Room
In this week's episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio, hosts Brandon and Crystal sit down with Alexis Soler, co-founder of Old Glory, Flamingo Cocktail Club, and her newest project, The Sun Room at the Drift Nashville. Alexis shares the captivating story of her journey in the hospitality industry, discussing her past ventures and current projects. Crystal also unveils an exciting new project she's working on, adding to the vibrant conversation about innovation and creativity in Nashville's restaurant scene. Don't miss this episode for the latest updates and inspiring stories from the heart of Nashville's culinary world.
Jun 28, 202402:28:60

Daniel Frazier- GM/ Director of Ops- Pharmacy Burger Parlor
Join Brandon Styll and Crystal De Luna Bogan on Nashville Restaurant Radio as they welcome Daniel Frazier, General Manager and Director of Operations at The Pharmacy Burger. In this episode, we dive into the latest restaurant trends and news this week, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the industry specifically through a directo of operations perspective and also what that even means... Plus, we're celebrating a special milestone—Crystal's 40th birthday this Sunday! Tune in for a blend of insightful discussion, industry updates, and birthday festivities you won't want to miss.
Jun 21, 202402:14:39

Jordan from Maison Dixon/ Tammy and Chyler from Island Fin Poke
We are excited to introduce you to Jordan from Maison Dixon, and Chyler and Tammy from Island Fin Poke. Both of these concepts you will want to learn so much more about once you learn their stories. We also talk about all the Father's Day happenings around town, Juneteenth celebrations, and all other events to get your weekend started off right. Cheers!
Jun 12, 202401:56:51

Michael Hanna- Owner- St. Vito Focacceria
In this episode, Brandon and Crystal catch up on the latest restaurant openings, closings and pop ups in town. Listen as they are joined in studio with the incredible Chef Michael Hannah of St. Vito’s Focacciaria in Nashville, TN. Chef Michael shares hilarious customer stories, reminisces about his rich Italian upbringing surrounded by the aromas and flavors of authentic cuisine, and delves into the unique challenges of running a restaurant in one of the hottest, busiest cities in America. Don't miss this mouthwatering and entertaining conversation that promises to leave you both hungry for and laughing!
Jun 07, 202402:03:12

Larry O' Brien- Master Sommelier @ Kendall Jackson
In this episode of Nashville Restaurant Radio, we are honored to host Master Sommelier Larry O’Bryan of Kendall Jackson Winery. Dive into the world of fine wines as Larry shares his expert insights on wine pairing, the intricacies of wine production, and the dedication it takes to achieve the prestigious Master Sommelier title (and how he’s somewhat estranged from the prestigious Court of Sommeliers) Gain valuable tips for selecting the perfect bottle for any occasion (even the perfect pairing with a grilled cheese). Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, this episode offers a rich blend (get it…) of knowledge and passion that is sure to enhance your appreciation for the art of winemaking.
May 31, 202401:40:13

Q Taylor and Shelby Briggs- Sinema
Today we are introducing Shelby Briggs as the new Executive Chef at Sinema!! Q Taylor joins her today as we talk about her first couple months in Nashville, what its like taking over a kitchen that has been ran by one Chef for 10 years, and we also asked the hard questions like, what's your favorite color, Movie, Rom Com, and Favorite restaurants that she has hit up so far. We had so much fun talking to them. Please go visit her at Sinema for their 10 year celebration, and when you see her in your restaurant, say hello, and join us in welcoming her to Nashville.
May 23, 202401:37:24

Gloria Johnson- Tennessee State Representative/ US Senate Candidate
Gloria Johnson is a TN State Representative and she is running to replace Marsha Blackburn on the Senate. We wanted to learn more about the amazing woman, and member of the Tennessee Three. listen in to learn more about her and make sure you register to vote, then GO VOTE!!!!
May 20, 202401:26:03

Jason Crockarell and Maribel Onofre- Pie Town Tacos
Jason and Maribel join us from Pie town tacos today to introduce Maribel as their new partner! Maribel is from Mexico and has been working for Jason for the past couple years and has worked her way into a partnership at PTT. She is such an amazing woman! We can't wait to share her story with you. We debut our new format of pre interview/Post interview conversations with our thoughts as hosts.
May 16, 202401:36:12

Sarah Gavigan- Owner- Otaku Ramen
Sarah joins the podcast for the first time since 2021, and she updates us on everything she has been up to since that time. We also discuss some of the challenges of Owning multiple restaurants, including being attacked by people in the industry you wouldn't expect to attack you.
We also welcome Crystal Deluna-Bogan as our new Co-Host!
May 10, 202402:02:13

Jason Laiacona- Executive Chef- Miel
Mental health awareness month continues with Jason Laiacona, who is the Chef at Miel, but he also hosts a podcast called F- Depression. So we talk about the toll this industry can take on you. We also talk about how we individually address mental health in our own lives, and he gives lots of helpful resources.
May 03, 202401:21:32

Jenni Bedell- HR Consultant- One Digital
Jenni Bedell helps us kick off Mental health awareness month with some good old fashioned HR talk. There were so many good tidbits and ideas about how we approach our team and leadership. We also discuss how mental health effects our job performance, and what you can do if you are a leader, or if you yourself need some help. Remember, it's totally ok to not be ok. Please raise your hand and ask for help if you need it.
Apr 26, 202401:05:58

Ana, Josh, and Maria from Tantisimo and Mala Vida
Ana, Josh, and Maria from Tantisimo stop by the studio in introduce themselves to the city! They own Tantisimo and Mala Vida in East Nashville. listen in as they tell their story!
Apr 21, 202401:37:09

Crystal De Luna-Bogan- Owner- The Grilled Cheeserie
In Crystal's first time on NRR, we talk about the fact that she is an absolute OG in the food truck world, and what that time was like for food truck operators in 2010. We also talk about her pandemic buy back of her business from Fresh Hospitality, and what her future plans for expansion are. (hint- It's about to happen real soon!) We also talk about parenting, general work stuff, and we laugh a lot. This interview was so much fun, I can't wait to have her back!
Apr 14, 202401:29:10

Stephanie Richardson- Owner- Unlock your potential
Stephanie is a Business Coach whose company is called Unlock your Potential. Today we discuss 6 steps that will help you find balance and success. Yup, its that easy!! I'm not going to give them away here, you will have to listen, but I would like to hear your thoughts on our IG page. Look for the post about this episode and let me know what you think!
Apr 11, 202450:01

Chef Kevin Des Chenes
Chef Kev D joins the show to talk about Toast Nashville, and we also talk about what it takes to take your career to the next level as a touring Chef. Toast Nashville happens the weekend of 4-19-24 at the Analog at the Hutton Hotel. There is a Chef's Dinner Friday night, the grand tasting on Saturday Night, with brunches on both Saturday and Sunday mornings too! Thsi should be an amazing event with Robert Irvine, Rocco DiSpirito, Maneet Chauhan, and Alex Belew.
Apr 09, 202434:20

Vivek Surti- Owner- Tailor
If Indian food is something that intimidates you (like it did for me) This episode is going to be very eye opening. Vivek, Owner at Germantown's Tailor Restaurant, breaks down Indian Cuisine in the best way I've ever heard. I learned a lot, and we talked for an hour and a half in what seemed like 20 minutes. The episode starts with a preview of Toast Nashville with Chef Kev D.
Apr 05, 202401:59:13

Brett Tuck- Owner- Brown's Diner
You probably know Brett Tuck from his famous sandwich at Edley's, aptly named "The Tuck Special". However, he now owns the legendary Brown's Diner in Hillsboro Village. He is one of the good guys, who bet it all to keep iconic places like Brown's in existence. WE of course talk about how that all went down, and we spent some time on the fact that he is about to be a new Dad, and I had to give all the unsolicited advice. How did I do? did you know you can give feedback on this podcast right here on Spotify? Let me know what you think.. Thanks for listening! Brandon
Mar 29, 202401:34:25