Jonathan Forgash is the founder of Queens Together. In this conversation, we discuss how the organization formed, its work during the pandemic from his kitchen table and how they eventually helped feed over 500,000 people in Queens. We get into the evolution into advocacy and support for small businesses, the importance of strong community ties, the must-visit restaurants in Queens, the International Food Expo, the importance of resilience, and the pivotal role of small businesses in a boroughs like Queens

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TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 - Welcome Jonathan Forgash To Hospitality & Politics

0:50 - Queens Together: Mission and Impact

2:27 - Pandemic Response

10:27 - Jonathan’s Culinary Journey

13:27 - Formation and Evolution of Queens Together

15:19 - Current Initiatives for Queens Together

19:14 - Events and Fundraising

23:31 - The Must Visit Restaurants

27:25 - Current State of Queens’ Restaurant Industry

35:48 - The Impact From Community Work

39:48 - Future Plans and Advice for Aspiring Community Leaders

43:58 - Celebrating Queens’ Diversity and Culture

46:54 - Thanks Jonathan For Joining The Show!

#podcast #restaurant #politics #hospitality #newyorkcity #business #smallbusiness