Restaurant Influencers

Michel Falcon, founder of Brasa Peruvian Kitchen, is a restaurateur, author, and keynote speaker who has used unorthodox tactics to build his brand. From launching a hotline phone number so people can learn about Peru, to applying strategies inspired by Netflix, he’s taking a unique approach to the restaurant industry.

Listen now to learn about deep family roots, thinking outside the box, and why you won’t forget 1-844-GO-BRASA.

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Amir Nathan, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded chef and co-owner of Sami & Susu, opened the restaurant during COVID as a general store before evolving it into one of NYC's premier dining spots, navigating financial scrapes, industry chaos, and the grind of New York hospitality.

Listen now to learn about taking financial risks, reinventing a restaurant, and bringing Israeli flavors to New York City.

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• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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At the Restaurant Industry Influencers Summit, Lisa Landsman (Head of Industry Engagement and SMB Success at Google) shared eye-opening search trends, top Google Business Profile tips, and key data insights shaping restaurants for 2025.

Listen now to learn how Google’s latest search trends are impacting the restaurant industry, the must-have online menu features, and the best ways to optimize your Google Business Profile

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• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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Christy Reuter, chair of the hospitality practice at Blank Rome LLP, isn’t just an attorney — she’s a fierce advocate for restaurant operators navigating high-stakes deals, brand growth, and industry evolution.

Listen now to discover Christy Reuter’s deep passion for hospitality, the crucial role of lawyers in the industry, and why she genuinely loves her clients.

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• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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After building The Meatball Shop into a national brand, chef and restaurateur Daniel Holzman experienced success’s highs and multimillion-dollar failures. Along the way, he learned hard truths about leadership, workplace culture, and lessons that led to Danny Boy’s Famous Original Pizza.

Listen now to learn about the importance of authenticity, better workplace culture, and not letting ego get in the way of financial success.

Sponsored by: 

• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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Eli Sussman, a James Beard Award-nominated chef and owner of Gertrude's in Brooklyn, uses humorous social media posts and memes to spotlight the realities of hospitality. As a chef, operator, and content creator, he’s built a career that blends hospitality with digital influence. 

Listen now to learn about the drive to keep opening restaurants, an unexpected collaboration, and the rise to meme royalty

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• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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After 15 years in luxury hotel food and beverage programs, Auden Hospitality founder Scot Turner found his way to independent restaurants. It was there that the consultant and entrepreneur realized the opportunity for hotels to take pages from the restaurant playbook.

Listen now to learn about authenticity and curated experiences in hotels, improving food and beverage programs, and leaning into digital storytelling

Sponsored by: 

• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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Alba Huerta is an award-winning mixologist and owner of Julep in Houston, Texas. She has spent more than a decade shaping cocktail culture. After countless awards, and 110

drinks on the menu, she has gained international acclaim for her bartending prowess.

Listen now to learn about the art of mixology, embracing her Mexican-American heritage, and leading a James Beard Award winning cocktail program.

Sponsored by:

• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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Kevin Seo has had a colorful career. He achieved viral success with his NFT-themed restaurant, as well as a traveling pop-up restaurant centered around Sonic The Hedgehog. Fans can now enjoy Sonic’s favorite chili dogs, cheese fries, and more.

Listen now to learn about partnering with SEGA to bring Sonic The Hedgehog Speed Cafe to life, listening to fans, and running multiple businesses

Sponsored by: 

• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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Despite not having any prior restaurant experience, Loycent Gordon breathed new life into Neir’s Tavern, a historic Queens landmark made famous in the movie Goodfellas. Dubbed “The most famous bar you’ve never heard of” by PBS, the restaurant and bar is on its way to a 200 year anniversary.

Listen now to learn about entering the restaurant business, telling the story of your business, and taking a leap of faith.

Sponsored by:

• TOAST - All-In-1 Restaurant POS: https://bit.ly/3vpeVsc

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