Welcome back to Cooked with Eric Reed — Episode 2 is here!

In this episode, Eric sits down with Ryan Catarozoli, Director of Key Accounts at Hatco, to break down everything you need to know about the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show — one of the biggest events in foodservice.

From must-see innovations and industry trends to behind-the-scenes trade show stories, this episode gives you a real look at what goes down on and off the show floor.

Whether you're a manufacturer, dealer, operator, or just curious about the foodservice world, this episode is packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔥 In this episode:

•  What the NRA Show is really like 
•  The Kitchen Innovations Awards and emerging tech 
•  How manufacturers reps support brands across regions 
•  Why trade shows still matter in a digital world 
•  Hilarious and real NRA stories
•  Survival tips for navigating massive trade shows 
•  Must-visit spots in Chicago during the show 

👥 About Midwest Professional Reps

We represent leading foodservice equipment and supply manufacturers across Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Southern Illinois — helping brands grow and supporting operators every step of the way.

If you're heading to the NRA Show, come find us and say hello!

💬 Got a crazy foodservice story? Drop it in the comments — we might feature it in a future episode.

👍 Like, Subscribe, and follow along for more episodes of Cooked with Eric Reed

Intro & Podcast Overview 

What Midwest Professional Reps Does 

NRA Show Overview 

Kitchen Innovations Awards 

Educational Sessions & Learning Opportunities 

After Hours Networking & Events 

Guest Introduction: Ryan Katarzolei (Hatco) 

COVID Content & Digital Shift 

Trade Show Evolution 

Hatco at NRA – New Products & Booth Preview 

Product Innovation Deep Dive 

NRA Stories & Industry Experiences 

Survival Guide for Attendees 

Navigating the Show Efficiently 

Chicago Food Recommendations 

Memorable Stories from the Road 

Closing Thoughts & Outro