Dine & Dish

Michele DiMeo
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Management
  • Updated weekly

Welcome to Dine & Dish, the podcast hosted by Michele DiMeo, the Restaurant Diva. Join Michele as she dives into the heart of hospitality, service, and the restaurant world, sharing stories, trends, and insights from chefs, restaurateurs, and industry insiders and leaders. From dining culture and behind-the-scenes tales to tips for guests and professionals alike, Dine & Dish celebrates the art, passion, and joy of great food and exceptional service. Whether you're a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply love a good story from the table, this is your front-row seat to the world of dining — with a little diva flair.

  1. 4 days ago

    Dine & Dish Podcast | Hair, Hormones & Happiness: Reinventing Yourself After 40 | Erin Field Fudge

    On this episode of Dine & Dish with Restaurant Diva, host Michele DiMeo, The Restaurant Diva, sits down with Erin Field Fudge, content creator, entrepreneur and hair influencer, for an honest conversation about what it really means to reinvent yourself in midlife. Erin shares her journey from teacher to entrepreneur and online content creator, how her experience with MONAT became part of her business journey, and how she built a social media presence around hair, beauty, lifestyle and connecting with other women. But this conversation goes far beyond hair. Michele and Erin get candid about many of the issues women over 40 and 50 are finally talking about openly—including perimenopause, hormonal changes, hair thinning and shedding, changing bodies, confidence, aging, happiness and the pressure women feel to hold onto a younger version of themselves. They also DISH about the reality of being a content creator and influencer: How Erin went from teaching to building an online businessHair changes, thinning and shedding in midlifePerimenopause and hormonal changesBuilding a personal brand on social mediaTurning content and influence into a businessConfidence and happiness as we get olderWhat it really takes to become a content creatorSocial media comparison, criticism and burnoutBeauty and aging after 40 and 50Why it's never too late to reinvent yourself Michele and Erin also tackle a question millions of women are asking: Why didn't anyone prepare us for perimenopause—and why are women only now talking about it so openly? And perhaps the biggest question of the episode: What if getting older isn't something to fear? What if this could actually be our BEST chapter? Plus, Erin takes on the Restaurant Diva Lightning Round! ⚡💋 Whether you're navigating perimenopause, experiencing changes in your hair, thinking about changing careers, building a business, starting over or simply trying to figure out what makes you happy now, this conversation is for you. #MidlifeReinvention #Perimenopause #WomenOver40 #RestaurantDiva #DineAndDish #ErinFieldFudge #WomenOver50 #MidlifeWomen #HairLossWomen #HairThinning #HairCare #MidlifeConfidence #FemaleEntrepreneur #ContentCreator #WomenInBusiness #AgingBeautifully #ReinventYourself 0:00 — Introduction to Erin Fudge and her journey 1:52 — Erin’s background in teaching and creativity 3:59 — Reinventing into hair care and social media 6:52 — Building confidence and authenticity online 10:42 — Social media growth and engagement 15:59 — Product authenticity and education 19:55 — Helping women with hair loss and aging concerns 23:56 — Happiness and self-confidence 27:52 — Creating engaging hair-styling videos 32:46 — Handling negativity and hate comments 36:41 — Social media as a source of empowerment 39:37 — Advice for women ready to reinvent themselves 43:42 — The reality of building a social media business 46:57 — Consistency and authenticity 52:04 — Balancing social media with everyday life 56:50 — Where to find Erin and final thoughts

    Dine & Dish Podcast | Hair, Hormones & Happiness: Reinventing Yourself After 40 | Erin Field Fudge

  2. 2 Sept

    Dine & Dish Podcast | The Future of Food & Hospitality | Melissa Reagan of The Food For ThoughtCast

    Welcome to Restaurant Diva Dine & Dish, hosted by restaurant executive, entrepreneur and hospitality expert Michele DiMeo, The Restaurant Diva. This week, Michele sits down with fellow podcast host Melissa Reagan of The Food For ThoughtCast for a lively conversation about food, restaurants, beverages, hospitality, restaurant trends, technology, AI and the future of dining. What happens when two podcast hosts who love talking about food and hospitality get together? There is PLENTY to dish about! In this episode, Michele and Melissa discuss: • What makes a restaurant truly memorable • The difference between good service and genuine hospitality • Current food and beverage trends • The biggest restaurant pet peeves • How social media is changing restaurants and dining • Food influencers and restaurant reviews • Restaurant technology and the guest experience • How AI could change the restaurant industry • The future of hospitality • What consumers really want from restaurants • What makes a great podcast guest • Life behind the microphone • The future of food media and podcasting • Food trends we love—and the ones we're ready to retire! And, of course, Melissa faces the Restaurant Diva Lightning Round! Food is about so much more than what's on the plate. It's about people, hospitality, memories, culture and the experiences created around the table. Whether you're a restaurant owner, hospitality professional, foodie, entrepreneur, podcast lover or simply someone who loves dining out, this episode will give you plenty of Food for Thought. #RestaurantDiva #DineAndDish #DineAndDishPodcast #MelissaReagan #FoodForThoughtCast #RestaurantIndustry #HospitalityIndustry #RestaurantPodcast #HospitalityPodcast #FoodAndBeverage #RestaurantBusiness #RestaurantTechnology #AIInRestaurants #FutureOfHospitality #FutureOfFood #FoodTrends #DiningOut #GuestExperience #WomenInHospitality #Podcast 00:00 — Welcome & podcast crossover 03:14 — How Melissa started her podcast 09:58 — Falling in love with food and cooking 14:50 — Naming Food for Thought 16:55 — Podcast bloopers and editing challenges 19:37 — Growing a podcast and finding an audience 24:24 — What makes a great restaurant experience 29:13 — The power of being acknowledged as a guest 33:02 — Restaurant cleanliness horror stories 36:47 — How social media changed dining 41:17 — Influencers, critics, and restaurant reviews 44:57 — Food trends to watch 46:35 — Lightning round 48:11 — Dream guests and future collaborations 50:23 — Where to find Melissa 50:58 — Food for thought: breaking bread together

    Dine & Dish Podcast | The Future of Food & Hospitality | Melissa Reagan of The Food For ThoughtCast

  3. 28 Aug ·  Bonus

    *GUEST APPEARANCE* Michele DiMeo guest stars on Food For Thoughtcast!

    The conversation between Melissa Reagan and Michele DiMeo covers various topics related to the restaurant industry, including experiences, culinary perspectives, and the challenges of running a restaurant business. Michele shares insights into the importance of the overall dining experience, the impact of atmosphere and service on food, and the value of independent restaurateurs. She also discusses the challenges and stress of the restaurant business, emphasizing the need for expertise, operational efficiency, and the ability to pivot in challenging situations. The conversation delves into the evolution of the hospitality industry, the impact of COVID-19, the role of AI, and the passion for food and people. It also explores the concept of hospitality as an old idea and the importance of creating experiences for guests. Takeaways Atmosphere MattersExperience Over FoodChallenges of Restaurant BusinessImportance of Operational Efficiency Hospitality industry evolutionImpact of COVID-19 on the industryRole of AI in hospitalityPassion for food and peopleCreating experiences for guests #RestaurantDiva #DineAndDish #DineAndDishPodcast #FoodForThoughtCast #MelissaReagan #FoodForThought #FoodPodcast #RestaurantPodcast #HospitalityPodcast #PodcastLife #PodcastHost #FoodAndBeverage #FoodAndDrink #RestaurantIndustry #RestaurantLife #HospitalityIndustry #HospitalityLife #RestaurantTrends #FoodTrends #DiningOut #Foodie #FoodiesOfInstagram #RestaurantBusiness #GuestExperience #CustomerExperience #FutureOfHospitality #RestaurantTechnology #AIInRestaurants #WomenInHospitality #WomenInPodcasting Chapters 00:00 The Dining Experience02:12 The Impact of Atmosphere and Service04:02 The Challenges of the Restaurant Business07:13 Operational Efficiency and Expertise10:42 The Role of Independent Restaurateurs27:06 Culinary Heroes: The Hard Workers29:38 Evolution of the Hospitality Industry31:36 Impact of COVID-1937:17 Role of AI in Hospitality44:02 Passion for Food and People

    *GUEST APPEARANCE* Michele DiMeo guest stars on Food For Thoughtcast!

  4. 26 Aug

    Jimmie Martin Creativity Without Limits | Art Design & Building an Unforgettable Brand | Dine & Dish

    Welcome to Restaurant Diva's Dine & Dish Podcast, where visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and hospitality innovators share the ideas shaping the future of business and creativity. After two technology-filled attempts that never made it to air, internationally acclaimed artist and designer Jimmie Martin finally joins host Michele DiMeo for a conversation that was truly worth the wait. Known around the world for redefining luxury through fearless creativity, Jimmie Martin has built an internationally recognized brand by transforming furniture, interiors, and everyday objects into extraordinary works of art. His bold designs have attracted celebrities, luxury collectors, designers, and hospitality brands across the globe. In this episode, Michele and Jimmie discuss the creative process, entrepreneurship, branding, luxury design, hospitality, innovation, and why the most successful creators refuse to follow the crowd. In this episode: Building a globally recognized luxury brandFinding inspiration and staying creatively fearlessThe business behind luxury art and designHow art influences hospitality and guest experiencesTaking creative risks that build iconic brandsEntrepreneurship, innovation, and personal brandingGlobal trends shaping luxury interiors and designWhy authenticity is the foundation of lasting success Whether you're an entrepreneur, designer, artist, hospitality professional, or simply someone who appreciates bold ideas and world-class creativity, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical insights. Subscribe to Restaurant Diva's Dine & Dish Podcast for weekly conversations with hospitality leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, innovators, and visionaries. #JimmieMartin #LuxuryDesign #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #LuxuryArt #CreativeLeadership #LuxuryLifestyle #BrandBuilding #Entrepreneurship #HospitalityDesign #DineAndDishPodcast #RestaurantDiva 00:00 - Building a brand and standing out in the industry 01:29 - The creative process behind unique art pieces and interiors 06:35 The impact of COVID and AI on design and lifestyle 11:46 - Balancing client vision with artistic authenticity 16:41 - Future trends in art, hospitality, and interior design 21:32 - Jimmy’s advice for aspiring designers and creatives 26:46 - Jimmy’s favorite cities, hotels, and inspirations 31:41 - The importance of space and experience in design 36:43 - Jimmy’s iconic projects and collaborations 39:49 - Closing thoughts and key takeaways for listeners

    Jimmie Martin Creativity Without Limits | Art Design & Building an Unforgettable Brand | Dine & Dish

  5. 19 Aug

    Wine Pairing Without the Rules 🍷 | Maria The Wine Blonde | Dine & Dish Podcast

    Welcome to Restaurant Diva’s Dine & Dish Podcast, hosted by Michele DiMeo, The Restaurant Diva. In this episode, Michele sits down with Maria Valetta, Maria The Wine Blonde, for a fun and approachable conversation about wine, food pairing, restaurants, travel and the stories behind the bottle. Wine doesn’t have to be intimidating—and Maria is here to prove it. We’re breaking down traditional wine-pairing “rules,” exploring unexpected combinations, and talking about how the right wine can completely transform a meal. In this episode: What wine pairs best with steak? What should you drink with pizza? Does pasta automatically mean Italian wine? Champagne vs. Prosecco Red wine vs. white wine How to confidently order wine at a restaurant Does expensive wine actually taste better? Wine regions and unforgettable travel experiences Old World vs. New World wines The people and stories behind great wines Wine trends worth trying—and ones we may be ready to leave behind The Restaurant Diva Lightning Round! Maria also shares how wine connects us to food, travel, culture and each other—and why you don't have to be a wine expert to enjoy a great bottle. Whether you're a longtime wine lover or someone who simply wants to feel more confident ordering wine at dinner, this episode is for you. The best wine isn't necessarily the most expensive bottle. It's the one you enjoy with great food and great people. Pour yourself a glass and DINE, WINE & DISH with us! Subscribe to Restaurant Diva Dine & Dish for conversations with chefs, restaurateurs, CEOs, entrepreneurs, hospitality leaders, wine experts and fascinating personalities shaping the worlds of food, restaurants, travel and hospitality. #WinePairing #FoodAndWine #MariaTheWineBlonde #WineLovers #WineForBeginners #WineEducation #WineTips #WineTravel #WineTasting #RestaurantDiva #DineAndDishPodcast #MicheleDiMeo #RestaurantPodcast #HospitalityPodcast #FoodPodcast #WomenInWine 00:00 — Meet Maria the Wine Blonde 02:12 — From Food to Wine 08:14 — Wine Pairing Rules—and When to Break Them 12:02 — Choosing Wine Without Intimidation 15:56 — Does Wine Price Equal Quality? 22:25 — The Story Behind “The Wine Blonde” 26:23 — Vineyard Travel and Wine Experiences 30:48 — What’s Happening in Wine Right Now 37:18 — Lightning Round: Screw Caps 41:16 — Favorite Wines, Rosé, and the Wrap-Up

    Wine Pairing Without the Rules 🍷 | Maria The Wine Blonde | Dine & Dish Podcast

  6. 12 Aug

    Dine & Dish | Restaurant Employment Law: Legal Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands | Doug Plass

    Welcome to Restaurant Diva’s Dine & Dish Podcast, hosted by Michele DiMeo, The Restaurant Diva, featuring leaders and experts shaping the restaurant and hospitality industry. In this episode, Michele sits down with Doug Plass, an employment law attorney, former chef, and former restaurant manager, to uncover the legal mistakes that can expose restaurants to costly fines, employee claims, and lawsuits. Because Doug has worked both inside restaurants and in employment law, he understands the real-world challenges operators face. He explains complex restaurant labor laws in a practical way and shares steps owners can take to reduce risk, protect employees, and build stronger workplace systems. In this episode: Restaurant employment law risks every operator should understandTip credits, tip pooling, and manager participationWage-and-hour compliance and accurate recordkeepingOff-the-clock work, side work, and overtime concernsHow to receive, document, and investigate employee complaintsChild labor rules for restaurant employees under 18HR policies and management training that reduce legal exposureThe documentation restaurants need before problems arise Whether you own one restaurant, operate multiple locations, manage a franchise, or lead an hospitality team, this conversation provides practical guidance for creating a more compliant and professional workplace. Employment laws vary by jurisdiction, so this episode is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for legal advice regarding a specific situation. Subscribe to Restaurant Diva’s Dine & Dish Podcast for conversations about restaurant operations, leadership, franchising, profitability, innovation, employment practices, and hospitality growth. #RestaurantEmploymentLaw #RestaurantLaw #EmploymentLaw #RestaurantOwner #TipPooling #LaborLaw #HRCompliance #RestaurantManagement #DineAndDishPodcast #RestaurantDiva 00:00Introduction and guest background01:43 Doug’s transition from the restaurant industry to employment law03:40 The importance of in-person learning and education05:36 Unique staffing challenges in restaurants07:34 Legal pitfalls in restaurant hiring practices09:48 Tips, tip pooling, and tip credits explained14:40 Documenting tips and maintaining compliance19:32 Exempt vs. non-exempt employee classifications24:43 Common wage-and-hour violations and lawsuits29:40 Handling employee complaints and investigations34:41 Franchisee responsibilities and legal risk39:47 Practical advice for restaurant owners to stay compliant44:46 Resources and contact information for legal help46:39 Final advice and closing remarks

    Dine & Dish | Restaurant Employment Law: Legal Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands | Doug Plass

  7. 5 Aug

    Dine & Dish | Behind the Story: Production, Art & the Courage to Remove the Mask | Erica Bergsmeds

    Every unforgettable production, work of art, hospitality experience, or successful brand begins with one thing—a powerful story. On this episode of Restaurant Diva's Dine & Dish Podcast, host Michele DiMeo welcomes Erica Bergsmeds—producer, creative visionary, and contemporary artist—for an inspiring conversation about creativity, storytelling, authenticity, and the many ways art shapes how we experience the world. As an accomplished producer, Erica has spent her career bringing ideas to life behind the scenes, helping transform creative visions into meaningful experiences. Today, she is also making her mark in the contemporary art world through her latest exhibition and her stunning collection of digital artwork on aluminum, where technology and fine art merge to create bold, modern pieces. At the heart of the conversation is Erica's powerful "Masked" series. The teddy bear masks featured throughout the collection symbolize the personas we wear in everyday life—especially in today's social media-driven world. Behind every carefully curated image often lies a deeper story, hidden emotions, and the authentic person waiting to be seen. Together, Michele and Erica explore what happens when we remove those masks and embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine human connection. They also discuss how storytelling influences every industry—from art and media to hospitality, branding, and entrepreneurship—and why the most memorable experiences always begin with authenticity. In This Episode Erica's career as a producer and creative storytellerHer latest art exhibition and artistic evolutionThe innovation behind her digital artwork on aluminumThe inspiration and meaning behind the "Masked" seriesSocial media, identity, and the personas we createThe role of storytelling in production, branding, and businessCreativity, leadership, and collaboration How vulnerability creates deeper connectionsWhy authenticity is the foundation of unforgettable experiences Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, hospitality professional, marketer, creative leader, or simply someone who appreciates meaningful conversations, this episode offers inspiration for anyone looking to create work that truly connects with people. #EricaBergsmeds #MaskedSeries #DigitalArt #ArtOnAluminum #ContemporaryArt #CreativeVisionary #Storytelling #ProducerLife #CreativeLeadership #MediaProduction #Authenticity #BehindTheMask #WomenInArt #WomenInMedia #HumanConnection #HospitalityLeadership #BrandStorytelling #DineAndDishPodcast #RestaurantDiva #MicheleDiMeo 00:00 — Welcome to Dine and Dish 01:04 — Erica’s Creative Journey 02:45 — How Michele and Erica Met 03:50 — The Story Behind “Masked” 07:42 — Storytelling Through Art, Film, and Hospitality 10:05 — Creating an Exhibition 13:50 — Film Production and Personal Branding 16:13 — Returning to Acting 19:44 — AI, Creativity, and Authenticity 26:19 — Building Emotional Connection Through Art 28:30 — Rapid-Fire Questions 31:44 — The Next Project: “Unfiltered” 33:22 — Favorite Places and Creative Advice 35:31 — Where to Find Erica

    Dine & Dish | Behind the Story: Production, Art & the Courage to Remove the Mask | Erica Bergsmeds

  8. 29 Jul

    Dine & Dish Podcast | Hospitality Marketing Secrets: Building a Global Brand with Scott Eddy

    Welcome to Restaurant Diva's Dine & Dish Podcast, where hospitality leaders, restaurant executives, entrepreneurs, and innovators share the ideas shaping the future of restaurants, hotels, travel, and hospitality. In this episode, Michele DiMeo, The Restaurant Diva, sits down with globally recognized hospitality influencer, travel expert, and marketing strategist Scott Eddy (@MrScottEddy) to explore how branding, social media, and authentic storytelling are transforming the hospitality industry. Scott has partnered with leading hospitality brands around the world and shares valuable insights on creating memorable guest experiences, building trust online, leveraging AI, and using digital marketing to grow restaurants, hotels, and travel businesses. In this episode: The future of hospitality and travelSocial media strategies that build loyal audiencesHospitality branding that creates lasting guest experiencesBuilding an authentic personal brandHow AI is reshaping hospitality marketingStorytelling that drives engagement and business growthMarketing ideas every restaurant, hotel, and hospitality brand can implement today Whether you're a restaurant owner, hotel executive, marketer, entrepreneur, travel professional, or hospitality leader, this episode delivers practical insights to help you strengthen your brand and stand out in today's competitive marketplace. Subscribe to Restaurant Diva's Dine & Dish Podcast for weekly conversations with hospitality leaders, restaurant innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry experts. #HospitalityMarketing #ScottEddy #TravelMarketing #HospitalityLeadership #GuestExperience #RestaurantMarketing #HotelMarketing #PersonalBranding #DineAndDishPodcast #RestaurantDiva 00:00 — Welcome to Dine and Dish: Catching Up with Scott Eddy 01:07 — From Investment Banking to Hospitality Marketing 04:33 — Building Relationships Through Social Media 10:17 — Venice, Luxury Camping, and Travel Stories 16:03 — Why Hospitality Marketing Starts with the Guest Experience 21:30 — Personal Branding, Consistency, and Authenticity 26:45 — Choosing the Right Social Platforms for Business 29:23 — AI, Discoverability, and the Future of Marketing 38:06 — Luxury Travel Trends and Changing Guest Expectations 40:22 — The Future of Hotels, Restaurants, and Community 46:25 — Lightning Round: Favorite Travel Experiences 49:37 — Final Takeaway: Bring Kindness Online

    Dine & Dish Podcast | Hospitality Marketing Secrets: Building a Global Brand with Scott Eddy
See All (55)

About

Welcome to Dine & Dish, the podcast hosted by Michele DiMeo, the Restaurant Diva. Join Michele as she dives into the heart of hospitality, service, and the restaurant world, sharing stories, trends, and insights from chefs, restaurateurs, and industry insiders and leaders. From dining culture and behind-the-scenes tales to tips for guests and professionals alike, Dine & Dish celebrates the art, passion, and joy of great food and exceptional service. Whether you're a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply love a good story from the table, this is your front-row seat to the world of dining — with a little diva flair.

Information

  • Creator
    Michele DiMeo
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Michele DiMeo