Hospitality On The Rise

Culinary Agents
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Hospitality on the Rise — the podcast about the people shaping the hospitality industry and their journeys. This podcast shares the stories, lessons learned, and advice from hospitality leaders who've carved out their own path to success. After all, this industry is where many get their start and go on to do incredible things. Hospitality on the Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality on the Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents.

  1. EP 43: Steve Palmer

    6D AGO

    EP 43: Steve Palmer

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng is joined by Steve Palmer, Founder, Managing Director, and Chief Vision Officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, Co-Founder of Ben's Friends, and host of Say Grace Podcast. Steve reflects on his remarkable journey from washing dishes at 13 to becoming the leader of one of the Southeast's most successful restaurant groups. He shares the ups and downs of his career, including overcoming personal struggles and the founding of Ben’s Friends, a nonprofit dedicated to helping industry professionals with mental health and substance abuse issues. Steve also talks about how his leadership style focuses on culture, the importance of creating opportunities for employees, and his positive vision for the future of hospitality. Links - Instagram - Steve Palmer: https://www.instagram.com/stevepalmer12/ - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-43-steve-palmer ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    32 min
  2. EP 42: Amy Racine

    12/30/2025

    EP 42: Amy Racine

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng welcomes Amy Racine. She is the Beverage Director and Partner at JF Restaurants, a Wine Consultant for Tatiana at Lincoln Center, and Wine Enthusiast’s 2024 Beverage Director of the Year. Amy reflects on her journey from growing up in a family that loved to entertain to becoming a prominent voice in the beverage world. She shares how her passion for wine grew out of her culinary background and how working with some of the nation’s top restaurants and beverage programs shaped her career. Amy also opens up about the challenges and rewards of leading diverse teams across multiple locations, and her deep commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and employees. Links - Instagram - Amy Racine: https://www.instagram.com/amyracine - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-42-amy-racine ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    29 min
  3. EP 41: Stefano Secchi

    12/23/2025

    EP 41: Stefano Secchi

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng is joined by Stefano Secchi, Chef-Owner of Fai Bravo Hospitality and the acclaimed restaurants Rezdôra and Massara. Stefano traces his path from growing up in a restaurant family to sharpening his craft in Italy and ultimately opening his own renowned kitchens in New York. He discusses learning from master chefs, honoring regional Italian traditions, and what it really takes to build a restaurant from the ground up. Along the way, Stefano shares lessons on navigating the New York dining scene—and his perspective on where Italian cuisine in the U.S. is headed next. Links - Instagram - Stefano Secchi: https://www.instagram.com/stefano_secchi - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-41-stefano-secchi ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    44 min
  4. EP 40: Jack McGarry

    12/16/2025

    EP 40: Jack McGarry

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng speaks with Jack McGarry, Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Dead Rabbit Group. Recently named one of The Spirits Business's Global Bar Luminaries, Jack reflects on his career. He discusses his early days in the Belfast bar scene, becoming the youngest recipient of the International Bartender of the Year Award, and building one of the world’s most iconic cocktail bars. Jack shares how his passion for cocktails led to his move from Northern Ireland to New York City and the challenges of creating spaces that blend history, culture, and hospitality. Links - Instagram - Jack McGarry: https://www.instagram.com/jackmcgarry1 - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-40-jack-mcgarry ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    39 min
  5. EP 39: Ti Martin

    12/09/2025

    EP 39: Ti Martin

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng speaks with Ti Martin, Co-Proprietor of the iconic Commander's Palace, Le Petit Bleu, and Picnic Provisions & Whiskey. Ti reflects on growing up in the restaurant industry and eventually taking the helm of her family’s business. She discusses the lessons learned from her experiences in real estate, commercial work, and time spent under the mentorship of hospitality legends like Emeril Lagasse. Ti also talks about how she continues to navigate change in the industry and her commitment to shaping the future of hospitality through education and community engagement at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI). Links - Instagram - Commander's Palace: https://www.instagram.com/commanderspalace/ - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-39-ti-martin ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    31 min
  6. EP 38: David Nayfeld

    12/02/2025

    EP 38: David Nayfeld

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng is joined by David Nayfeld, acclaimed Chef and Co-Owner of Back Home Hospitality (Che Fico, Che Fico Parco Menlo, and Via Aurelia). He details his remarkable career trajectory, from being a 13-year-old dishwasher to mastering fine dining kitchens like Eleven Madison Park and training across Europe. David also recounts the challenging, self-taught process of becoming an operator and shares crucial advice on maintaining health for a successful career in hospitality. Links - Instagram - David Nayfeld: https://www.instagram.com/davidnayfeld/ - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-38-david-nayfeld ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    48 min
  7. EP 37: Amanda Signorelli

    11/25/2025

    EP 37: Amanda Signorelli

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, host Alice Cheng welcomes Amanda Signorelli, CEO and Co-Owner of Golden Steer, a staple in Las Vegas dining. Amanda recounts her unexpected journey into hospitality after transitioning from tech and consulting, reflecting on her entrepreneurial experiences in both industries. She shares valuable insights on leadership and the innovative strategies that helped Golden Steer thrive — especially during the challenges of COVID. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, risk-taking, and the power of human connection. Links - Instagram - Amanda Signorelli: https://www.instagram.com/signorelliamanda/ - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-37-amanda-signorelli ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    34 min
  8. EP 36: Kyle Knall

    11/18/2025

    EP 36: Kyle Knall

    On this episode of Hospitality On The Rise, Chef Kyle Knall, Chef and Co-Owner of Birch and Cassis—recognized by Forbes, Conde Nast, and the New York Times—reflects on his journey from early mentorship under culinary legends like Frank Stitt, Mike Anthony, and Stephen Starr to building a hospitality-driven community of his own in Milwaukee. From fine dining in New York to farm-to-table leadership in the Midwest, Kyle shares the lessons that shaped his approach to patience and people-first hospitality. His story is one of purpose, passion, and creating spaces where both guests and teams truly feel seen. Links - Instagram - Kyle Knall: https://www.instagram.com/kyleknallyall/ - Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ - Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-36-kyle-knall ************ Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.

    37 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Hospitality on the Rise — the podcast about the people shaping the hospitality industry and their journeys. This podcast shares the stories, lessons learned, and advice from hospitality leaders who've carved out their own path to success. After all, this industry is where many get their start and go on to do incredible things. Hospitality on the Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality on the Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents.

Information

  • Creator
    Culinary Agents
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Culinary Agents
  • Show Website
    Hospitality On The Rise

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