Small Moments Change Lives, Especially in Hospitality: Mandy Muller- Zaxby’s #59

How Chuck E. Cheese Wins the Family Decision with Blake Johnson #60

What does it take to market one of the most recognizable family entertainment brands in the world? In this episode of Grounded, host Lauren Mitchell sits down with Blake Johnson to explore how Chuck E. Cheese is evolving for a new generation while protecting the nostalgia and emotional connection that generations of families already have with the brand. Blake shares how Chuck E. Cheese balances value, entertainment, active play, and brand consistency across nearly 500 locations. From marketing to kids in a fragmented media landscape to launching new Adventure World concepts, this conversation is packed with insights on family entertainment, operations, consumer behavior, and modern restaurant marketing. Blake Johnson leads brand marketing and creative for CEC Entertainment and brings more than 18 years of experience in restaurant operations, marketing, and advertising across multiple restaurant brands. 🔑 5 Key Takeaways 1. Chuck E. Cheese views kids as the true decision makers.  The brand strategically prioritizes advertising directly to children ages 3–9 while ensuring parents see affordability and value as barriers to entry continue rising for family entertainment. 2. Simplicity drives operational success.  Blake explained that every marketing initiative is filtered through one core question: does this make the experience easier for both operators and parents? 3. The company is doubling down on active play.  Chuck E. Cheese has expanded beyond arcade games by adding trampolines, obstacle courses, and launching the new Adventure World concept focused almost entirely on physical activity and interactive play. 4. Data revealed surprising customer behavior.  The team discovered many families were stopping at nearby quick-service restaurants before visiting Chuck E. Cheese, leading them to rethink menu offerings, snack options, and overall value positioning. 5. Nostalgia remains one of the brand’s greatest assets.  Blake emphasized that nearly everyone has a personal connection to Chuck E. Cheese, creating a rare emotional attachment that spans generations and strengthens long-term brand loyalty. 💬 Quote of the Episode “We were created to be the treat up the street.” — Blake Johnson, Brand Marketing & Creative Lead, CEC Entertainment 🔗 Connect with the Guest(s) * Blake Johnson — Brand Marketing & Creative Lead, CEC Entertainment * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-johnson-88466114/ * Website: https://www.chuckecheese.com 🎧 Ways to Tune In Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/ [https://www.groundedonthepod.com/] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033] Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460 [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460] iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/ [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/] Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267] Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441 [https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast [https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast]

Small Moments Change Lives, Especially in Hospitality: Mandy Muller- Zaxby’s #59

In this episode of Grounded, Lauren Mitchell sits down with Mandy Muller to explore leadership, operational excellence, hospitality, and the power of people-first culture in foodservice. Mandy shares her unconventional journey from aspiring Macy’s fashion buyer to leading operations and innovation initiatives at Zaxby's, including insights on scaling a 1,000-location brand, evaluating restaurant technology, franchisee relationships, and creating meaningful employee resource groups. Mandy Muller is the Vice President of Operations Services and Business Integrations at Zaxby’s Franchising, where she leads strategies focused on guest experience, operational performance, and brand growth. She also serves on the board of NextUp Atlanta and chairs Zaxby’s women’s ERG, Lead Hers. 5 Key Takeaways 1.  Hospitality is ultimately about human connection.  Mandy shares multiple stories where simple acts of care changed people’s lives — from helping reunite families during the holidays to a Zaxby’s franchisee unknowingly stopping a guest from taking his own life through a small moment of kindness.  2.  Great operators genuinely care about people and the brand.  As Zaxby’s scales past 1,000 locations, Mandy explains that consistency comes from franchisees who deeply believe in the business and uphold standards because they care — not because they’re forced to.  3.  Technology only works when there’s a clear ROI.  From AI-powered drive-thru analytics to operational testing, Mandy emphasizes that flashy technology alone isn’t enough. Operators must be able to clearly explain how investments improve efficiency, guest experience, or profitability.  4.  Communication and repetition are critical when rolling out change.  Mandy shares a memorable early-career mistake involving a “Make It Right” customer service initiative and explains why successful operational rollouts require constant reinforcement across every level of the organization.  5.  Employee resource groups can create meaningful professional growth and connection.  Through Zaxby’s Lead Hers ERG and her work with NextUp Atlanta, Mandy discusses how mentorship, networking, salary negotiation skills, and community-building help empower the next generation of leaders.  Quote of the Episode “We sell food, but at the end of the day, we’re in the people business.”  — Mandy Muller, Vice President of Operations Services and Business Integrations at Zaxby’s 🔗 Connect with the Guest(s) *  Mandy Muller — Vice President of Operations Services and Business Integrations, Zaxby’s  *  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandymuller25/ *  Website: Zaxby's [https://www.zaxbys.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 🎧 Ways to Tune In Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/ [https://www.groundedonthepod.com/] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033] Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460 [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460] iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/ [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/] Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267] Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441 [https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast [https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast]

AI, Leadership & the Future of the Produce Supply Chain Episode #58

In this episode of Grounded, Lauren Mitchell sits down with Christopher Rheault for a wide-ranging conversation on AI, leadership, produce management, supply chain strategy, and the future of global sourcing. Chris shares how AI is already creating operational efficiencies inside Produce Alliance and why human relationships, critical thinking, and purpose-driven leadership will matter even more in the years ahead. Christopher Rheault is President of Produce Alliance, where he leads operational strategy, technology innovation, food safety, procurement, and international sourcing initiatives across the produce supply chain. Lauren and Chris also dive into company culture, leadership principles, international expansion, ethical AI adoption, and the importance of staying “close enough to the ground” to create meaningful change. 5 Key Takeaways 1. AI Enhances, Not Replaces, Human Roles AI is expected to significantly augment human capabilities, particularly in roles focused on relationships and strategic thinking, rather than replace them. Salespeople, for example, can use AI for research and background information while focusing more on building genuine connections and demonstrating value. 2. Leveraging Data for Actionable Insights Companies can gain a competitive edge by effectively leveraging their data. By analyzing large amounts of customer and purchasing data, businesses can identify trends before they become widespread and proactively improve procurement programs, supplier relationships, and distribution partnerships. 3. A Shift Toward a Strategic Workforce AI adoption will continue pushing organizations from task-oriented work toward more strategic, value-driven work. Employees who embrace AI as a productivity and insight tool will become more valuable by focusing on decision-making, collaboration, and innovation. 4. Human Expertise Still Matters Most While AI can surface answers and insights, human expertise remains critical for interpreting information, validating accuracy, and acting on recommendations. Chris emphasizes that leaders must use AI to support—not replace—critical thinking, relationship-building, and operational expertise. 5. Ethical AI and Data Privacy Cannot Be Ignored As AI becomes more embedded into operations, businesses must stay mindful of data privacy, vendor transparency, and ethical implementation. Chris highlights the importance of working with trusted partners, understanding how data is being used, and protecting customer information through clear agreements and responsible practices. 💬 Quote of the Episode “In leadership, be close enough to the ground to affect change.” — Christopher Rheault, President of Produce Alliance Connect with the Guest(s) * Christopher Rheault — President, Produce Alliance * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrheault/ * Website: https://producealliance.com/ Ways to Tune In Transistor: Grounded Podcast [https://www.groundedonthepod.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Spotify: Grounded on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Apple Podcasts: Grounded on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Amazon Music: Grounded on Amazon Music [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460?utm_source=chatgpt.com] iHeart Radio: Grounded on iHeart Radio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Podchaser: Grounded on Podchaser [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Stitcher: Grounded on Stitcher [https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441?utm_source=chatgpt.com] YouTube: Grounded on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

Everyone Eats: Billy Itule on Produce, People & Partnership #57

Episode Overview In this episode of Grounded, Lauren Mitchell sits down with Billy Itule, CEO of Willie Itule Produce, for an inside look at the fast-moving world of produce distribution, food safety, cold chain logistics, and restaurant supply chains. From operating in Arizona’s extreme desert climate to managing sourcing relationships with growers in Mexico, Billy shares what it really takes to keep fresh produce moving efficiently and safely. Billy Itule is the CEO of Willie Itule Produce, a Phoenix-based produce distribution company serving restaurants, hospitality groups, and foodservice operators across Arizona. He also serves as a committee member with the IFPA, helping shape conversations around the future of produce distribution and supply chains nationwide. Together, Lauren and Billy discuss traceability, technology investments, labor challenges, restaurant trends, forecasting for major events, and why communication between distributors and operators matters more than ever. 🔑 5 Key Takeaways 1. Cold chain compliance is critical in extreme climates.  Billy explains how Willie Itule Produce operates a 100% climate-controlled supply chain to protect product integrity in Arizona’s 120-degree heat, including real-time temperature monitoring across facilities and trucks. 2. Produce distribution depends heavily on long-term grower relationships.  Mexico plays a major role in feeding the U.S. produce market year-round, and Billy shares why trusted partnerships with growers and shippers are essential for consistency, contingency planning, and supply stability. 3. Technology is transforming food distribution beyond traceability.  From paperless delivery systems to real-time inventory management and electronic food safety monitoring, Billy discusses how distributors are increasingly becoming tech-driven operations. 4. Communication between operators and distributors can prevent costly mistakes.  Billy emphasizes that involving distributors earlier in menu planning and LTO discussions can help operators avoid sourcing issues, poor seasonal quality, or unexpected cost increases. 5. Hospitality and leadership start at the top.  As a family-run company, Willie Itule Produce prioritizes transparency, accountability, and respectful service culture. Billy explains why owning mistakes and treating employees and customers like family is central to their success. 💬 Quote of the Episode “If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room. Find a different room.”  — Billy Itule, CEO, Willie Itule Produce 🔗 Connect with the Guest(s) * Billy Itule — CEO, Willie Itule Produce * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyitule/ * Website: https://ituleproduce.com/about-us 🎧 Ways to Tune In Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/ [https://www.groundedonthepod.com/] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033] Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460 [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460] iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/ [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/] Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267] Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441 [https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast [https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast]

Inside the Produce Pipeline: Planning for the Unpredictable Episode #56

In this episode of Grounded, host Lauren Mitchell brings together voices from across the produce supply chain to pull back the curtain on how sourcing really works—from forecasting and contracts to weather risk, communication, and collaboration. The conversation highlights the complexity behind everyday items like lettuce and broccoli and what national brands need to understand about volatility, planning, and partnership. Stephanie Fyle is the President of Fresh Alliance, Ava Walker is a Contract Coordinator at Fresh Alliance, and Thomas Wheelus is the Director of Food Service at Tanimura & An Growers, bringing the grower, procurement, and contracting perspectives together at one table. 🔑5 Key Takeaways 1. Clear communication and accurate forecasting are the foundation of successful sourcing. Growers rely heavily on customer projections to plan planting cycles that can range from 65 to 80 days, making early and accurate volume planning essential.  2. Contracts help stabilize pricing—but they also share risk. Fixed-price contracts with escalation clauses allow restaurants to forecast menu pricing while protecting growers when weather or yield disruptions drive costs higher.  3. Weather and supply chain volatility require constant coordination and contingency planning. Growers use diversified growing regions and nursery strategies to buy time and maintain supply when fields are impacted by rain or other disruptions.  4. Strong partnerships are built on transparency and solutions—not just information. Procurement teams aim to communicate industry challenges quickly, but they prioritize bringing actionable alternatives to clients whenever possible.  5. Technology and traceability will shape the future of sourcing. From automation to full supply chain visibility, the industry is moving toward greater transparency, faster communication, and more collaborative decision-making.  Connect with the Guests * Stephanie Fyle — President, Fresh Alliance  *  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-williams-fyle-889134104/ *  Website: https://www.freshalliance.com/ * Ava Walker Davis — Contract Coordinator, Fresh Alliance  *  Website: https://www.freshalliance.com/ * Thomas Wheelus — Director of Food Service, Tanimura & Antle  *  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wheelus-70863a51/ *  Website: https://www.taproduce.com/ Ways to Tune In Transistor: https://www.groundedonthepod.com/ [https://www.groundedonthepod.com/] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2I7EoKaVff3SnW3CoIXjJ6] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grounded/id1680909033] Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460 [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/451edb13-5534-43ee-b46c-be36a7581460] iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/ [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-grounded-281280581/] Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/grounded-5259267] Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441 [https://www.stitcher.com/show/1064441] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast [https://www.youtube.com/@The-Grounded-Podcast]