Ep.21 - More Than a Showroom: The Heart of Hospitality Sales in Chicago

Ep.24 - How Lion's Wood's Flex Bar is Changing Hospitality

Summary: In Episode 24, we are joined with Conor Frank (HGI Showroom Manager) and Jen Katta (Business Development Director) from the Hode Group, Inc. This episode explores Lion's Wood's USA made innovative banquet furniture, focusing on the Flex Bar and portable induction units. Learn about their durability, customization options, and how they are transforming event setups with ease and efficiency. Takeaways: * Flex Bar's ease of use and portability * Durability and quality of Lions Wood products * Customization options for event furniture Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lion's Wood Banquet Furniture 03:08 Exploring the Flex Bar's Features and Benefits 05:46 Durability and Customization of Lions Wood Products 08:58 Customer Experience and Service in Banquet Furniture 12:04 Portable Induction Units and Their Versatility 15:01 Innovative Customization Options for Clients 17:53 Conclusion and Future Prospects for Lion's Wood Resources: Lion's Wood Flex Bar Demo-Set up and Breakdown- Jen Katta https://youtu.be/HyooD6Ha8GY [https://youtu.be/HyooD6Ha8GY] Links: - Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: hodegroup.com [https://www.hodegroup.com/] - Schedule a Personal Appointment/Consult-visit Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com [https://hodegroupshowroom.com/]    - Listen to Let’s Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-set-your-table-podcast/id1595168694]

Ep.23 - Hospitality First: Chef Namo Chowcharoen on Creating Welcoming Dining Experiences

In Episode 23 of 'Let's Set Your Table', we’re joined by Executive Chef Namo Chowcharoen, the culinary leader behind The Franklin Room in Chicago. Chef Namo shares his insights on the restaurant industry, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and customer service. He discusses his unique approach to creating a welcoming environment for diners, the cultural influences that shape his culinary philosophy, and his plans to open a new Thai restaurant in Chicago. Throughout the conversation, Chef Namo highlights the significance of treating staff and customers with respect and kindness, fostering a sense of community within the restaurant space.   Takeaways * Chef Namo emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment for customers. * He believes that customer service is about building relationships, not just transactions. * The restaurant industry is highly competitive, and unique offerings are essential for survival. * Cultural influences play a significant role in shaping dining experiences. * Chef Namo's culinary journey reflects a blend of Western and Thai influences. * He aims to introduce authentic Thai cuisine to Chicago with his new restaurant. * Consistency in service and food quality is crucial for customer retention. * Chef Namo values every team member's contribution, from dishwashers to chefs. * He advocates for a more equitable pay structure in the restaurant industry. * The future of dining experiences will require adaptation to changing customer expectations. Chapters 00:00 - Cold Open: Reviews & Dining Choices 00:32 - Intro: Welcome & Host Panel 01:15 - Guest Spotlight: Executive Chef Namo of The Franklin Room 01:52 - Sponsor Message: Hode Group Chicago Showroom 02:52 - Philosophy of Hospitality & Safe Spaces 06:45 - Customer Service, Reviews & Post-COVID Staffing 10:40 - Launching a New Thai Restaurant in Chicago 13:54 - Service Standards, Tipping Culture & Team Respect 17:37 - Valuing Every Role: Dishwashers to Servers 22:45 - An Inspiring Menu & Culinary Inspiration 28:48 - Future Vision: Thailand Culture & "Taiwan 101" 30:42 - Surviving Competition & Evolving Restaurant Culture 33:00 - Equality, Fair Pay & Chef as HR Leader 37:22 - Closing Thoughts & Speakeasy Surprise 37:43 - Outro: Stay Connected & Leave a Review   Links -  Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: hodegroup.com [https://www.hodegroup.com/] -  Visit the Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com [https://hodegroupshowroom.com/] -  Listen to Let’s Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-set-your-table-podcast/id1595168694]

Ep.22 - Flameless Futures: Rethinking Buffet Heating for Modern Foodservice

In Episode 22 of Let’s Set Your Table, host John D. and co-host Nick D. are joined by fellow HGI team member and Director of Tabletop & Smallwares, Rachel Byerly, and Director of Sales - Northwest at American Metalcraft, Eric Hagge. In this episode, they discuss the evolution of heating solutions in catering, focusing on the transition from traditional chafing fuel to innovative flameless heating technologies like the Buffet Boost. They explore the implications of these changes for operators in the food service industry, particularly in terms of safety and convenience. The conversation also touches on the vibrant and evolving food scene in Chicago, highlighting trends such as fusion cuisine and the resurgence of retro dining experiences.   Takeaways * Chafing fuel has been a staple in catering for over 150 years * Flameless heating options are becoming increasingly popular * The Buffet Boost offers a safer alternative to chafing fuel * Operators are looking for more convenient heating solutions * Chicago's food scene is diversifying with new cuisines * Fusion restaurants are on the rise in Chicago * American Metalcraft has evolved from hubcaps to food service * The Buffet Boost can hold food at 190 degrees for three hours * Innovations in food service are essential for staying relevant * The future of catering will likely involve more battery-operated solutions   Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Heating Solutions in Catering 06:58 Innovations in Flameless Heating Technology 16:46 Trends in the Chicago Food Scene   Links -  Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: hodegroup.com [https://www.hodegroup.com/] -  Visit the Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com [https://hodegroupshowroom.com/] -  Listen to Let’s Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-set-your-table-podcast/id1595168694]

Ep.21 - More Than a Showroom: The Heart of Hospitality Sales in Chicago

In Episode 21 of Let’s Set Your Table, host John D. and co-host Nick D. are joined by fellow HGI team members and Chicago representatives Kerry O’Connor and Jen Katta. Together, they share behind-the-scenes stories from the Hode Group's dynamic showroom in the heart of Fulton Market. From the importance of teamwork and relationship-building to the hands-on approach of product testing, the team reflects on how they create a warm, client-focused environment that truly sets them apart. Tune in to hear success stories, industry insights, and how the Hode Group delivers a one-stop-shop experience that brings lasting value to every customer interaction.   Takeaways * The Hode Group showroom is a hidden gem in Chicago. * Teamwork and collaboration are essential for success. * Customer service is a top priority in the hospitality industry. * Building relationships with clients leads to long-term partnerships. * The HGI showroom offers a one-stop shop for all restaurant needs. * The Hode Group represents over 30 different product lines. * Product testing is crucial for customer satisfaction. * The HGI team is passionate about what they do. * Positive experiences lead to repeat business.   Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 01:45 – Inside the Fulton Market Showroom 03:30 – Representing Top Manufacturers 05:15 – Personal Journeys to the Hode Group 08:00 – Leadership, Culture & Family Ties 10:30 – Customer Service & Relationship Building 13:15 – What Sets the Hode Group Apart 15:00 – The One-Stop-Shop Experience 17:00 – Real Success Stories from the Showroom 19:00 – Product Testing & Turnkey Solutions 20:30 – Final Thoughts & How to Visit Links -  Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: hodegroup.com [https://www.hodegroup.com/] -  Visit the Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com [https://hodegroupshowroom.com/] -  Listen to Let’s Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-set-your-table-podcast/id1595168694]

Ep.20 - Revolutionizing Reusables: The OZZI Story with Founder Tom Wright

In Episode 20, we are joined by Tom Wright, founder of OZZI Reusables and the OZZI Collection System, to discuss the impact of reusable containers on sustainability and the environment within the foodservice and hospitality world. The conversation covers Tom's journey in the culinary world, the functionality and benefits of the OZZI system, and its growing adoption across various sectors. This episode emphasizes the importance of accountability in reusable programs, the financial advantages of using the OZZI system, and identifies the innovation with each product offering, including customizable containers and new product releases coming, which include cups and cutlery. The discussion also touches on the future of reusables, recycling initiatives, and the significance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.   Takeaways * The OZZI Reusable System is designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability. * Accountability is crucial for the success of reusable programs. * The system has been implemented in over 500 locations across 11 countries. * Financial benefits include a quick return on investment for users. * Customization options for containers enhance brand identity. * Innovations in cutlery and cups are expanding the OZZI product line. * The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of reusable solutions. * Recycling initiatives are integral to OZZI's mission. * The three Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—are central to OZZI's philosophy. * The future of reusables is promising, driven by consumer demand and legislation. Chapters 00:00 Show Open & Introductions 03:01 The Journey of Tom Wright and OZZI 08:05 Solutions for Schools, Universities, Businesses and More 09:24 How the OZZI Process Works  14:14 Financial Benefits of OZZI 17:22 Container Sizes and Customization Options 20:07 Innovations in Reusable Cutlery and Cups 23:42 The Future of Reusables and Market Trends 24:24 Recycling Initiatives and the Three R's 29:55 Closing Thoughts and Sample Requests Links -  Explore Veda™ [https://hgiresourcecenter.com/files/pos_catalogs/veda-reusable-containers6807d7d0142d9.pdf] - Eco-Products' reusable containers that can be used with OZZI Collection Machines (https://tinyurl.com/mry3anfu [https://tinyurl.com/mry3anfu]) -  How the OZZI collection machine works with reusable packaging containers - watch - play now [https://youtu.be/NddNOfZ9oPA?si=CEtHg-MwCBojwwj2]! (https://youtu.be/NddNOfZ9oPA?si=CEtHg-MwCBojwwj2 [https://youtu.be/NddNOfZ9oPA?si=CEtHg-MwCBojwwj2]) -  WATCH OZZI in action!  * University of Denver Case Study: https://youtu.be/v8AEDsTiLew?si=TyQb7Njg4K_5kcU_ [https://youtu.be/v8AEDsTiLew?si=TyQb7Njg4K_5kcU_] * Senior Living Community Case Study: https://youtu.be/lWCDwu6kn4A?si=Kdk-JXMO8RqOGDn1 [https://youtu.be/lWCDwu6kn4A?si=Kdk-JXMO8RqOGDn1] -  Explore our innovative, industry leading lineup of manufacturers we rep at: www.hodegroup.com [https://www.hodegroup.com/] -  Visit the Hode Group Chicago Showroom: hodegroupshowroom.com [https://hodegroupshowroom.com/] -  Listen to Let’s Set Your Table on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-set-your-table-podcast/id1595168694]