In the latest episode of Hospitality Hangout, hosts Michael Schatzberg "The Restaurant Guy" and Jimmy Frischling "The Finance Guy" were on the road at FSTEC in Dallas, Texas. They ventured into the intricacies of the hospitality industry, with guests John Pepper of 211VC, Emily Williams Knight, CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, Angela Leet, CEO of QSR Automations, and Golden Corral’s CIO, Dawn Gillis.

John Pepper: From Restaurant Startups to Tech Stardom
Opening the session was John Pepper, the dynamic force behind 211VC. As the co-founder of Boloco and the executive chairman of Hone, Pepper's entrepreneurial journey from launching a restaurant to investing in revolutionary restaurant tech is a masterclass in pivoting and seizing opportunities. The deep dive into the nuances of investing in startups and the seismic shifts expected in back-of-house operations.

Emily Williams Knight: The Queen of Texas Restaurants
Described by the hosts as "Texas Restaurant Royalty", Emily Williams Knight, CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, illuminated her illustrious path. From being inspired by TV shows to leading global brands, Emily's stint has seen it all. Her insights into TRA's role during the pandemic, the embrace of technology in hospitality, and the challenges therein made for an insightful session.

Angela Leet: Automating the Future of Quick-Service
Angela Leet, the brilliant CEO of QSR Automations, shared her riveting trajectory from a dream in architecture to becoming an influential player in restaurant tech. Her discussion on strategic partnerships in the tech landscape and the need for constant innovation in kitchen technology gave listeners a glimpse into the future of QSR.

Dawn Gillis: Golden Corral's Tech Maverick
Concluding the series was Dawn Gillis, the strategic mind behind Golden Corral's tech initiatives. From her tech endeavors at 7-Eleven to her pivotal role in Golden Corral's digital transformation, Gillis's story is one of resilience and innovation. She unveiled Golden Corral's ambitious project, "Homeward Kitchen," set to redefine southern quick-serve dining.

This Dallas edition of "Hospitality Hangout" wasn't just an episode—it was a culinary tech carnival. From playful banter and games, like the memorable "The Spice is Right," to in-depth discussions about the industry's challenges and future, it was a smorgasbord of insights, laughter, and expert knowledge. Restaurant professionals and tech enthusiasts alike, if you're looking to decode the future of restaurant tech and have fun doing it, this episode is your golden ticket.

Tune in to Hospitality Hangout and stay updated with the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the restaurant industry.