TechBytes Podcast

Dive into the world of restaurant technology with Dawn Gillis, Golden Corral's CIO, as she reveals the game-changing innovations transforming foodservice. From convenience store evolution to pandemic survival strategies, this episode unpacks how AI, cybersecurity, and smart technologies are reshaping dining experiences. Discover insider insights on adapting to changing consumer demands, the critical role of technology in modern...

Dive into the cutting-edge world of cybersecurity with Ken Ogami from Palo Alto Networks. In this TechBytes episode, we explore how digital transformation is revolutionizing retail and hospitality. Discover why these industries are leading technological innovation, the critical importance of securing complex digital ecosystems, and how AI is reshaping customer experiences. Ken shares insider insights from his unique journey from re...

Dive into the world of family entertainment with Jay Spears, VP of IT at CEC Entertainment! Discover how Chuck E. Cheese survived the pandemic, revolutionized birthday parties, and leveraged cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable experiences. From AI-driven pricing strategies to innovative membership programs, Jay reveals how the company transformed challenges into opportunities. Learn about their $99 birthday packages, ga...

Dive into the future of dining with Sherif Mityas, CEO of Brix Holdings in this episode of TechBytes and discover how technology is transforming restaurants from the inside out. From pizza-making robots to AI-powered customer experiences, Mityas reveals how an IT background can revolutionize an entire industry. Learn how an 80-year-old brand like Friendly's is becoming a tech innovator, and explore the cutting-edge strategies b...

Dive into the future of food with Kevin Seo, a tech-savvy entrepreneur who's transforming the culinary landscape! In this electrifying TechBytes episode, Kevin reveals how blockchain, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge technology are revolutionizing dining. From viral restaurant concepts to bridging gaming and food delivery, he explores how technology can create meaningful human connections. Discover why the food industry ...

Dive into the culinary future with Rob Grimes and Tom Cindric as they unpack the upcoming National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago from May 17-20! This episode reveals the massive event's secrets - from 2,200 exhibitors representing 45 countries, to cutting-edge technology transforming the food service industry. Discover insider insights about innovative tech pavilions, celebrity chef appearances, and networking opportun...

Dive into the world of food technology with Jared Pfeifer, Publisher of Food on Demand. In this electrifying podcast, explore how the restaurant industry has transformed from traditional dining to a tech-driven, off-premises powerhouse. Discover the upcoming Food on Demand Conference in Las Vegas, featuring keynote speakers from Starbucks and Microsoft who will unveil the latest AI innovations. Learn about autonomous delivery, digi...

Join Sodexo’s AJ Francavilla and host Rob Grimes in an electrifying TechBytes episode exploring innovations from CES and NRF! Dive into the world of cutting-edge technology, from autonomous vehicles and smart glasses to AI-powered retail experiences. Discover how emerging technologies are reshaping consumer and food service industries, with insider insights from a digital innovation expert. Uncover fascinating trends in robotics, p...

Dive into the sizzling world of pizza technology with Sarika Atal, Papa John's VP of Enterprise Technology! This TechBytes episode reveals how digital innovation transforms pizza ordering, from millions of topping combinations to AI-powered call centers. Discover how a former airplane parts engineer became a tech leader in the pizza industry, pioneering online ordering and personalized customer experiences. Learn about cutting-edge...

Join Rob Grimes and Chris Keating as they dive deep into the upcoming Restaurant Leadership Conference (RLC), the premier gathering of restaurant industry executives. Discover insider details about this year's must-attend event, featuring Mark Wahlberg, innovative networking opportunities, and exclusive insights into restaurant leadership. From Dave's Hot Chicken's remarkable growth story to cutting-edge industry trends, this podca...

Dive into the world of cruise ship cuisine with TechBytes' exclusive interview! Join food and beverage ambassador Rick Welch as he unveils the incredible culinary innovations happening on the high seas. Discover how cruise lines are revolutionizing dining experiences, from sustainable food practices to cutting-edge technology that serves thousands of guests around the clock. Learn about the upcoming F&B @ Sea conference in ...

Dive into the future of hospitality with Rob Grimes and Infor's Alan Young as they unpack the game-changing technologies transforming restaurants, hotels, and service industries. From AI-driven personalization to innovative revenue strategies, this podcast reveals how cutting-edge tech can create seamless customer experiences. Alan shares his remarkable journey from mini-bar attendant to industry strategist, offering insider in...

Join host Rob Grimes for an electrifying TechBytes episode featuring Zerrick Pearson, CIO of Five Guys and new IFBTA Chairman! Dive into the cutting-edge world of food technology where AI, data insights, and innovation are reshaping how restaurants operate. Discover how technology is no longer just a backend tool, but a critical driver of customer experience and business strategy. Zerrick shares perspectives on connecting operators...

Dive into the future of hospitality at HRC 2025! Join TechBytes as we explore the 90-year legacy of the UK's most comprehensive food service event. Philippa Christer reveals an incredible showcase featuring 1,000 products, 200 speakers, and 30,000 industry professionals converging at ExCel Center. Discover cutting-edge technologies transforming restaurants, kitchens, and food service - from startup innovations to enterprise solutio...

Dive into the future of retail with Rob Grimes and Shop Talk's VP of Content, Rocquan Lucas, exploring the cutting-edge trends transforming the industry! Discover how 10,000 retail professionals are reimagining customer experiences through AI, personalization, and innovative networking. This year's Shop Talk promises over 200 speakers, including Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary, revealing breakthrough strategies for conne...

Dive into the evolution of the hospitality industry with Abigail Lorden, VP and Publisher of Hospitality Technology. Explore the 30-year history of MURTEC and how it has adapted to changing technologies and trends. Discover the innovative "Experience Matters" theme for MURTEC 2025 and the new education zones catering to diverse industry segments. Learn how cross-industry collaboration and standards initiatives are shaping the futur...

Join us for a captivating conversation about the Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) conference, where industry trailblazers are redefining the foodservice landscape. Hear from Danny Klein, VP of Editorial and Director of Food, Retail, and Hospitality at QSR and FSR magazine, as he shares insights into the event's growth, innovative programming, and the powerful community it has fostered. Discover how this conference is providing...

In this episode of TechBytes, host Rob Grimes interviews David Roberts, the CIO of Cicis Pizza. They discuss the unique technology challenges of running a pizza buffet business, including managing inventory, labor, and the customer experience. David shares how Cicis is focused on building a strong data and loyalty platform to better serve their guests. He also touches on using AI for things like spam call prevention and fraud detec...

Join us for a captivating conversation with Ron DiNella, Chief Financial Officer of Ascent Hospitality Management. Discover how this industry veteran has navigated the evolving landscape of the restaurant business, from his early days at Morton's Steakhouse to his current role overseeing iconic brands like Perkins and Huddle House. Gain insights into the role of technology in driving innovation, data-driven decision making, and ada...