What happens when a global tech leader walks into a late-night restaurant podcast? You get a power-packed conversation with Brian Klinger, a key voice at Comcast Business, who’s not only transforming QSR and enterprise restaurant brands with cutting-edge tech, but doing it all with purpose.

Jay and Dom go deep into:

• The real reason why AI might actually save the restaurant industry (hint: it’s not what you think)

• How brands like Chick-fil-A and Taco Bell are blending tech with culture

• The rise of multilingual kitchens and computer vision

• The importance of redundancy and reliability in your restaurant's tech stack

• Why Giving Kitchen is one of the most important nonprofit orgs in foodservice today

Plus: 80s jokes, the problem with paper towels, and why edibles at a food expo might be a thing now.

This is one of our most powerful and practical episodes yet—get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe cry a little. Because in hospitality, tech only works when there’s heart behind it.

On this episode of The Late Night Restaurant Podcast, we sit down with Nick Scaccio, COO of Paris Baguette North America, to talk croissants, culture, and how a 4,000-location global brand stays consistent, innovative, and joy-driven. From training centers to trademark packaging, this isn’t just a bakery—it’s a masterclass in hospitality excellence. Plus, some wild ideas get tossed around (yes, including butter dipping stations and breakfast ketchup). A must-listen for anyone growing a franchise or obsessed with pastry perfection.

In this episode of The Late Night Restaurant Podcast, host Jay Ashton welcomes Maxim Atanassov—entrepreneur, investor, and founding partner of Future Ventures—for a powerful, free-flowing conversation that covers everything from natural wine to venture studios to the emotional side of leadership. Maxim shares his journey from Bulgaria to Canada, launching multiple businesses, and why mentorship and vulnerability are now at the core of how he builds companies. The two dig deep into the outdated 1765 restaurant model, building new revenue streams, storytelling as a superpower, and how doing just 10% more can double your business using the Rule of 72.

Packed with insights, laughter, and fresh ideas for anyone in hospitality or entrepreneurship—this episode will leave you rethinking what’s possible for your business.