The Hospitality Hangout · 2025-12-09 · 48 min
Kelli Valade, CEO of Denny’s and a leading hospitality insider, shares her purpose-driven leadership approach, and the powerful role hospitality plays beyond the dining room. In this special No Kid Hungry miniseries episode, explore how Denny’s commitment to fighting childhood hunger through a 15-year partnership and signing the CEO Pledge highlights impactful hospitality trends. Kelli dives into building culture at a legacy brand, staying relevant across generations, and leading with empathy in the food service industry. Discover insider insights into how hospitality strategies can serve communities and develop future leaders in this inspiring conversation. Episode Credits:
Why Busy Restaurants Still Fail: Bruce Nelson on the Math Behind Profit64 / 100
People First, Pizza Always: The Donatos Growth Playbook50 / 100
Maui Roots, San Diego Hustle: The Kalei’s Kitchenette Story
How The Mudpuppy Used AI Menu Engineering to Grow Restaurant Sales
How Rickey Booker Built Breakfast Brothers From the Ground Up