Week 3 of the Spotlight On Hospitality Entrepreneurs series brings along one of the most imaginative forces in modern dining: Steve Schussler, the visionary behind Rainforest Cafe and founder of Schussler Creative.

Schussler's career reshaped what a restaurant could be. From globally recognized concepts like Rainforest Cafe to immersive destinations like T-Rex Cafe, Yak & Yeti, & Disney Springs' The Boathouse, he built more than just brands. He built worlds. His work blends storytelling, spectacle, and emotional connection, proving that hospitality is as much about experience and escapism as it is about food.

As the founder of Schussler Creative and author of It's A Jungle In There, Schussler brings decades of creative insight, creative risk-taking, and philanthropic purpose to the table. He shares conversations behind scaling concepts internationally, the reinventions that helped shape his path, and the mindset that's required for creating such enduring ideas.

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On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates continues the 'Spotlight On Hospitality Entrepreneurs' series in France by welcoming in Thierry Vale - the entrepreneur behind BAGELSTEIN (www.bagelstein.in), the Paris-born bagel concept that turned sharp branding, disciplined systems, and a fearless voice into a fast-casual powerhouse operating across multiple countries.

Together, Christina and Thierry explore the power of a distinct brand identity, how to franchise successfully in new markets, leading teams while protecting the core idea, and the realities of growing a modern hospitality business abroad.

Thierry also breaks down how he built the concept from the ground up, why irrelevance became a strategic advantage, and how he scaled without losing the brand’s original spirit.

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On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates kicks off her 'Spotlight On Hospitality Entrepreneurs' series by welcoming in Max Tucci - third generation partner and Global Ambassador of Delmonico's, THE restaurant that helped define American fine dining. Since 1837, Delmonico's has shaped the way we eat by introducing dishes such as Demonico Steak, Eggs Benedict, and Baked Alaska while setting early standards for service, wine programs, and the modern dining room.

Max brings a rare blend of history, storytelling, and forward-thinking vision to the table. His work honors nearly two decades of tradition while guiding Delmonico's into a new era of hospitality, culture, and global relevance.

Beyond Delmonico's, Max also owns TUCCI, his namesake restaurant where elevated Italian cuisine meets warmth, family, and connection. He's also host of Welcome To My Table on LA Talk Radio and author of The Delmonico Way, a deep exploration of timeless hospitality principles and what it truly means to welcome people to the table.

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This week on Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes back Dr. Ian K. Smith - physician, bestselling author, and a trusted voice in health and nutrition - for a clear and grounded look at one of the biggest shifts in American dietary policy in years.

With the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the traditional food pyramid has now been inverted, prioritizing protein and healthy fats while placing stronger limits on ultra-processed foods and added sugars.

Dr. Smith breaks down what these changes mean for everyday eating, how they align with current science, and why this new pyramid challenges decades of conventional wisdom. Christina and Dr. Smith explore how these guidelines may influence home cooking, menu development, and the broader nutrition culture, while offering a practical and accessible way to navigate through the noise.

They also discuss Dr. Smith’s latest book, The Last 15: Say Goodbye to Those Most Stubborn Pounds, a science-based, seven-week program designed to help readers overcome weight loss plateaus without gimmicks or deprivation. He shares the research behind the plan, the psychology of stubborn pounds, and the real-world strategies that make sustainable change possible.

If you’re trying to make sense of the new nutrition guidelines, curious about the future of American nutrition, or looking for smarter ways to cook, this week’s episode delivers clarity and context without the extra confusion.

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As we continue to roll into 2026, Culinary Confidential helps rethink one of the most misunderstood parts of the modern day diet: carbohydrates.

This week, Christina Cates dives into how better carbs - not fewer - can transform your pantry, your meals, and your energy. Joining tonight's show is Alicia Lang and Marisol Villalobos.

A Community Manager and Nutrition Expert at Queen Street Bakery, Alicia breaks down why ingredient integrity matters, how to read labels with confidence, and why fear-based food rules often miss the mark. She shows how thoughtfully made breads and baked goods can absolutely belong in a balanced diet, and how smarter carbs can support your energy, gut health, and everyday enjoyment.

As the founder of Amasar, Marisol introduces listeners to breadfruit, an ancient, nutrient-dense, naturally gluten-free staple with deep cultural roots and modern culinary relevance. She shares how Amasar champions sustainability, heritage, and equitable food systems while bringing this resilient ingredient into contemporary kitchens.

If you're looking to rethink your pantry, explore healthier eating patterns, or perhaps are curious about the future of carbs, this week's episode offers grounded, accessible insight. From ancient ingredients like breadfruit to modern grain innovation, you'll be sure to walk away inspired and better equipped to make choices that fuel wellness and joy at the table.

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We're now well into January, and with that comes the growing movement many are partaking in called Dry January.

For Culinary Confidential's second show of 2026, Christina Cates brings clarity, balance, a fresh look at how and why we drink, and why this movement towards more mindful drinking keeps growing in popularity. She also looks into how the beverage world and how our personal wellness choices evolve with two special guests.

Nicholas Poletto, Vice President of Education at Kobrand Corporation, breaks down the rapidly expanding world of non-alcoholic beverages. He explains how the category has moved beyond simple substitutes, becoming a space defined by creativity, flavor integrity, and intentional design. From zero-proof wines and spirits to elevated alternatives crafted for modern palates, he offers the inside scoop on what's driving this shift and what consumers can expect next.

Dr. Ali Cadili brings a medical perspective, offering clear and evidence-based insight into the health benefits of reducing or eliminating alcohol. He discusses how even short-term abstinence can improve your sleep, mental clarity, metabolic health, and overall vitality - demystifying the science behind mindful drinking and empowering listeners to make informed choices.

So whether you're sober-curious, committed to Dry January, or simply exploring healthier choices, this week's episode offers a grounded, accessible look at the cultural and personal shifts around alcohol, and how even the smallest of changes can make a meaningful impact.

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Culinary Confidential opens 2026 with a celebration of love, craft, and the details that make "I do" unforgettable. Christina Cates dives into the artistry behind modern weddings, from the menu to the rings to the cake, with three wedding experts shaping how couples personalize their big day.

Rich Levy is Founder & CEO of Chicago's acclaimed catering company, Butter and Vine (https://butterandvine.com). From launching weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to thriving today as an operation known for custom menus, elevated beverage programs, and hospitality driven service, Rich brings deep insight into what makes a wedding menu truly memorable.

Michelle Luchese is Co-Founder & CEO of Manly Bands (https://manlybands.com), a bold and storytelling-driven wedding ring brand that redefines what men's rings can be. From meteorite to whiskey barrels to guitar strings, Michelle shares the story of how Manly Bands turned from a garage start-up into a multimillion dollar disruptor with inclusive sizing and in-house production.

Arlene Murray is the Owner and lead cake designer of Polkadot Cake Shop (https://polkadotcake.com) in Lyndhurst, NJ. Polkadot has become known today as New Jersey's most beloved custom bake shop. A self taught artist known for buttercream, fondant, and show-stopping wedding cakes, Arlene talks creativity, craft, and the joy behind edible art that becomes the centerpiece of a celebration.

From curated menus to custom rings to unforgettable cakes, Culinary Confidential's 2026 premiere explores how couples are rewriting standard wedding traditions, and why personalization has become the heart of every celebration.

https://culinaryconfidentialchristina.com

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To close out 2025, Christina Cates brings on a chef whose work, heart, and perseverance has shaped the soul of Los Angeles dining: Chef Jason Neroni.

Known for his soulful, ingredient-driven cooking and his leadership at some of LA's most beloved restaurants including Superba Food + Bread, Rose Cafe, and Best Bet Pizza, Jason has built a career defined by intention. His food is bold yet thoughtful, his kitchens are collaborative, his approach to hospitality is rooted in community and the belief that restaurants can be places of connection and care.

In the 2025 finale, Jason opens up about the journey behind the craft: the early influences that shaped his palate, the evolution of neighborhood dining, the challenges and triumphs of building restaurants from the ground up, and the personal growth that comes from decades in a demanding industry. It's an honest, reflective conversation on creativity, resilience, leadership, and the lessons learned along the way.

For those that love food, storytelling, or the human side of the culinary realm, this year's finale delivers heart, depth, inspiration, and makes for a perfect final course of 2025.

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