Welcome to this week's episode of the Food & Beverage Magazine Podcast! Join
the Food & Beverage Magazine Editors as they take you behind the scenes of
our blockbuster August 2026 issue. In this episode, we explore the
trailblazing innovators, brands, and culinary concepts that are raising the
standard of the hospitality industry. For the full stories and profiles
featured in today's discussion, visit us at fbmagazine.com.
Here is what we are covering on this week's program:
* The New Standard for Spirited Wellness: The Food & Beverage Magazine
Editors sit down to discuss our visionary cover star, Meagan Good, and her
organic partnership with founder Keith Davis for Nebula9 Spirits. Discover
how this ready-to-drink brand is crafting premium potato vodka infused with
organic apple cider vinegar to appeal to today's wellness-minded consumer.
* Vision, Grit, and Hot Chicken: We dive into the remarkable hot
chicken empire of David Mkhitaryan. Hear the story of the high school
dropout who built Angry Chickz into a $100M-plus restaurant powerhouse based
on passion, obsession, and unapologetic heat.
* Purpose-Driven Craft Brewing: We highlight Paskenta Mad River
Brewing, one of the nation's few Indigenous-owned breweries. Owned by the
Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, they are carving out a distinct space in
the craft beer scene by focusing on stewardship, community, and
food-friendly ales.
* Pop Culture Partnerships & Indulgent Launches: Learn how Zevia is
teaming up with GRAMMY-winner Cardi B for their "Real Talk Interpreter"
campaign. Plus, we explore Black Tap NY's decadent new tower of CrazySundaes
and Tender Crush's "5 Boroughs of Flavors" lineup celebrating National
Chicken Tender Day.
* Experiential Dining and Elite Hospitality: From sbe's exclusive
Katsuya Brentwood dinner honoring NBA All-Star Kawhi Leonard to the grand
opening of The Addison in Midtown Manhattan, and the legendary waterfront
views of The Boathouse on Naples Bay, we break down the venues setting the
benchmark for guest experiences.
As always, the Food & Beverage Magazine Editors are committed to bringing
you the people, brands, and operational ideas shaping what's next in food,
beverage, and hospitality. For more operator guides and trade
secrets-including Michael Politz's Guide to Restaurant Success-be sure to
visit fbmagazine.com. Catch the latest insights and read the complete
coverage of all these stories at fbmagazine.com.
Why It Matters
Industry operators should watch for follow-on developments as this story develops.
For more insights and trends in the food and beverage sector, check out more articles in The Food & Beverage Magazine family of publications.
Written by FBM Publications Editors
