Corner Table Talk

"We wanted to explore the ways that food can be a muse.” Jamila Robinson Looking through the pages of Bon Appétit’s inaugural Art & Design issue (May 2025), it occurred to me that I wasn’t just reading. Each spread, each story, struck a chord and reminded me what aspects of the hospitality industry resonated in my soul from the beginning. Yes, great food is essential, but as important is the way a place makes people feel… the atmosphere, the intention, the story that lives in the walls and on the plate, and the synergy when it all works. In each restaurant I’ve opened as the final touches and tastings readied for the first day serving the public, I’d sit in nearly every seat just to feel and observe the room from every vantage point. That same care, that same design philosophy, was baked into every inch of this issue. Whether it was a story about Marcus Samuelsson’s return to Ethiopia, building a restaurant atop the tallest building in East Africa—or the role of color psychology—I felt a visceral connection. Exploring the intersection of food, design, and cultural storytelling with Jamila Robinson, Editor-in-Chief of Bon Appétit and Epicurious, offers a masterclass on how food media can be both beautiful and meaningful. She and her team made print feel like luxury again. They made culture feel close and they reminded us that food isn't just sustenance, it's connection, it’s memory, it's music, it's art. This Art & Design special issue is a collector's item. Brad HOW WE MOVE Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and highlights some of the interesting people, places and things that have her attention. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Brad Johnson Ventures LLC Corner Table™ is a trademark of Brad Johnson Ventures LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"You can't take a photo of hospitality." Chip Wade When my long-time friend, Eric Williams of Stone Williams Group, offered to connect me with Chip Wade, I immediately said yes. I was curious to learn more about the CEO of legendary New York City restaurateur Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) whose reputation for operating a portfolio of high-level restaurants is tops in the industry. Their slate of restaurants include: Grammercy Tavern, The View, Ci Siamo, Daily Provisions, The Modern, and Union Square Café, to name a few. Chip is a 30-year veteran of hospitality. From his beginnings at TGI Fridays to his leadership roles at Darden Restaurants and Legal Sea Foods, culminating in his current role at USHG, Chip shares insights on leadership qualities he admires including the importance of empathy and feedback. Our conversation also explores the industry's appeal to young Black professionals, and USHG's commitment to diversity and inclusion despite recent political pushbacks. Chip talks about the importance of maintaining high standards and culture within the organization including passionately advocating for understanding and celebrating diverse histories. By doing so, Chip believes we build a more empathetic society. Finally, we learned the term “antiquarian” as we dove into Chip’s passion for Black American history through his rare book collection. Fueled by curiosity, Chip aims to unearth stories celebrating prominent Black figures and share these narratives with broader audiences, honoring those whose shoulders we stand upon. Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey with Chip Wade. We hope his story inspires you as much as it did us. For more discussions like these, stay tuned to Corner Table Talk. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Editing: Journey Media LLC Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Brad Johnson Ventures LLC Corner Table™ is a trademark of Brad Johnson Ventures LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"When I got burglarized, it really didn't faze me... I went back to that day as a teenager, looking at my father's face, seeing the determination as he swept up that glass." Greg Dulan I met Greg Dulan almost 40 years ago while he and his father, renowned restaurateur Adolf Dulan, were visiting black-owned restaurants in New York City. When I moved to Los Angeles a few years later, Adolf’s beloved Southern-style restaurant, Aunt Kizzy’s Back Porch in Marina Del Rey, with its home-cooked soul food and warm, welcoming atmosphere, was my home away from home. I've enjoyed a close bond with both Adolf and Greg over the years and attended the memorial service for Adolf when he passed away in 2017. Given the Dulan legacy and my long relationship with both father and son, I am especially honored to have my friend and colleague Greg on this episode of Corner Table Talk. Greg, a second-generation restaurateur, shares heartfelt stories of working alongside his late father, a pioneer in Los Angeles’ soul food scene. From the early days of Aunt Kizzy’s Back Porch to the evolution of Dulan’s on Crenshaw, Greg reflects on his lessons, including his father’s philosophy of giving back—whether through ample portions or community support. The conversation also explores Greg’s recent restaurant renovation, his experience as a James Beard Award finalist, and the challenges of maintaining a thriving business amid rising costs and gentrification. Through it all, Greg remains an optimist, fueled by the love of his community and the enduring spirit of his father. Listen now for an inspiring story of resilience, family, and the power of soul food. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Editing: Glenn Cooper Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The future in this country is one where the folks setting the pace will be more diverse than ever. That’s baked in, and while there’s backlash, the numbers will ultimately tell the tale." Clarence Otis Clarence Otis Jr., former Chairman and CEO of Darden Restaurants Inc., is busy these days serving on the Boards of Verizon as Lead Director, of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, and as chairman of Jazz at Lincoln Center, among others. During his 10 years of leadership at Darden which ended in 2014, whose brands include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Seasons 52, Yard House, and Capital Grille, the company achieved remarkable sales growth. Otis reflects on his time at Darden and provides insights into the sale of Red Lobster during his tenure, and how public policies often inadvertently favor larger companies, making it difficult for smaller, independent businesses to thrive. Otis reveals his views on immigration’s role in hospitality and discusses AI's potential to automate certain restaurant functions, particularly in back-office tasks. Growing up in Watts shaped Clarence's perspective on fairness and opportunity. He learned from his father that positive family influence and a strong work ethic are crucial to success. Sharing our mutual love of jazz, we discussed the genre's state and its struggle to attract younger audiences in the US. Our discussion concludes with Otis’s optimism about America's diverse future and his belief in resilience amid changing demographics. His journey showcases how leaders can rise to significant roles while staying true to their values, as a model of how strategic vision and a commitment to equity can lead to impactful, lasting success. Thank you my longtime friend Eric Williams for connecting me with Clarence. CHAPTERS WATCH ON YOUTUBE Watch the full VIDEO episode on the Corner Table Talk channel on YouTube and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.comFor more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"I'm an activist with an artistic mask on." Jeff Friday The 28th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) takes place in Miami, June 12-16, 2024. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a stellar lineup of films, panel discussions, parties, workshops, and masterclasses. Notable attendees include Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, and Issa Rae. I sat down with my long-time friend, Jeff Friday, a trailblazer in the world of black cinema and the mastermind behind ABFF to share the festival’s evolution from Acapulco to Miami, his passion for black culture, and his desire to advance opportunities for black filmmakers. Our discussion includes Jeff’s perspective on the current state of black cinema. He expressed concern about the challenges facing black filmmakers today, particularly the shift away from diversity in Hollywood and the impact of streaming services on the theatrical business. Despite these challenges, Jeff remains optimistic and committed to supporting black filmmakers and promoting their work. Jeff's company, formerly ABFF Ventures and now Nice Crowd, specializes in developing and marketing festivals and live experiences highlighting BIPOC culture and achievements. Jeff's vision for Nice Crowd includes creating events that promote black culture and community in various settings, from film festivals to wellness retreats. A graduate of Howard University with an MBA from NYU's prestigious School of Business, Jeff’s numerous accolades include NYU’s Global Trailblazer Award for Entrepreneurial Innovation, and being named one of Hollywood's Top 50 Power Brokers by Black Enterprise. He has received keys to Miami, Miami Beach, and Newark, which also proclaimed his birthday “Jeff Friday Day.” Jeff Friday's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the impact that one person with keen instincts can have on an entire industry. HOW WE MOVE. Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer, and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion, and highlighting some of the interesting people, places, and things that have her attention. WATCH on our YOUTUBE channel or SPOTIFY and please subscribe to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Don't worry so much, stay positive, move forward, enjoy life. It's a gift, an astonishing, beautiful, absurd gift. Be kind and be curious. Chandelier, Baby!" Billy Dee Williams These words, spoken by screen legend and multi-talented Billy Dee Williams, offer a simple yet profound mantra for navigating the complexities of daily life embracing the sparkle and light of life. In his recently released memoir and New York Times bestseller, What Have We Here? Portraits of a Life, Billy Dee offers insights into a life well-lived where life doesn't have to be perfect to be wonderful. Kindness and curiosity are his cornerstones and viewed not just as moral obligations, but as tools for personal growth and happiness. They are the lenses through which we can view the world in all its splendor, and absurdity, and find joy in the most unexpected places. I had the pleasure of taking the journey with Billy Dee as I listened to his reading of the audio version of the book. Growing up in Harlem in a tight-knit family, directly across from Central Park, his home life was full of cherished memories. On-screen, Billy Dee epitomizes effortless cool. So much so that if you were ever dressed a certain way and thought you were looking good, your friends might say “Oh, you're Billy Dee now.” He makes the ladies swoon and finds the humor in his charm, never taking himself too seriously. With eight decades of performing on stage and screen, strikingly handsome and debonair, Billy Dee has played iconic roles such as Louis McKay in Lady Sings the Blues, opposite Diana Ross, and Gayle Sayers in Brian's Song earning him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role – 1972. He broadened his international fanbase appearing as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise. Billy Dee started acting on Broadway at the age of seven and is recognized for his outstanding performances in Fences and as Martin Luther King in I Have a Dream. As an accomplished painter, his paintings are included in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Gallery, Washington DC, the Schomburg Center for Research and Black Culture, New York, the African American Museum, New Orleans, and the Museum of Jazz, Kansas City. Join us as we discuss his memoir as well as various topics related to Billy Dee’s life and career including , the importance of family, the challenges of being a black leading man in the entertainment industry during his rise, the impact of his father's hard work, and character, his passion for painting and the importance of individualism. He shares stories of his friendship with James Baldwin and his perspective on aging, the value of staying positive, and the joy of sharing one's passion with the world. It was an honor to spend some time with this youthfully exuberant legend whose walking cane demonstrates his robust, never-ending quest for exploration. Chandelier Baby! Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As people of color, we’ve always dealt with crisis but what has never stopped is our capability to invent. We created some of the best dishes during the roughest times. We created some of the best art. Art, where does hip hop come from? It comes from struggle. We created some of the best music during these times. So, I think if you want to create a business, you cannot do it without walking through the struggle.” Marcus Samuelsson When you think of the culinary world, few names resonate with the dynamism that Marcus Samuelsson brings to the table, curating and cooking his way through the complexities of identity, heritage, music and art, and community, to create an unforgettable dining experience. Busy as ever, Marcus opened two restaurants recently in New York City, Metropolis within the Perelman Performing Arts Center on the site of the World Trade Center, and Hav & Mar in Chelsea where the New York Times journalist, Pete Wells, review noted the diversity of staff and clientele he found to be a rarity. In the cultural hub of Atlanta, Marcus Bar and Grille made its debut, and expanding to his first restaurant in Africa, located on the top floor of East Africa’s tallest building, experience Marcus Addis, he and wife, Maya’s, homecoming restaurant located in vibrant Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. As one of his driving passions. Marcus delves into the essence of philanthropy, emphasizing that it's not always about writing checks. It's about being present, sharing knowledge, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. His approach is a lesson in how we can all contribute to the world in meaningful ways. Hear how Marcus uses his platform to uplift communities, champion women of color in the industry, and inspire the next generation of chefs. As I spoke with Marcus, it became clear that this is a dialogue about life, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It's about the courage to dream, the resilience to overcome, and the joy of sharing one's passion with the world, a testament to how culinary arts can be a powerful tool for change. HOW WE MOVE Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and highlights some of the interesting people, places and things that have her attention. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Produced by Corner Table Media, a division of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overtown EatUp! is first and foremost a love letter to the “Harlem of the South ''and its profoundly important role in shaping the Miami of today. Food is more than just sustenance; it's a story, a community, and a way to bring people together. In this episode, we take you to the heart of Overtown, Miami, where the annual Overtown EatUp! was in full swing, across the street from Red Rooster Overtown, as part of the South Beach Food and Wine Festival. Created, curated, and hosted by award-winning chef, TV personality, and cookbook author, Marcus Samuelsson, this walk-around tasting spotlights the local cuisine and culture that remain at the heart of the city’s Black history. Samuelson's philosophy is simple: "Let's become good. Let's be part of the neighborhood. Let's employ people. Let's figure it out, and let's work." This episode explores how his dedication is not just about bringing a new restaurant to an area but about inspiring the next generation and making a tangible difference in people's lives. Marcus’ insights into gentrifying neighborhoods, the importance of being part of the community, and the impact of food on society are a central theme of this episode. Attending the festival, we meet various chefs and entrepreneurs who are making waves in the culinary scene. From the creators of Jamaican tacos and oxtail burritos to a chef who pivoted during the pandemic to feed over 100,000 children and family members in the Bronx, these stories are not just about food—they are about resilience, community, and passion. Walking around we couldn’t help but notice the young people wearing white chef coats working as members of Careers through Culinary Arts Program (CCAP), which teaches life skills through the kitchen to inner-city high school students. This initiative is proof that the culinary world is not just about cooking—it's about creating opportunities and fostering growth. See the full VIDEO episode on the Corner Table Talk channel on YouTube to experience the celebration of food, culture, and community. It's a testament to how culinary arts can be a powerful tool for change. Thank you to Marcus Samuelsson for inviting us and the team at Red Rooster Overtown for their hospitality!! Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Inner Urban Zone by Alex Make Music Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The mission of the James Beard Awards is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive. Each year some of the brightest stars in the culinary world and food media are recognized at the annual James Beard Awards. In hospitality, it doesn't get any bigger! We were honored to host Corner Table Talk LIVE at the 2023 James Beard Awards in Chicago where we pull back the curtain to reveal the passion and drive of eight of the industry's finest. We hear firsthand what the night meant to them and add some super cool restaurants to check out if your travels take you to any one of these cities. Chicago is a great host city. Our most memorable meal was at chef Erick Williams' outstanding Virtue Restaurant and Bar, also home of Damarr Brown, Best Emerging Chef whose soulful cuisine including Shrimp and Grits had us convinced it gave LA-based Post & Beam's version a run for its money, Just sayin’. Our guests include Gregory Gourdet's whose Haitian-inspired Kann won Best New Restaurant, a beacon of cultural enlightenment, Chef JP Best Chef NY State from Atomix, whose journey from Korea to New York's culinary zenith is a tale of tenacity and talent, pastry artisan, and Margarita Manzke Outstanding Pastry Chef from LA-based Republique who was unable to attend the Awards but longtime staffer Kaley Shannon filled in and did a terrific job! We also spoke with the inspiring Olivia Watkins and Karen Washington Humanitarian of the Year of New York City-based Black Farmer Fund, whose commitment to land stewardship and social equity is reshaping the agricultural narrative, the incomparable Ellen Yin Outstanding Restaurateur of High Street Hospitality Group whose achievement is a testament to innovative spirit and community-building prowess, and the effervescent Chef Andrew Black Best Chef Southwest, whose culinary ingenuity at Grey Sweater in Oklahoma City is matched only by his dedication to community upliftment. We topped off the evening with Rob Rubba of Oyster Oyster in Washington D.C, whose sustainable approach and heartfelt leadership won him the title of Outstanding Chef, proving that the path to culinary greatness is paved with purpose and integrity. A huge thank you to Valerie Wilson and Mary Wagstaff of MMGY Wagstaff for helping us navigate access to this prestigious event. We have been fortunate to have an association with Wagstaff almost since its inception close to 25 years ago. They are committed professionals elevating the hospitality industry while building the careers of and garnering attention for chefs and restaurateurs. Finally, thank you to the James Beard Foundation and Choose Chicago for their support and assistance. We are very grateful! Feast on the full VIDEO episode on the Corner Table Talk channel on YouTube for an immersive experience into the heart of culinary excellence, where ambition meets artistry, and every dish tells a story. Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"A ​friend ​of ​mine ​once ​told ​me, ​he ​said, ​'you ​don't ​build ​houses, ​you ​direct' ​because building ​a ​home ​is ​the ​same ​way ​that ​I ​direct. ​I ​don't ​know ​which ​comes ​first, if ​anything, ​I ​try ​to ​curate ​whatever ​it ​is ​I'm ​doing ​to ​create ​a ​transportive ​moment, ​or ​moments, ​multiple ​moments ​that ​take ​you ​someplace, ​and ​that's ​what ​sticks. ​That's ​what ​resonates. ​That's ​a ​goal, ​but ​that's ​intentional." Eriq La Salle Many of you will recognize my guest and friend, Eriq La Salle, from his long career in film and television. Reflecting on his journey from childhood dreams in Hartford to breakout Hollywood success, Eric shares behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic roles, including landing the role of the main antagonist, Darryl Jenks, heir to the Soul Glow hair product dynasty, in Eddie Murphy's Coming to America after a single audition, as well as advocating for better Black representation during his groundbreaking portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton for eight seasons on the award-winning medical drama ER. Alongside his acting career, Eriq is an accomplished author, having published novels and novellas in his Martyr Maker thriller series. His just released novel, Laws of Annihilation, is the 3rd installment in the series and "a brilliant and bloody cop thriller," says Adrian McKinty, a New York Times best-selling author of The Chain. We learn about Eriq's creative process writing complex novels that interweave social commentary with page-turning mystery. His reflections on spirituality and friendship reveal him as a deep thinker who brings heart to all his artistic pursuits. He also happens to be one of the coolest and most down-to-earth brothers I know. Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson Hospitality E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"My father said that when you look at the cultural traditions of people, the European cultural tradition is a generation makes a mask. They put it up on the wall, put a glass box around it, and they point to it and say that's the greatest mask that's ever been made. The African tradition is every generation makes their own mask. So what we see with this constant creativity, this constant improvisation is a very human, African, homo sapiens tradition of not taking something and classicizing it to the point that nothing can be created beyond it and the generations after just have to kneel. It's about moving the culture forward." Raoul Roach My guest is Raoul Roach, the son of the iconic and internationally revered jazz musician, Max Roach. Born in 1924, Max was firmly entrenched in activism, civil rights, and the social justice movement of the sixties and seventies. As a result, growing up, Raoul had a strong interest in social activism, being exposed to and mentored by some of the most pivotal black figures of that period, including Maya Angelou, Sonia Sanchez, Amiri Baraka, and Alvin Ailey. Born and raised in New York City by age fifteen, Raoul was cutting his teeth working for his legendary dad, first as an office assistant, a roadie, and eventually Max's road manager, before ultimately producing several of his concerts. As a 40-year upper echelon executive of the music industry, Raoul has worked with the biggest names in entertainment from Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and Anita Baker. Raoul helmed the successful turnaround of Jones's Qwest Records as the organization's co-executive director. Raoul also co-founded and pioneered Harry Belafonte's social justice entertainment enterprise, Sankofa.org, as the organization's co-executive director along with Gina Belafonte. Raoul executed the recruitment of artists and celebrities such as; Usher, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Jesse Williams, John Legend, Common, Dave Matthews, Carlos Santana, Michael B Jordan, T.I., and many more in coordination with grassroots organizations and activists to produce, films, music videos, social media campaigns, PSA’s, concerts and major festivals. These initiatives raised resources for non-profit organizations as well as awareness to impact social movement and social justice. Currently, Raoul is coordinating along with his siblings Max Roach 100, an 18-month international centennial celebration of his father's music and life that includes film, documentaries, social media, concerts, exhibitions, new and previously unreleased recordings. Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach, whose far-reaching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of the society around him. "American Masters – Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes" premieres Friday, October 6 at 9/8c on PBS. HOW WE MOVE Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and highlights some of the interesting people, places and things that have her attention. Instagram: @Corner Table Talk and @Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"It's hard to hire female chefs. It's hard to hire African American chefs because there's just not as many people interested in it, which I'm like, yeah, and that's why we need to promote it, and that's why we need to give them opportunities far beyond what might seem reasonable because we want them to be the heroes so everyone else can look up to them. Then we can actually bring real diversity into our kitchens." Curtis Stone Curtis Stone is one of the busiest chefs in the country between running his restaurants, appearing in countless television shows like Top Chef Masters (host), Netflix's Iron Chef, and Fox's Crime Scene Kitchen (judge), being a New York Times best-selling author of six cookbooks, and growing Kitchen Solutions, a collection of top-selling and best-reviewed cookware on HSN. Obsessed with food from a young age, Curtis credits his mom and grandmother as his cooking and baking mentors. Following his passion, he began his culinary career as an apprentice at the Savoy Hotels five-star restaurant in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Three years later at the age of 21, he moved to Europe and sought out Britain's most celebrated chef (often referred to as the first celebrity chef), Marco Pierre White, to further his education and classical training for eight years. During that time, he was approached to co-host a television show, Surfing the Menu, traveling around Australia visiting food producers and cooking their produce. The show caught the eye of US producers that led to another television gig, Take Home Chef, and a subsequent move to the US settling in Los Angeles. Today, Los Angeles-based Curtis' Michelin-starred restaurants include Maude in Beverly Hills named for his paternal grandmother serving refined, seasonally-focused Southern Californian cuisine, and Gwen Butcher Shop & Restaurant in Hollywood named for his maternal grandmother where he partnered with his brother, Luke Stone, to create an old-world, European-style butcher shop and an elegant restaurant using fire-based cooking techniques. Please join me, your host, Brad Johnson, and Curtis on Corner Table Talk as we learn more about what motivates him beyond creating beautiful and delicious food, sharing his philosophy and knowledge, and how he directs his actions to bring joy and create a positive community around him. HOW WE MOVE Stay tuned to the end of the guest interview when international speaker, writer and diplomat Ambassador Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz) spends a few moments unpacking the discussion and highlights some of the interesting people, places and things that have her attention. Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"My journey has really been following the path throughout the African diaspora, on five continents, chasing the knowledge of essentially how through slavery, Africa changed the global culinary conversation." Alexander Smalls Alexander Smalls began his illustrious career as a restaurateur in the nineties and furthered my appreciation for low-country cuisine when he opened Café Beulah, his first restaurant with its butter-toned walls displaying framed sepia-toned family photos. That's how I remember that room, it was elegant and it was beautiful. Alexander, of course, was an immaculate host. Prior to his restaurant career, after starring in Porgy and Bess performing at the Houston Grand Opera, where the production and Mr. Smalls won a Tony and a Grammy, he reluctantly left that stage telling the New York Times in 2020, "an operatic career was my dream, but I was not able to break that glass ceiling as an African American male." Alexander reinvented himself as a chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author, winning a James Beard Award for Between Harlem and Heaven. Several restaurants followed, including Minton's and The Cecil in Harlem, created with the rising culinary talent JJ Johnson. Using African inspiration to create a global table, the restaurant was crowned Esquire Magazine's "Best New Restaurant of the Year" in 2014. Inspired by his world travels tracing the African diaspora's cooking techniques and culinary foodways, Alexander's newest venture is Alkebulan, the first dining hall in the world showcasing and celebrating African food. With locations in Dubai and London, he plans to bring the concept to multiple cities. Please join me, your host, Brad Johnson, in welcoming Alexander, who has emerged as one of the most important voices in the African-American culinary journey, to Corner Table Talk. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"What we saw right away, and I would say that to anybody who engages in the fantasy of going into the restaurant business, in the end, it is not about the concept, it's about the people that work with you, work for you. Because if we didn't understand it was about the people, we would have died with one restaurant. I don't care how good your concept is." Rick Rosenfield Who doesn't like pizza? Whether a folded, oily, gooey slice consumed while standing at almost any pizza shop in New York City or at Mozza in LA where Nancy Silverton found a way to make pizza new again, this staple of the American diet is not showing any sign of slowing. My guest, Rick Rosenfield, certainly knows his way around a conversation about pizza. In 1985, this southside Chicago native and former federal prosecutor and defense attorney, teamed up with friend, Larry Flax, left their law practice in Los Angeles, and launched California Pizza Kitchen as an affordable, upscale pizza concept. Their first location on Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills, put the West Coast in the national pizza conversation and through their own ROCK hospitality culture - respect, opportunity, communication, kindness - they quickly grew to 250 locations in the US and abroad. Stepping down in 2011 from leadership at CPK when it was acquired by a private-equity firm, Rick recently announced plans to return to the restaurant world with the introduction of ROCA, a specialty, Roman-style, street food pizza take-out and delivery concept, now open in Pacific Palisades and soon to open in Marina del Rey, on the west side of Los Angeles. Using premium toppings and a three-day cold fermented dough allows for the dough to appear thick like focaccia but light and airy on the inside. When reheated, it's crisp but still light and airy. Please join me, your host, Brad Johnson, in welcoming and learning more about Rick, a true legend in the restaurant industry, to Corner Table Talk. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Everything is in a cycle, and the cycle is dictated by the audience's needs and wants, the studio's needs and wants in terms of the financial bottom line, right? Those two very evolving organisms are always trying to sync into the right gear. So, I don't worry anymore because it always comes back around. You're in this long enough, you just go, all right, this is a cycle, it'll come back around." Stephanie Allain Stephanie Allain of Homegrown Pictures, is a prolific film and television producer dedicated to creating content by and about women and people of color with authentic stories, depictions, and representation. She began her career in the mid-80s as a reader at the elite talent agency, CAA, a job that required reading scripts and books submitted to the agency and providing coverage of the material, often the first barrier for further consideration and development. In her next position at Columbia Pictures, as one of only two African-American readers, a young USC student found his way to her under the guise of interest in a job. Instead that student, John Singleton, pitched her Boyz in the Hood and the rest, as they say, is history. Stephanie worked with John Singleton on five movies: Boyz N the Hood (1991), Poetic Justice (1993), Higher Learning (1995), Hustle & Flow (2005) and Black Snake Moan (2006). She also produced Something New, Peeples, Beyond The Lights, Dear White People, French Dirty, Burning Sands, Juanita and Really Love. Her work has been nominated for numerous awards with wins from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, Film Independent Spirit Awards, NAACP and others. A few of her projects currently in production include her first documentary Untitled Billy Preston, and a limited series for HBO, Sula by Toni Morrison. Amid a brilliant career, Stephanie became the first black woman to co-produce the Academy Awards (2020) and made history again by becoming the first woman of color to be named as President of the Producer's Guild of America (2022). Please join me, your host, Brad Johnson, on Corner Table Talk with this inspiring woman and Hollywood powerhouse. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"I have to say at some point I did have to see that resume. There was a point where if you were a newcomer, I had too much to do. I had people come in my office. When I got on a little further into the business. Rodney King came to my office because he wanted me to do a project with him. Sweetest, kindest, nicest man you ever wanna meet. Those kind of adventures, have filled my life. But Brad, you do know me also, that if nobody's there, I will talk to a chain link fence." Dolores Robinson Dolores Robinson may not be a household name, but I can assure you she is Hollywood royalty. A youthful 86 years of age, Dolores has been defying the odds her whole life. Finding herself single in 1974, she packed up her two kids into a green Volvo station wagon and headed west from Philadelphia to California to start a new life. College-educated, she accepted a job as a receptionist in a talent agency, quickly working her way up to a full-fledged agent. Just two years later, she founded her own management company, Dolores Robinson Entertainment, and became a trailblazing talent manager and power player who made her name when there were few women, much less women of color, with any influence on the business side of showbiz. She helped launch the careers of Martin Sheen, Mark Wahlberg, Jada Pinkett Smith, Tea Leoni, Emilio Estevez, Mariska Hargitay and, of course, her own daughter, Holly Robinson Peete. The Personal Managers Hall of Fame inducted Dolores in 2017 acknowledging her as the first black female manager in film and television. Dolores may be recognizable to some after appearing on Hallmark Channel's Meet the Peetes, a reality show with her family, Holly Robinson Peete, husband Rodney Peete, and one of my all-time favorite people on the planet, son Matt Robinson, along with her grandchildren. I asked Dolores to join me, your host, Brad Johnson, on Corner Table Talk to talk about her life, career, and share some of her wisdom from 40-plus years spent in the City of Angels. Photo Credit: Hallmark Channel * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Miami has always been a unique place, right? In comparison to the rest of the states. I feel like I'm in a different country and it's just so Caribbean, it's so island. So the city is special in that way. Today there's this boom and the energy has shifted toward culture. And when I say culture, a cultural perspective of Miami being showcased as much as Latin culture is known here in the city. So that's been very exciting to see from a food and beverage, perspective." Jamila Ross While we have had a fair number of well-known guests on our program, part of our mission is to also talk to people you may not know yet, but we think you will soon. In fairness, the dynamic duo on the show today, Jamila Ross and Akino West, are not total strangers to media coverage. Their wedding in 2021 during the height of the pandemic was covered in the New York Times Style section. Attention as a budding hospitality power couple began buzzing in 2018 where they purchased a building in Miami's historic Overtown to open their first venture, the cool, chic, 22-room bed and breakfast, The Copper Door that captured the attention of Vogue. Akino and Jamila West met as culinary students at Johnson and Wales in North Miami, and both possess impressive culinary pedigrees. Jamila worked in management as part of the LA-based hospitality group, SBE, and Akino as a chef in esteemed kitchens such as the local Miami institution, Michael's Genuine, and as an intern at the three-Michelin-star restaurant, Noma, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Noma has been ranked as the number one restaurant in the world for multiple years. In 2021, the couple opened Rosie's, a brunch focused pop-up restaurant, serving a feel-good, soul food brunch with subtle Italian nuances and classic techniques. It became a huge hit. Recently, Rosie's found a permanent home in the hip-insider Miami neighborhood, Little River. I can tell you from having experienced Akino's food and Jamila's skilled and detail-focused hospitality, these are two people to watch. Join me, your host, Brad Johnson, along with these two talented entrepreneurs making a name for themselves and illuminating the way forward for the next generation, on Corner Table Talk. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"When I do anything, I like to break all the bricks. What was here before Lincoln Center was old San Juan Hill, a very affluent or a very popular Afro-Caribbean, Afro Latino area. It just spoke to me. It was like, I'm supposed to be here. I'm supposed to revive the stories of the people and give a voice to the inaudible and that's what the restaurant does. It tells a story of New York, but not the New York that I guess the affluent think of. For me, it's the story of immigrants, it's Puerto Rican it's Dominican, it's Jamaican, it's Nigerian, Senegalese, like all these things for me made New York special." Kwame Onwuachi As a 40-year veteran of the restaurant industry, it gives me so much pleasure to see the mainstream recognition and opportunities for success afforded to the talented generation of people of color pursuing careers in hospitality. This group of entrepreneurs and chefs is making a name for themselves illuminating the way forward for the next generation. My guest, Kwame Onwuachi, has racked up a pretty impressive list of accolades including one of Food and Wine's Best New Chefs, Esquire Magazine’s 2019 Chef of the Year, and The San Francisco Chronicle said that Kwame was the most important chef in America. That's a big title and quite an accolade. He is also the creator of the Family Reunion, an annual multi-day event that takes place in Middleburg, Virginia and celebrates diversity in the hospitality community. In September, 2021, Kwame hosted the esteemed James Beard Awards having previously won the Rising Star Chef of the Year award in 2019. He is also the author of a memoir, Notes from a Young Black Chef, that is being adapted into a feature film. Raised in New York City, Nigeria, and Louisiana, Kwame most recently opened Tatiana restaurant at Lincoln Center in New York City. Join me, your host, Brad Johnson, and Kwame as we learn more about this young talent on Corner Table Talk. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Remember, 1992 was the year that Naughty by Nature had a huge song called O.P.P. It was a megahit. Jonathan [Editor-in-Chief] asked me if I wanted to write an article about Treach from Naughty by Nature. I was like, heck yeah. He didn't tell me that Albert Watson was shooting the cover, the famous photographer Albert Watson, and he didn't tell me that my story was gonna be the very first cover story for Vibe Magazine." Kevin Powell Finger on the pulse is often used to describe someone who has the ability to read the ongoings of culture, synthesize the information, and in the case of my guest Kevin Powell, write, speak, produce, and publish work that chronicles our collective experience. Many people remember him from the early nineties in the MTV series, The Real World, where he was an original cast member. I became aware of Kevin when he joined Quincy Jones as a senior writer and part of the editorial team at the startup and groundbreaking Vibe Magazine. Since then, Kevin is the author of fifteen books including his new collection of poetry, Grocery Shopping with My Mother. In the works is a biography of Tupac Shakur, utilizing Kevin's treasure trove of interviews and conversations, several gathered while a senior writer at Vibe, and his first documentary film, titled "When We Free The World," about healthy manhood vs. toxic manhood, about fathers and sons. Following in the footsteps of Toni Morrison and Nikki Giovanni, Kevin is a writer in residence at Prairie View A&M University in Texas for the 2022 - 2023 school year. As a highly involved human and civil rights activist, he is a leader in the movement to redefine manhood away from sexism and violence; has a deep responsibility to mentorship and development of people of every age as agents of change; and is committed to voter education and empowerment. Kevin is a longtime proud resident of Brooklyn, New York and it was great catching up with him. Join me, your host, Brad Johnson, and Kevin as we honor one of the most celebrated political, cultural, literary, and hip-hop voices in America on Corner Table Talk. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I been honest I've had my heart broken like promise I been decolonizing my closet I been intentional with my dollars I been I been learning boundaries I been done with jobs payin hourly I been thinking a lot more while I'm showering I been putting my 10,000 hours in I been thinking bout ownership I been thinking bout how nah I don't really think I want the sh*t I been thinking bout meaning I been thinking bout us I been thinking bout freedom I been thinking bout loyalty I been loving more openly I been collecting more royalties I been flourishing whether or not you notice me Excerpt from I Been by Def Sound Watch video Anybody who has lived in Los Angeles, loves music and quality programming, is aware of KCRW, the listener supported NPR station that streams worldwide. They play an eclectic mix of music that often can't be heard anywhere else. As a fan of the station, I love what they do. I've discovered so many artists and new music there. One day, I heard a track by my guest. I was really taken by the flow and the lyrics of what I was hearing. The track titled I Been is by Def Sound, hip-hop artist, published poet, and designer with his own line of clothing. Born and based in South Central Los Angeles, Def describes the music as a synthesis of hip-hop and his Afro-Latino roots using music and poetry as a healing mechanism while weaving together a tapestry of triumph, levity, ancestry and power. As an extra special treat, my son, multi-platinum recording artist and songwriter, Bryce Ross Johnson aka Bryce Vine, agreed to join me on the podcast as co-host in between tour dates. Together we spoke with Def about being a young artist, Los Angeles, life, and art. Join me, Brad Johnson, for this inspirational conversation exploring the story and rise of Def Sound as he pursues his dreams. * * * Instagram: Corner Table Talk and Post and Beam Hospitality LinkedIn: Brad Johnson E.Mail: brad@postandbeamhospitality.com For more information on host Brad Johnson or to join our mailing list, please visit: https://postandbeamhospitality.com/ Theme Music: Bryce Vine Corner Table™ is a trademark of Post & Beam Hospitality LLC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.