The Content Room returns after their tip credit-induced hiatus with MRLA Chairman Jean Lanfear to discuss her journey from Dairy Queen counter to Buffalo Wild Wings executive. While debating the pronunciation of "caramel" (there is only one correct answer), Justin and Emily serve up surprisingly sweet (and a few sour) stats about the industry five years post-COVID – restaurants now command 53% of America's food dollar despite dining solo becoming the new norm. Starbucks' pivot back to human connection proves we're not ready to permanently replace baristas with apps, and Chairman Lanfear shares why "optimism is a source of power" when leading through challenging times. From ProStart competitions hitting record-breaking attendance to the upcoming Michigan Food and Hospitality Show, this episode proves the industry isn't just surviving, it's evolving. And for those keeping score, the Chairman prefers boneless wings with salt and vinegar rub – a stance potentially more controversial than who you think will dominate March Madness. 

Presented by Fahey, Schultz, Burzych, Rhodes PLDC. Find more information at https://fsbrlaw.com/.

Register for the Michigan Food & Hospitality Show at www.mrlashow.org.

**This episode of What's with the Pineapple was recorded before the Dept of Labor and Economic Opportunity released its interpretation of tip pooling language in the new minimum wage bill.**