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Working Lunch

Working Lunch is a podcast from Align Public Strategies devoted to explaining the so what and now what about key issues impacting the restaurant and retail industries.

Operations

A look back on the year in politics for the restaurant industry

 By Restaurant Business Staff on Dec. 19, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast reviews the key issues and reputational threats for restaurants in 2025, and what to expect for the year ahead.

Operations

San Francisco takes on manufacturers of ultra-processed food

 By Restaurant Business Staff on Dec. 09, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast looks at lawsuits arguing that the food industry is making Americans chronically ill. Is processed food the new smoking?

Operations

Some surprise wins for the restaurant industry in this month's elections

By Restaurant Business Staff on Nov. 11, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast analyzes the recent election results and what it means for both the industry and next year's legislative agenda.

Workforce

Anti-DEI activist Robby Starbuck gets spotlight at HR conference

By Restaurant Business Staff on Oct. 28, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast discusses the appearance of a conservative influencer at the Society of Human Resource Mangement's conference. Some attendees are boycotting the event as a result, but is this an opportunity to hash out the attacks on anti-wokeism?

Workforce

How restaurants are pushing back on Trump's immigration crackdown

By Restaurant Business Staff on Oct. 21, 2025

Working Lunch: This week’s political podcast looks how Chicago restaurants are making it clear ICE agents are not welcome. Is that a good idea?

Operations

The rising threat to America's free market system

By Restaurant Business Staff on Oct. 08, 2025

Working Lunch: This week’s political podcast looks at the New York City mayor’s race as a sign of the socialist movement rising, particularly among young Gen Z voters. But similar sentiments are emerging on the far right as well.

Leadership

Activist investor Sardar Biglari continues Cracker Barrel pressure via billboard

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 23, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast looks at why one investor won't let the casual-dining chain's logo saga go. And how brands can steer clear of the political tension around Charlie Kirk's death.

Operations

How the proposed American Franchise Act will bring clarity to the joint employer issue

By Restaurant Business Staff on Sep. 17, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast looks at how leading industry lobbying groups are working with federal lawmakers to end years of seesawing policies impacting franchisors and franchisees.

Workforce

Why McDonald's is leaving the National Restaurant Association

By Restaurant Business Staff on Sep. 05, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast takes a deeper dive into the parting of ways between the nation's largest restaurant chain and the industry's leading trade association. Is the tip credit in trouble?

Operations

Preparing for a future in which restaurants have a role in recycling

By Restaurant Business Staff on Aug. 25, 2025

Working Lunch: This week's political podcast looks at the evolving issue of Extended Producer Responsibility laws on recycling across the country. Consultants Michael Washburn and Chloe Kapanen offer insights for compliance.

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