We Live To Eat

In this week’s Capitol Connection episode, Will DuBos, LRA’s Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, provides a mid-session recap highlighting key legislative issues impacting restaurants from workforce and workers’ compensation to payment processing, agriculture, and public safety.He shares progress on House Bill 232, which would streamline hiring minors and is advancing to the Senate with LRA support, along with ongoing efforts to reform Louisiana’s outdated workers’ compensation system, where multiple proposals are still being negotiated. The recap also highlights a key win with the defeat of House Bill 659, which would have limited restaurants’ ability to offset rising payment processing costs, while noting continued monitoring of a Senate bill addressing debit card surcharges.Additional focus includes support for expanding Louisiana seafood promotion efforts and increasing industry representation, as well as backing workplace safety measures like the Behind the Counter Protection Act.As the session approaches adjournment, the LRA emphasizes that both advancing strong policies and stopping harmful legislation remain critical to protecting restaurant operators. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this week’s Capitol Connection episode, Will DuBos, LRA’s Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, focuses on workers’ compensation as key legislation begins to move forward, including SB 408 to update the state’s outdated medical fee schedule. While the bill is advancing, it remains controversial, and the LRA is supporting an alternative, HB 357, while also working to redirect HB 780 to the appropriate committee.He also highlights opposition to HB 659, which would cap credit card surcharges and increase costs for restaurants, as the LRA continues advocating for the industry. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this week’s Capitol Connection episode Will Dubos, LRA’s Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, marks the midpoint of the legislative session as bills begin moving between chambers. House Bill 1, which is the state’s operating budget, has cleared committee and heads to the House floor. The LRA is also tracking and opposing Senate Bill 499, which would require a costly biometric age verification system for bars. As session progresses, lawmakers are expected to move faster toward final passage of legislation. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

On this We Live to Eat podcast episode, Chef Susan Spicer, co-owner and founder of Bayona in New Orleans, reflects on her culinary journey, sharing how global travel and Louisiana’s rich culture shaped her approach to food. She discusses her restaurants, the challenges of the industry, and her shift into a mentorship-focused, semi-retired role, emphasizing that passion and business knowledge are key to success. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Will Dubos, LRA's Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, highlights this session's progress during Week 4 of the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session.Key efforts include pushing for seafood industry support through market funds and task force expansion, while successfully opposing new administrative burdens by exempting restaurants from seafood record-keeping mandates.Additionally, the session features significant workers' compensation reforms to improve cost predictability and updated workforce laws to streamline the hiring of minors. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this week’s Capitol Connection podcast episode, Will DuBos, LRA’s Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, delivers a legislative update from Week 3 of the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session.The episode highlights the LRA’s advocacy efforts in Baton Rouge, including support for the seafood industry, opposition to new administrative burdens on small businesses, and key reforms to the workers’ compensation system.  New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this week’s Capitol Connection podcast episode, Will DuBos, LRA Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, highlights three key areas: the state budget, labor legislation, and a proposed debit card surcharge ban. Lawmakers are reviewing the 2026–2027 budget, impacting workforce and tourism. Labor bills aim to streamline workers’ comp and simplify hiring minors, while a Senate bill would ban debit card surcharges. With the June 1 adjournment approaching, activity is ramping up. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

This episode of the LRA’s We Live to Eat podcast features Kevin Daigrepont and Tyler Griffin, managers for Gillis Grocery & Cafe and Gillis Meat Market. They share their journey from corporate sales and data analysis to leading a beloved family institution, focusing on preserving a local legacy through intentional service, community events like the Boudin Trail, their annual car show, and much more.  New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Will DuBos, LRA’s Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs, brings you the first Capitol Connection podcast of 2026. Lawmakers kicked off the Louisiana legislative session in Baton Rouge, while Stan Harris and Britney Ford lead 30 LRA members in D.C. at the National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conference, focusing on Immigration Reform, Swipe Fee Reform, and the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement with Louisiana’s congressional delegation.Governor Landry opened the session highlighting growth, tax reform, workforce training, infrastructure, and insurance, key issues for restaurants.  New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this We Live to Eat Podcast episode, we are joined by Blakelee Kibodeaux, co-owner of Villa Harlequin in Lake Charles, as he shares his journey from the service industry to restaurant ownership and building a new concept from two legacy brands. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this We Live to Eat Podcast episode, Garret LeBlanc, HR officer and director of special projects for B&G Foods, talks about growing up in a multi-generation restaurant family, his path into the industry, and his role with the Louisiana Restaurant Association. LeBlanc also shares his vision for strengthening member engagement and continuing his family’s legacy in Louisiana’s hospitality community. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Ti Martin, co-proprietor of Commander's Palace, joins the We Live to Eat Podcast to share her journey from family roots to leadership, the evolution of Commander's Palace, and her vision for training the next generation through NOCHI. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this episode of the We Live to Eat podcast, Joanne Domilise, owner of Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar shares her journey taking over the iconic New Orleans restaurant, preserving its traditions, and earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Monique Ricci, the new CEO of Acme Oyster House, joins the We Live to Eat Podcast to share her journey from design to leadership, her family’s history with the brand, and what’s ahead for this New Orleans favorite. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Huy Pham, owner of Yakuza House in Metairie, joined the We Live to Eat Podcast to share his path from working in his mom’s restaurant as a teen to opening his own successful concept. He discusses overcoming challenges, following his passion, and building a restaurant that reflects his vision and creativity. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this episode of the We Live to Eat podcast, Christian Pendleton, General Manager of Brennan’s Restaurant, shares his journey from the military to fine dining, the mentors who shaped his leadership, and the importance of hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences. As Brennan’s nears its 80th anniversary, Pendleton reflects on the team’s growth and the restaurant’s lasting legacy. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Eric Avery, owner and founder of Crying Eagle Brewing Company in Lake Charles, stops by the We Live to Eat podcast to discuss how a bachelor party brewery tour in Houston sparked his idea to bring a similar experience to Southwest Louisiana. With no prior food or beverage background, Avery drew on his entrepreneurial experience in real estate and self-storage to build Crying Eagle into a community hub known for its craft beer, restaurant, and live music. He shares how the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s resources helped guide his transition into the restaurant industry and how Crying Eagle has grown to welcome more than 200,000 visitors annually. Now celebrating nearly 10 years in business, Avery recently opened a second location on the Lake Charles lakefront , continuing his mission to blend culture, community, and craft. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

Steven Hightower, Director of Food and Beverage at the University Club, joins the We Live to Eat podcast to share his journey in Louisiana’s hospitality industry. From starting in restaurants at LSU and Ruth’s Chris to leading City Group Hospitality, he discusses mentorship, teamwork, and passion for the business. Hightower highlights his work with the LRA and Louisiana Hospitality Foundation, the LSU Restaurant Management Leadership Program, and his efforts to mentor future industry leaders. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

J.P. Ngo, co-founder of Our Mom’s Restaurant, joins the We Live to Eat Podcast to share his journey from college bars to one of Louisiana’s best ranked burger spots and how his focus on people, comfort food, and community shaped his approach to hospitality. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

 New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this episode of Capitol Connections, Will DuBos, Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs at the LRA, recaps the 2025 Legislative Session and its impact on Louisiana’s restaurant and hospitality industry. From passing key protections—like the restaurant reservation bill and French Quarter safety funding—to defeating costly mandates and unregulated food laws, hear how the LRA Advocacy Team delivered results for members this session and what’s on the horizon. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this special episode, LRA's own Wendy Waren sits down with this year's LRA Showcase Keynote Speaker and Louisiana’s culinary ambassador to the world, Chef John Folse, as he shares personal stories from his boyhood in the German Coast swamp to the founding of the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute. Get a taste of what’s to come when he takes the stage as keynote speaker at the 2025 LRA Showcase—Sunday, August 3 at 2 p.m. at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

 New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this episode, Greg Reggio, co-founder of Zea Rotisserie & Bar, shares his journey from working with Warren LaRuth and Al Copeland Enterprises to launching Semolina, Mizado, and Zea. He reflects on the creativity behind signature dishes and the lessons learned in growing successful restaurant concepts.Greg also discusses how the Louisiana Restaurant Association has been an essential resource, providing guidance on legislative, labor, and compliance issues. Whether expanding a brand or tackling industry challenges, he explains why having the right support makes all the difference. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

This is the official podcast of The Louisiana Restaurant Association: We Live To Eat. Host Wendy Waren is joined by Mark Latter, Owner of Latter Hospitality (Tujague's Birdy's, The Bower) to discuss his distinguished career within the  New Orleans restaurant scene. Plus, listeners will hear how the Grasshopper cocktail originated in New Orleans, who Mark considers the godparents of the New Orleans culinary scene, details of delectable summer menu items, and the benefits and privileges of an LRA membership New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

This is the official podcast of The Louisiana Restaurant Association: We Live To Eat. Host Wendy Waren is joined by a member of one of New Orleans' most beloved culinary families, Stella Reese, to discuss a staple in most Louisiana households - gumbo. Reese shares how gumbo has played a big part in her family history. Reese also tells us how her mother, Leah Chase's recipe, Gumbo Z'Herbes originated, why Dooky Chase Restaurant is a pillar of the community, and their legacy beyond the restaurant in the New Orleans community.  New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

In this episode of the We Live to Eat podcast, host Wendy Waren chats with Justin Kennedy of Parkway Bakery & Tavern about its storied history and iconic po’ boys. Justin also shares the heartwarming inspiration behind Parkway’s special Thanksgiving po’ boy, available every Wednesday in November, with proceeds benefiting the Al Copeland Foundation. This episode is sure to leave you hungry and filled with gratitude! New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

This is the official podcast of The Louisiana Restaurant Association: We Live To Eat. Host Wendy Waren is joined by  the Managing Director of Government & Public Affairs of the LRA, Mr. Will DuBosIn this eisode, listeners will learn the importance of Senate Bill 166, the new packaging and marketing statute, and how restaurants can stay compliant with FTC guidelines to ensure customer trust and loyalty. New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association

This is the official podcast of The Louisiana Restaurant Association: We Live To Eat. Tommy Cvitanovich (Dragos), Tony Rodrigue (Acme) and James Karst (Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana) dropped by LRA headquarters to talk about the mollusk that holds a special place in the heart of so many Louisianians - the oyster. From how the oysters grow to how they're cooked and served to you in the restaurants, they cover it all—ever cared to know the difference between chargrilled and charbroiled?  We also learn why the off-bottom oysters are making waves in the Gulf. It's all in this jam-packed episode.  New episodes are available each month on most podcast platforms. We Live To Eat podcast is produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Comms Dept.https://www.instagram.com/louisiana_restaurant_assoc/https://x.com/LaRestAssochttps://www.facebook.com/LaRestaurantAssochttps://www.linkedin.com/company/louisiana-restaurant-association