Restaurants are more than places to eat. They are where communities gather, cultures are shared, and everyday moments become lasting memories. But behind every restaurant is a complex reality, rising costs, workforce challenges, and shifting consumer expectations. 

In this episode of The Distinguished, Dean Arun Upneja welcomes Jen Ziskin, Executive Director of Mass Restaurant United and co-owner of La Morra and Punchbowl in Brookline, MA. With a background in education, restaurant ownership, and statewide advocacy, Jen brings a rare perspective on what it takes to sustain independent hospitality. 

They cover the wage gap between front and back of house, the fight against junk fee legislation, credit card processing fees on tips and taxes, immigration’s role in restaurant culture, real estate challenges, Gen Z dining shifts, tipping fatigue, mental health resources, and the promise and limits of AI in operations. 

Email us at shadean@bu.edu 

Learn more about Mass Restaurants United  

The “Distinguished” podcast is produced by Boston University School of Hospitality Administration.  

Host: Arun Upneja, Dean 

Producer: Mara Littman, Executive Director of Strategic Operations and Corporate Relations 

Research and Content Creation: Lan Lu

Editing: Isabella Laikin 

Music: “Airport Lounge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 

Email us at shadean@bu.edu

The “Distinguished” podcast is produced by Boston University School of Hospitality Administration. 

Host: Arun Upneja, Dean
Producer: Mara Littman, Executive Director of Strategic Operations and Corporate Relations
Research and Content Creation: Lan Lu
Marketing: Anne Dawson
Editing: Isabella Laikin and James Leon

Music: “Airport Lounge" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0