In this episode, Brandon sits down with two luminous forces for good in the hospitality world: Maddy Murrian and Kristine Mylls from CORE . Their work lives at the intersection of compassion and crisis response, offering financial relief to food-and-bev families navigating some of life’s toughest storms.

Together, we explore:

CORE exists to support restaurant employees with children when life goes sideways. Whether a medical emergency drops like an unexpected thunderclap, a natural disaster knocks a family off their feet, or a sudden loss reroutes a life overnight, CORE steps in with compassion, confidentiality, and direct financial grants. Maddy and Kristine unpack what these grants cover, how families qualify, and why this safety net matters in an industry built on long hours, thin margins, and incredible people.

Maddy talks about the emotional side of grantmaking, sharing how a single check can stabilize a family teetering on the edge. Kristine expands on the bigger picture: the hidden pressures F&B workers carry and how CORE helps restore dignity, hope, and breathing room when it’s needed most.

From community fundraisers to national campaigns, the CORE team previews what’s ahead in the coming months. They highlight events that invite restaurants, operators, and brands to get involved, donate, and amplify the mission. Brandon and the team discuss creative ways independent restaurants can collaborate with CORE and why supporting hospitality families strengthens the entire industry.

This episode is a reminder that the restaurant world runs on human beings with real families, real struggles, and real needs. Maddy and Kristine bring warmth, heart, and a clear invitation for all of us to help lift up the people who make hospitality feel like home.

The Heart of CORE’s MissionWhy Hospitality Needs This SupportUpcoming Events & Ways to Get InvolvedA Conversation About Care, Community, and Action

get involved at www.coregives.org