Looking forward…

2026 will be full of so many possibilities, and I cannot wait to explore them all.

The year 2025 was certainly one for the books.

From a new presidential administration wreaking havoc here and globally to many pop culture moments going viral, there was never a dull moment.

I thoroughly enjoyed authentically exploring these topics and others in 2025 because there’s so much I have to say beyond the usual food and beverage trends. Still, because F&B trends are my specialty, you’re always guaranteed to get that coverage from Yours Truly in the most unconventional manner. Yet rest assured, I will be going deeper because I am always willing to evolve this brand.

For example, right now my focus is on third-party food delivery services. On both sides, as consumers as well as operators, we have become overly dependent on them. The convenience is at the tip of our fingers on our phones and, according to insiders, taking advantage of everyone.

I’ve posted below a post from an anonymous “whistleblower,” who claims he works for one of these companies. It’s being posted all over social media this weekend. His “insider information” is disturbing, and it’s also been verified by independent contractors who work for some of these companies. Many say they have felt a sudden shift in how they’re being treated as drivers for them.

Check out the original post:

I felt sick to my stomach as I read the part about how after-hours drivers were categorized as “high desperation.” YIKES. That’s a pretty shitty way to treat others—especially knowing that so many people are desperate for work. It’s actually pretty gross.

The part about the tip payouts was equally shocking. I like to think that the drivers are making good money in tips, especially when the weather is particularly frightful. To discover that these companies may be cheating them out of their hard-earned money is upsetting. Not only do drivers deal with unfavorable weather conditions, but also traffic congestion, waiting around for orders at restaurants and more.

Soooo, I’ve decided to do something about it and I hope you do, too. First, whenever possible, I am going to directly connect to the restaurant and order from them. That not only eliminates these exorbitant third-party fees, but the restaurant will likely have more personable connections to the drivers. You can ensure that they get the tip you’re giving them.

On the occasions when I cannot get around the third-party services, I will give a cash tip to the drivers. That way I know they are getting the full amount. By not adding the tip to the order—and alerting the driver in advance—the base should not be affected.

Restaurateurs who use these third-party services should also ban together to make these companies treat drivers better. After all, without the restaurants and drivers, these services do not have a business model.

I’m crossing my fingers that dramatic changes will happen in 2026!