Edward Lee, celebrity chef, author, and restaurateur – Show others they matter

How Leaders Lead with David Novak

Well, it’s Thanksgiving, and since we’re gathering together this week for quality time and quality food, it’s the perfect chance for us to learn some leadership lessons from my favorite chef, Edward Lee.

You know, when people come to visit us here in Louisville and they ask where they should eat, I always recommend Edward Lee’s restaurant 620 Magnolia. His food is incredible and I gotta say, his carrot cake is absolutely out of this world. On top of being a successful restaurateur, he’s also competed on Top Chef, written two wonderful books, and has even been nominated for an Emmy!

Really, he’s built a thriving career in an industry that can be pretty cutthroat – and he’s done it by showing people how much they matter. When he prepares a dish, when he’s talking to his staff, he treats every single person as an individual. People matter, and when you can show YOUR people that they matter to you, well, that’s the hallmark of a great leader. Keep listening to see how it’s done.

So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Edward Lee.