Chef Gavin Kaysen has built one of the most respected restaurant groups in the country by putting trust at the center of everything. 

The two-time James Beard Award winner opens up about leadership, mentorship, and the systems that support his growing team across Spoon and Stable, Demi, Bellecour Bakery, and more.

From daily writing rituals to open-door mentorship to teaching financial literacy, Kaysen shares the mindset behind scaling culture without losing soul. He talks about hiring philosophies, the role of emotional intelligence, and even what it’s like to meet with governors to advocate for wage reform. His insights are generous, grounded, and immediately useful for operators at any level.

Takeaways

• Consistency starts with daily rituals like writing and reflection
• Teaching financial fluency empowers team members to grow
• Leaders should invite questions and build trust over time
• Culture is practiced through small, daily actions
• Taking care of your team leads to stronger financial outcomes
• Hiring well means looking beyond skill to emotional intelligence
• Leadership requires knowing when to say yes and when not to
• Technology should solve real problems, not add complexity
• Open communication during staff exits builds long-term respect
• Investing in mentorship is investing in the future of the industry

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