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Private Notes
Starbucks’ trademark green and white logo is in 28,000 stores around the world, but the story of how it all started and the lessons learned along the way are remarkable. Iconic CEO, Howard Schultz takes us to his favorite Seattle restaurant Mamnoon, for his take on the heart and soul of his company and his future mission in the world.
At Giordano’s Deep Dish pizza, Jason Mayden tells us why this Chicago comfort food staple is also symbolic of why he loves this city and how it fueled his imagination and dreams. He believes the perceived negative aspects became strategic advantages for him in business and life, helping him design the Nike Air Monarch for Michael Jordan and eventually starting his own company.
As one of Fortune Magazine’s “Most Promising Entrepreneurs” Leila Janah started a non-profit with $14,000. Her goal to reduce global poverty by putting people into jobs where they could earn a living wage led to Samasource. In San Francisco at the Samovar Tea House, she shares why healthy food is the fuel she needs to continue her mission of ending world poverty.
When Jim started his mattress business in Houston, Texas he had $5,000 and a pickup truck. Now, he has a furniture empire through his “wacky ads” and gregarious personality. But it was an act of kindness that shined the international spotlight on Jim, as he opened all of his stores to displaced residents, during Hurricane Harvey. We lunch at the Lopez Family restaurant to hear his story.
Spanish born chef José Andrés achieved his American dream by creating a restaurant empire that stretches around the globe. Recently Jose’s efforts re-focused on philanthropy when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. Jose and his team landed and started cooking to eventually feed a million people. At Bodega 1900 in Barcelona, Spain, we explore life and the simple flavors of Spanish tapas.
Jessica Alba already a successful Hollywood actress, never dreamed she would face rejections and disbelief in her abilities to bring The Honest Company to the public. Currently valued at more than a billion dollars, Jessica speaks of her commitment to eco-friendly, sustainable, and recognizable ingredients, over chicken wings at Night + Market restaurant and why this company is just the beginning.
Emily Giffin did a career U-turn and pursued her dream of being a writer. Her ability to write complex, fascinating and flawed characters has landed her on the New York Times best-seller list and garnered her a cult-like following of devotees. At her favorite Seafood restaurant in Atlanta she talks about the anatomy of a best-selling page-turner.
Norman Lear is the creator of such legendary sitcoms as All in the Family, Good Times, Sanford and Son, The Jeffersons and many more. Norman has been instrumental in the success of many Hollywood professionals, yet his biggest contribution is the discussion his work has sparked. Norman takes us to his favorite restaurant in LA, Crossroads, to talk about what makes a great meal and a great TV show.
Kavita Shukla holds four patents for a product that extends the life of produce. After a trip to native India, she developed a recipe that would stop the spoilage of food. Her work is revolutionizing the world’s food supply especially in the poorest pockets of the globe. Kavita takes us to Great Sage restaurant to talk about how her invention the beginning of a world changing empire.
Kathryn Minshew started her website, TheMuse.com, to help people find the perfect job. She started with one person in her living room and she has grown the company to 50 million visitors every month. At Izakaya Nomad, in Manhattan, Kathryn explains how she took “a great idea,” raised millions of dollar in capital and created the premier destination for Millennials to find jobs.
As the Inventor and CEO of Spanx, Sara became the youngest self-made Billionaire in the world. With no fashion experience and no business degree, her story of grit, persistence, and problemsolving is one of the most interesting business stories of our time at Umi in Atlanta, GA.
From a wealthy Singaporean family, Kevin Kwan attended college in Houston, before he wrote “Crazy Rich Asians” a best-selling novel and hit film with the first all Asian cast in 25 years. Kevin, named one of the most influential people in the world, talks about creativity and his long road to success. At Crustacean, Beverly Hills, CA.
Writer/Director of hit movies, “The Sixth Sense” and “Unbreakable”, M. Night Shyamalan's excels at "scaring the living daylights” out of moviegoers, but has had careers highs and dramatic career lows. Night dishes on walking on the creative cutting-edge and what he hopes his legacy is in life and film. At Vetri Cucina, Philadelphia, PA.
At 11 years old, Gitanjali Rao was inspired to invent a device Flint, MI residents could use in their homes to check water safety. This invention won national and international awards. Gitanjali shares her thoughts on innovation and creativity, and inspires us all to look more closely at big world problems. At Hacienda Colorado, Denver, CO.
Columbia, Harvard and Juilliard educated, Katori Hall switched carreers from actress to playwright. Her play, The Mountaintop, about the night before Martin Luther King’s assassination, won her the Olivier Award for Best New Play. Katori shares her creatives mission: to be a voice for the marginalized voices in America. At Miss Lillies, NYC.
Erik Weihenmayer became the first blind man to summit Mount Everest. He shares his journey from outdoor-enthusiast to sought-after motivational speaker and what it means to live a life with “No Barriers” the non-profit he created which works directly with people who are disabled mentally or physically. At The Sherpa House, Golden, CO
Blake Mycoskie founded TOMS shoes because he saw impoverished neighborhoods around the world needed shoes and defined “social entrepreneur.” His “one for one” business model has been copied and recreated by many. Blake shares the soul of an entrepreneur and the project that has re-ignited his spirit. At the Snake River Grille, Jackson Hole, WY.
New York Times best-selling author Deepak Chopra is a medical doctor by trade but is best known for his teachings on greater consciousness, mental wellness and physical well-being. Deepak shares how he brings an idea to execution through the power of the mind. This enlightening conversation is nourishing for the mind and spirit. At ABC Kitchen.
Jake Wood, a former Marine used his military experience to create Team Rubicon as he relates in his book “Take Command: Lessons in Leadership.” Over burgers, beer and cheese curds, Jake talks about his passion to put Veterans back to work and harness their military training to help those in disaster areas. At Wando's, Madison, WI.
Ashley Longshore, a Louisiana based painter and gallery owner creates art reflecting American Glamour and consumerism. With millions of fans and celebrity followers, Ashley marches to a different beat. Over Indian flavors, Ashley talks creating Art and how she believes Art can truly change the world. At Saffron NOLA, New Orleans, LA.
Kate talks with the storyteller, podcaster and former Monk, Jay Shetty. He has been named Forbes Magazine 30-under-30 for changing the way people look at their own mental health and wellness. Jay shares timeless wisdom for living in uncertain times…as well as how to live a more meaningful life. Dining at Fresh on Sunset, Los Angeles, CA.
The first African American woman promoted to Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, Copeland started as a prodigy at 13 and had fought body issues and pressure to conform, in her arduous journey to ballet stardom. Misty shares some of her most hard-earned wisdom and insights. At the Mermaid Inn, Manhattan, NY.
Kate talks with Lubetzky, the founder of KIND bars. He launched the KIND brand to create a healthier snacking option and his KIND Foundation to fund philanthropic interests. Daniel discusses his first ventures, his biggest regret, and the wisdom he would impart to any entrepreneur. At the Gramercy Tavern in New York City, NY.
Mark Cuban is considered the “ultimate serial entrepreneur,” becoming a billionaire creating and selling software companies. In 2000, he purchased the Dallas Mavericks NBA team and is one of the investors on the show, "Shark Tank." Over breakfast, Mark shares his journey and the one crucial piece of advice that has helped him shape his American Dream. At IHOP in Dallas Texas.
Mel Robbins is a best-selling author, speaker and TV host. Her career path has taken her from criminal defense attorney to CNN analyst to one of the country’s most sought-after speakers. At her childhood favorite restaurant, Mel shares her hilarious and flawed journey and her everyday advice to live a life with more purpose and courage. At Red Rooster Tavern in North Muskegon, MI.
After co-founding several companies with his brother, Elon, Kimbal Musk carved out a new path by studying the culinary arts. His love of food and his entrepreneurial spirit have inspired him to become a restauranteur, food advocate and philanthropist. Over a meal, Kimbal shares the ingredients for a fulfilling career and a vision for a better world. At Oak in Boulder, Colorado.
Rachel Hollis' funny & relatable style has won her the hearts of millions. She is brutally honest about the difficulties of start-up life and juggling career and family. Rachel tells her story, from awkward teenager to best-selling author and successful motivational speaker. Rachel shares her recipe for success and achieving balance at work and home. At Café No Se in Austin, TX.
At the of 26, Michal Tubbs was elected the youngest mayor of a city in America. Michael shares all that has led him to this moment and all of the problems he has confronted, including growing up in poverty with a father in prison. He talks about the transformative power of a meal and how he uses “youth” and “optimism” as a superpower. At La Palma in Stockton, CA.
Phil Rosenthal created the comedy, “Everybody Loves Raymond.” In 2015, he created a public television series exploring food culture around the world and his newest show seeks to bring the world together through food. Phil shares the hardest part of creating a television series and what he hopes people take away from his new creative venture. At République in Los Angeles, CA.
Payal Kadakia's passion for Bollywood dance inspired her to create her own troupe. Her journey to build and create ClassPass, a national directory of dance & fitness classes, into a billion-dollar company is an epic one. Payal shares the many setbacks on her way to success and her vision for her company as she works to rebuild post-pandemic. At Javier's in Century City, CA.
Emmanuel Acho, creator of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man” and son of Nigerian immigrants, never dreamed his life would take him all over the country as an NFL player. Those “glory years” were just the beginning of his career and what he says is now “his calling.” At The Rooftop by JG, he shares what led him to use his time and talent to bring people of different races together.
With buildings and installations all over the globe, Jeanne Gang gained international attention for her Aqua Tower in Chicago which became the tallest building in the world designed by a female architect. Over the flavors of her favorite restaurant in Chicago, Brindille, Jeanne shares her journey to create memorable and impactful buildings and her vision for the future of architecture.
Gary Vaynerchuk rose to be one of the most successful entrepreneurs of our time. Gary moved from the former Soviet Union to this country with no material possessions and has an incredible story to tell. At his favorite haunt, The White Horse Tavern in NYC, Gary shares his lessons of success and why he is passionate about showing others how he hustled to create his version of the American dream.
Arlan Hamilton is the CEO and Founder of Backstage Capital which funds startup companies that are specifically owned and operated by Women, Black, LatinX and LGBTQ founders. Arlan sits down at her favorite restaurant in Los Angeles, Hotel Cafe, to share her unique story and her vision for funding “underestimated founders" and catalyzing their mission and purpose.
Jon Bon Jovi of Grammy award-winning rock band, Bon Jovi, has performed more than 2,700 concerts in over 50 countries for more than 34 million fans. After a lifetime of being a true rockstar, his work has led him to philanthropic efforts in his home state of New Jersey. Over a meal at Soul Kitchen, he shares the hard-earned wisdom of a life on stage and how his journey has truly come full circle.
Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon has put in the work to become a travel expert, influencer and journalist specializing in the Caribbean. Known simply as “Jet Set Sarah,” her travels have taken her all over the globe but her love and passion reside in the Caribbean. Over the delicious flavors of the Caribbean at Sandy Island Restaurant, Sarah shares her unique way of seeing the world.
Beth Moore is an author and Bible teacher who started teaching small group Bible classes when she was 18. With no former theological training, she is currently one of the most prominent evangelical voices in America. At her favorite steakhouse in Houston, Taste of Texas, Beth shares her journey from a troubled childhood to one of the leading speakers and authors in evangelical America today.
David Copperfield started doing magic tricks at 10 years old and by 16 was teaching a class in magic at New York University. Over a meal at David's favorite restaurant in Las Vegas, L'Atelier de Joel Robochon, David shares how he got started and how he has remained so successful for so long. We talk innovation, creativity, and the psychology of being a "master of illusion."
In 2017, actress Catherine Reitman wrote, created and starred in her own TV series “Workin’ Moms.” Her portrayal of the life of working mothers has struck a chord with viewers everywhere and sparked a dialogue on the difficulties working mothers face. Catherine shares her journey from her favorite restaurant in Hollywood, Osteria Mozza, and explains the long road to creating her own show.
Gloria Estefan is a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, living legend and Latina idol. She has had a long and meandering road to get where she is today. Over the flavors of her beloved Cuban food at The Wave in Vero Beach, she shares her journey, the hard-earned lessons she's learned along the way, and the road she has paved for so many other Latin artists.
Fawn Weaver is the CEO and Founder of Grant Sidney and Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey and the first African-American woman to lead a major spirits brand that is also the only American spirits brand with an all-female executive team. At her favorite steakhouse, Bourbon Steak in Nashville, Fawn shares her roller-coaster ride to make history and create opportunities for thousands of others.
Simon Sinek is an eternal optimist, inspirational speaker and author of the critically acclaimed books “Start With Why”, “Infinite Game” and “Leaders Eat Last”. He is credited with creating an entirely new line of business: thought leadership. Simon shares his incredible journey to becoming one of the top thought leaders in American business and his vision to help a new generation.
Lindsey Vonn is a World Champion alpine skier having won 82 World Cup championships and is considered one of the most decorated and winningest skiers of all time. At her favorite restaurant, Carbone Miami, Lindsey shares the psychology of a champion, her long and winding path in the world of skiing and how her purpose and mission has evolved into one of service through the Lindsey Vonn Foundation.
In 2009, Reshma Saujani became the first Indian-American woman to run for Congress. Losing that race became the impetus for her next creation: Girls Who Code, after seeing firsthand how few opportunities there were for girls in computing. At The Well, Reshma shares her many obstacles on the way to success and what she feels she is uniquely poised to do in the next chapter of her life.
Robert Reffkin started an online real-estate company to tackle some of the problems he saw his single-mother face daily as a realtor. In 2021, Compass went public making Robert one of the country’s youngest black billionaires. Over the flavors of Shabu Tatsu, Robert shares his purpose for disrupting the real estate industry and why his work will always be about helping people find their home.
Chris Voss teaches everyday tactics to win at negotiations in business and life. Over breakfast at his favorite diner in Arlington, Virginia, The Silver Diner, Chris shares the fascinating journey to become an expert in such a niche subject matter and “why” he hopes to share with others the hard-earned lessons, tactics and techniques he has learned from a life of public service.
Bethany Hamilton, a professional surfer who survived a 2003 shark attack that left her with only one arm, was the subject of the documentary Unstoppable and now teaches classes on resilience, grit and goal-setting. Over the flavors of her favorite restaurant in Kauai, Bethany shares where this journey has taken her and how her unique “why” has changed recently.
Ron Finley, master gardener and Founder of The Ron Finley Project, a gardening training facility. Ron believes all life lessons can be learned from gardening and spending time in the garden. Over the flavors of a hearty soul food meal in South Los Angeles at Alta, Ron shares the detour that became the defining trajectory of his life and how it helped him redefine his purpose.
Elizabeth Smart was abducted from her home and held captive for nine months at fourteen. Her horrific experience led her to create the Elizabeth Smart Foundation. She is a child safety advocate and passionate activist, supporting the Adam Walsh Act, the Amber Alert system and sexual predator legislation. Elizabeth shares her incredible journey at her favorite restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Actor, director, and television host LeVar Burton is best known for his roles as George La Forge in Star Trek and Kunta Kinte in the ABC miniseries Roots, as well as the host of Reading Rainbow. From a table at his favorite restaurant Mistral, LeVar shares the journey to act, direct, and write his way to his unique purpose and shares how his goals changed and his vision for his future career.
U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist and World Champion Allyson Felix knows a thing or two about competition at the highest levels. Her incredible track and field career has led her to be the “winningest athlete of all time” and a champion for mothers everywhere. However, her athletic career is just the beginning of her tremendous story of “creating something out of nothing.” Over the flavors of her favorite childhood restaurant, Harold and Belle’s in LA, Allyson shares her tale of turning a setback into a setup for an entirely different kind of success.
Richard Branson is a life-long serial entrepreneur, Founder, CEO and philanthropist. His story of creating Virgin Records, and then Virgin Airways, is an incredible one. Over a plate of carefully-seared salmon at Everdene in NYC, Richard shares his journey in entrepreneurship, the obstacles along the way and how he is now motivated by an overwhelming desire to serve and to help in whatever way he can for as long as he can.
Bozoma Saint John has been called one of the most powerful voices in American business. She was the Chief Marketing Officer at Netflix, the Chief Brand Officer at Uber, and the Chief Marketing Officer at Endeavor. Bozoma’s journey from Ghana to Colorado to Connecticut is a wow story of cultural identity and staying true to who you really are. Over a hearty plate of lasagna at Hollywood’s oldest Italian restaurant, Miceli’s, Bozoma shares her extraordinary journey full of intense challenges and heartbreaking tragedy.
Ken Burns is one of the most prolific documentarians of our time. With a catalogue of work spanning more than five decades, Ken has brought “the dead to life” in his award winning documentaries that have covered expansive subjects like the Vietnam War, jazz music, baseball, and many others. Over a plate of “Ken’s Salad” at the Restaurant at Burdick’s in Walpole, NH, Ken shares the small town that means so much to him and how he credits this small town for fostering the environment that allowed him to be so successful in filmmaking. From his creative process to his inspiration for his subjects to the advice he would give any young filmmaker, Ken shares his wisdom generously from his beloved home base.
Jeni Britton is an ice cream scientist and visionary artist…and Founder of Jeni’s Splendid Ice cream. 20 years ago, from a stall at her local farmer’s market, Jeni began making artisanal ice cream in an array of unique flavors like Salted Caramel and The Darkest Chocolate, with the creations gaining a passionate and devoted following. Today, Jeni’s Ice Cream is found in stores nationwide as well as in 70-plus brick and mortar Jeni’s locations.
Jewel Kilcher, known simply as Jewel, is a musician and songwriter who has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. Born in Homer, Alaska, Jewel grew up without indoor plumbing and living off the land. Over a meal at Tavern on the Green in NYC, Jewel shares her incredible journey and her hard-earned wisdom on a life in the spotlight.
Dr. Henry Louis Gates is a world-reknowned professor, historian, and TV host. Since 2012, he has been the host of the national public-television program, Finding Your Roots, which researches the genealogy of high-profile guests. At Caffe Delfini in Santa Monica, Dr. Gates shares the story behind the program that inspires people to discover who they are and where they come from.
Jamie Kern Lima is the founder of IT Cosmetics, a company she started in her living room and grew to the largest luxury makeup brand in the country. Over a delicious mushroom tostada at Oliver’s in Montecito, California, Jamie shares her journey to create a life beyond her wildest dreams and the inner-work she’s done to know in her heart she is worthy of her success.
Sean Sherman, known simply as “The Sioux Chef,” is a Minneapolis-based chef and activist who is known for showcasing the cuisine and forgotten history of Native American culture. From a table on the Lower East Side of Manhattan at Dhamaka, Chef Sean shares a restaurant that is emblematic of what he loves about American cuisine and a philosophy that he embodies with his own cooking.
Miguel Garza and his sister Veronica Garza began an entrepreneurial journey to create Siete Foods by solving a deeply personal problem. Plagued with several auto-immune diseases and a gluten allergy led the family to experiment with the family’s beloved Mexican recipes. At a family-owned Mexican restaurant, Miguel shares his journey with Siete Foods into the powerhouse it is today.
