Gavin Kaysen on Balancing Leadership and Wellness

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.TakeawaysConsistency starts with daily rituals like writing and reflectionTeaching financial fluency empowers team members to growLeaders should invite questions and build trust over timeCulture is practiced through small, daily actionsTaking care of your team leads to stronger financial outcomesHiring well means looking beyond skill to emotional intelligenceLeadership requires knowing when to say yes and when not toTechnology should solve real problems, not add complexityOpen communication during staff exits builds long-term respectInvesting in mentorship is investing in the future of the industryWant to connect directly with industry thought leaders like today’s guest?MAJC has built a community of hospitality professionals, where insights and tools help drive sustainable, profitable businesses. To get early access to the MAJC community, sign up at www.MAJC.ai.