Ken Martin Leads with Empower

Season III of the Lead with Empower Podcast continues with another tremendous guest! We are joined by Ken Martin for episode 2 of season III. Ken is co-owner of Colony Grill Development, LLC (Colony Grill) and has just begun his first year as an adjunct professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of New Haven. Ken does a wonderful job sharing stories and leadership insight about his professional career, athletic experience, and so much more! 00:00: Episode Opening and Guest "Roll Call" Ken Martin, co-owner of Colony Grill - Bar-style Pizza and Beer restaurants with locations in Connecticut (Stamford, Norwalk, Milford, and Fairfield), Virginia (Arlington), and NY (Port Chester) Adjunct Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of New Haven Little League Word Series Champion (Trumbull, 1989) 08:01: Leadership Challenges in the Restaurant/Hospitality Industry Ken dishes on the importance of communication in mission alignment and in team functions 14:55: Leadership Challenges During the Pandemic "We focused on being present and out in front to decipher the most important information to disseminate to our team members." 20:54: Without Struggle, There is No Progress Ken discusses some "silver linings" from 2020 and how Colony Grill is stronger and more aligned in 2021. 24:30: The "Essential Skills" of a Colony Grill Employee Ken discusses the importance of interpersonal skills in the Restaurant/Hospitality Industry 27:58: Experiences that have shaped Ken Martin We learn about Ken's experiences as a Little League World Series Champion, college student-athlete, and professional career prior to Colony Grill. "Every experience that you have as a young child, high school or college student, and young professional lead to opportunities and interactions that you can take a little bit from and put in your tool box." 41:00: The Educational Side of Hospitality Ken shares his inspiration to become an adjunct professor at the University of New Haven "You don't realize how much you're teaching everyday in your own business. For the past 11 years, I've been teaching at some level." "Business is about how you make people feel. Either close people off and be a gatekeeper, or open your arms and be an advocate." 50:08: The "Home Stretch" We learn about Ken's childhood idols/role models, his dream "pro athlete" scenario, and what skills he and his wife hope to instill in their children. "It's up to you." and "Why not you?" Check out Colony Grill's website, of follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot