How I Built This with Guy Raz Raising Cane's: Todd Graves (2022)
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Jan 6, 2025 
Todd Graves, the Founder and CEO of Raising Cane's, shares his inspiring journey from working grueling jobs to realizing his dream of opening a chicken finger restaurant. He discusses the challenges of securing funding and the rejection he faced, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Todd talks about the significance of a focused menu strategy and the impact of community support in his early days. He reflects on how his childhood passion for cooking shaped the brand's identity and how family ties contribute to Raising Cane's success.
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Bank Rejections
- Todd and Craig, in cheap suits and with briefcases, presented their business plan to every bank in Baton Rouge.
- Each bank rejected their loan application, citing the restaurant industry's high failure rate.
College Restaurant Jobs
- Todd worked at various restaurants and bars throughout college, fueling his passion for the restaurant industry.
- He enjoyed the fast-paced environment and the immediate gratification of serving satisfied customers.
First Restaurant Job
- Todd's first restaurant job involved managing the kitchen for his fraternity house where he learned about food costs and operations from Martha and an owner.
- This experience solidified his love for the restaurant business and its teamwork aspects.