In this episode, Michael welcomes Marc Summers, a restauranteur with a bold and ambitious vision, to discuss his journey from a corporate finance career to creating a successful plant-based restaurant chain. Featuring stories of pivotal moments, including being inspired by a chef's table episode and the adrenaline of his first kitchen job, Marc outlines the organic development of his concept, the importance of testing and honing ideas through pop-ups, and the transition to opening brick-and-mortar sites. He shares his strategy for growing gracefully without compromising quality or culture, explains the intentional creation and application of core values, and highlights the excitement of future growth and new opportunities like catering. Marc also discusses the significance of transparency and respect in building a happy workplace, as evidenced by winning the Code People Award for the happiest place to work. Throughout, he reflects on the lessons learned and the importance of staying open-minded and resilient in a challenging industry.

Connect with Marc:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-summers-561366210/

https://www.bubala.co.uk/our-restaurants

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525: Peering Into Darkness with Sharon and Derek Gilbert on the Grassy Knoll with Vyz. From the Vyzygoth Archives, Volume 4.