#665: Danny Meyer, Founder of Shake Shack — How to Win, The Art of The Graceful “No,” Overcoming Setbacks, The 6 Traits of Exceptional People, The 4 Quadrants of Performance, Lessons from Hospitality Excellence, and More

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Apr 6, 2023

Danny Meyer, founder of Shake Shack and Union Square Hospitality Group, shares his remarkable journey from law to the culinary world. He discusses the art of saying 'no' gracefully and the importance of nurturing relationships with key stakeholders like staff and guests. Meyer emphasizes the value of learning through unpaid internships and the traits that make exceptional hospitality workers, such as empathy and integrity. He also reflects on failures, like closing the restaurant Tabla, and how they offer vital lessons in both business and personal growth.

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ANECDOTE

Maialino Origin

Danny Meyer worked as a tour guide in Rome, leading airline employees to trattorias for free meals.
This experience, along with his love for Maialino (suckling pig), inspired a restaurant name and logo.

ANECDOTE

Career Pivot

Danny Meyer studied political science and prepared for the LSATs, but a conversation with his uncle changed his path.
His uncle's question, "Do you have any idea how long you're going to be dead anyway?", led him to the restaurant business.

ADVICE

Sales Success

Be curious and learn as much as possible about the business and the person you're selling to.
People take as much interest in you as you take in them.

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