My chat with Andrew reveals what is possible in a kitchen with communication and understanding. Brought up through the old school kitchens, Andrew now leads a staff through positivity and creating a work environment people are excited to arrive to. Andrew recently celebrated 5 years sober, a milestone he's able to celebrate in Asheville, a place he calls home. I really appreciate him taking the time to chat with me about where he was when he decided to make the change, and the person he gets to be each day.

Andrew McLeod is the Executive Chef at Avenue M in Asheville NC. The laid back approach to an elevated neighborhood restaurant is due to his extensive experience throughout some of the most exciting food markets in the U.S. He credits Joshua Skenes (Saison, Angler) Michael Tusk (Quince, Cotogna, Verjus), and Sean Brock (Joyland, Audrey, The Continental) as his mentors. He’s passionate about creating a fun, positive, and supportive kitchen culture as much as he’s passionate about good food.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6