Ellen Chen knows that grit and a methodical approach are key to growing a successful business and challenging norms. She's the co-founder of Mendocino Farms, a family of restaurants known for turning sandwiches, salads and more into an unexpected culinary adventure.

Chen grew Mendocino Farms along with her husband, Mario Del Pero. Under her leadership as president, it grew into a beloved establishment with locations throughout California, Texas and Georgia. She transitioned to the company's board in 2019.

Today, she focuses on lifting new entrepreneurs from under-represented groups by providing them with advice and financial support. She was included on the annual Power List of Nation's Restaurant News, which recognizes the top 50 leaders who have changed the restaurant industry. She also serves on the boards of the California Restaurant Association and Vibrant Ventures, a VC that invests in plant-based consumer products.

She recently joined City National Bank's CEO Kelly Coffey for a conversation about embodying the American Dream, entrepreneurship, and the value of investing in new female and under-represented business leaders.

This podcast is for general information and education only and is provided as a courtesy to the clients and friends of City National Bank. It is compiled from data and sources believed to be reliable, however City National Bank does not warrant that it is accurate or complete. Opinions expressed and estimates given are those of the speaker as of the date of the podcast with no obligation to update or notify of inaccuracy or change.