On today's episode presented by Busey Bank, I welcome back Chef Gerard Craft who joined me originally all the back on episode #3. Gerard is a culinary powerhouse and the driving force behind Niche Food Group, which includes some of the most beloved dining concepts in the St. Louis region, like Pastaria, Brasserie, and the newly launched Expat BBQ. As a James Beard Award-winning chef, Gerard’s name is synonymous with innovation and excellence in the food world, but his impact goes far beyond what’s on the plate.

In this episode, we’ll dive into the leadership lessons Gerard has learned while scaling a business known for both creativity and consistency. We’ll explore how he’s fostered growth—not just in terms of restaurants, but in cultivating a team culture rooted in values like honesty, innovation, and resilience. And we’ll hear how Gerard approaches challenges, like opening new concepts and leading the charge for a thriving St. Louis dining scene.

Whether you’re a foodie, an entrepreneur, or someone passionate about leadership and culture, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. So grab a seat at the table, and let’s roll…