His work ethic and capacity for taking risks took him from hanging turkeys at a poultry farm to pay his way through college to a career in which he has been at the top of some of the country’s most successful restaurant businesses. Over 35 years in the industry, he served as executive chairman and CEO of California Pizza Kitchen and CEO of Texas Roadhouse, where during his ten years there, he transformed the brand, overseeing growth in revenue from $63 million per year when he arrived to more than $1 billion annually when he moved. He wanted to take on one more challenge when he decided to head to Austin in 2018 to join the rocket ship that is Torchy’s Tacos, one of the fastest-growing brands in America.
A proud graduate of James Madison University, GJ wanted to offer opportunities to students like himself and, in 2012, made a substantial donation of his time and resources that led the university to place his name atop the Hart School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management. In this episode, GJ shares why he hires for attitude over ability and offers listeners six proven lessons for leadership.
You will learn:
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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