659: Matt Selby on Kindness is Everything

Originating from Denver's Five Points Community, Matt Selby got his start in the restaurant industry at the once-popular, Rattlesnake Grill. His skill in the kitchen and ability to lead others was quickly recognized by those in the industry. It was clear opportunities were inevitable. Those Opportunities came in 1997 when Selby was approached by Josh Wolkon to Join Vesta, a Secret Sauce restaurant concept.

Selby parted ways with Secret Sauce in 2013, and has been earning a living as a consultant, opening restaurants, overseeing multiple locations as culinary director, and occasionally serving as a line cook.  He's recognized for being key in contributing Denver's Culinary foundation, not only for his skills in the kitchen but more importantly for his patience and passion to serve as a mentor to the next generation of professionals.

Show notes… Favorite success quote or mantra:

• "Kindness is everything."

In this episode with Matt Selby well will discuss:

• Leadership skills
• Passion
• Bring up your team
• Give value
• Thew difference between customers and guests
• the difference between commanding and demanding respect
• What will get you through the hardships of the industry
• Inherent leadership
• Engage with people always
• The pros and cons of consulting
• Speak up for yourself while giving leeway to others
• Best inventory practices
• Reducing waste in the kitchen
• Marijuana in the industry

Today's sponsor:

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Knowledge bombs

1. Which "it factor" habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Kindness
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Kindness to a fault
3. What's one question you ask or thing you look for during an interview?
   • Motivation
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Getting out of bed
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Professionalism/directness
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Pay attention, be proactive
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   •  A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's the one thing you feel restaurateurs don't know well enough or do often enough?
   • Pay attention
9. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your four walls restaurant and how has it influence operations?
   • DoorDash
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • Giving back
    • Being kind
    • Working hard

Contact info:

West of Surrender website (current client)

Email: selbymatt5@gmail.com

Get in touch: 720-387-5311

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

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Huge thanks to Matt Selby for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

 

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