CEO of Titan Brands Hospitality Group
Type of Business: Multi-Unit Restaurant Operator
Based: Las Vegas
Hails from: Reno
Years Org. has been in Nevada: 7
Years with Organization in Nevada: 7
Employees in NV: 15
What has been instrumental to your success?
Extreme adversity – I made [success] extra hard by breaking my neck in an off-road motorcycle accident while we were negotiating our first lease. I was paralyzed from the shoulders down. Desperation will definitely focus you.
What is the best moment of your career?
Working in the hospital after my accident to recover from my spinal cord injury. Working on rehab and building a business was so satisfying, which culminated in me walking into Hussong’s Cantina at the grand opening.
How do you motivate your team?
[I motivate my team] by displaying genuine compassion and empathy. Life happens to everyone, trust me as a quadriplegic, I know. You have to understand what’s going on in people’s lives that might affect their work.
What would be the title of your autobiography?
I wrote a book about my experience from the time I was paralyzed to the time I walked into our first restaurant. It was an incredible journey. The title of the book is “Living on a Chair: Lessons of Love and Faith After Breaking My Neck”.
What is an assumption people make about you that is wrong?
That as a quadriplegic I receive government assistance of some kind. I am not eligible because I own and operate a business.
What career advice would you give to someone just starting in your industry?
Don’t. Ha! Seriously, this is a tough business, and you have to do your homework. You must master your craft and understand the balance between the art and science and math of operating a restaurant.
What metrics do you consider important when hiring and/or reviewing employees?
It’s all about attitude and work ethic. We can train you to do the job. You really have to have a passion for making sure people have a good time while understanding the bottom line.
What do you hope future generations can learn from your professional journey?
Don’t operate out of fear. Take chances, and don’t be afraid to fail. This is how you learn. If you don’t allow yourself to be uncomfortable you won’t grow.
