"You can't take a photo of hospitality." Chip Wade

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When my long-time friend, Eric Williams of Stone Williams Group, offered to connect me with Chip Wade, I immediately said yes. I was curious to learn more about the CEO of legendary New York City restaurateur Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) whose reputation for operating a portfolio of high-level restaurants is tops in the industry. Their slate of restaurants include: Grammercy Tavern, The View, Ci Siamo, Daily Provisions, The Modern, and Union Square Café, to name a few.

Chip is a 30-year veteran of hospitality. From his beginnings at TGI Fridays to his leadership roles at Darden Restaurants and Legal Sea Foods, culminating in his current role at USHG, Chip shares insights on leadership qualities he admires including the importance of empathy and feedback. Our conversation also explores the industry's appeal to young Black professionals, and USHG's commitment to diversity and inclusion despite recent political pushbacks. Chip talks about the importance of maintaining high standards and culture within the organization including passionately advocating for understanding and celebrating diverse histories. By doing so, Chip believes we build a more empathetic society.

Finally, we learned the term “antiquarian” as we dove into Chip’s passion for Black American history through his rare book collection. Fueled by curiosity, Chip aims to unearth stories celebrating prominent Black figures and share these narratives with broader audiences, honoring those whose shoulders we stand upon.

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey with Chip Wade. We hope his story inspires you as much as it did us. For more discussions like these, stay tuned to Corner Table Talk.

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Editing: Journey Media LLC

Theme Music: Bryce Vine

Produced by: Corner Table Media, a division of Brad Johnson Ventures LLC

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