From Farm to Table to Food Truck: Anne Shadle’s Recipe for Success

In this episode of What It Takes, host Jamie Seeker interviews Anne Shadle, co-owner of the award-winning Mayan Cafe in Louisville, Kentucky. Anne shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting with the launch of the Mayan Cafe in 2007 alongside her brother-in-law, Chef Bruce Ucán. Together, they’ve expanded the business into catering services and a food truck concept while staying true to their mission of sustainability and exceptional customer experiences.

Anne also discusses her additional ventures—Left Brain Solutions, an operations consulting company, and Lupine Floral Design, a boutique floral business—highlighting her passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. This episode dives into leadership lessons, the challenges and rewards of running multiple businesses, and what it takes to build a lasting legacy in the culinary world.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into balancing growth with quality, fostering a strong team culture, and staying motivated in a competitive industry.

Notes for Host Preparation

1. Key Themes to Highlight:

• Sustainability as a core value in business.
• The balance between innovation and maintaining quality.
• Leadership lessons from managing operations, HR, marketing, and finances.
• Scaling a business into new ventures, such as catering and food trucks.
• Personal motivation behind launching additional businesses.

1. Guest Background Highlights:

• Co-owner of Mayan Cafe since 2007, known for its sustainability and Mayan-inspired cuisine.
• Expanded into catering and Mayan Street Food, a food truck concept.
• Awarded NAWBO's thriving business award (2019) and Business First Family Business Award (2020).
• Business consultant at Louisville’s Small Business Development Center (2020–2022).
• Founder of Left Brain Solutions and Lupine Floral Design.

1. Potential Questions for Follow-Up:

• How did Anne identify the opportunity to expand into catering and food trucks?
• What advice does she have for maintaining brand consistency during growth?
• How does Anne approach time management across multiple ventures?

1. Engagement Tips for Anne’s Audience:

• Share stories that highlight her connection to Louisville and the local community.
• Dive into lessons from her leadership journey, including any specific challenges.
• End on a positive, motivational note about the future of Mayan Cafe and her entrepreneurial vision.