#1 - Spicing Up Your Employee Investment: Ingredients from The Bear

Hi there! You’ve just read the first words of The Champion Chronicles. A newsletter even fresher than the eggs your chicken laid or the coffee you brewed this morning. What? That fresh? Oh yes, that fresh! Pok pok poooook! ???

As you’re probably already cackling with impatience, let’s give you a quick rundown before you dive into our first edition, which explores the vibrant cuisine of the award-winning series The Bear. We don’t really have to, but it’s easier if you know what to expect.?

Every day, wild moments unfold in media, sports, and entertainment. Think about the crazy achievements of Taylor Swift, Simone Biles, or Quentin Tarantino. As fans and outsiders, we often only see the personal triumphs of these famous figures.?

But their remarkable success is never the result of a one-(wo)man show. Behind them is a dedicated team supporting their personal growth, physical fitness, and mental wellbeing. The same applies to the employees in your company.?

In this newsletter, we spotlight remarkable events, trends, and personalities to draw parallels between the support behind successful individuals and the importance of investing in your employees.?

In this first edition, we’re firing up the stove and stepping into the heat of the kitchen with the award-winning series?The Bear. Future editions of our newsletter will explore a variety of industries, revealing how these valuable lessons on teamwork and support can be applied across different fields.?

The Bear - A Culinary Symphony of Organised Chaos?

Carmy: "You can’t just 'wing it' in a kitchen! Unless you’re making wings."? ???

We take you into the kitchen of The Original Beef of Chicagoland. For those who have binged The Bear, the sound of a dinner bell is ringing in your head.?

The Bear has won multiple Golden Globe awards, praised for its exploration of character development, realism, and intense storytelling. It’s a whirlwind of emotions, adrenaline, and sheer brilliance.?

Let’s set the scene: The Bear follows Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto, an award-winning chef who leaves his life in New York to take over his deceased brother's failing sandwich shop, The Original Beef of Chicagoland.?

With the goal of transforming the rundown eatery into a thriving establishment, Carmy faces resistance from the existing team, who are deeply set in their ways. Introducing new routines or change management were never on the menu at the sandwich shop.?

It’s a realistic yet inspiring story of resilience, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of a dream against all odds.?

A Taste of Reality?

The Bear doesn’t just immerse you—it tosses you headfirst into the chaotic, thrilling whirlpool that is a restaurant kitchen. You’ll practically feel the sizzle of the stove, hear the relentless clang of pots and pans, and sense the mounting pressure as dinner service hits full swing. You might even taste the salty sweat dripping from the brow of a frazzled line cook. It’s a ride that catapults you straight into the eye of the culinary storm.?

Richie: "What do you mean we’re out of pickles? This is a pickle emergency!" ?????

For anyone who’s ever worked in the wild world of hospitality, this show strikes a nerve—trust us. It nails the frantic energy of a bustling kitchen, the intricate ballet between the front and back of house, and the obsessive pursuit of perfection.?

Change Management 2.0?

Carmy’s journey is more than just revamping a menu or sprucing up a restaurant; it’s about flipping the status quo on its head and yanking his team out of their comfort zones. He sets new standards, raises the bar, and dangles a vision of greatness that the team resists with every fiber of their being—until, well, they don’t. This transformation is the beating heart of the series, showing us that stepping out of our cozy little bubbles—while utterly terrifying—is the only way to grow and succeed.?

Every character, from the stressed-out line cooks to the stubborn, old-school staff, plays a crucial role in this rollercoaster of a story. Their interactions are raw, real, and full of tension, humor, and moments that hit you right in the feels. The ensemble cast is so convincing, you might forget you’re watching a TV show and feel like you’re sweating it out in the kitchen alongside them.?

The Power of Good Communication?

The show brilliantly captures the high-stakes back-and-forth between the kitchen and the dining area, reminding us that every flawless dish and every satisfied customer is the product of seamless teamwork.??

Carmy: "Every second counts in here. Every second." ???

In the high-pressure world of hospitality—and let’s be real, in any field—team cohesion and communication are the secret sauce that can make or break the experience. It’s a powerful reminder that no one reaches the top solo. Behind every successful venture is a team of unsung heroes, pouring in their blood, sweat, and tears. Without them, there’s no service, and without service... well, cue the dramatic drumroll, please. ???

Beyond the Food?

Richie: "It’s not just food. It’s about the people." ???

But The Bear isn’t just about the food. No, chef! It dives deep into personal struggles, addiction, family trauma, and the quest for redemption. The characters are brutally authentic, each bringing their own baggage and dreams to the table. Their interactions are moving, often reflecting our own lives, whether we have experienced similar struggles or not. It’s this relatability that makes the show so damn compelling.?

Marcus: "Who needs sleep? I’ve got coffee and adrenaline." ????

Life Lessons from the Kitchen?

Starting and running a restaurant is no small feat (understatement of the century). The series does an incredible job of showcasing the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship in the culinary world. From battling insane hours and dodging the constant threat of bad reviews to revelling in the joy of a well-received dish and enduring the sting of a failed service—it’s all there.?

One more time for the people in the back: the restaurant business is ruthless—it’s about juggling a million tasks, complying with strict health regulations, keeping guests entertained, and crafting a menu that’s both unique and doable.?

Sydney: "Is it a fire hazard if it’s already on fire?" ???

It’s a delicate balance of creativity and practicality, passion and discipline. The Bear encapsulates these challenges, offering a window into the often-unseen world behind your favourite restaurant’s doors – a world we understand better than anyone.?

And that’s a wrap (with chicken for example?) on our first newsletter! Now, find your sofa, grab some popcorn, start watching The Bear, and soak up the lessons. And... let us know what you think.