Leadership Learnings from the Sea Otter Classic

Last week, I stepped away from my day job and into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of event cooking at the Life Time Sea Otter Classic Bike Festival in Monterey, CA. I had the incredible opportunity to work with @bijuthechef and the team at #matchboxevents—culinary pros who operate at an elite level. The days were long, the pace was relentless, and the stakes were high. And through it all, I walked away with a few powerful leadership lessons that I’ll carry with me well beyond the kitchen.

1. A simple “thank you” goes a long way.

When things get chaotic, it’s easy to let gratitude fall by the wayside. But in a high-stress environment, a thank-you is more than a nicety - it’s a culture. Acknowledging your team’s hard work can be the glue that keeps morale intact. Saying thank you—sincerely and often—builds trust, fosters respect, and reminds everyone they’re seen and valued.

2. Be clear, be concise.

In a busy kitchen, there’s no room for rambling instructions or vague suggestions. Communication needs to be direct, respectful, and fast. Whether you’re calling out an order or asking for help, clarity keeps things running smoothly and ensures everyone stays aligned on the goal.

3. Keep your hands and feet moving.

Idle time isn’t an option. When you finish one task, your next move is scanning the room for what needs attention. Leadership isn’t just about doing your job well—it’s about staying present and anticipating needs. Momentum matters, and leaders set the tone by staying engaged and adaptable.

4. When you think you’re done, you’re really only 80% done.

This mindset shift is huge. That final 20%—the polish, the double-check, the unexpected request, the follow-up—is where excellence lives. Build it into your mental math. Expect it. Plan for it. That extra push is what separates good from great.

5. “That’s how we’ve always done it” leaves room for innovators.

Tradition can be comforting, but it can also be a crutch. The event catering world is full of predictable, uninspired meals—think rubber chicken and soggy vegetables. Biju’s team stands out because they dare to reimagine the experience. Their food consistently surprises and delights guests, and it’s not by accident. It’s the result of questioning norms, embracing creativity, and refusing to settle. You wanna compete? Do things differently.

6. If you ever get an invite from Biju or any opportunity to do something far out of your comfort zone... say yes!!

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It was a week of sweat, hustle, and unexpected joy. I came home tired but energized, reminded that leadership isn’t confined to boardrooms or job titles—it’s in the way we show up, communicate, adapt, and elevate those around us.

Can’t wait to do it again.