#67 : Building Leaders Who Don't Know They're Leaders with Noelle Labrie
Description
In this episode of CULINARY MECHANIC, Simon sits down with Noelle Labrie, founder of Tri Skill Consulting, to explore how frontline experiences in the industry—from bartending in Deep Ellum to building restaurant teams in Kuwait—shaped her passion for developing "fresh leaders." Noel's story starts with jello shots and ends with training hospitality professionals around the globe.
This conversation hits hard on the realities of poor leadership in restaurants and why most management problems aren't personal—they're systemic. Noelle and Simon talk people-first operations, the fallacy of promoting based on technical ability, and how to identify untapped leadership talent hiding in plain sight. From practical systems to emotional intelligence, they break down how small basics lead to massive improvements.
Whether you're running a hot dog stand or a multi-unit brand, this episode delivers a grounded blueprint for people-centered leadership and scalable restaurant culture.
Key Quotes
"People don't leave companies. People leave people." — Noelle Labrie
"Start with what hurts, then trace it back to the systems—or the lack of them." — Noelle Labrie
"Restaurants are restaurants. Doesn't matter if it's Kuwait or a hot dog stand in Vegas." — Noelle Labrie
"Leadership is getting paid less for what you do and more for what you know—until you're paid for what you impart." — Simon Zatyrka
Connect with Noel LaBrie
Website: https://www.tri-skillconsulting.com/
LinkedIn: @Noelle-labrie
Connect with Simon
Email: simon@culinarymechanic.com
Book a Call: https://calendly.com/culinarymechanic/connect
Website: https://www.culinarymechanic.com
United States
