In this episode of the Stories to Create Podcast, join Cornell Bunting as he sits down with Chef Richard, hailing from Fort Myers, Florida. Chef Richard's culinary journey is as diverse as his expertise, spanning Soul Food, Irish, Italian, French, and even Sushi cuisines. He recounts starting his restaurant career at a mere 14 years old in 1988, with a forged birth certificate allowing him to work at McDonald's. A pivotal moment came when, at the same age, he prepared his first full meal for his family while his mother slept.

The narrative takes us through a tumultuous journey, including experiences in the rec yard, a 16-year prison stint, and desperate attempts to escape confinement. Following his release, Chef Richard struggled to find his footing but eventually found a breakthrough, working in various roles within the restaurant industry. In 2011, he ventured into entrepreneurship, opening his first restaurant, Big Dro's Chicken n' Waffles, though he later recognized the need to enhance his administrative skills.

Returning to the workforce, Chef Richard climbed the ranks within Hospitality Groups, mastering operational facets like menu creation, cost management, and staffing. Concurrently, he refined his culinary prowess alongside esteemed chefs, earning recognition for his meticulous approach. Equipped with a blend of administrative acumen and culinary finesse, Chef Richard embarked on a new venture, revitalizing Clancey's Restaurant as Managing Partner.

Under his leadership, Clancey's transformed, boasting a fresh menu and vibrant ambiance. Chef Richard's journey continued with the establishment of "Yes Chef! Creates, LLC," a catering service offering personalized culinary experiences tailored to each client. Whether it's a wedding reception or an intimate gathering at home, Chef Richard ensures a fresh, custom-made culinary journey for every event.

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