Fete Lifestyle Magazine December 2025 - Holiday Issue | Page 70

Annabel's London

Homelessness is something very few associate with an industry leader like yourself. Explain how you reflect on that chapter now, especially after building an empire of 40 restaurants.

I didn’t live in my car for long, but I remember the desperation and embarrassment that I felt. It helped me construct a plan in short order.

Your memoir doesn't shy away from your mental health challenges. Describe the turning point that forced you to take ownership of that struggle.

Most people don’t survive rock bottom, and I barely did. Surviving it is a gift, and I was able to take advantage of that. Waking up that next morning after standing on a ledge forced me to take real action, and throw my energy and passion at more than just business.