
From Jukebox Quarters to 166 Diners: Bruce Dean on Building Black Bear Diner
The Business of Joy · Lisa W. Miller
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Show Notes
Imagine working 16 hours a day… and paying yourself in quarters from a jukebox!
That’s how Bruce Dean’s journey began.
In this episode, Bruce, co-founder of Black Bear Diner, shares stories (and leadership lessons) I’ll never forget:
🍳 Why staying true to who you are matters more than ever
🥓 How double-smoked bacon became a signature of quality
🐻 The roadside woodcarver who helped shape Black Bear’s identity
⭐ Why “good” is actually the enemy of “great”
💡 And how taking a chance on someone can change the course of their life
What stuck with me most? Hospitality isn’t just about feeding stomachs. It’s about feeding our souls.