Taking on New Adventures

I got the news that Dinner Lab abruptly closed via a call from a reporter who thought I still worked there. I’ve been gone for 2 years but have kept up with the company’s moves along the way. I am not all that surprised that they shut down. The growth of the company was rapid, and not fully sustainable. But the basic idea that is Dinner Lab is smart and I hope it resurfaces through some other company. 

There are good people who work there and while I feel bad that they are in the same boat I was in 2 years ago. It sucks but I know that the ones I worked with will be ok in the long run. 

I’m forever grateful to Brian, the CEO. Thanks to him, I moved to this great city and was able to essentially start a new life, at the ripe age of 39. I learned a lot about the food and restaurant industry. I’m still intrigued by that world and have not shut the door on working in that realm again. I also learned that I have no desire to be an entrepreneur. I admire people who are but it’s something that just isn’t for me. 

The main thing I learned is how to work with people who are doing things you have zero clue about. In the news business, I adapted based on the story. But the core mission of everyone at the office was the same. We all had varying roles, but I understood the part each role played. At Dinner Lab, I learned about different jobs and functions that made the company work. I’m thankful for that opportunity and feel like I grew as a person. 

I am disappointed how the company ended its run. But I got a great life out of that company. And for that, I’m grateful.