Before she was CEO of Denny’s, Kelli Valade was a scrappy softball player who learned that success comes from setting others up to win. As a leadoff hitter and team-first shortstop, she embraced the idea that leadership isn’t about scoring the most—it’s about being consistent, reliable, and empowering those around you.
At 16, Valade carried those lessons into hospitality, where she discovered her ability not just to greet guests—but to truly see them. That instinct grew into a powerful leadership style, fueled by empathy, relationships, and trust. Her career spans roles at Chili’s, Red Lobster, Black Box Intelligence, and now, the top seat at Denny’s.
Valade, who was adopted as a child, met her birth parents at age 47. Sharing her story with her Denny’s team became a game-changer. Her vulnerability built bridges, and soon employees began saying, “I’ve heard your story—can I tell you mine?” She believes great leaders let themselves be seen and care deeply about their people beyond the job title.
In this episode, you will learn:
- A simple 1–10 check-in that helps leaders genuinely understand their team’s mindset
- How Kelli scouts the competition by building relationships with fellow CEOs
- How her days as a “scrappy softball player” shaped her definition of a great teammate
Resources:
- Connect with Kelli on LinkedIn
- Find a Denny’s near you
- Find a Keke’s Breakfast Café near you
Watch this episode on YouTube!
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