Curiosity, Resilience, and Leadership: A Conversation with Horace Dawson

Prosper Brief

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Horace Dawson, former CEO of Red Lobster, reflects on a life and career shaped by global experiences, from his father’s role in the U.S. Foreign Service to his own journey through law, entertainment, and ultimately the restaurant industry. Horace emphasizes the importance of curiosity, relationship-building, and building strong, resilient teams. He credits his international upbringing and educational background for his adaptable leadership style. He closes with advice for emerging leaders, encouraging them to embrace challenges, learn continuously, and actively engage with mentors and industry peers.

Call to Action

"Be proactive in your leadership journey—stay curious, build relationships, and pursue opportunities that help you grow and give back."

Key Takeaways

1. Curiosity Fuels Growth: Horace stresses that leaders should remain curious about people, roles, and industry challenges to continuously improve.
2. Building Resilient Teams: The importance of fostering passion and resilience within teams is central to Horace’s leadership philosophy.
3. Embrace International Perspectives: Exposure to diverse cultures offers valuable perspectives that enhance adaptability and global awareness in leadership.
4. Lifelong Mentorship and Connections: Horace highlights the importance of building relationships across all career stages to create a supportive professional network.
5. Leading with Purpose: Horace’s career reflects his belief in pursuing meaningful work that brings value to both guests and team members.