🎙️ Anne Shadle Mayan Cafe Interview | What It Takes Podcast
In this exclusive Anne Shadle Mayan Cafe interview on the What It Takes podcast, we dive into how Anne co-founded and scaled one of Louisville’s most beloved restaurants—while staying rooted in sustainability, community, and leadership.
Anne’s journey isn’t just about food—it’s about creating a business that honors culture, empowers people, and adapts over time. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a fellow restaurateur, this conversation offers invaluable insights.
👉 Related Reading: How to Build a Sustainable Business That Lasts
🌿 Inside the Anne Shadle Mayan Cafe Interview
How Anne Grew Mayan Cafe Into a Louisville Staple
In this Anne Shadle Mayan Cafe interview, Anne shares the origin story of the restaurant she co-founded in 2007 with Chef Bruce Ucán. Starting with a shared vision of honoring Mayan cuisine, the duo built a dining experience focused on seasonal, locally sourced food and intentional operations.
Anne manages the day-to-day operations, HR, branding, and finance—making her the engine behind the scenes.
Sustainability & Innovation: A Balancing Act
Sustainability isn’t a buzzword at Mayan Cafe—it’s the backbone. In this interview with Anne Shadle, she explains how working with local farmers, composting, and smart sourcing contribute to their mission and identity.
“Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a responsibility,” Anne says.
This mindset didn’t just shape the menu—it shaped the culture and the way Anne leads her team.
Beyond the Cafe: Catering, Food Trucks, and More
In 2017, Anne helped launch two major expansions:
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A full-service catering division, built with the same care and flavor as the original café.
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Mayan Street Food, a fast-casual food truck and exclusive partner with Gravely Brewing Co.
Anne shares what it took to grow intentionally while maintaining quality and consistency.
“Growth is about knowing when to take a risk and when to refine what you already do best.”
Lessons from Leading Multiple Businesses
Anne doesn’t stop at Mayan Cafe. She also runs:
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Left Brain Solutions, a small business operations consulting firm
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Lupine Floral Design, her passion-fueled creative outlet
The Anne Shadle Mayan Cafe interview explores how she juggles multiple brands without losing sight of what matters most.
👉 Related: Tips for Balancing Multiple Ventures Without Burnout
💬 Quotes That Stood Out
“Entrepreneurship isn’t about having one great idea. It’s about solving problems, staying curious, and never settling.”
“Catering and food trucks require a completely different mindset than a dine-in restaurant.”
📍 Want to Visit or Connect with Anne?
If you’re in Louisville, plan a visit to Mayan Cafe—a must-visit spot for anyone who loves culturally rooted, locally sourced food.
Follow and connect with Anne here:
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Instagram: @mayancafenulu
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Facebook: The Mayan Cafe
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LinkedIn: Anne Shadle
🎧 Listen to the Episode Now
Tap the link below to hear Anne’s full story—packed with practical insights and inspiring moments for business owners at any stage.
