We recently connected with Earl III and have shared our conversation below.

Earl , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you in your creative career?

I worked at a casino here in Detroit almost 20yrs. I have experience in the bake shop, casual dining, fine dining along with banquet operations. I’ve done a few years working on a food truck there as well.

Working there taught me a lot. So many positive days but the bad days taught valuable lessons as well.
•Make sure your I’s are dotted & T’s are crossed.
•Things happen. Be ready to adjust and pivot.
•Everyone won’t enjoy what you do. Grow thick skin.
•Do your best. Be nice to people. Karma is real.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I went to a school that specializes in communication. Once i realized that wasn’t for me i pivoted to something j enjoyed, culinary. I graduated high school and enrolled in my local culinary college. While schooling there i was working full time at a seafood restaurant. Once classes were completed i started at one of the local casinos. After almost 20yrs there, and due to COVID-19, i resigned and focused all of my energy on Earl and Associates. I was nervous about resigning but after talking to family and friends they all said the same thing, JUST START!

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I had to unlearn that the customer is always right. That’s such a misleading statement. Some customers want to get over. Some customers palette is just quite different. No matter how many times we may remake the dish, they won’t be satisfied. And I’m okay with that. We live. We learn. We try our best. Sometimes our best is good enough for some people. That’s okay too.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

CONTENT!! ENGAGEMENT!!

Post content to engage your audience.
Ask questions and get their feedback.
Wow them. Be Nice! Make them feel as if they’re best friends or family. The support will go a long way!

Contact Info:

• Website: earlandassociates.com (under construction)
• Instagram: Earl and Associates
• Facebook: Earl and Associates, LLC
• Linkedin: Earl W Stewart, III