Carmichael, California Jun 16, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - Andrew Gantner Krienke, General Manager at CE Restaurant & Bar (Bella Bru Cafe) in Carmichael, California, is calling attention to an overlooked but vital issue: the need for grounded, everyday leadership in high-pressure environments. Drawing on his experience as a former educator and youth coach turned hospitality leader, Krienke is encouraging individuals across industries to slow down, listen more, and lead with empathy.
In the restaurant world, chaos is part of the job, Krienke said. But how we respond to it defines the culture. If I stay calm and steady, my team follows. Thats not just managementthats leadership.
Krienkes leadership philosophy is rooted in his upbringing in Lodi, California, where his father was a public school teacher and coach, and his mother a nurse. Today, he combines those early lessons with years of experience on the restaurant floor.
Whether I was teaching, coaching, or serving food, the work has always been about people, he said. Checking in with my team every dayasking how theyre doing, not just what theyre doingbuilds trust. That trust creates strong teams.
According to a 2023 study by Gallup, only 21% of employees feel engaged at work, while over 50% report stress during most of their day. Krienke believes consistent leadership at the ground level can shift those numbers.
Leadership doesnt have to be loud or perfect, he noted. It just has to show upevery day, for every person.
Krienke points to small actionslike stepping in during a rush or taking time to hear a new employees ideaas powerful ways to shape culture. Some of the best ideas Ive heard came from servers or dishwashers, he said. People want to contribute. You just have to give them the space to do it.
Beyond the workplace, Krienke stays grounded through volunteering at his local church and spending time outdoors with his family. Being in nature resets me, he said. It reminds me why I do thisto create a better space for others.
A Call to Action: Lead Where You Are
Krienke isnt asking people to change careers or overhaul their lives. Instead, hes encouraging a return to presence, especially in fast-moving environments.
Start by listening, he said. Ask how someones doing, not just what they need to get done. Youd be surprised how far that can go.
What You Can Do Today:
In a time when many industries face burnout, turnover, and disconnection, Krienkes message is simple and timely: real leadership doesnt begin in the boardroomit begins at eye level.
Source :Andrew Gantner Krienke
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