Sasha Reyes on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Sasha Reyes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Sasha, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have been taking one day a month to volunteer my time at the Andre house, which is a shelter in downtown Phoenix that provides meals and other services to the unhoused population. I am really enjoying, giving back to the community and a meaningful and impactful way.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the owner and executive chef at Artisan Personal Chefs a company that I found founded in 2013. I begin working in the restaurant industry at age 14 and graduated from Arizona culinary Institute in 2011. As I was able to build my business, I made it my mission to use my platform to empower women as I had encountered a lot of adversity in a male dominated industry. I now have a team of all female culinary professionals that provide services throughout the Phoenix, Scottsdale area, and now the Austin Texas area as well!

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
For years, I would jokingly refer to myself as a crusty line cook. This was an identity that I assumed which provided me a hardened exterior that allowed me to survive working in the restaurant industry for 14 years. In a sort of self deprecating way I held onto that Identity even after leaving those spaces as something of a badge of honor. At this point in my life I understand it no longer serves me. I’ve been able to embrace strength in my femininity and expand as both a chef and a business owner!

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I first founded my company in 2013 and ran it as a sole proprietor for many years. Due to financial uncertainty and challenges in my personal life I also continued to work on and off in the restaurants. In 2018 I was working at a very prestigious restaurant and I felt that my company was failing. I was really struggling to get new clients and to maintain the ones I already had. There was no way I could pay my bills. When I approached my executive chef (at the time) to see about increasing my hours and my role at that establishment, I was met with sexual harassment. I became so uncomfortable in that situation that I walked out and vowed never to return to the restaurant industry again. After that experience, a fire was lit inside of me and it really propelled me to make things work with my own business. After all this time, I can certainly say that it was the right move to make!

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
I live my life by the Golden rule; treat others the way that you would like to be treated. In my mind, it comes down to one simple word, respect. I think that having a foundation of respect in any and all relationships would facilitate a much better more unified society.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think that people often assume that I’m very confident, when in fact I usually do not feel that way. As a single mother with two special needs kids, a business owner, and a slew of other labels, I believe people get the impression that I juggle everything in my life with strength and grace. To be honest there are many difficult days. There are a lot of tears shed behind closed doors and times when I don’t know where to turn or what to do next. I have found strength in my faith, which I’m very grateful for and I continue to build my circle with amazing people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.APChefs.com
• Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/artisanpersonalchefs.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-reyes-chef-a76333ab?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app