What does it take to leave a successful legal career, mortgage your home, and build one of America’s most recognizable restaurant brands? Rick Rosenfield, Esq., co-founder and former Co-Chairman & Co-CEO of California Pizza Kitchen, shares the remarkable story behind creating an entirely new dining category and the leadership lessons that emerged along the way. From hiring a waitress who became the architect of the company’s culture to developing the ROCK philosophy—Respect, Opportunity, Communication, and Kindness—Rick explains why people, not pizza, became CPK’s true competitive advantage. His story is ultimately one of perseverance, entrepreneurial courage, and building a company where people loved coming to work.
Recorded on July 14, 2026.