Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Godwin.
Hi Ryan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I actually stumbled into this business venture through a mix of life circumstances and natural ability. I’ve always loved food, cooking, and the joy that comes from seeing people smile after a good meal. After being laid off during a soft market, I decided to start meal prepping and selling soul food plates on Sundays just to make ends meet.
What began as a small hustle quickly gained momentum—people started asking me to cater their events. With no formal experience, I jumped in headfirst, trusting my instincts and passion. Before long, what started as a side gig grew into a thriving business. I realized that my business acumen and love for food work together perfectly, allowing me to create something truly special.
Since then, I’ve enrolled in culinary school to sharpen my skills and continue growing, both personally and professionally. My goal is to become the very best version of myself while sharing my love of food with others.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. This business was born out of fear and necessity. When I was laid off, I received little to no severance and had to think of something fast. What started as a way to simply put food on the table quickly turned into something much bigger. It began as money to eat, but over time, it’s grown into a business that has been sustaining my lifestyle for over a year.
Now, I’m able to cook, travel, and experience new things—doing what I love while building something of my own. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding and has taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of betting on yourself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for a lot of things, and that’s something I’m really proud of. In life, it’s easy to develop tunnel vision—I know I did. For years, I was completely focused on my career in the finance industry. I worked for three Fortune 10 companies right out of college and became the youngest senior associate in my entire division. But even with all that success, I was tired, overworked, and creatively stifled.
I’ve always been multi-passionate. I sing, I act, I love to cook, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the best both in front of and behind the lens. I’ve also worked as a creative director and even ventured into styling celebrities. Each of those experiences taught me how to bring vision, presentation, and storytelling into everything I do—which now translates perfectly into my catering business.
What sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to take chances. I believe that even if you fail, you’re still ahead of those who never try at all. That same fearless energy is what helped me build my food business from the ground up. I pour creativity and passion into every dish and every event, treating each experience like a production—where flavor, presentation, and emotion all come together. It’s that blend of business acumen, artistry, and heart that truly defines my work today.
What matters most to you? Why?
Faith keeps me grounded. It’s what gives me peace in uncertainty and strength when things get difficult. My entire journey—especially building a business from the ground up—has required a lot of faith. It reminds me that everything happens for a reason and that what’s meant for me will never miss me.
Family is my foundation. They’re the reason I push myself to keep going even when things get tough. Their support, love, and belief in me have been a huge part of my success. Every milestone I reach is something I share with them.
And finally, financial security matters because stability gives me freedom—the freedom to create, to travel, to give back, and to live life on my own terms. After losing my corporate job, I realized how fragile financial comfort can be, and that motivated me to build something that lasts.
Together, those three F’s guide every decision I make. They remind me to stay true to my values while continuing to grow in both business and life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.gwin/
