Leaders I’m Grateful For
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! I hope you have a wonderful day tomorrow filled with great food, fun traditions, and the people you love.
As I reflect on 2025, two leaders on our Footers team stand out as people I’m especially grateful for: Colbért Callen, our Director of Sales & Marketing, and Jason Sutton, our Director of Operations.
The work we do at MIBE requires us to have a strong, reliable team at Footers Catering. And this year, as April and I have spent more time than ever building our leadership development company, we’ve been removed from most of the day-to-day operations at Footers.
April and I enjoying a lovely dinner with Colbért and Jason
When we purchased Footers from my dad 15 years ago, one of our biggest goals was to build a company that didn’t rely on us. We wanted our clients to have the same exceptional experience whether we were present or not.
This year, Colbért and Jason lived out that vision in a big way. They have upheld high standards, elevated our team, executed on our strategic plan, and consistently shown appreciation for the people on our team. September was a record revenue month. We continue to get awesome client reviews. And communication across our department leaders is at an all-time high.
Have there been challenges? Of course. But they’ve stepped into every one of them with humility, problem-solving, and a commitment to learn. They’ve stayed disciplined in our hiring process. They’ve navigated mistakes with leadership rather than frustration. They’ve handled the unexpected with calm professionalism — even the night a box truck ended up stuck in the mud ten minutes from the venue (a story for another day!).
What made me most proud happened last week, when I asked our team who had made a meaningful impact on their experience this year. Both Colbért and Jason were mentioned multiple times. Their willingness to pour into others is exactly what makes Footers a great place to work. They believe in their people. They challenge their teams to grow. They coach when someone gets off track. They care deeply and personally, valuing people for more than the job they do. And their vulnerability and openness have built incredible trust across the organization.
I’m grateful for every member of the Footers team and all that has been accomplished this year. But today, I want to shine a light on Colbért and Jason, leaders who deserve more recognition than they ever seek for themselves.
As you reflect on your year, are there leaders in your organization who have made a tremendous impact in 2025?
If so, I hope you’ll consider nominating them for one of our MIBE Awards. Recognizing their contribution is an incredible way to express your gratitude. Nominate someone for Heart Leader of the Year or Heart Leader on the Rise here: MIBE Awards
Keep MIBE-ing!
Anthony Lambatos
Founder, MIBE Hospitality Leadership Development
Owner, Footers Catering
P.S. Want something to be thankful for?! Join us at our MIBE Summit January 25th - 27th.
