Shauna is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Savory Fund, a food and beverage-focused investment fund launched in 2018. With $750 million in assets under management, Savory Fund targets emerging restaurant brands with high growth potential. The fund’s team of 80 seasoned restaurant operators and financial experts collaborates closely with founder-led brands, providing the capital, industry expertise, and operational support needed to scale into successful multi-unit enterprises nationwide.

Shauna’s journey in the industry began in 2008 during the Great Recession, when she opened her first bakery and café drive-thru restaurant, employing over 60 staff with an on-site scratch bakery. Since then, she has played a pivotal role in developing, acquiring, and operating over 430 restaurants across 14 states, generating more than $2.6 billion in sales and creating over 43,000 jobs. Savory Fund’s portfolio brands continue this momentum, adding 50+ restaurants and more than 4,000 new team members annually, including hundreds of executive leaders.

Organization Website: https://savoryfund.com

Linkedin or Social: https://linkedin.com/in/shauna-k-smith

Course Title: 

Kindness is a Power Move: Driving Results Without Losing Yourself

Course Description:

In an economy defined by rapid change, relentless competition, and shifting consumer expectations, authentic leadership and strategic action are more critical than ever. Kindness is a Power Move offers a real-world, no-fluff perspective on what it takes to survive & thrive in the workplace while maintaining a strong sense of self. 

This candid, experience-driven session offers insights on leading with authenticity, driving meaningful results, and carving your place at the decision-making table. Built around lessons learned from the field—including leading alongside a spouse, navigating complex roles, and creating high-trust, no-ego environments—this course goes beyond theory. It’s about playing the long game with kindness, grit, and strategic thinking.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to lead with kindness and still get results
• The unspoken rules of influence, initiative, and strategic visibility
• What it takes to earn a seat at the table—and stay there
• How to build a no-a-hole culture while still playing the political game
• Real talk on partnership leadership, problem-solving, and personal growth

Perfect for anyone ready to bring both heart and hustle to their role.