Celebrating Our People: SANDRA & DAVID STASIULIS

The “Celebrating Our People” series is aimed at highlighting the many talented employees that make up Proof of the Pudding’s teams across the southeast. This week we’re highlighting a dynamic duo in the Proof family. We hope you enjoy learning more about these hospitality and MARRIED  POPstars!

SANDRA STASIULIS, GM at the Emory Sports Medicine Complex
– and –
DAVID STASIULIS, Executive Chef at Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta

POP:  We’re excited to chat with both of you today! Share with us a little about yourselves!
SANDRA: We love being outdoors, from hiking with our dogs Kali & Luna, to soaking in rays on the beach, kayaking in a river, or exploring a new city. And, we’re married!

POP: What is the one piece of advice you would share with others at the beginning of their hospitality/catering career?
DAVID: Learn from others around you and find a few good mentors.
SANDRA: Be quick to listen, slow to speak.

POP: What values would you say have shaped your life?
SANDRA: My parents taught me from a young age that hard work, being diligent, and treating people how you want to be treated goes a long way!
DAVID: Working hard and treating others with respect. It is so cliché but talent will only get you so far.

POP:  What was your favorite meal as a kid growing up?
DAVID: I lived in Hawaii when I was younger and my mom learned how to make Lumpia, which was delicious!
SANDRA: My parents both immigrated from Colombia, South America – I loved when my mom would make traditional meals, especially Flank Steak with Red Beans and Rice. Delicious!

POP:  Who in your life has influenced you the most?
SANDRA: Both of my parents have shown me the best way to navigate life. Career wise, Dave, my husband has been a great example of what a passionate hard worker is. He keeps me on my toes and pushes me to be better leader!
DAVID: My mentor, Chef Tim Hoch. He believed in me and gave me my first Sous Chef position and taught me not only how to cook but also manage people.

POP:  What is your favorite song lyric or inspirational quote?
DAVID: “I think the most effective way to run a kitchen is to teach, not just yell” – Tom Colicchio
SANDRA: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.” — Maya Angelou

POP: What is one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you?
SANDRA: I thrive on exercise – I’ve been doing CrossFit religiously for 2+ years (the best and hardest kind of workout!) but in my early twenties I realized I love all kinds of workouts. Great stress release and clearing of your mind.
DAVID: My dad was in the marines, so I spent 7 years of my childhood living in Hawaii.

POP: What’s your advice for others on how to live and work together as a married couple?
SANDRA:  We’ve been working together since we first met, it has been great to be with a life partner who understands the ins and outs of food business. Best advice is to be successful together, have a good work life balance, vacation as much as possible and learn when to stop talking shop!