208: Leaders with Heart Evolve

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In this episode, Heather chats with Mark Setterington, the founder of Island Fin Poke Company, who currently serves as its CEO and President. Setterington has over 35 years in the restaurant industry and started his restaurant career at the early age of sixteen as a dishwasher. Later in his career, he spent some time in Hawaii, fell in love with the Hawaiian culture and food, and decided to bring it to the mainland. Setterington founded Island Fin Poke in 2016 with his first restaurant in Winter Springs, Florida. The overwhelming acceptance of the Island Fin culture and food made him want to share it with the world. Take a listen.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Evolution takes time
  • Find a mentor who you trust
  • Building a company is not easy
  • Be self-aware of your strengths and weaknesses
  • You are in control of your future
  • Know your why and you will always be willing to put in the work

Mark Serrington’s Bio

Mark Setterington is the founder of Island Fin Poke Company and currently serves as its CEO and President. Setterington graduated from Michigan State University with a Material and Logistics Management Degree with an emphasis in Purchasing. Setterington has over 35 years in the restaurant industry and started his restaurant career at an early age of sixteen as a dish washer. Setterington has had a highly decorated career with some well know organizations. During his time with Applebee’s International he was recognized as the General Manager of the Year for the entire organization. Setterington also spent time with Darden Restaurants as a General Manager of the Bahama Breeze concept. During his time with Darden, Setterington was recognized with the top designation of Diamond Club winner three years in a row. Setterington left Darden to join Margaritaville where he ran a 42-million-dollar venue on the Las Vegas strip. It was during his time with Margaritaville that he spent time in Hawaii and fell in love with the Hawaiian culture and food and decided to bring it to the mainland. Setterington founded Island Fin Poke in 2016 with his first restaurant in Winter Springs Florida. The overwhelming acceptance of the Island Fin culture and food made him decide he wanted to share it with world. With Island Fin’s incredible food, remarkable service and ease of execution it is no reason why.

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