Ep 12. My Roots

In season 6 episode 12 of The Profit, titled "My Roots," entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis travels to New Orleans to visit a struggling restaurant called Old New Orleans Cookery. The restaurant, owned by a married couple named Jerry and Mello, serves traditional Cajun and Creole cuisine but has been facing financial struggles and decreased customer traffic.

As Marcus spends time with Jerry and Mello and observes their restaurant's operations, he uncovers several issues that have been hindering their success. The restaurant lacks effective management, causing chaos in the kitchen and poor communication between staff members. Additionally, their menu is cluttered and unfocused, making it difficult for customers to navigate and choose their desired dishes.

Marcus decides to help Jerry and Mello by investing in their restaurant, with the agreement that he will take over as CEO and implement significant changes. He begins his transformation by streamlining the menu, focusing on popular dishes and removing confusing or unpopular items. He also hires an experienced chef to revamp the kitchen and train staff members, improving efficiency and overall quality of the food.

Marcus also helps the couple with their management issues, giving them tools and guidance for effective communication and organization within the workplace. With his support, Jerry and Mello gain the skills and confidence necessary to lead their team effectively and make necessary changes to improve their business.

Throughout the episode, viewers also learn about Jerry and Mello's personal history and connection to the city of New Orleans. Jerry, a Louisiana native, grew up in poverty and worked his way up to become a successful chef and restaurant owner. Mello, originally from Honduras, fell in love with Jerry and his passion for cooking, and the couple has been running their restaurant together for over 30 years.

Overall, "My Roots" showcases the struggles and successes of small business owners and the impact that effective leadership and guidance can have on transforming a struggling business into a thriving one. The episode also highlights the importance of community and connection to one's roots, as Jerry and Mello demonstrate their love for New Orleans and the traditional cuisine that has shaped their lives.