Virginia Ali on Kindness and The Legacy of Ben’s Chili Bowl - Chief Influencer - Episode # 070

Chief Influencer

This episode is a tribute to Mrs. Virginia Ali, co-founder and matriarch of the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl, a true family-owned business. She recounts her early days in the Shaw community in Washington DC, her relationship with civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and how Ben's became a crucial gathering spot during pivotal historical moments.

Through her warmth and hospitality, Virginia helped the restaurant thrive for 66 years, making it an essential part of the city's cultural and social fabric. The episode also touches on her efforts to archive the restaurant's history and her notable interactions with high-profile dignitaries, including President Barack Obama. As she prepares to expand Ben's Chili Bowl, Mrs. Ali emphasizes the importance of community connection and consistent kindness.

Takeaways:

• Treat Everyone with Kindness and Respect: Mrs. Ali treats everyone who walks into Ben’s Chili Bowl with a smile and kind words, making them feel like the most important person. Leaders should foster a culture of kindness and genuine respect within their teams to build strong and positive relationships.
• Preserve Your Legacy: Mrs. Ali’s decision to document and preserve her family's and business's history will ensure that her legacy will last forever. Leaders should prioritize recording and preserving important documents and histories that can provide valuable insights and inspiration for future generations.
• Stay Calm and Collected: Virginia Ali's philosophy of using a soft voice to turn away wrath is a powerful reminder that staying composed and using calm communication can defuse tense situations. Leaders can effectively manage conflicts and maintain a positive atmosphere by practicing patience and composed communication.
• Be a Beacon During Tough Times: Ben’s Chili Bowl remaining open during the 1968 curfew period exemplifies the importance of being a reliable and supportive presence in the community during crises. Leaders should aim to be pillars of stability and support when their teams or communities face challenges.
• Value Community Relationships: Mrs. Ali emphasized the mutual support between Ben’s Chili Bowl and their community. Leaders should actively engage with and contribute to their communities, understanding that these relationships can provide critical support during tough times.
• Commit to Longevity and Adaptability: The success of Ben’s Chili Bowl over 66 years highlights the importance of persistency, adaptability, and a commitment to quality. Leaders should focus on these attributes to sustain long-term success and navigate ever-changing environments.
• Stay Humble and Grateful: Despite receiving numerous awards, Mrs. Ali remained humble and focused on serving her community. Leaders should embody humility and gratitude, recognizing that their success is often a collective effort and continuing to prioritize service and kindness.

Quote of the Show:

• “Influence doesn’t have to be loud, it can be kind and gentle.”

Links:

• Ben’s Chili Bowl Website: https://benschilibowl.com/

Shout Outs:

• "Breaking Barriers with Chili: Virginia Ali: The Matriarch of DC": https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Barriers-Chili-Virginia-Matriarch/
• Lee’s Flower Shop: https://www.leesflowerandcard.com/
• Industrial Bank: https://www.industrial-bank.com/home/my-banking-center/u-street
• Peaches (Former Employee of Ben’s Chili Bowl)
• Mary Wood (Former Employee of Ben’s Chili Bowl)
• President Kennedy
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
• Barack Obama
• Adrian Fenty
• Harriet Tubman
• Howard University Hospital: https://www.huhealthcare.com/
• James Beard Foundation Award
• Key to the City Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award