Jess Druey, Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars Season 2 winner, learned a key lesson, interview
After conquering several challenges, honing her pitch, and impressing Gordon Ramsay and Lisa Vanderpump, Jess Druey earned the title Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars Season 2 winner. Although the path to victory was not always smooth, the lessons learned are vital to growing her business. During our conversation prior to the finale airing, the vivacious and focused Jess shares her thoughts on entrepreneurial adaptability, marketing vision, and the future of Whiny Baby.
Fans of Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars might have pegged Jess as a front runner from the first couple of episodes. She was never afraid to take control of a challenge, have her opinions heard, and even pivot to a task that was far from her comfort zone.
When asked if she had a particular plan or goal that she wanted to achieve on the show, Jess admitted a big secret. She said, “I don’t think that I've admitted this out loud to anyone, even while filming. But, I did not watch the entirety of last season. I know a lot of my fellow castmates watched it religiously, looking for strategies. I think that sometimes going into things and taking them as they come is the best route. And even in my own business, I kind of believe that sometimes what you don't know can be your biggest asset. (In that scenario) you can imagine how things could be done rather than how they should be done.”
While she might not have had a strategy to win prior to walking into the challenges, Jess knew that it was key to be able to adapt to whatever was put in her path. Jess said, “I went into every challenge knowing that each one is not necessarily going to serve my exact skill set. Instead, I asked myself what I can I offer in each scenario.”
Going through the various challenges, Jess gave examples of how she managed to stand out. It was her charisma, excitement, and boldness to step up in the food truck challenge. Her idea to push a combo or entice guests to switch lines made the difference in winning and losing.
Specifically, Jess said, “I think that the big take away from the competition as a whole is that I’m obviously a big personality and an upfront leader. After a few challenges, I tried to learn to take a back seat. But, that back seat position does not mean you are not a leader. You can lead and shine from any position.”
It was clear that Jess was able to make her unique skill set shine no matter the position or challenge. Granted, there were moments where she had frustration, almost failed, and otherwise came close to defeat. That vulnerability and perseverance was key to earning her the title.
As seen in the finale, Lisa Vanderpump wanted Jess to show that relatable side. Allowing that polished business woman shield to crack was not easy.
Jess explained, “as women, especially as a young female entrepreneur with a business named Whiny Baby, I think that I need to be extra polished when I walk into a business setting. One of my major takeaways from the show, especially in the finale, is that sometimes you need to show that vulnerability. In the moment, I hated it and you can see my uncomfortable moments.”
In the end, those personal moments resonated not only with the judges but also with her brand. Looking at Whiny Baby, the wine concept is about connection and making memories while sharing a bottle of wine.
While the Whiny Baby brand has made a splash with its social media moments, conversation caps, and savable labels, it is more than just a gimmick. The wine can stand up other brands on the shelf.
As Jess explained, “what often gets overshadowed is the fact that Whiny Baby is an ultra premium bottle of wine. I’m not the wine maker, but the McBride sisters are the experts that ensure the wine is perfect. Even though the wine skews on the fruit forward side, it is a beautifully balanced ultra premium bottle of wine.”
Since Whiny Baby tends to appeal to an audience who is just starting their wine appreciation, Jess feels that it is a wonderful opening to a bigger conversation. Jess said, “what I think that is cool about this generation is that sustainability and quality are an expectation with Whiny Baby. It is a quality bottle of wine with fun and a memorable experience.”
That total package is key not only for Whiny Baby but also for Jess Druey’s success as a business entrepreneur. Whether it is the engaging social media campaign, the polished business woman in the board room, or the relatable moments just enjoying some wine with friends, Jess has proven she can and will continue to do it all.
Want to catch up on all the episodes of Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars Season 2? All episodes can be streamed on Hulu.
More information on Whiny Baby and where it can be purchase is available on its website and social media channels.