Culinary Leverage

A Journey Through the Heat

By: Douglas Keane

Narrated by: Douglas Keane

Culinary Leverage: A Journey Through the Heat is about exposing the dysfunction of an industry through the eyes of a highly decorated chef who, through hard-won experience, resilience and grief, soul searching and moments of reckoning, finds a healthier way forward, not just for himself but for the restaurant business as a whole.

Travel with Chef Keane as his passion for hard work and cooking is ignited as a young kid growing up in Dearborn, Michigan. Cheer for him as he follows his dream to the gritty but seductive streets and kitchens of New York City and realizes his vocation. Empathize with him as he encounters and confronts bullies and egos hell-bent on destroying the dream. And root for him as he charges forth with a revolutionary new approach and strives to create an unparalleled magical journey at Cyrus for his guests and team, one based on style and substance with a conscience and connection.

"...raw, humble, and darkly funny."—Chef Jacques Pepin

"Honest. Eye-opening. Harrowing. Brilliant."—Neal Katyal, former acting solicitor general of the United States

"...a framework for living that applies equally to the pro kitchen, the boardroom, and the family table."—Gail Simmons, food expert, TV host, and author of Bringing It Home

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Douglas Keane (P)2025 Podium Audio

hospitality to ourselves and team, not just our guests

Raw, insightful, and deeply human

I really enjoyed Culinary Leverage. Douglas Keane’s honesty and rawness pull you right into the heart of the kitchen and the business behind it. His insight into leadership, caring for his team, and balancing passion with responsibility makes this more than just a culinary memoir, it’s a lesson in integrity.

I especially appreciated his compassion for animals and the way he connects that to his philosophy of food and business. As a fellow Midwestern man who also appreciates a good Irish exit, I found myself nodding along more than once.

Keane’s story has even inspired me to plan a trip to Cyrus, I want to experience firsthand the spirit and creativity that his journey and passion has shaped.

In depth reality

As a culinary student and having experience in the culinary field for more than 20 Years, I thoroughly enjoyed Doug's journey. Hearing his story is motivating and driving! I loved it!

Go Douglas!

Great story of innovation, grit, perseverance, and love. Recommend for anyone looking to make your way through life and make a positive difference.

Memorable and Tranporting

Like a well prepared meal, this book had all the mise en plas.

All who dine out- must read any portion of this book.

I’d say, all restaurants should have quotes of this book on a wall.

Have a great service!

Came off as condescending at some points.

Story started off very strong but then came off as very condescending. His chapter that focus on his love for Obama and how the country needs him vs. the overall effect of cooking for someone of that caliber really threw me off the story.