Meet me, Len Gilman: a seasoned entrepreneur whose journey from a passionate foodie to a real estate mogul tells a story of diverse career transitions, fueled by a relentless pursuit of learning and adaptation. My culinary adventures started in college, where I initially aimed for a degree in hotel restaurant management. This path was significantly influenced by my mentors and aunt and uncle, Diane Powers and Brent Gilman who offered me a unique internship at the vibrant Rancho Nepal restaurant in old town San Diego during the summer of 1994. That experience, though overwhelming at the time, opened my eyes to the realities of the restaurant business, inspiring me to pivot my educational goals towards an MBA.

My entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. I ventured into the world of motorcycles, melding my love for bikes with my business acumen by opening a Harley Davidson dealership. My dedication to the craft led me to attend the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, and further, HarleyU, where I honed my skills in retail, sales, marketing, and dealership operations. These experiences laid the groundwork for my successful dealership, which achieved national recognition.

Transitioning from the motorcycle industry, I ventured into real estate, becoming the leading sales and marketing agent for a 100,000-acre industrial hub near Reno, Nevada. Here, I acted as an economic development intermediary, gaining invaluable insights into the manufacturing processes of various industries. My tenure at the industrial center also sparked an innovative project to build a fiber optic telecommunications company, a venture that revolutionized connectivity for the center’s clients and culminated in a lucrative acquisition by a major communications conglomerate.

My entrepreneurial journey continued as I co-founded a business specializing in nutraceutical manufacturing and development. This venture not only tapped into my extensive experience in sales and business operations but also transitioned into a successful e-commerce platform, thereby enhancing my expertise in product development and sales strategies.

Today marks a full circle in my career, bringing me back to the vibrant world of restaurants and retail with the Bazaar Del Mundo shops and restaurants. Armed with a tech-savvy approach and a deep understanding of the dynamics between various business sectors, I shine in my role as an executive assistant. My expertise lies in managing the digital footprint of businesses and deploying innovative social marketing strategies.

Throughout my varied career journey, Aunt Diane and Uncle Brent have been unwavering pillars of support and inspiration. They have been by my side, observing my development and mastery of crucial skills needed to excel in today’s ever-evolving business landscape. My journey illustrates ambition, adaptability, and the power of welcoming change with open arms.

Presently, I serve as a consultant for Bizarre Del Mundo in Old Town San Diego and its associated family of restaurants across San Diego county, including Casa Guadalajara, Casa De Pico, and Casa De Bandini.