Arnon Oren: Make It Delicious and Create Moments People Remember

What does it mean to “make it delicious” at work? For Arnon Oren, it means giving people the trust and responsibility to make something they are proud of, while creating experiences that bring people together.

In this episode of Growing with Purpose, Jean Moncrieff speaks with Arnon Oren, founder of Anaviv, about the lessons behind building a business that brings people together and helps its team grow.

Arnon shares how he found his way from washing dishes to a career in food, and how working at Chez Panisse shaped his approach to respect, creativity and ownership. He reflects on navigating the challenges of COVID, writing a ten-year vision and helping his team see a future they can build together.

Jean and Arnon explore what it means to “make it delicious” beyond the kitchen: giving people the space to take responsibility, creating food that elevates a gathering, and building a business that nourishes connection. They also discuss learning through experience, making room for curiosity and creating moments people remember.

Key themes include:

Giving employees ownership and room for creativity

Treating every team member with respect

Adapting through difficult business challenges

Writing and sharing a long-term vision

Growing the business by helping its people grow

Creating food and experiences that bring people together

Making the gathering, not the food, the star