Story & Lesson Highlights with Chef Rene Johnson of Oakland, CA

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Chef Rene Johnson. Check out our conversation below.

Chef Rene, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
The timing for this question couldn’t be more perfect. I was recently awarded Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by Powerful Women of the Bay—a moment that felt deeply humbling and empowering. Standing among such dynamic and influential women was an experience I will never forget. The award recognized my 25+ years as an entrepreneur, my passion for advocating the importance of feeding children “real” food to combat childhood diabetes, and my latest venture, the Soul Food Stroll, which brings culture, community, and cuisine together.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Chef Rene Johnson, owner of Blackberry Soul Fine Catering, cookbook author of From My Heart to Your Table and creator of the Soul Food Stroll. For over 25 years, I’ve built a brand that’s about more than food—it’s about connection, culture, and courage. Since being named Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by Powerful Women of the Bay, I’ve been speaking and teaching about the mindset it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur. My work inspires others to step into their power while I continue creating unforgettable culinary experiences, launching my African-inspired culinary fashion line, and advocating for healthy eating to fight childhood diabetes.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Relationships are like recipes—they need the right ingredients and care to come together. Bonds break when trust, like a key ingredient, is missing or when we stop stirring the pot with love and attention. But they can be restored. A little humility, forgiveness, and consistent effort—like seasoning with patience—can bring even the most broken bonds back to life. The key is being willing to do the work and remembering why you started in the first place.” One of the most wonderful things about this world is everyday that we wake up we get to do a do-over and start fresh everyday.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Believe it or not, giving up has never been an option for me. That is just not something I would do. That’s just not how I’m wired. The real challenge has been figuring out which direction to take and navigating the peaks and valleys of my life. I’m not a college graduate; instead, I like to say I earned a “transactional degree” from the school of hard knocks. What I’ve learned over the years is the power of stillness, prayer and trusting God. When I allow myself to pause, reflect, and even hibernate I always come out with clarity and a plan. There was a time when slowing down made me restless and anxious, but now I see it as one of my greatest strengths. It’s in those quiet moments that I’ve truly discovered who I am and what I need to thrive.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m fully committed to building the Soul Food Stroll into a national experience that celebrates culture, community, and cuisine in cities across the country. It’s more than an event—it’s a movement that connects people to food, history, and each other. I’m equally dedicated to my entrepreneurial project, where I’m teaching others about the courage and mindset it takes to build a business and leave a legacy. Both of these visions are deeply tied to who I am, and I don’t care how long it takes—I know they’re worth every step of the journey.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think people have misunderstood my strength at times. They see the confidence, the achievements, and assume it’s always been easy for me and that I have all the answers. But what they don’t see are the quiet moments—the times I’ve had to push through fear, self-doubt, and setbacks to keep going. I’m strong, yes, but I’ve had to build my strength brick by brick. They’ve also misunderstood that my ambition isn’t just about success; it’s about creating spaces for others to shine and building a legacy that lifts my community. I am the grandmother of 10, I do what I do for them, I want them proud of me.

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Image Credits
Jason Hairston

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