Dan Ninerell is the owner and founder of Modern Classical Chefs LLC and is an alumni of LAEDA’s Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (Session 102, Spring). Modern Classical Chefs delivers high-end, in-home dining experiences tailored to busy professionals, executives, and business owners who value their time and comfort. With 30+ years in the culinary world, Modern Classical Chefs combines professional training and home cooking expertise to create personalized in-home dining experiences, nutrition-focused meals—always with a client-first approach. We had a chance to sit down with him to ask about his experience with entrepreneurship and LAEDA’s training programs.
1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?
“COVID-19 gave me the space to stop and really think about what I wanted my life to look like. I asked myself some tough questions about my goals and my future. After doing my research, I realized it was time to use my talents to build something of my own—something that could open doors and create endless opportunities. That’s when I decided to start my business.”
2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?
“I’ve always cooked—whether it was everyday meals or big celebrations. Cooking has always brought me joy, and it was natural for me to follow that passion. To turn the idea into a real business, I hired a mentor who helped guide me and shape my concept into a working model. I haven’t stopped learning or implementing new ideas since.”
3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?
“My biggest takeaway is honestly: why didn’t I do this sooner? I wish I had known about LAEDA at the very beginning—it would’ve made such a difference in the early stages of my business.
There were a lot of “Ah-ha!” moments for me. The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable, and I was blown away by the quality of the training. I learned things like being able to pay your taxes as you go, and how important your personal credit is before you even think about business credit. There were many more moments like that where things just clicked.
The program helped me in a way that I still feel today. I use what I learned all the time. I’ve stayed connected with several instructors, and the marketing techniques I picked up in class have been a huge part of how I run and grow my business.”
4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?
Challenges:
“When you’re an entrepreneur, there’s no handbook—you have to create your own. Everything is new and you’re constantly learning. You have to take in all these concepts and build your own path from them. Income goes up and down, so you have to consistently market your business and not let setbacks stop you. Persistence is key.”
Successes:
“My income has grown every single year. I’m expanding my team and already setting goals for filling key positions as the business continues to grow.”
5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?
“We have had double-digit growth from 2024 to 2025, and I’m already laying the groundwork for 2026. I’m aiming high—I’m shooting for the stars.”
6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?
“Never give up on your dreams. If you have an idea, don’t quit on it. Look for resources—like LAEDA—that can help you shape that idea into a business with a solid foundation for growth.”
Modern Classical Chefs and Dan can be reached at:
Email: dan@modernclassicalchefs.com
Website: https://modernclassicalchefs.com/
Facebook: Modern Classical Chefs
About the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP):
The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. For more Information visit us at laeda.com or refer an entrepreneur using this form.