We’re looking forward to introducing you to Crissy Boney. Check out our conversation below.
Crissy, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
I pay close attention to what happens in the kitchen. I see how food is handled — the cans being opened, the boxes being peeled back, the shortcuts being taken. But that’s not how I work. I spend long hours cooking from scratch, using fresh, quality ingredients because I care about what people are eating. I know exactly what goes into every dish — the flavors, the nutrients, the intention. I could never serve something I don’t believe in. My clients deserve food made with integrity, and that’s exactly what I deliver.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Crissy Boney, formerly Faison. I like to say I pulled a Tina Turner and kept my last name until I remarried!
I’m the owner of LeanBack Soul Food Catering Co. and the creator of LeanBack Seasoning, my signature line of blends inspired by bold flavor and soulful cooking. In addition to catering, I teach healthy cooking classes in underserved communities—helping people discover that good food can be both nourishing and full of flavor. You can also find me cooking classes with kids, cause LeanBack loves the kids!
This year marks my 10th year in business, and it has been an amazing journey. Over the past decade, I’ve earned awards, been featured in national campaigns, and built a brand that reflects who I am at my core. I’ve grown, learned, and persevered—but through it all, I’ve stayed true to myself. At the end of the day, I just do me… and me is LeanBack
Leanback Soul Food isn’t just a catering company — we’re the greatest caterer on earth (GCOE). Known for unforgettable soul food, fresh boxed lunches, hearty breakfasts, and custom menus to match any taste, we turn every event into a flavorful celebration. From corporate luncheons and weddings to community gatherings and private parties, our blend of hospitality, creativity, and culinary skill sets us apart. Our passion goes beyond the plate — we bring people together through food. Whether you’re craving comforting classics, elegant dining, or a hands-on culinary experience, LeanBack delivers meals and memories worthy of the title Greatest Caterer On Earth!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I was in the fifth grade, I marched straight into my elementary school principal’s office and said, “I want to start a school newspaper.” He looked at me and said, “Okay! Put a team together and make it happen.” And I did.
I recruited the writers, chose the topics, and with my teacher’s help, designed the layout. Before long, we had a weekly school newspaper—consistent, creative, and completely student-led.
That experience changed everything for me. I spoke up about what I wanted, made it happen, and realized that I could do anything I set my mind to. That’s also when I learned I had all the support I needed to dream big and make things happen.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me to grind harder. Every setback built my resilience, every challenge sharpened my focus. But success — that’s a different kind of teacher. It made me believe the business would always be there, that I’d always be covered. It didn’t make me lazy; it made me feel safe.
But here’s the truth: safety can be dangerous in business. The moment you start to feel too comfortable is the moment you stop growing. Never get too relaxed, never assume the wins will keep coming. Stay hungry, stay focused, and keep pushing — because consistency, not comfort, is what keeps you in the game.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes — though I like to joke that I have about twelve personalities, and everyone just gets to meet one of them. Humor aside, I do my best to stay consistent with who I am. I know I’m a character — full of energy, creativity, and heart — and I wouldn’t change that for the world. Whether it’s in business or in everyday life, I show up as myself, just in different shades depending on the moment.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I pray that people remember me as someone who was kind and good, whose food was always delicious and seasoned with love. I hope they say I wasn’t your average caterer — that I brought something deeper to the table. More than just food, I wanted to create connection, comfort, and community.
I also hope they remember how much I cared about giving back — teaching healthy cooking classes to kids and underserved communities, showing that good food can be both nourishing and accessible. When it’s all said and done, I hope people say I was an experience, a teacher, and a light in the kitchen and beyond.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leanbacksoulfood.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leanbacksoulfood
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crissyboney
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leanbacksoulfood
