Shawn Davis, affectionately known as Chef Big Shake, grew up in Bayshore, NY. His culinary journey began at an Italian restaurant in Ocean Beach, Fire Island. At just 12 years old, he spent a summer living with an Italian family, an experience that ultimately transformed his life. After seven summers under the mentorship of restaurant owner Giovanni Palermo, Shawn left Gio's. Determined to pursue degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Shawn was accepted to Norfolk State University. Combined with everything he learned from Gio, he developed an entrepreneurial spirit which led him to real estate and restaurant investments. He now, empowers others by connecting them with the funding necessary to pursue their own investments, believing that "it takes money to build the foundation for pursuing passions, whether in food, art, philanthropy, or otherwise." Shawn expresses his gratitude for being in a position to help others achieve success.