40 Under 40: Scott Vogel is building community, restaurant hub in Ogunquit
PHOTO / Tim Greenway
Scott Vogel is president and owner of the Front Porch Piano Bar and Restaurant, Crew Ogunquit and Coastal Alchemist.
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Significant professional accomplishment: When I bought the Front Porch I was challenged with the dual goals of honoring this iconic brand and its special place in Ogunquit, while at the same time introducing changes that would make the business thrive. Taking that leap is my the greatest accomplishment to date, as it propelled me into a whole new industry and way of life.
Current state of mind: Whew! We are at the tail end of high season in Ogunquit. My state of mind is on executing our plans to provide people with a special place to connect and have fun.
Passion project: I am passionate about community service and philanthropic activities. I serve as a selectman for the town of Ogunquit, on the board of the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce and on the board of Hospitality Maine.
I also serve on the board of the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C., for which I have raised almost $1 million through a fundraiser called Staches to Lashes.
‘Lightbulb’ moment: I was working in New York City with a great company, but I started to get the feeling that there was more I wanted to be doing for myself and my career. When I heard the Front Porch was up for sale, the lightbulb truly went off.
I realized I could take what I loved from my experience in minor league sports and with the startup health tech company and apply it to an industry I grew up working in and love.
Audacious goal: I am looking forward to continuing to grow the restaurant venues. We have come a long way, and we can get better and better. I would love to do is to expand my brand portfolio to the hotel/resort side of hospitality.
Favorite quote: “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything.” Technically from an unknown source, but often connected to Oprah Winfrey.
Influential book: “Smarter Better Faster,” by Charles Duhigg
Favorite TV show: “Friends”
Best way to recharge: I enjoy traveling, playing golf and watching sports, particularly hockey and football. Running provides an outlet for stressful days and a place for my mind to wander.
At age 60: My goal by then is to spend time with family, travel to new places, and mentor/support the next generation of hospitality entrepreneurs here in Maine. I plan to be active and constantly learning, not just at age 60 but throughout my life. There is something to discover every day, today and in the future.
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