We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lasinda Lingafelter-Crane. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Lasinda, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I like my sleep! I’m a late-to-bed, later-to-get-up kind of person! I have to work out to feel normal! I get on my computer to check all personal and business emails and then my calendar for the day and week. Take my 1 dog for a walk and then get ready for heading into the restaurant or run around with errands.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Lasinda Crane
Owner of Cranelli’s Italian Restaurant | 25 Years of Hospitality Excellence | Board Member, American Lung Association
With over 25 years in the hospitality industry, Lasinda Crane is one of the driving forces behind Cranelli’s Italian Restaurant in Lone Tree, Colorado—a beloved neighborhood gem known for its cozy charm, heartfelt service, and classic Italian comfort. As owner and visionary, Lasinda leads with a guest-first philosophy and a relentless attention to detail, shaping every aspect of the Cranelli’s experience—from branding and event design to donor outreach and community engagement.
At the heart of Cranelli’s is a simple but powerful belief: every guest should feel like family. Lasinda is passionate about creating moments of genuine connection, where kindness, warmth, and care are felt in every interaction. That passion is personal; her own family is the foundation of everything she does. Whether it’s her husband Jimmy, her three children and three grandchildren, or the extended Cranelli’s team, family is the heartbeat of the brand and the reason every dish, every message, and every event is crafted with love.
Beyond the restaurant, Lasinda proudly serves as a board member of the American Lung Association, where she’s spent the past three years advocating for public health and community support. She also champions improved hospitality standards across the industry, believing that excellence begins with empathy.
Her work reflects not just a business, but a mission to elevate, connect, and serve with purpose.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My first memory of feeling powerful –
The Power of Recognition: A Moment That Shaped My Leadership
I was 15 years old, working at the Wendy’s off Wadsworth and Belleview, assembling hamburgers for the rush. It was a busy day, and the big manager happened to be in. At one point, he walked over, handed me a pin, and told me he appreciated how hard I worked. That moment stuck with me—not just the recognition, but the feeling it gave me. I felt seen, valued, and proud. It was the first time I realized that my effort could make a real difference.
That experience has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to shape how I lead at Cranelli’s. I believe deeply in the power of praise and constructive feedback. We all need to hear when we’re doing well. It’s not just about boosting morale—it’s about building trust, inspiring growth, and creating a culture where people feel empowered to give their best.
Recognition doesn’t have to be grand to be impactful. Sometimes, a simple gesture—a kind word, a thoughtful pin—can change the course of someone’s journey. It certainly changed mine.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Oh boy, if I knew then what I know now! If I could go back and whisper one kind truth to my younger self, it would be this: You are important, even if no one tells you so.
Back then, I didn’t realize that my value wasn’t tied to praise, approval, or recognition. I waited for someone else to validate me, to say I mattered. But now I understand, worth isn’t something you earn, it’s something you carry. It’s in how you show up, how you care, how you try.
This lesson has shaped how I lead and how I live. I make it a point to remind others of their value, especially when they can’t see it themselves. Because sometimes, one kind word can change everything. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is believe in ourselves before anyone else does.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
If you asked my closest friends to describe me, they’d tell you I hold integrity as one of the most important human values. It’s not just a word—it’s a way of life. I believe in accountability, in doing what’s right, even when it’s hard, and in ensuring that actions match intentions.
When a problem arises, I don’t let it linger. My mind immediately shifts into solution mode. I can’t move forward until I know the issue has been addressed and resolved. That drive isn’t about control—it’s about passion. It’s about making sure people are treated fairly, that promises are kept, and that the environment around me reflects the values I hold dear.
Integrity isn’t passive. It’s active, persistent, and sometimes uncomfortable. But it’s the foundation of trust, and trust is the heartbeat of every relationship—whether with guests, team members, or partners.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When my time here is done—hopefully not for another 40 years—the story I hope people tell about me is that I had a fierce passion for fighting for what wasn’t right. That I didn’t just listen to problems—I leaned into them. That when someone shared a struggle, my mind didn’t hesitate; it immediately began working to solve it.
I’ve always believed that problems are invitations. They call us to rise, to care, to act. Whether it’s a guest concern, a team challenge, or a community need, I feel a deep pull to make things better. Not for recognition, but because it’s simply who I am.
If people remember me as someone who showed up, who tried, who never looked away from what needed fixing—that would be enough. That would be everything.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cranellis.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cranellisitalianrestaurant/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cranellis
