Dr. Sarah Gelinas
Co-founder
My background in psychology and criminal justice has shaped the way I view human behaviour, relationships, and the systems that influence our everyday experiences. I have always been fascinated by the way people interact with one another and how the environments we create can either support or hinder meaningful connection. So much of life is made up of small moments that either bring us closer together or quietly pull our attention elsewhere. I believe technology should serve people, not compete with them. Its greatest value lies in removing unnecessary friction so that our focus can return to what matters most: conversation, presence, and genuine human connection.
Dining has always been about more than food. It is one of the few experiences where people intentionally gather to celebrate, connect, and share their lives. Yet even these moments are often interrupted by routine processes that add little value. Waiting for a bill, trying to get a server’s attention, or navigating an inefficient payment experience can shift focus away from the people sitting across the table.
That belief inspired Settle. Rather than replacing hospitality, it supports and enhances it. By making payment simple and intuitive, restaurants can spend more time delivering meaningful service, and guests can stay immersed in the moments they came to enjoy. To me, technology succeeds not when it becomes the centre of attention, but when it quietly removes barriers and creates more space for people to be present with one another.
