How to Build a BBQ Sauce Empire

Authentic Business Adventures Podcast

Walter Kinzie - Kinzie Foods On the Appreciating the Opportunity: "How did I land on the stage where I'm literally giving the cue for the transition of power to happen, and one president leaves office as another president goes? And I I was directing that moment in history." There are a few defining moments in our lives as entrepreneurs. The phone call that was the driver for a row of dominoes falling that caused you to end up in the perfect spot. Maybe even meeting the right person at the right time. Walter Kinzie of Kinzie Foods has reflected on those moments and has learned to cultivate them. Walter shares his dynamic journey from organizing landmark events, including the 2017 presidential inauguration, to building upon his aunt's legacy with an incredible barbecue sauce line. Walter opens up about his initial forays into event planning, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and how he leverages his vast experience to ensure unparalleled client satisfaction. Walter also shares his entrepreneurial pivot into the world of gourmet barbecue sauce. Discover how a personal passion project evolved into Kinzie Foods, blending meticulous product development with a strong focus on premium customer experiences. Leo offers insights into his strategies for direct-to-consumer sales, the importance of quality packaging, and the philosophy behind creating a memorable brand. Listen as Walter shares the business tips to help you make those magic moments happen. Prepare for an incredible interview with a dynamic entrepreneur. Maybe enjoy some BBQ while you listen. Enjoy! Visit Walter at: https://kinziefoods.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Accidental business started with barbecue sauce gifts. 05:45 Started small, grew rapidly, expanded to flavors. 14:26 Twist top ensures clean barbecue sauce experience. 15:55 Targeting gourmet home chefs with diverse products. 22:15 Prioritizing quality and customer experience through investment. 26:16 Product for foodies excites more than essentials. 35:19 Family recipe requires precise cooking for flavors. 41:28 Dad orchestrated community show in small Kansas town. 43:22 Determined to produce presidential inauguration someday. 47:45 Countless decisions create meaningful, memorable events. 54:46 Networking chain leads to directing presidential transition. 01:01:30 Drive-in concerts brought joy during COVID shutdowns. 01:04:22 Band behavior reflects management's communication failures. 01:09:02 Artist flopped; cover band quickly salvaged event. 01:15:10 Helped produce first CFP national championship game. Podcast Transcription: Walter Kinzie [00:00:00]: And I made a, I made a commitment to myself that night on 2 things. Number 1, I verified that I absolutely did wanna put on concerts for a living, but number 2, also told myself I'd never let myself or anybody else limit how high I could go. James Kademan [00:00:15]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Walter Kinsey of Kinsey Foods. And, Walter, before I get you going here, I just wanna let the audience know Walter has done way more than, I'm gonna dare say most of my guests, certainly more than me. So I'm excited to talk to you. Walter, how is it going today? Walter Kinzie [00:00:57]: Man, pleasure's all mine. I'm grateful for this opportunity. And, you know, it's going it's a great day. And, you know, it's a interesting day in America, but, Yeah. James Kademan [00:01:07]: It is. Walter Kinzie [00:01:08]: But, you know, across the board,