Strawberry Letter

Follow Your Passion: Kevin turned local BBQ stand into an international brand and he became a celebrity food judge.


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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Chef Kevin Bludso.

Here’s a summary of MMCMC Script File 18, an episode of Money Making Conversations Masterclass hosted by Rushion McDonald, featuring special guest Kevin Bledsoe, founder of Bledsoe’s Barbecue and a two-time Hoodie Award winner.

🔥 Key Topics Discussed 1. The Hoodie Awards Legacy

  • Kevin credits the Hoodie Awards for launching his national visibility.
  • Describes the experience as “life-changing,” giving pride and validation to small business owners.
  • Emphasizes how the awards brought community recognition, celebrity exposure, and lasting friendships.

2. Bledsoe’s Barbecue Journey

  • Originated in Compton, CA, with family BBQ roots in Corsicana, TX.
  • Now an international brand with locations in Los Angeles, San Antonio, and even Melbourne, Australia.
  • Known for slow-smoked meats, authentic Southern sides, and consistent quality.

3. Celebrity Support & Customer Experience

  • Celebrities frequent Bledsoe’s, but Kevin emphasizes treating everyone with respect.
  • Consistency in food and service is key: “Every plate looks immaculate.”
  • Rushion shares personal stories of bringing military and corporate guests to the restaurant.

4. Television Career

  • Kevin’s TV debut came unexpectedly via a producer who overheard him joking in the kitchen.
  • Became a regular on Bar Rescue and now stars on Netflix’s American Barbecue Showdown.
  • His authenticity and humor made him a standout personality.

5. Philanthropy & Community Impact

  • Bledsoe’s has paid for funerals, provided scholarships, and supported local causes.
  • Kevin believes in giving back: “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.”
  • Emphasizes the importance of teamwork, community, and uplifting others.

6. Entrepreneurship Real Talk

  • Warns aspiring entrepreneurs: “Owning a business is the hardest job you’ll ever have.”
  • Shares his early grind—working 24-hour days between BBQ and DJ gigs.
  • Encourages building a strong team and trusting the process.

7. Civic Engagement

  • Passionate about voting rights and Black empowerment.
  • Urges listeners to vote in person and stay informed about political and social issues.

💬 Memorable Quotes

  • “I don’t give to be blessed. I’m blessed, so I give.”
  • “Are you ready to go eight years without a day off?”
  • “The Hoodie Awards made us feel like celebrities—like we mattered.”
  • “You need fans in the stands. That’s called customers.”
  • “If I’m making it and my people aren’t, then I’m not making it.”

#BEST

#STRAW

#SHMS

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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