Welcome back to the Ol' Boy Podcast, folks! Today, we've got an electrifying episode lined up for you, featuring none other than the barbecue legend himself, Kosmo from Kosmos Q. In Episode 21, host Chad Ward dives deep into Kosmo's inspirational journey from a determined competitor using store-bought rubs to crafting his own successful barbecue empire. Kosmo opens up about his early struggles, the game-changing moment when he decided to quit his day job, and the invaluable advice from a friend that fueled his passion. Together, Chad and Kosmo explore the heart and soul of the barbecue industry—from the importance of stellar customer service and the art of personalizing customer experiences, to the fierce competition and evolving landscape shaped by social media. They also share tips on mastering fire management, discuss their admiration for top-notch barbecue pits, and emphasize the significance of nurturing genuine, loyal followings rather than chasing fleeting online fame. You'll hear about Kosmo's strategic moves, like his pivot from a time-consuming food truck to scaling his product line, and the critical role of data in making business decisions. Plus, they reflect on the rich tapestry of barbecue traditions across different regions and the influential figures who've shaped the competition scene. This episode is filled with captivating stories, valuable insights, and a sprinkle of humor that highlights the camaraderie within the barbecue community. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Kosmo's incredible journey and passion for all things barbecue. And don't forget, this episode is brought to you by our friends at Five Nine Whiskey—cheers to great barbecue and even better stories! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.