We’re looking forward to introducing you to McKenzie Bunn. Check out our conversation below.
McKenzie , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I am truly proud of building up my brand and showing the world my passion for cooking. I am proud of the way I’ve grown in the BBQ community—developing my own flavor style, sharing what I’ve learned with others, and building connections around fire and great food. Every cook teaches me something new, and I’m proud of the consistency and creativity I bring to every plate.” I am proud of how far I’ve come in mastering BBQ techniques, experimenting with flavors, and creating dishes that bring people together. I’ve invested time into learning different regional styles, improving my smoking skills, and refining my presentation. But what I’m most proud of is how I’m able to inspire others—whether it’s sharing tips, showcasing my cooks, or motivating people to try something new on their grill or smoker.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am McKenzie Bunn and i am the owner and PitMaster of MacksSmokeyBBQue. I believe great food brings people together. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, backyard party, or festival, tailgate, my team and I serve up slow-smoked meats, bold flavors, and mouthwatering sides that keep your guests coming back for seconds. Creativity for the Culinary Arts with a passion for authentic BBQ, cooked low and slow over hardwood smoke, and it shows in every bite. Let us handle the kitchen & grill so you can sit back i love and open fire cook. Griil, chill, and relax, and enjoy the flavor of real cooking done right. I am working on gettin my brand out there and letting the world know: HES THAT ONE!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work was a role model who led by example. My pops! He didn’t just talk about hard work—he lived it. He taught me that real success comes from staying committed, taking pride in your craft, and treating people with respect.” He taught me the most about work and showed me that passion matters. Pops encouraged me to creative and experiment, be patient, trust the process, and keep learning. Those lessons truly shaped the cook I am today.”
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
“I started using my pain as motivation the moment I realized I could either let it hold me back or let it push me forward. I chose to grow from it instead of sit in it.” I noticed that challenges were shaping me more than setbacks were breaking me. Instead of letting difficult moments define me, I started turning them into fuel to work harder, stay focused, and create something better.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Honestly, I admire my CORE of friends. Many deal with illnesses, anxieties, depression, and various issues. But we are always there to uplift and support and encourage each other. Not a day goes by that we are there for each other. No matter how much we may get on each other’s nerves, we hold each other accountable and again, iron sharpens iron. We have each other’s back.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
McKenzie loved his life to the full. He loved God. He loved family and friends, and he did what he loved on his terms. And the will hopefully say, “That man was the truth on that grill!!!”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @mackssmokeybbque
