An Inspired Chat with Jonny Baby of Acworth

Jonny Baby shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Jonny, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
We love traveling to different countries. We enjoy interacting with the locals and embracing their culture. It makes you grateful for the little you do have when you return home as they are a lot less fortunate then we are. One of our fondest memories was taking a city tour in Dominican Republic and donating school supplies and candy to the children. Their faces lit up when they saw the items we brought for them.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I started Jonnybaby BBQ over a decade ago after catering for so many house parties and the repeated feedback I received regarding the food. I enjoy being competitive so I decided to enter a BBQ competition. The feedback received from the masses was enormous and fueled me to form a business and build a solid team. This is an Afro-Latino family owned and operated business. We started out small, doing private parties and now have grown big enough to handle corporate functions and public festivals. We enjoy every opportunity received and ensure we provide the best quality food possible.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my family shaped how I see myself. Without family you have nothing. They provide honest feedback and criticism and allowed me to build the best brand possible. They push me to the limit everytime I cook and I’m thankful for that. They love me unconditionally and help me understand what is right for our clients and the business.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering teaches everyone they have a lot to learn. If we always succeeded in life, no one would grow . I’ve learned it’s not about getting to the finish line that matters, it’s the journey that matters most. Character is built from trials and tribulations, not from succeeding. We are always happy when we win, but the losses is where you learn and understand what you could’ve done better.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version is the real version of me cause I don’t change who I am for the public. I maintain a positive attitude even when things aren’t going as planned. In this business, you have to always be ready for anything. You have to prepare yourself in order to be triumphant. Hard times and good times are both a part of life. It’s how you approach both of them that determines the outcome.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, I believe my customers would miss my personality and my brisket. I remember having numerous conversations with clients regarding my brisket and how it is prepared and the amount of time for me to understand the right temperature and time needed for the cook to be successful. I also try to remember clients names and something special about them outside of their orders. I would ask about their family or their pets so they understood it was about more then just a transaction.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jonnybabybbq.com
• Instagram: @jonnybabybbq
• Facebook: @Jonnybaby Smoked BBQ