The Food Truck Scholar

ABOUT THE SHOWIt's been a minute since the last episode dropped, so we are coming in hot!Today's guest is Marcus Crawford, co founder and co owner of Bro-ritos. Selected by Parade as one of the top Black owned eateries in the country, Bro-ritos is an award winning brand that started with a food truck and later its first brick and mortar restaurant location serving the NJ and NYC areaMarcus stopped by the show to share with us some of his cheat codes to success that include financial capital, branding, social media and growth strategiesBRO-RITOSWebsite: https://www.broritosfoodtruck.com/SEASON 4 SPONSORBGT GiftsWebsite: https://bgtgifts.com/Over the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon. Over the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

ABOUT THE SHOWWhile many people love food trucks, it's important not to romanticize their relationship with residents, urban planners, and city officials. Over the years, I've researched cities that haven't found a way to properly position food trucks in a way that supports small business owners, the families they support, and the community that supports them.Today's guest is Jordan Rubin owner of Mr. Tuna a wildly popular food truck has seen business grow in the midst of the pandemic, but has now seen revenue drop dramatically after he and other food trucks found themselves kicked out of well visited food truck spot after city officials decided to hold a food truck lottery. fighting to support his staff and his business along with other veteran food trucks, we discuss the role residents and city officials play in establishing and protecting a city's food truck culture.ABOUT OUR GUESTJordan Rubin is the co-owner of Crispy Gai and chef-owner of Mr. Tuna and the forthcoming Bar Futo — all located in downtown Portland, ME. Jordan has always been drawn to Japanese cuisine and has spent his 20-year career working in some of the top sushi bars across New England, including the famed Uni Sashimi Bar in Boston, where he worked and learned from the notable chef and restaurateur Ken Oringer for an indelible span of three years. Ready to venture out on his own, Jordan opened the first sushi food cart on the East Coast in 2017, Mr. Tuna. A year and a couple of food trucks later, he opened Portland's first-hand roll bar in Monument Square and Mr. Tuna's brick-and-mortar outpost in the Public Market House. July 2021 brought about the opening of Jordan's latest endeavor, Crispy Gai, a Thai-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of downtown Portland.Jordan is best known for his creative take on sushi hand rolls using traditional techniques and unexpected flavors, with an emphasis on local seafood. He can generally be found behind the sushi bar at Mr. Tuna or rolling up temaki on his food truck at the Eastern Promenade. Jordan and his concepts have received national recognition from Bon Appetit, Bloomberg, and Thrillist as a trailblazer on the Portland dining scene. Up next, Jordan is opening a Japanese-inspired bar and grill, dubbed Bar FutoSHOW SPONSORThank you to BGT Gifts for being our Season 4 Sponsor!Over the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

ABOUT THE SHOWI know one of the major takeaways people often get from my show when it comes to starting their food truck is to step out on faith and do it. However, in addition to faith to launch it, you also have to use logic and reason to sustain it.I've seen many food trucks get into trouble on the business side simply because agreements were not written down. Did you and friend start a business together? Doing your first catering event? Worried someone may steal your menu? If any of that sounds like you, this is your episode.Today's guest is my friend Attorney Courtney Howard. Courtney is also a Birmingham native and stops by the show to educate us on what we as business owners can do to protect ourselves and our business on the front end with written agreements. So lean forward and take notes the show starts now.SEASON 4 SPONSORSBGT GIFTSOver the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

ABOUT THE SHOWFood Truck owners are hustlers who make their dreams happen. Today's guest is a brother that takes that to the next level. To some on social Derrick Wood is the owner of My BBQ Man and a food business coach man but to the residents of Dumfries, VA, he's also the mayor.Derrick and I talk about his entry into the food truck industry and public service and how his hustle fueled bothSHOW SPONSORThank you to BGT Gifts  for being our show sponsor!Small Business PRGet your small business seen and valued without ads, agencies, or connections necessary.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifyOver the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

ABOUT THE SHOWToday I'm giving you a followup episode on a guest that has been a fan favorite since season one. I have always gotten messages and comments from people who have been inspired by the story of Patrick Lanier and wanted to know how he's been. Like many of you who are listening, the pandemic brought the owner of LipSmackin Creations Food Medic in Nashville some challenges. Add to that some tornadoes, inability to secure emergency Covid funding from the federal government and new food truck regulations which almost led to Patrick selling his food truck. Earlier this year, I started a GoFundMe for Patrick and many of you have chipped in, but we still have a ways to go. Today, I share with you part of Patrick's follow up story and hope you can share and give what you can.Patrick's GoFundMehttps://www.gofundme.com/f/help-patrick-lanier-keep-truckinPatrick's CashApp$LipSmackinFollow LipSmackin' Creations Food Medic on Social MediaInstagram      FacebookOver the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

Today's episode features an entrepreneur that I met through clubhouse and has now got me ready to come to Florida to try these Henny wings and meet my little internet nephew in person. Jeremy “Jerm” Battles and his wife Kaydian Battles are the owners of RightOn Que BBQ in Tallahassee. And Jerm hopped on the mic to share with his journey from being a teacher to a food trucker and the giant leaps of faith and work that went into it.Over the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

Today, I wanted to share some of my thoughts around grants: where to find them, how to apply, and other tips I've learned along the way.This episode is only available to my Patreon members. I want to thank everyone for supporting my Patreon page! This helps me off load some of the work of producing The Food Truck Scholar that has now become overwhelming while also providing additional value for YOU.You can become a Patron member for as little as $10/month HEREOver the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

All of you are part of The Food Truck Scholar no matter if you're a listener or guest, but I LOVE when listeners become guests! Shae Cole owner of Sincere Saints in Jacksonville, FL is someone that has listened to the show, went through the process of starting her food truck business at the height of the pandemic, and is continuing to flourish. Today's episode covers her journey from the Great Resignation to the Big Launch and the steps in between. Plus, we talk about how she has used her food truck journey to create a space for other women in the industrySincere Saints FBSincere Saints IGFemale Food Truckers FB GroupBook Available!Looking for food truck books to read and starting to feel overwhelmed? Are you trying to find the right answers but realizing you haven't asked the right questions to get those answers? That's why I created Before You Launch A Food Truck: 8 Questions Every Aspiring Food Trucker Should Ask. For the past 5 years that I've been studying the food truck industry and being a diehard food truck customer, I've  learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. What makes this book different is not only is it digestible and not designed overwhelm you, but it also propels you into action.You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon. For every copy purchased, I'm donating a copy to organizations committed to helping formerly incarcerated individuals re-enter society, particularly those interested in starting their own food business. So buy a copy today to help yourself and someone else get rollin and keep truckin!Over the past 5 years, I've learned a lot about what makes a good food truck stand out among the rest. I took 8 of those key concepts and created a book where I could have curbside conversations with each of you about them. This book is not only digestible and not designed to overwhelm you, but also propels you into action. You can purchase Before You Launch A Food Truck TODAY at TheFoodTruckScholar.com/shop in paperback and ebook format as well as on Amazon.

I know, y'all been wondering where I've been. Well, I got plenty of updates for you!I'm a moderator for  the Food and Business Summit!Join sharp like-minded food truck and restaurant owners to develop an ecosystem for success through structure, stability, and security.With years of experience as a consultant and proven track record of success working with the TOP food trucks and restaurants in Los Angeles WFE Consulting wanted to create a space to share knowledge, experience, and resources with other restaurant and food truck owners across the nation and invited me as one of the moderators for this food truck tour.Thankful for the #FoodTruckTitans to be along on this journey to share their tips and tricks that have allowed their business to be recession proof! AllFlavorNoGrease, Billionaire Burger Boyz and Wut-A-PickleThis will be moderated by none other than Ariel D. Smith "The Food Truck Scholar"  and @thegreatglaspie of @coolassblackwoman. With special guest marketing strategist @juntaedelane of @digitaldelane Register TODAY by going to www.foodandbusinesssummit.com and use the discount code FTS22 for 10% off General Admission and VIP tickets!Help Patrick Lanier Keep Truckin am fundraising for a past podcast guest and food truck owner Patrick Lanier . He is the owner of Lip Smackin Creations Food Medic in Nashville, TN. I first met Patrick in February 2019 when I visited Nashville to interview his friend Terry Key, and I immediately gravitated towards his story and decided to interview him as well. With his ambulance-turned-food truck, Patrick truly has been a first responder in his own way, serving others however he could. Now he needs his city to have his back.Covid has been difficult for many food trucks with event cancellations, labor shortages, supply chain shortages and inflations to name a few challenges. Patrick has found himself experiencing all of this, all while still trying to push forward to support his family with the food truck as his only means of support. Applying for federal relief has been difficult, stressful, and unsuccessful. Applying for funding in general has presented several challenges for many first time entrepreneurs. He has acquired a new truck that help him take his business further, but it will need to be compliant with new TN food truck regulations and he cannot afford to stay compliant without our help.I am asking the community (near and far) to support Patrick to help him keep truckin. He needs $12,000 to put towards the following: a new generator, suppression system, fees for 2 fron Keep Truckin University is the hub for live and self-paced courses. Our first live virtual course will cover menu creation. Food items are one of the largest expenses a food trucker can have, so it's important to use then wisely to avoid food waste, profit loss, time mismanagement, and poor customer retention. I'll cover how you can make a menu that's #Lean&Mighty on MONDAY, Jan 31 @ 12pm EST. Register HERE!

The Food Truck Association of Georgia is working on a bill to help all food truckers in the state. Call Governor Kemp's office TODAY at 404-656-1776. Share this 5 min episode to all you know. This is HUGE

Hey hey! Happy New Year! Did you miss me?Since 2019, I've been asked if I had courses to help food truck owners who were receiving great information from #TFTSPodcast. After studying, building relationships with and visiting over 500 food trucks across the country— I can now say YES!The Food Truck Scholar  is proud to present Keep Truckin University which will be the hub for live and self-paced courses. Our first live virtual course will cover menu creation. Food items are one of the largest expenses a food trucker can have, so it's important to use then wisely to avoid food waste, profit loss, time mismanagement, and poor customer retention. I'll cover how you can make a menu that's #Lean&Mighty on MONDAY, Jan 31 @ 12pm EST.This live webinar is available for only $47. You get access to the webinar, handout, live Q&A, and more! Register TODAY

About The ShowWell y'all we have come to the season 3 finale…can you believe it?! I have so much gratitude for everything that has happened this season and today I share some of those moments with you. From reflecting on highlights of the year, to sharing new products and initiatives, to updates on my academic progress, and what to look forward to in season 4, it's an exciting time!CYBER MONDAY SALENew Book by The Food Truck Scholar- "Before You Launch A Food Truck"Ebook PDF PaperbackKindleAfter traveling the country meeting and interviewing about 500 food trucks in the past 5 years through The Food Truck Scholar Podcast and academic research, Ariel D. Smith has compiled an abundance of information regarding the food truck industry from menu creation and marketing, to maintenance and regulations. One of the things she discovered over the years is that aspiring food truckers either do not have enough information or are overwhelmed with information and no clue where to start. Ariel designed this book to be the first touchpoint on your food truck journey. If you're in multiple online groups and reading big books about food trucks and feeling lost, pause for a moment, pick up this trimmer. What's best about "Before You Launch A Food Truck" is that it is designed for you to reflect before taking action. Once you have reflected on and answered the questions provided (pages to take notes on each section included!), feel free to jump back into the other resources you're using to birth your food truck dreams!Season 3 Truck Level SponsorsEatokraEatOkra is where food, culture, and community link. Supporting Black owned restaurants and food trucks just got easier! Download the EatOkra app today.Sponsor The ShowNeed to get the word out about your product or service to food truckers? Consider becoming a sponsor for season 4!FREE Checklist: 7 Things To Do If You're Looking for a Food Truck BuilderJoin Our Mailing ListSocial MediaYoutubeFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedIN

Today's ShowWithin the past year, I've received more questions about catering and ghost kitchens in particular. While experiences may vary by person and location, today's guest utilized ghost kitchens to stay open at the onset of covid but shares with us why his restaurant plans will not include ghost kitchens in the foreseeable future.Miles Robbins is the founder of FourFortyFour, a catering service in LA that is positioning itself to one day have a restaurant that will be listed as one of the best. Today we talk about his culinary journey and if a food truck will ever be added to the equation.FourFortyFour Social MediaIG: @fourfortyfour_creationswebsite: fourfortyfourcreations.comSeason 3 Truck Level SponsorsEatokraEatOkra is where food, culture, and community link. Supporting Black owned restaurants and food trucks just got easier! Download the EatOkra app today.Sponsor The ShowNeed to get the word out about your product or service to food truckers? Consider becoming a sponsor for season 4!New Book by The Food Truck Scholar- "Before You Launch A Food Truck"Ebook PDF ON SALE!!!PaperbackKindleAfter traveling the country meeting and interviewing about 500 food trucks in the past 5 years through The Food Truck Scholar Podcast and academic research, Ariel D. Smith has compiled an abundance of information regarding the food truck industry from menu creation and marketing, to maintenance and regulations. One of the things she discovered over the years is that aspiring food truckers either do not have enough information or are overwhelmed with information and no clue where to start. Ariel designed this book to be the first touchpoint on your food truck journey. If you're in multiple online groups and reading big books about food trucks and feeling lost, pause for a moment, pick up this trimmer. What's best about "Before You Launch A Food Truck" is that it is designed for you to reflect before taking action. Once you have reflected on and answered the questions provided (pages to take notes on each section included!), feel free to jump back into the other resources you're using to birth your food truck dreams!FREE Checklist: 7 Things To Do If You're Looking for a Food Truck BuilderJoin Our Mailing List

We've heard all about apartment complexes and residential areas that have invited food trucks out to their properties for their residents during and after the height of the Covid pandemic so it's great to actually speak to the representative of one. Francesca Delguidice is the chief innovation officer Delamerican Real Estate Group for SLX Atlanta and shares why they decided to invite food trucks to the property and share some of her favorites 

One thing we can all agree on, 2020 changed the world and especially the the food and beverage industry. Food trucks were not immune to that and many questioned if 2021 would a return to the old normal or a continuation of what has become our new normal in society. Tonya Coleman, owner of Chef TLC in Fishers, Indiana asked herself that same question Earlier this year Chef Tonya came back to the podcast to talk about the impact of Covid on not just her business, but opportunities to continue serving the community, and how she used the pandemic as fuel to grow her business while spreading love throughout the community.Thank you to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Sponsors!Want to be a sponsor for an episode or a season? Contact Us!Are you looking to get a custom built food truck but overwhelmed on where to start the process? If so, grab a copy of my free checklist “7 Things To Do If You're Looking for a Food Truck Builder.” This checklist not only outlines things to do before you speak to a food truck manufacturer but also the things to look for the a good builder. Visit TheFoodTruckScholar.com to download your free copy

It's a great day to be from Birmingham, AL because I'm sitting down with one of the hottest food trucks on the area. If you think you got some ride or die customers, I promise Charles Pilot might have you beat. The brother got folks going viral for literally chasing the food truck in street. But for Charles, customers are really family. So today's episode is all about how he has built a family connection with each person that he encounters as well as his ongoing journey to turn Fat Charles BBQ into a brand that will have an impact for generations to comeThank you to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Partners!

When I'm not talking to food truck owners, I love spending time talking to other food truck foodies. And let's just say I share similar interests and passions with today's guest.Lamount London is not only a music artist with a culinary background, but is also a food truck foodie, especially in his home of New Orleans. Today we share his journey into the culinary arts, how his passion for food and music go hand in hand, the landscape of New Orleans Cuisine, some of his favorite local trucks and much more

As a food truck owner and entrepreneur, scams are everywhere- In person and digital. On Monday, I hosted a free webinar on protecting yourself again in person scams like counterfeit money and quick change schemes through programming led by Regions Bank. It was during that webinar food truck owner Narissa Saint Fleur shared her experience and questions around cyber hacks that led to me doing my own research on the topic and phone call with Narissa earlier today that I'm sharing unedited tonight. Narissa is the owner of Impact Island Cafe in Ocala, FL and today she shares her experience with credit card hackers and realizing that her point of sales system didn't provide as much support in the situation as she would have expectedThank you EatOkra for being our season 3 sponsor!

The words “vegan,” “plant based” and “dairy free” have become buzz words in the food industry, but they often come with misconceptions about what they are and are not. And furthermore, while many of you have become cognizant of serving your vegan customers, you may be leaving out some great customers- those who are gluten-free. Lucky for you, there's a doctor in the house that knows all about it and is here to explain it all to you.For Dr. Devin Miles, encouraging food trucks to be mindful of the ingredients in their meals they prepare for customers is not just professional but personal. As a person who has been gluten-free for 14 years, she shares the health and liability risks food trucks might pose if they do not understand how to care for gluten free customers as well as some great ideas for those looking to cater to the strong demand in the market Thank you EatOkra for being our season 3 sponsors!

Today's guest has been part of The Food Truck Scholar fam for a while, but we finally got the chance to connect, and hopefully soon I can try some of his wings with orange soda sauce!Romeo Calloway is the owner of Pop Ups Mobile Kitchen in Bear, Delaware and has been steadily growing his brand through pop ups and catering as he works his way to a food truck.In this episode, Romeo shares his experience about navigating the hospitality in the wake of COVID 19 as well as steps and resources he utilizing to make his food truck dreams a realitySpecial thank you to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Partners!

Less than 10 episodes remain in season 3– can you believe it?!We've had some amazing guests on the show this season and still have a few more stories to bring your way, but today, I felt it was important to update you on some exciting news that's happening internally that will be great resources for you! Including our collaboration with Regions bank to host a free webinar on Monday October 18thThank you EatOkra for being our Season 3 Sponsor Partners!To signup for the webinar and join our community, visit TheFoodTruckScholar.com

The food truck industry is full of many challenges and losses that aren't always talked about. But even more important are the ways many are able to rebuild from the ashes. Today's guest has literally done just that. Asia Iqui is the owner of Iqui's Chicken and Tacos in Indianapolis, Indiana. Last year, I reached out after her food trailer caught on fire to learn what happened and next steps. With the support of family and community, Asia is back rolling again with a new truck going harder than ever. With her permission, we share with you our conversation just weeks after the fire so you can hear that in spite of the pain, Asia's determination to remain #DaTacoLadi in Nap TownThank you EatOkra for being our Season 3 Sponsors!If you would like to be a sponsor for Season 4 or a future episode, visit TheFoodTruckScholar.com

Todays guest is a Canadian food historian and academic researcher that is out here living one of my dreams, collecting stories about food in a food truck!Dr. Janis Thiessen is a History Professor at the University of Winnipeg and a principal investigator for the Manitoba Food History Project.Today we talk about the importance of oral history and making research interactive and engaging with people at all levels within and beyond the academy

Happy Labor Day!Now some people may like smash burgers that are all nice and thin, but for me, there's only one way to make a burger- Thicc. Luckily, Jay Wolfe agrees with me and created Thicc Burger, a roaming burger joint that gives each customer a taste of home and a burst of flavor.Jay has traveled the country showcasing their Thicc Burgers at popups and is now ready to roam the streets in a food trailer they are raising funds for. Today, Jay shares how they learned to get out their own way to pursue the dream they've always had- living a life making and eating burgersDonate to Jay's Food Trailer HEREThank you to our season 3 sponsors EatOkra! Download their app HERE!Want to be a sponsor for an episode or Season 4? Contact Us HERE!

Many times when we talk about the food truck journey we focus on going from Truck or trailer to brick and mortar. But what about those who started out as home chefs and caterers who could potentially have a food truck coming to a city near you? Today's guest is someone I'm extremely proud of because he's a former student and colleague that is making a difference in the food scene and honestly everywhere he goes. Nadim Sammur, founder of Chef Smoove started his journey as a college student and is now a caterer, food truck employee and cookbook author. Today he shares his journey, how his engineering major and African American Studies minor shapes how he approaches business and much more.Get 10% off Nadim's cookbook for being part of the #TFTSFam by clicking HERE!Special Thanks to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Sponsors.Become a sponsor for an episode or a season by visiting TheFoodTruckScholar.com

The Food Truck Scholar Podcast doesn't just introduce you to your foodie cousins across the country but your family around the world. From Switzerland to Canada to Australia, the Philippines and everywhere in between folks from all over have been tuning in and sharing their stories this season with  more to come. Today's guest is currently based in the UK but hasn't forgotten his Brooklyn roots. John Lashley and his son Leo are the proud owners of the Brooklyn Brownie Co in North Hampton, UK and who have taken a moment of pain and produced something powerful and positive that the community is rallying behind. I sat down with John to learn the story behind the decadent treats he creates with his son and also learn some other talents he had rolled up his sleeve. And trust me, you wouldn't be able to guess what else this guy does!Thank you to EatOkra for being our season three partners. Apply to be a sponsor partner today at TheFoodTruckScholar.com

I'm in the 205 at the urgent request of my baby brother and bonding time with my sister so it's only right we rewind and bring back one of my favorite Birmingham food trucks that aren't just poppin and making a name for themselves, but are poppin with a purpose. Tanesha Sims Summers is the founder and CEO of Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn company. With Tanesha and her husband Clem, you can count on freshly popped gourmet popcorn that's A+ and doesn't make you feel too bad about indulging yourself. When this first aired, I soon went Birmingham to get some French toast popcorn and I won't lie, I'll be looking for them to buy some more this week!Thank you EatOkra for being our season 3 Partner! If you would like to sponsor an episode or season to get the word out about your food truck product/service/brand, visit our website to apply.

For many of us, access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and food products are something we take for granted. For many in the United States, neighborhoods that have no grocery store in walking distance, access to mostly processed foods and poor quality fruits and vegetables is the norm. Prosperity Market is out to change that. Stating with Los Angeles and then the Nation, founders Carmen and Kara have a vision for what a society could look like where food access is for everyone. For all my listeners who have wanted to start a mobile farmer's market this episode is for you! Also listen for details about their scavenger hunt aimed yo help them raise funds for their trailer.Thank you EatOkra for being our season 3 Partner! If you would like to sponsor an episode or season to get the word out about your food truck product/service/brand, visit our website to apply.

+1 (205) 478-5374:Today all roads lead back home to the 205. Aye this one has been a long time coming. I had this food truck back in 2016, went to their first brick and mortar a couple of years later and late last year, I sat down with the owner right before they opened their second location. I'm talking about none of than Zebbie Carney, owner of Eugenes Hot Chicken.Zebbie has been making moves since day one in the food truck and restaurant industry but it didn't come without hard work. From only making less than 2 grand in the first year to half a million the second year, Zebbie's story can be described as a story of grit, grace, and constant grindAriel Smith:I know you may be wondering, does Ariel really plan to go to every truck she mentions on the show? And the answer is yes I do and you can join me! Subscribe to the food truck scholar YouTube channel to check out my latest adventures in Portland to visit Nikeisah Newton of Meals 4 Heels, exclusive interviews not on the podcast and much more! Thank you to EatOkra for being our season 3 partners!

Now I have had a few guests on the show that go way back with me in terms of The Food Truck Scholar, but this guest even goes beyond that for me. Justus McGee is the owner of SoulFresh Springrolls in Durham, NC and earlier this year we sat down to talk about our journeys together, his transition from the classroom to the curbside, and the impact of Covid on his business. Soon after Justus closed his food truck due in large part to the Covid 19 pandemic, but nonetheless, his story is one to be shared and his friendship is one I cherish Thank you to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Sponsors! The go-to app for finding Black-owned food trucks and restaurants

Now y'all know if there's one thing about me, I'm going to find a food truck and all it's cousins: food truck trailers, food carts, food buses, food 18 wheeler trucks, food pods, you name it! Well today, I'm bringing to you a guest I met last year that introduced me to a new possibility for the first time on the show: a food boat. Mark McGuire built his own food boat and became a trailblazer in North Carolina and is part of the first way of folks tapping into this sector is mobile food. Making up approximately less than 1% of the mobile food vending population, food boaters are here and I believe they will only grow over time. Today we listen to Marc's journey and his plans of helping others get on the waterThank you to EatOkra for Season 3 partners! If you would like to be a partner for the show, email Ariel@TheFoodTruckScholar.com

Today, I'm sitting solo at the mic- actually I'm in my car since I'm working out of state, to host a family meeting this episode so I can update the whole TFTSFam on some of the updates and changes coming to not only grow the brand but sustain itAs always, thank you to EatOkra for being our season 3 sponsors!

Often on this show I talk about the importance of pursuing what you love and my conversation with today's guest couldn't capture that more. Farnesther Lafaitey aka Chef Fly is the proud owner of Grits and Things in Atlanta, GA who is known for her signature brunch specialsToday Chef Fly shares with us how she left a career path that was not fulfilling for her to pursue a passion that now is filling the hearts and stomachs of all who meet her and her truck.Thank you to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Partners!

Today's guest is an educator at heart that has definitely made his way through kitchens in many different forms. Chef Steven McIntyre is a culinary instructor based in Birmingham, AL. To some of you, his voice will sound familiar because Chef McIntyre was first introduced to the fam last year during our Black Food Entrepreneurship Webinar SeriesThis week, we learn about his entry into the industry, benefits of culinary school, his experience working on a food truck at the time of the interview, and all the career options that are available to you in the culinary arts beyond being a chef or line cook

Today's guest is no stranger to the food truck scholar community. From being a guest on season 1 to a moderator and regular attendee of the all things food trucks club on Clubhouse, Food Network champion Chef Darrell Johnson has been open to sharing his story and his life lessons with the community. Earlier this year we sat down to talk about life after winning season 10 of the Great Food Truck Race and how he's taking 2021 by stormThank you to EatOkra for being our season three partners and to Roaming Hunger for partnering for this episode. You can download EatOkra's app to help you find Black owned food trucks and restaurants AND sign up for Roaming Hunger's National Food Truck Day by clicking HERE!

Next week, June 25th is national food truck day but you know we gotta celebrate all week long right?! The Food Truck Scholar is proud to partner with Roaming Hunger and several other national partners in the food truck community and press all over the nation to celebrate YOU. That's right, we want to celebrate each and every one of you for making the industry we all love so special. Whether you're open for one day or the whole week next week, we want you to sign up today and we help bring more customers and press your way. Did I mention it's free to participate? Simply click the link our link here to sign up!As we get ready for Father's Day, I thought about so many fathers I've had on the show that entered into the food truck industry whether solely or in part because they wanted to be closer to their family and have made it part of the family legacy. Well today's guest is not only doing that, but he's also the prime case study of what it means to have a growth mindset that is critical to be in the food truck industry. And not only that, he's been a big brother to me since we connected a year ago.Ya Ron Brown is the Owner of Southern Roots BBQ in the ATL area, and he's poured everything he has into his dream And shares it'll take nothing less for you to accomplish yours.Thank you to our season three partners EatOkra- the go to app for finding Black owned food trucks and restaurants.

People often ask if I have been to every truck from the podcast, and my response is always “not yet.” While work and school are demanding by themselves, I make it a goal to visit as many as I can, no matter how far down the line it is And that's why I'm excited to share an episode I originally released two years ago in season 1 with Nikeisah Newton, owner of Meals for Heels in Portland, OR. Nikeisah gained national attention for being Portland's first late night delivery service supporting the sex work and sex positive industries, but she's done so much more as well! Her activism with Black and Brown communities, the LGBTQ community, Black and Brown farmers, local artists and those at the intersections of those communities show that meals for heels it's not just in the community-it's for the community. This week, following the third anniversary of The Food Truck Scholar, I'm flying to Portland to finally meet Nikeisah in person, try her food and celebrate the one month anniversary of her new walk up restaurant. As you can tell by the audio, we've both come a long way and a followup interview is long overdue Thank you to our Season 3 Partners EatOkra- the go to app for finding Black owned food trucks and restaurants!

Today, I’m taking you to my current neck of the woods- West Lafayette. IN home of the boilermakers to introduce you to Ahmad Athamneh owner of Grilled Chicken and Rice. We talk about the importance of having mentors and being a continuous student, having a cost structure and keeping a lean menuThank you to our Season 3 Partners EatOkra! Download the app today to find and support local Black-owned food trucks and restaurants near you.

Today, I’m taking you to Greensboro, NC to meet a duo that has been providing entertainment and community in the city and across the state. The founders of FoodTrk Network noticed that many college campus across the state may have had students on campus last year, but they had no outlets to connect with others due to pandemic and found a fairly safe yet engaging solution that hopefully soon, will be in a city near you.Thank you to our season 3 Partner EatOkra! Download the app today to find Black owned food trucks and restaurants!

I love when listeners become guests and part of fam and Robert Gathers and his wife, Founders of 803 foody from Columbia, SC are now a part of the fam.Today, Robert shares his journey of finding what truly makes him come alive and turning his life around by creating a vision that’s bigger than him and changing up folks palates in Columbia South Carolina one bite at a timeSpecial thank you to our Season 3 partners EatOkra!Also thank you to ShoutOut Atlanta for featuring Ariel

Today’s guest is from the city of brotherly love and sisterly affection. Tanesha Trippett of Brotherly Grub food truck and Jacobs Cafe stepped away from the hustle and bustle of business to talk to us about family legacy, her catering and food truck journey- before and during Covid. While many see a food truck as “pandemic and recession proof” that isn’t always case. City regulations can play a huge part in food truck success as well as other factors that this episode showcases.Special Thank You to EatOkra for being our season 3 Partners!

With Mother’s Day only a few days away, I thought it would be great to feature a guest I been looking forward to sharing with you all ever since we connected earlier this year. Sonja Beal stopped by the show on behalf of her son Frankie Beal, a 12 year old that is taking Independence, MO and pretty soon the nation by storm with his mom right beside him. Check out Mister Dipz on Instagram and Facebook!Special thank you to our season 3 partners EatOkra! Download today!

Lately, I’ve been getting more questions about how much does it cost to build a food truck, and my answer is always “it depends, but it’s never cheap no matter if you do it yourself or get a custom build in the long run.” Today, I have another food truck builder,  Sharone Klinger of Master Chef Mobile Kitchens in Brooklyn NY taking the conversation even further. Today, we discuss why the question “how much is it to build a food truck” isn’t the most effective question to ask, the importance of having your menu ready and knowing your numbers, and so much more

One of the values we wanted to add to this season of podcast was the voices of more food truck builders on the show and we have been able to do just that! Today’s guest is Charles Daugherty of Red Fern Dynamics based in Georgia. Charles was a wealth of knowledge in not only food truck trends but also common mistakes new food truckers make in getting their truck. In this episode he shares with us how he makes sure his customers not only get rolling but can stay rolling by being well informedSpecial Thanks to EatOkra- our season 3 partnersRed Fern DynamicsSubscribe to The Food Truck Scholar YouTube Page

Today’s guest found a way to customize the online ordering and delivery process just for food trucks, which proved to be critical in keeping many food trucks afloat in 2020. John Kuhn is the founder of Food Truck Pub and has not only created a platform that’s easy for food trucks to use but free as well. How’s it free? You’ll hear all about it.Special Thanks to EatOkra for being our Season 3 Partners!Join me TONIGHT at 7pm EST for Food Trucks 101 as part of EatOkra's Webinar SeriesJoin me Monday, April 19th for our food truck mini con with Urban Impact Inc and Grow w Google! Sign up here!

Today’s guest has a heart for people and for the community and she loved both love and perseverance through food. Natalie Young is a creator and entrepreneur in several avenues, including RHL Steaks Burgers & Ribs in Columbus, OhioToday, Natalie shares with how went from a overcoming hurricanes and homelessness to becoming a food truck owner and nonprofit owner whose message for others is quite simple yet powerful: never give upSpecial thanks to our Season 3 Partners EatOkra- the go to app for finding Black owned food trucks and restaurants. This month, EatOkra is bringing to you a webinar series featuring yours truly and other experts on popups, marketing, storytelling and more! Sign up here for this FREE series and join us every Monday at 7pm EST

I love finding food trucks wherever I go, and the cofounder of WTF (Where's The Food Truck) feels the same way. Today we discuss how he went from the restaurant industry on the Vegas strip to creating an app to make life easier for food truckers.Special thanks to our season 3 partner EatOkra- the go to app for finding Black-owned food trucks and restaurants

Often times we think of things such as contracts and branding, but how often are we ensuring that our work is protected? Tune in to this week's episode as we dive into how to protect your brand with a trademark.In this episode, I'm joined by Ashante Rosier-Robinson of Rosier Law Group as she shares the differences between trademark, copyrights, and pattens. Ashante shares what you need to trademark, when, and key items to keep in mind if you choose to update your brand logoSpecial thanks to our season three partner EatOkra! Download today! 

From starting to building out food trucks, Mike Gallicchio of Titan Trucks joins us to share how he accidentally fell into the food truck industry. Mike shares insights on how he's constantly cultivating community within Columbus, OH, with the launch of the Columbus Food Truck Festival, which saw over 12,000 people in its 1st year. As a custom food truck builder, Mike shares insights on how to choose a builder, how to best position your food truck business, and what areas to best invest in.Special thanks to our season three partner EatOkra! Download today! Episode Special OfferOur listeners can get 10% off a custom-built food truck or trailer with Titan Food Trucks

Join in on my conversation with Naresh Shan of Spice Republic as he shares his journey from 15 years in design to pivoting into the food truck industry.Naresh discusses his desire to fill the gap for cultural foods in his area in Switzerland, how Covid impacted his plans and why he ultimately choose to go with a food truck rather than a restaurant. Special thanks to our season three partner EatOkra! Download today! 

Join us for our Season 3 opener, as we introduce new segments and how The Food Truck Scholar came to be.We are joined by our sponsors; founders of Eat Okra, to discuss why they created a centralized app to help find Black-owned restaurants. They'll share their journey to developing this amazing resource, how to get your restaurant added to their directory, ways patrons can curate their travels within the app, and much more.Then take a journey with us to understand the story behind The Food Truck Scholar. Ariel shares what sparked her passion and ultimately propelled her studies into the food truck industry. The story is not what you'd expect, so tune in to learn more.Special thanks to our season three partner EatOkra! Download today!