Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Kinsey – Joplin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Amanda, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?

I want my legacy to prove that you can do all things that you put your mind to. I want little girls to know that even when Life throws her obstacles that she can withstand them! She can become a C.E.O with a G.E.D. She can walk into rooms that no one sitting at the table will look like her – But SEIZE & OWN every opportunity that comes her way!  I want my legacy to provide HOPE for women with children to know that they can still Dream out Loud and be a Mother. I want my legacy to show what it looks like when you believe in yourself ; while people mock you and don’t believe in your version. My legacy will show Gods’ work of Faith, Triumph, and Determination. I hope in generations to come that I will aspire someone to move forward and Dream!

Amanda, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Amanda Kinsey-Joplin. The Founder and C.E.O of Amanda’s BarBeeQue. I am a Black Female Pit Master from Atlanta Ga. My story begins from my son wanting to attend a lifelong trip to China.  Quay (what we call him) speaks Mandarin Chinese and was selected to attend a China summer experience trip. The trip was expensive. And, at the time I was a Special Education Educator for small children. I could not afford the trip and couldn’t see myself telling my son no to this opportunity. So, I borrowed my moms’ grill and started Barbecuing around different street corners of Atlanta GA. We were kick off of many of them but, we raised enough money and some for him to attend the trip. So, I thought it was over but, people kept requesting food from us. I would receive calls daily for BBQ. Just like that Amanda’s BarBeeQue was born! As a Black female pit master who is dominating a Male industry: I’m proud of that. “BarBeeQue” (is how my grandmother spelled it) is my Ancestors oldest ways of cooking meals over an open fire. So, this culinary industry feels easy to me. I’m proud to show that women can be strong resilient and beautiful working amongst men. The BBQ industry is being shook up by Women! I am proud to be a part of a niche that’s putting Ga’s BBQ on the map.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Now, this Social Media thing is so new to me. I like to create stories on social media. I want my followers to feel like their over “Big Momma” house while she prepares their meals. I use social media to display my love and passion for BBQ.  I want my followers to be engage with our story and our products. If we encourage you to buy from us – that’s awesome! Because, we take pride when you choose . It makes us feel like we are a part of every occasion and celebration. Those moments are priceless!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what’s building my reputation is that I’m an African American Woman cooking in a Male dominated culinary field. Who just happens to be good at it -I would think so! Not many women cook on a large scale like I’m doing. I have won awards for our Wings, Ribs, and have made several T.V appearances – this is only the beginning! And, that I’m a Mother and Wife! My husband Alex helps me tremendously. I probably wouldn’t be where I am without him. And my five wonderful children who continually pushes me to my potential! They are learning the trade. My babies help me cook, and they’re my little taste testers (lol) and share ideas about what “Amanda’s BarBeeQue” should do next. All in all, I think the whole concept of Mom, Wife and BBQ Pit master from Atlanta – helps a lot!

Contact info:

• Website: www.amandasbarbeeque.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/amandasbarbeeque
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandasbarbeeque
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-s-barbeeque-323974184
• Twitter: @amandabarbeeque

Image Credits:

Amanda Kinsey – Joplin
Graphic Design Company: Production on Demand L.L.C