We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Kinsey-Joplin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
The habits that have made me successful thus far is my determination for greatness and my ability of not giving up on myself. And, not quitting! I want to see my full potential as a businesswoman. I am determined that ‘Amanda’s BarBeeQue” will become a household name! Being an African American woman / pit master is very hard in this male dominated field. I want to show that women can cook outside the kitchen and play with fire AND still be glamorous at the same time. Most importantly my children are watching and I want to set an example and create a legacy for them that they can continue to build upon.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Amanda’s BarBeeQue is a catering company is owned by a African American Female /Pitmaster. I am a country girl who is extremely proud of her roots. I am born and raised in Atlanta GA. I have overcome a lot of obstacles in my life from being a high school dropout, a teenage mother to now a C.E.O of a striving catering company. I literally started my business on the corner. Ha! can you believe that! People laughed at me. But God had already showed the plans HE had for me and I stuck with HIM and HIS plans! Plus, I am a female pit master in a male dominated culinary field. Women must work twice as hard to be respected by our male companions. So, I feel it is my duty to show men that women don’t just belong in the kitchen; We can grill too! It’s definitely not easy for sure but, I know how to make it look good doing it (lol)! I am excited about the future of Amanda’s BarBeeQue. I have appeared on TV shows, have done countless of interviews, and looking forward to expanding to my own restaurant soon! I am excited about my future. I have secured many future engagements that I am excited about! All of this makes me feel like I am on the right track of becoming the person that God intended for me to be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite spot in Atlanta Ga is any place that plays Salsa music and Mojitos ! If my bestie wanted to go anywhere, I would find the most rustic Mexican spots in Ga and salsa the night away! I love neighborhood gems that are off the main roads. These places have the best vibe and food. And, do not forget the drinks!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The person who deserves the most recognition in my success is my husband Alex. My husband has been by my side from conception of “Amanda’s BarBeeQue”. He has helped developed my business and give me insights into the next adventures I should take. I believe we are a powerful duo together! If you ever meet him, he is very quiet and well reserved person. But, he is the calm effect for me because I am literally a fire ball of emotions! Being married and working together has its ups and downs but it’s ok because you’re with your best friend! It is a special thing when your husband believes in what you do and willing to help you manifest your dreams. I sincerely thank him for being so supportive and love him for that.

Website: www.amandasbarbeeque.com
Instagram: @amandasbarbeeque
Twitter: @amandasbarbeeque
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandasbarbeeque
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5m_0NlagLmqXTFL-sl7-lw?view_as=subscriber