E37: A self-trained chef and serial entrepreneur builds an international line of clean-label, locally sourced sauces & rubs in Georgia | Walter Brooks Jr. of Brooksmade Gourmet in GA

I’m excited invite you to my conversation with Walter Brooks Jr. Walter is a serial entrepreneur and the owner and operator of Brooksmade Gourmet Foods - a global food company specializing in clean-label, locally sourced sauces & rubs made in Georgia. Walter grew up in a large family in South Central Los Angeles. As one of nine kids, money was tight and he didn’t always know where his next meal would come from. Battling food insecurity in his youth made him value good food and instilled a deep passion for cooking when he got older.Walter left Los Angeles to attend hospitality school in Georgia as a young adult. He spent many years doing various service jobs - working in hotels, as a security guard, and as a car repairman. Along the way, people recognized Walter's natural talent and drive they continually encouraged him to strive for more and build something of his own.An unexpected medical emergency gave Walter the time and space outside of work to nurture his love of cooking. After recovering, he decided to pivot and open up a catering business. From the beginning, Walter used his cooking to contribute to his community by donating to food drives, hosting community events and cooking for the homeless. It meant so much to now be in a position to give back to others. He insists that you shouldn’t let the world marginalize you because of your circumstances. In Walter’s words: “Just because I wasn't better off, that doesn’t mean I was less than.”Walter is deeply passionate about giving back to the next generation and credits mentorship as a vital component of his success. In addition to running his business, he mentors the next generation of entrepreneurs and works closely with organizations such as 100 Black Men of America. In our conversation we speak about what hurdles he had to overcome to believe in himself,  the valuable guidance he received along his path, and how he defied expectations. Walter offers some really powerful advice on ways to avoid self-defeating thoughts and behaviors. Walter is mentor to many, and credits his own success to mentorship. I hope you find value in his words, perspective, and generous spirit.This is a story about the power of mentorship, humility, and how generosity can lead to prosperity.To read his full feature visit: www.urbanexodus.com/blogSupport the showSign up for  Apple Podcasts premium or our Patreon Membership for ad-free listening, rapid-fire guest interviews & our new mini-pod Ditch the City. urbanexodus.com | @theurbanexodus | buy the book