From IT to BBQ: Jake Ruddy’s Recipe for Business Success

Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered what IT services and barbecue have in common? There’s more overlap than you might expect! In this episode of Outside Insights, I talked with Jake Ruddy, the President of PCS, a leading IT services company. He is also the creative force behind Rum and Cook, a rapidly growing YouTube channel dedicated to barbecue.Jakes’s journey focuses on building, scaling, and leading businesses while enjoying slow-smoked ribs. He discusses what it takes to grow a business, emphasizing that leadership and customer service are essential. Additionally, he shares how he transformed his passion for barbecue into a profitable side hustle.What You’ll LearnMastery, Tech & BBQ — Discover the surprising similarities between running an IT company and perfecting the ideal brisket.Scaling & Leadership — Understand the challenges of business growth, effective delegation, and developing the next generation of leaders.Mindset & Money — Explore how affirmations, goal-setting, and financial literacy contribute to achieving success.Content & Community — Learn how Rum and Cook evolved from a passion project into a thriving brand.Customer Service Wins — Find out why exceptional service is key to any successful business.Jake’s Must-Read Book ListLeadership and Self-Deception — The Arbinger InstituteThe Richest Man in Babylon — George S. ClasonThe Culture Code — Daniel CoyleShoe Dog