The Egyptian Cowboy: Kareem El Ghayesh’s Journey to BBQ Stardom in Austin

Send us Fan MailIf Kareem’s journey has inspired you, be sure to download this episode and share it with friends and family as you travel for the holidays. Don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to catch more inspiring stories. And if you’re ever in Austin, make sure to check out KG BBQ—you won’t regret it! Leave a 5-star review to help us keep bringing incredible stories like Kareem’s to life.Happy Thanksgiving! As we prepare for this holiday centered around food and gratitude, I’m excited to bring you an episode featuring Kareem El Ghayesh, better known as the Egyptian Cowboy. Kareem is the mastermind behind KG BBQ, an incredible food truck serving some of the best barbecue in Austin, TX. From his roots in Cairo, Egypt, to building a thriving business in the Texas barbecue scene, Kareem’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and cultural fusion.Visit KG BBQ Here: 3108 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723Follow KG BBQ Here: @kgbbqWatch Kareem’s Ted Talk Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ebzlrsOFMkLearn about KG BBQ Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U42e0lLesmsKareem’s journey has been featured in The Economist, CBS Sunday Morning, Bon Appétit, and Texas Monthly, and he’s earned accolades like Rising Star Chef of the Year from Star Chefs Magazine. In under six months, KG BBQ secured a James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef in Texas.In this episode, Kareem shares his inspiring path from the corporate world of Cairo to creating his culinary dream in Austin, offering valuable insights into food, culture, and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re flying for the holidays or preparing your Thanksgiving feast, Kareem’s story will keep you engaged from start to finish.(0:00) Kareem reacts to his unexpected journey, including his TED Talk. We dive into the numbers behind KG BBQ and Kareem’s expert tips for running a successful food business.(11:30) Why is Texas the BBQ capital of the world? Kareem discusses his hopes for this episode’s impact.(18:00) Kareem’s upbringing in Cairo, Egypt: We talk about the intersection of religion, politics, and spirituality, as well as the independent culture of the U.S. compared to Europe and Africa.(37:00) The spark of Kareem’s culinary journey: From menu strategy to creating balanced meals, his relationship with his father, and his transition from the corporate world to the food industry.(53:00) Kareem’s first experience with Texas brisket and how it inspired his love for BBQ.(59:45) Kareem shares the pivotal story of leaving his corporate career in Cairo to chase his BBQ dream in Austin.(1:19:30) The challenges of COVID-19 and the birth of the Underground Egyptian BBQ Club.(1:34:00) The official launch of KG BBQ and Kareem’s appearance on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown.(1:48:00) A glimpse into the future of KG BBQ and Kareem’s plans for what’s next.KG BBQ Austin TXEgyptian Cowboy BBQKareem El Ghayesh BBQ journeyBest BBQ in AustinCairo to Texas BBQ storyJames Beard Award chef AustinEgyptian BBQ fusionTexas BBQ cultureCOVID-19 BBQ success storyNetflix Barbecue Showdown KareemSupport the showhttps://www.dsnsb.com/