Behind the Pit interview with Mark Crigler of Operation BBQ Relief


Owner Name: Mark Crigler

Age: 68

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Brand Name: BBQ THIS/SAUSAGE THAT

 

Has BBQ always been your passion, or did you have a career before?

Growing up in St. Joseph, MO. With a family involved in the livestock industry, BBQ just came naturally. My first remembrance of BBQ was going to the Kansas City A’s baseball games with my grandfather. We would park at Arthur Bryant’s, eat lunch, and walk up the hill to Municipal Stadium to watch the game. So at roughly 5 years old, I was hooked. So I guess you could say I’ve had a 60 plus year passion.

 

How did you come up with the brand name “BBQTHIS/SAUSAGETHAT” ?

Since you can’t buy old school sausage, I decided to learn how to make my own. BBQTHIS/SAUSAGETHAT

 

What is your most popular product and why do you think that is?

Probably my Texas Hill Country Czech Jalapeno Sausage. Why, because I like it best.

 

What is the story behind creating that product?

Don’t know if there’s a story behind that sausage, but it was a wonderful time researching it in the Texas Hill Country.

 

What do you think people love most about your brand?

I hope it’s the freshness and the simple honest ingredients.

 

Closing Thoughts:

BBQ is a passion, not a job. Be passionate about what you produce. For those others with this passion, don’t let it die, pass it along.


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