I had a proud parent moment, although it wasn’t with my kids. Back in 2008, Trip Owens was a video production intern with my team. He did an excellent job for us and, after graduation, I tried to hire him a few times before successfully doing so in 2022. He’s an award-winning director and exceptional project manager. I don’t know how much I can contribute to my mentoring, but when it comes to our work family, he’s one of my own.

Recently we had a commercial shoot in the Talladega area for which Trip was responsible. Every detail was handled impeccably, from his choice of location to the day’s efficiency. But the decision that fully ignited my emotions was his choice of caterer, The Shack BBQ. Whether his hand was forced or it was done of his own free will, I felt like a proud papa.

For ease of schedule, we ordered ahead for carry-out, which was ready on time and fulfilled accurately. The first thing that hit was the smoky aroma, even before removing it from the bags. I knew what my sandwich looked like before seeing it, just because of the smell. Peeling back the waxy paper proved me right. The pork was hard smoked with crunchy bark bits mixed in throughout the chop. The smoke ring sank deep into the meat, producing a pink ring that was justified by the intense smoke flavor.  My jumbo order came on an oversized bun, loaded down and topped with sauce. Alone, the pork was smoky, tender, and packed with flavor. I couldn’t identify much of a rub, but seasoning wasn’t needed. The Shack’s building claims to use hickory in all their cooks, which penetrates and flavors like a boss. This sandwich was hearty and satisfied all my senses. It still lingers on my palate four days later. Awesome sandwich!

My choice of side is always baked beans. Theirs reminded me of pork and beans. They were mustardy, stew like, with a mild flavor. They arrived warm and satisfied my craving. We had chips on set so I tore into a bag for a salty crunch. Having a variety in texture makes a meal that much better for me.

Others in our group strayed from my traditional preference, resulting in my observing the chicken fingers, ribs, slaw, and fries. Everyone was happy with their food, except for the fries that steamed in the wrapping. That’s a frequently made error. Don’t order fries if they have to be transported before eating. Just a little tip when you’re picking up.

It was a good day. We had a very successful commercial shoot, had fun doing it, and found a little barbecue joint with big barbecue flavor. Kudo’s, Trip! There’ll be a little something extra in this year’s performance review.