Why This Orlando BBQ Owner Launched a Podcast — and It Changed Everything

From restaurant owner to local thought leader.

Last updated:  October 9, 2024

TL;DR: Thomas Ward, owner of Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ in Orlando, launched a podcast that turned him from restaurant owner to local thought leader. The podcast boosted his business, connected him with his audience, and opened doors for expansion. We at BrandCrumbs helped him make it happen, and we can do the same for you—whether you're in Orlando or anywhere else. 

How the owner of Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ Became a Local Icon

When you think of a BBQ restaurant in Orlando, what comes to mind? Smoky brisket, savory sauces, and perhaps a laid-back atmosphere that smells like heaven.

But a podcast?

That’s not typically on the menu.

Yet, for Thomas Ward, the visionary behind Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ, stepping into the world of podcasting wasn't just a wild idea—it was a game-changer.

The Challenge: Standing Out in a Saturated Market

Thomas Ward was already known in the Orlando food scene for his mouth-watering BBQ, but like many restaurateurs, he faced the challenge of differentiating his brand in a competitive market. With countless dining options vying for attention, he knew that relying on delicious food alone wouldn't be enough. He needed a way to connect with his audience on a deeper level and become more than just another restaurant owner.

The Solution: From Brisket to Broadcasting

Enter BrandCrumbs. (Hi, hello, that's us!) When Thomas partnered with us, we saw an opportunity to leverage his authentic voice and unique story. But instead of sticking to traditional marketing methods, we helped him take a leap of faith into the realm of podcast production—a move that might seem unconventional for a BBQ joint, but one that proved to be brilliantly effective.

We helped conceptualize, strategize, and produce "Beyond the Brisket," a podcast that would soon become a cornerstone of Thomas's brand. The show wasn’t about promoting Pig Floyd's directly or discussing BBQ recipes; instead, it focused on storytelling, community, and entrepreneurship. Thomas invited fellow restaurateurs, chefs, and influencers to share their journeys, challenges, and successes, creating a platform that resonated far beyond the Orlando food industry.

The Transformation: Becoming a Thought Leader

What started as a few experimental episodes quickly evolved into a full-fledged podcast with a growing following. Thomas’s candid conversations and insightful commentary positioned him as a thought leader in the Orlando food scene. Suddenly, he wasn't just a BBQ expert—he was a trusted voice in the local business community.

The podcast did more than just elevate Thomas's profile; it brought tangible benefits to his business. Customers who tuned in felt a personal connection with Thomas, which translated into loyalty and repeat visits. Media outlets began reaching out for interviews, and investors took notice of his innovative approach, opening doors for future expansions.

The Results: A Recipe for Success

The impact of the podcast was undeniable. Beyond the impressive social media and listenership metrics, the podcast helped drive traffic to both Pig Floyd’s physical location and its newly revamped website, where we had integrated online ordering and gift card sales. By targeting high-margin items through strategic content and advertising, we were able to boost revenue significantly.

Some of the standout metrics include:

  • 238k+ social views across multiple platforms.
  • 124k+ menu views online, directly translating into customer engagement.
  • 10k+ podcast listens with 35 episodes produced, reinforcing Thomas’s reputation as an industry leader.

Future Growth: Expanding the Brand

With the podcast solidifying Thomas’s position as a thought leader, Pig Floyd’s is now poised for expansion. Over the next year, Thomas plans to open two new restaurant concepts, with fully digital signage and connected websites for seamless cross-promotion—all designed and managed by BrandCrumbs.

As a full-time member of Pig Floyd’s Creative Board, we continue to drive marketing and advertising initiatives while empowering the team with the skills to manage future campaigns. The collaboration between Thomas and BrandCrumbs is more than a client relationship; it’s a partnership dedicated to innovation and growth.

Why Podcasting Matters for Business Owners

Thomas Ward’s journey from 1 site restaurant owner to multi-site restaurant owner is a testament to the power of thought leadership and storytelling. In an industry where competition is fierce, and attention is fleeting, podcast production offered a unique way to stand out, connect with the community, and drive business growth.

For any Orlando restaurateur—or any entrepreneur, for that matter—looking to carve out a niche and build a loyal following, the lesson is clear: sometimes, the most unconventional strategies yield the most extraordinary results. And who knows? Your next great idea might just be waiting behind the mic.

Let BrandCrumbs Help You Supercharge Your Podcast

Just like we helped Thomas Ward transform his BBQ brand with a podcast, we do the same for every client we work with. At BrandCrumbs, we don't just produce podcasts—we build strategic platforms that drive real growth.

Whether you're in Orlando or anywhere across the country, our team will help you create engaging content, connect with your audience, and position yourself as a leader in your industry.

From our Orlando podcast studio to remote services nationwide, we specialize in turning podcasts into powerful tools for business success. If you're ready to supercharge your growth and make your voice heard, book a call with us today to get started.

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