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Thomas Ward

We Need More Cowbell

part of a series on Spicy

53:14

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Thomas shares his journey into the restaurant business and talks about the importance of being a disruptor.

Thomas ward, owner of several unique Orlando-area restaurants, uses the classic SNL skit about needing “more cowbell” as the basis of his philosophy of doing business. He shares several experiences that shaped his trajectory and why he believes that doing things differently is foundational to his success.

About the speaker

Meet Thomas Ward, a spirited local restaurateur hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Currently, he's making waves as the proud owner of two culinary hotspots in Orlando, Pig Floyd's and Pigzza.

Born into a family of five siblings, Thomas inherited a formidable work ethic from his father, a visionary entrepreneur who helmed Payco Foods, the island's largest ice cream distribution company. Thomas's entrepreneurial journey began at a tender age, as he accompanied his father on ice cream deliveries, gaining invaluable insights into the world of business.

After graduating from Rollins College, he embarked on a series of adventures, from exploring real estate to immersing himself in the supermarket and food hall industry back home.

Thomas's entrepreneurial journey began with the co-founding of the Treehouse Truck, renowned for its delectable burgers and elevated sandwiches, marking his debut in the culinary scene. Building on this success, he founded Pig Floyd's Urban BBQ in 2014, driven by a fervent desire to redefine barbecue. Through sheer determination and a thirst for knowledge, Thomas honed his skills, earning the title of self-proclaimed Pitmaster after graduating from "YouTube University."

In 2023, Thomas unveiled an innovative concept: Pigzza, a fusion of Pig Floyd's smoky allure with the timeless charm of Italian cuisine. This culinary fusion, affectionately termed "Italianish," offers a unique and tantalizing dining experience. Alongside his culinary ventures, Thomas hosts the engaging podcast "Beyond the Smoke." Tune in to "Beyond the Smoke" for an exclusive glimpse into the world of food and entrepreneurship.

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