Small business IS personal.
A Father Building Through Grief
Alright Team,
This week, I sat down with a man whose story reminded me why we do this — not just the podcast, but the building, the showing up, the staying in it when it’s hard.
You might know Pretty Thai for their sauces or their food truck, but you probably don’t know what really built it.
Robert Strong is a veteran, a chef, and a small business operator — but none of that would’ve been enough to keep him going. Not when life hit this father the way it did.
We talked about food during deployment. About risk and hiring and growth. But at some point the conversation changed — and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since.
This isn’t a business success story. It’s a human one.
And if you’ve ever questioned whether it’s worth it — the late nights, the sacrifice, the slow climb — this one’s for you.
💛 Want to Support Families Like Robert’s?
In honor of Robert’s story, we’re spotlighting the Palmer Nicklaus Foundation — a nonprofit supporting families facing critical pediatric health challenges.
They provide comfort, resources, and a reminder that no one has to walk through it alone.
Build smarter. Lead harder. Operate better.
Truly,
JC & The American Operator Team