Business Visionary

Kenny J's BBQ

Business Name: Kenny J’s BBQ
Owners: Kenny and Mary Jackson
Year Established: 2024

People who have visited Kenny J’s BBQ know one thing for sure: it’s more than a place to grab a meal. It’s a place built around family, community, and the kind of hospitality that can turn even the grumpiest day around.

From Backyard Smoker to the Best BBQ in Salt Lake Valley

Some of the best ideas begin over good food and great conversation. For Kenny and Mary Jackson, that idea started in 2018 with a single backyard smoker and a passion for bringing people together.

Kenny spent years perfecting the art of low-and-slow smoked meats, feeding family, friends, and neighbors simply because he loved it. When the world slowed down in 2020, the Jacksons stepped up serving made-from-the-heart meals to their community during a time when connection mattered most.

In 2023, they raised the bar with a 250-gallon smoker from LV Smokers, expanding into catering weddings, corporate events, and charity fundraisers. Then came a defining moment in January 2024 on Kenny’s birthday. After sharing his age with his boss, he heard something that shifted his perspective: “That’s how old I was when I started this place.”

That conversation sparked a bigger one at home. Kenny asked Mary, “What am I doing?”
Her answer was simple and powerful: “You cook, I’ll clean.”
And just like that, Kenny J’s BBQ was born.

Authentic Texas-Style BBQ, Right Here in Utah

Kenny J’s BBQ proudly serves Texas-style BBQ with a touch of Utah influence. They are currently the only BBQ company in South Jordan and one of only a few in Utah to smoke their proteins using the true offset cooking method: low and slow, 100% wood-fired, with no propane or gas assistance of any kind. That commitment to craft shows up in every bite.

Whether they’re serving families at the restaurant, catering a wedding, or feeding a crowd at a corporate event, Kenny and Mary welcome anybody and everybody. Their goal is simple: make sure every guest leaves full, happy, and already planning their next visit.

Rooted in Community

Community has always been at the heart of Kenny J’s BBQ. Kenny grew up here, and giving back is personal. This year alone, they’ve fed several local high school football teams and are currently running a food and Christmas drive supporting a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to help meet clients’ needs during the holiday season.

For Kenny and Mary, owning a business isn’t just about great BBQ. It’s about serving the community that has supported them every step of the way. As they continue building and growing their BBQ company, they remain deeply grateful. Support means the world to their family and to Kenny, especially, as he pours his heart into the community that helped shape him.

If you haven’t experienced Kenny J’s BBQ yet, come hungry. You’ll leave happy. If you can’t wait to look at the menu, you can check that out at kennyjsbbq.com. 

 

Previous Business Visionary

Bjorn’s Brew

At Bjorn’s Brew, every cup of coffee tells a story of kindness. Founded in memory of a beloved family dog, Bjorn’s Brew was built on the belief that great coffee can do more than fuel your day, it can make a difference. What started as a local drive-thru coffee shop has grown into a Utah favorite known for its friendly service, incredible drinks, and dedication to supporting animals in need.

People Who Make It Special

While their coffee speaks for itself, Bjorn’s Brew’s true strength is their people. The team behind the counter brings energy, warmth, and a genuine love for their customers to every interaction. Bjorn’s Brew believes its employees are its most valuable asset and that belief shows. From remembering names and favorite orders to creating an upbeat, welcoming atmosphere, their staff turns every visit into a bright spot in the day.

Coffee That Gives Back

Beyond their exceptional drinks, Bjorn’s Brew stands out for its deep commitment to community and compassion. A portion of every purchase helps local animal charities, giving Utah’s furry friends the support they need. In 2024 alone, Bjorn’s Brew donated $44,000 to local animal organizations, a reflection of their mission to make every cup count for something bigger.

A Vision Fueled by Partnership

Bjorn’s Brew values the personal connection they’ve found with Canyon View Credit Union and the feeling of being known, understood, and supported by people who care about their success. That partnership has helped fuel their journey, giving them the confidence and flexibility to grow while staying true to their mission.

More Than a Coffee Shop

Bjorn’s Brew represents everything we celebrate in our Business Visionaries, passion, purpose, and community impact. They’re proof that when business is built on heart, everyone benefits. 

Bjorn’s Brew – Love Coffee. Love Animals

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bjornsbrew.com
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Previous Business Visionary 

Cowboy Cauldron Company

Cowboy Cauldron Company
Owned by Mike and Sharon Bertelsen
Established May 2008

When it comes to sparking meaningful connection, few things bring people together like a fire. And that’s exactly what Cowboy Cauldron Company has mastered—not just building fire pits and grills but crafting timeless spaces for human interaction.

From Spark to Flame: The Origin Story 

Cowboy Cauldron Company began with a simple prototype inspired by a piece Mike Bertelsen saw at Mount Vernon. When he built one for himself, his friends insisted he make one for them, too. Then their friends wanted one. And their friends… What started as a side project quickly ignited into something much bigger.

Guided by the philosophy that nothing leaves the shop unless it's perfect for its function and built to last for more than a lifetime, Mike and Sharon Bertelsen created something truly unique, a product that’s equal parts craftsmanship, utility, and art.

More Than a Fire Pit: A Catalyst for Connection

While Cowboy Cauldrons are beautiful, durable, and versatile, their true purpose goes deeper. “We don’t sell a fire pit or grill,” says Mike. “We sell the hosting experience.” In a world driven by screens and smart devices, Cowboy Cauldrons are refreshingly analog designed to foster real conversations, real gatherings, and real memories.

A Global Brand with Utah Roots

Though headquartered in Salt Lake City, Cowboy Cauldrons have made their way across the globe from vineyards and resorts to private estates and royal residences. In fact, the Prince of Dubai owns nine of them! The sun never sets on Cowboy Cauldron’s reach, with customers in the UK, France, Japan, Australia, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Fun Fact: From Policy to Pyres

Before fire pits, Mike’s world was policy. He worked as a staff member in the U.S. Congress and as a lobbyist for the mutual fund industry in Washington, D.C. Quite the career shift but a perfect reminder that the best journeys often begin with a spark of inspiration.

Cook, Gather, Repeat

Whether it’s grilling, simmering soup, or throwing the state’s biggest crawdad boil, Cowboy Cauldrons are as functional as they are iconic. Built for beauty and utility, they serve chefs, hosts, and adventurers alike.

Cowboy Cauldron Company – Where fire meets function, and moments become memories.