A chance vacation experience sparked an idea that led to the thoughtful actions of his supporting family in creating an opportunity for Joe to help develop his strengths and confidence. Joe’s sincere work and dedication in diligently learning and managing various processes in his gourmet kettle corn business has resulted in remarkable success. That was fifteen years ago. Today, Poppin Joe's™ products can be found at Walmart along with various shows and fairs throughout Kansas and Georgia. Joe also proudly supports the US military stationed in Iraq by sending them his Gourmet Kettle Korn for their eating pleasure.

Can you tell us how you got the idea for “Poppin Joe's™”?J:  My Dad came up with the concept of Poppin Joes while on a cruise in Alaska. A local farmers market in one of the port cities had a vendor popping kettle korn, and it caught his attention. I was born in Iowa, and grew up on a farm where we raised corn - field corn and popcorn. So seeing this familiar product was exciting to him. Asking questions of the vendor, and learning how the process worked got Dad thinking - I could do the various processes required, and I am strong, so the skills needed seemed to be a good match for me.

What is your favorite flavor?J:  I have five flavors, and honestly, after popping them for 15 years, I eat them all. The most popular is straight kettle korn. But my family loves the karmel since it is a recipe my mom made when we all grew up.

In what ways has your family helped you to make this business a success? What is the best thing you love about your family?J: My business is a huge success because of my parents. They made sure they tapped into resources that they needed to start up the business, and then put the time, sweat, and equity into it to make it work for me. Dad spent two years with me at local Walmarts, teaching me to pop, and discovering there was a market and interest in kettle korn. Mom did the business side of the start up, and was our administrative help in getting festivals and events set up. The thing I love most about my family is having fun with them. Smiling and laughing together.

What challenges did you face at school? How did you handle these challenges?J: I had lots of challenges at school - my parents would say that the greatest disability is low expectations, and my school seemed to have that. My parents were advocates for me from the day I was born, so they ensured I had the best education, and the best opportunities possible.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?J:  I love to hang out, swim, eat, laugh, shoot hoops, and just have fun. I have a great smile and laugh when I get to relax and just hang out with friends who love me.

What are your other hobbies?J:  I volunteer each week at the horse barn, taking care of the horses. I enjoy music, and have music therapy, and music lessons each week. I play the piano, the autoharp, guitar and handbells! I love to swim. I love to help others and use my muscles. I spend time each month at a Senior Assisted Living Community helping elders with dementia and Alzheimers in activities.

Can you give tips/advice for those in our community who want to start a business?J: Know your strengths and find a way to use them! Whether it is working for someone else, or starting up your own business. Do something you can be successful at and enjoy.

Any special message for our community?J:  Never ever ever give up - find what you love and do it!