Hey, I’m james — 38 years old, born and raised in Kansas City, where the BBQ is bold, the hospitality’s real, and cooking isn’t just something you do — it’s a way of showing up for the people you love.
I didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming a chef. Honestly, I just wanted to eat well and make sure no one ever had to settle for dry chicken or soggy green beans at my table. My dad was a weekend warrior with a smoker, my mom was queen of the casseroles, and I found my groove somewhere in between — slow-cooked, simple, and packed with flavor.
For me, cooking started out of necessity — I was a young guy living on my own, tired of takeout and frozen dinners. So I started calling my grandma, pestering her for recipes, watching cooking shows, and trying things out. A lot of it flopped at first (don’t ask about the gumbo incident), but eventually, I found my rhythm — and my kitchen turned into my happy place.
Now I cook because I love the process. I love that moment when you’re standing over a simmering pot, tasting as you go, and you just know it’s going to be good. I’m not here to impress Michelin inspectors — I’m here for anyone trying to up their dinner game—or anyone who just wants to eat something that makes them smile.
My recipes are real-deal, tested in a regular home kitchen, no fancy gadgets required. I believe in seasoning with your heart, tasting as you go, and never apologizing for licking the spoon. I’m all about food that feeds your body and your people — hearty, straightforward, and packed with flavor.
So if you’re here to learn, experiment, or just find a recipe that won’t let you down, welcome. Grab a cast iron, preheat the oven, and let’s get cooking.