EP 4: From Crumbs to Crowning Glory: Inside Janie Burkett's Biscuit Empire

Biz Mafia : Where Business Gets Made

Today's episode delves into the story of Janie Burkett, who is behind the success of Texas' Biscuit Bar franchise. The episode covers her journey from the beginning of a savory concept during her pregnancy to overcoming the challenges and achieving triumphant expansion. She talks about the difficulties of starting a restaurant business with no prior experience, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurial ambitions, and her passion for business ethics.

Janie reveals the unique aspects of her culinary domain, where technology meets swift, casual service, and how team alignment with core company principles plays a pivotal role in its success. The discussion extends to balancing professional pursuits with the sanctity of home life and setting boundaries between the family domain and the empire's dominion.

Get ready for an episode full of wisdom and gripping tales from Janie's fascinating journey.

What We Discuss

• [00:00:26] - Meet Janie Burkett
• [00:00:38] - Janie’s story behind starting Biscuit Bar
• [00:05:07] - The advantages of having a business background
• [00:08:07] - Importance of discipline in entrepreneurship
• [00:10:49] - Passion vs product
• [00:20:25] - Creating the perfect biscuit recipe
• [00:22:13] - Quality control and feedback
• [00:29:39] - “High tech” and “high touch”
• [00:37:08] - How working with your significant other is a complementary skill
• [00:49:06] - Navigating the due diligence process
• [00:54:02] - Importance of maintaining good relationships with investors
• [00:57:09] - Negotiating deal terms and protecting the business
• [01:03:27] - Impact of COVID-19 on fundraising efforts
• [01:07:42] - Importance of having a strong management team
• [01:10:56] - Role of culture in attracting investors
• [01:14:09] - Different factors that can impact fundraising
• [01:31:16] - The future of Biscuit Bar

Notable Quotes

• [00:13:42] “Successful people are willing to do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do.” - Janie Burkett
• [00:52:19] “I think it’s really important to know, going in, what are the biggest deal points that you must achieve; and then know what you're willing to compromise on.” - Janie Burkett

Our Guest

Janie Burkett, together with her husband Jake, founded The Biscuit Bar after turning tragedy into triumph. The Burkett family found solace in food, particularly biscuits, after experiencing a tragedy. On New Year's Eve in 2016, Janie and her brother spent time together creating biscuit sandwiches in their home kitchen, which sparked a newfound passion. Eventually, the concept evolved into brick-and-mortar establishments, with the first location opening in Plano in 2018. Since then, the business has expanded to six locations, including Deep Ellum, Coppell, North Arlington, Fort Worth's Stockyards, and Abilene, with plans for further growth.

Resources and Links

• Biscuit Bar website: https://www.thebiscuit.bar/

• Connect with Janie Burkett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janie-burkett-a1081726/

• Follow the BizMafia podcast
• On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd4z3Xk-iOT5zt62H4_juXw
• On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bizmafia/

• Connect with Pat Linden on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-linden
• Connect with Bryan Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-taylor-0429008