Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Stockard
Hi Matthew, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Long Beach native, has always had a deep passion for food and innovation. After attending college in Oklahoma, I returned to California to further my culinary education at The Art Institute, earning a BA in Culinary Science in 2013. With over two decades of experience, including managing multi-million dollar restaurants, I discovered his interest in infusions early on, pioneering the cannabis-infused cuisine scene since 1994. Today, as a multi-state operator, I combined my culinary expertise with craft production to create one-of-a-kind, gourmet-infused sauces that stand out in the market.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
MY road to success has been anything but easy, marked by numerous challenges along the way. At just 16, I applied to kitchen jobs but struggled to get hired. Working overseas introduced new cultural challenges. As a Black-owned brand in the cannabis industry, I faced the difficulty of knowing MY worth and talent but often fell prey to deals that didn’t serve me well. In my late teens and early 20s, I got into trouble but turned my life around, realizing I wanted more. Today, I still encounters roadblocks in business but has learned not to take them personally. Instead, I focus on how to overcomes each challenge, understanding that perseverance is key. Surrounding myself with a great team has been a huge step in his continued success.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
In addition to traditional cooking, I’ve started a cannabis-infused edibles company and am revolutionizing the edibles category with my infused condiments. As a multi-state operator, I currently have products coming to market in California, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Colorado, and Mississippi, with more states to come. My lineup includes infused hot sauce, BBQ sauce, olive oil, honey, and ketchup, to name a few. My goal is to fill your pantry with infused products that range from savory to sweet. I take pride in being a leader in the Cooking with Cannabis space and in the Edible category.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Just being consistent as a Chef and person. Staying true to myself and my belief. Doing things my way and being a inspiration to others. Surrounding yourself with a great team that have your best interest and can see your vision. Having a team that motivates you and at the same time reel you back in when you need it. Having someone by your side to bounce your crazy ideas off of and them saying I think its obtainable and pulls out paper and helps you write it all down. Again support from family and friends. My family has been my biggest help and inspiration, they’ve been to almost every event with me. It’s safe to say I run a family business seeing that they all are involved from packaging products to staff at my Events.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chefmattofficial.com
- Instagram: chefmatt2.0
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/chefmattcooks
- Youtube: matthewstockard185
