Episode 33: Eugene Kang (@countryarcher) is the CEO and co-founder of Country Archer Provisions, the number one jerky brand in the natural and specialty channels.Eugene dropped out of college to found Country Archer Jerky Co after tasting the product by chance at Grand Canyon while on a road trip. In 2019, just 8 years after its founding, the company earned an estimate of $35 million in revenue, with its products spread across 25,000 stores in America. He was a part of the 2019 Forbes 30 Under 30 class, under the Food & Drink category.Show Notes:
- 1:25 - Introduction into Eugene's background, buying out a business, and how it led to Country Archer Jerky
- 8:18 - Eugene starting out at 20 years old, his experience, and his thought process on buying the business
- 10:46 - Going to school, hobbies, and other involvements growing up
- 13:19 - Aspirations in Political Science and Law, pivoting interests towards entrepreneurship and disruption
- 16:28 - Convincing his dad and getting the loans to purchase the business
- 21:22 - Discussing doubts on starting the business and how some ignorance can help with entrepreneurship
- 26:39 - Transforming into a larger business, getting into supermarkets, and returning the money to dad
- 32:08 - Letting others' take greater control of the business and meeting veteran investors
- 34:21 - Being a young Asian American investor in an industry of older Caucasians
- 37:14 - Deciding to continue in the food industry, favorite foods, Japan
- 42:10 - What draws Eugene to Japanese culture and other stories about Japan
- 49:02 - Developing a work-life balance and focusing on life outside of work
- 54:32 - Growing older and how priorities change. Book recommendation for For Better or For Worse.
- 58:26 - One habit you do benefit most from--listening and being attentive.
- 59:25 - The worst habit you have--dragging your feet too much.
- 1:00:16 - Defining success--having successful relationships in your personal life. Getting perspective of voices outside of your industry.
- 1:02:02 - Best investments you've made under $100--investing in better sleep.
- 1:03:35 - Best advice--never lose self-awareness. Know your shortcomings and your strengths.
- 1:06:04 - Parting thoughts and how to contact Eugene
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