Vincent Pitts Jr. shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Vincent, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Having a moment to myself. I like to stay busy and it’s not for avoidance of anything but I enjoy being involved in activities and organizations that can help someone else. From church, family, school, work, catering, events, or whatever I may have on my calendar I’m always moving. Those times I have an empty day simply just sitting on the porch/outside praying or listening to music allows me to stay grounded and find peace within. I feel this has helped mold me into who I’m becoming.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, I’m Vincent “Big Daddy” Pitts! I am the owner of Big Daddy’s Kitchen & Catering LLC, current culinary student at Nossi College of Arts, and Executive Chef at Corner Bar South in Nashville. I am on a mission to “Bring back and Keep the Soul here in Music City” with one meal at a time. I specialize in southern soul food but am cultivating ideas and dish that combine gourmet experiences with southern favorites. I am on a mission to create opportunities and collaboration with up-and-coming chefs, entrepreneurs, and food critics so that Nashville can become a staple in regard to culinary services.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
In December of 2022, I intended on giving up. I was prepared to leave this earth and be nothing more than a memory. Life and my own immature decisions in business, with friendships, amongst other things put me in a position that mentally and physically drained me. From 12/3/2022 until late March of 2023 I was estranged from my family, friends, church, clients, and the world. During this time God gave me a first look at how life could be without the support of people who truly love and care about me. Inspite of all the things i felt would way me down simple encounters with individuals that were in worse predicaments and struggle gave me hope and encouragement that sometimes we fall down, but you have to get back up.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me FAITH.
The late Frankie Beverly wrote in the song Joy and Pain, “….. there will be sorrow, but you will endure. Where there’s a flower, there’s the sun and the rain there. Oh, but it’s wonderful, they’re both one in the same.”
Often times human nature allows us to feel sorry for ourselves or puts us in a depression because of the obstacle’s life can put us through. I’ve learned that “endure hardship as a good solider of Jesus Christ.” (2 Timothy 2:3), because your faith will please him bring you through any situation you go through. No matter how great of a cook I am or opportunities I’m presented with, being in “seasons” when the weight of the world felt as if it was on my back, I still have been able to stay on course with my journey.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe I have a obligation to “serve”. We are living in a time now where empathy is frowned upon and consideration is not valued. I feel it is my duty to stay committed to being a source of some help to somebody.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel peace the most in those times I’m able to sit under the sunrise at the dawn of day or under the moonlight on a quiet night. Times with my immediate family and small circle of friends give me peace because the energy and aura of love is all around me. The times I’m able to cook or put together a small dinner or some type of fellowship does so much to my soul.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @bdkitchen321
- Facebook: Big Daddys Kitchen and Catering LLC
- Other: Corner Bar South
Nossi College of Arts
Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church
