What does it take to build a business that can survive for nearly 50 years, and then hand that legacy to the next generation? In this episode of the EForge Podcast, Cory Long sits down with Nick Bigham of Bigham’s Smokehouse, a family-owned Lubbock barbecue restaurant founded by his father, Don Bigham, in 1978. Nick shares what it’s really like to inherit a family business, lead employees, grow multiple restaurant locations, expand a catering operation, and protect your family while carrying the responsibility of a name that has served West Texas for generations. This conversation goes far beyond barbecue. Nick breaks down the realities of restaurant ownership, entrepreneurship, leadership, delegation, business growth, customer service, rising food costs, catering large events, and building a company that can operate beyond the owner. If you own a small business, work in a family business, lead a team, run a restaurant, or want to build something that lasts beyond you, this episode is packed with lessons on stewardship, leadership, consistency, community, and legacy. You’ll Learn: → Why taking over a successful family business requires more than simply preserving what the previous generation built, and how Nick learned to introduce change without abandoning the reputation Bigham’s had earned since 1978. → Why restaurant owners can’t remain the technician forever. Nick explains why being great at barbecue, cooking, or another craft is different from being able to hire, train, delegate, lead, manage finances, and grow a company. → How Bigham’s is expanding beyond its three Lubbock locations through large-scale catering, including events serving 900, 1,000, and even 1,800 people, while creating affordable catering options for businesses, weddings, families, job sites, and organizations. → Why leadership ultimately shows up in the business itself. Nick and Cory unpack the challenging idea that your company often reflects your leadership, and why developing people, setting standards, building accountability, and protecting quality time with family matters as much as revenue. Want to learn more about Cory Long? Check out the links below. Ai Authority Engine https://aiauthoritychallenge.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@therealcorylong Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/e-forge-with-cory-long/id1823417933 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4aZD9YaIr5OttNLce5iGOm?si=7149ceb9ed9c4819 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/therealcorylong/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/therealcorylongEforge/ Disclaimer - This video is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult with a licensed tax professional or financial advisor to discuss your specific situation.
