Founder of Peg Leg Porker Restaurant, Carey Bringle, shared his inspiring story of overcoming cancer and building a successful business empire on national TV. Bringle owns several popular restaurants in Nashville, including Peg Leg Porker, Bringle’s Smoking Oasis, Pig Star, and a line of award-winning whiskeys called Peg Leg Porker Spirits. Despite his success, Bringle wants people to know the story behind his brands and the challenges he faced to get where he is today.
At the age of 17, Bringle was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma, a type of bone cancer, and underwent intensive chemotherapy. The treatment was successful, but Bringle lost his leg as a result. He attributes his resilience and work ethic to his battle with cancer, which he sees as a turning point in his life. Rather than feeling unlucky or angry about his circumstances, Bringle views cancer as a game-changer that shaped who he is today and helped him conquer hardships in both his personal and professional life.
Bringle shares some of the key lessons he learned from overcoming cancer, which have been instrumental in his success as a business owner. One of the most important lessons is the value of resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles. Bringle believes that facing and conquering challenges enables one to discover inner strength and grow as a person. He encourages others to embrace challenges and seek out new situations that push them out of their comfort zones to foster personal growth.
Having a strong support system is another crucial lesson Bringle learned from his cancer journey. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with people who provide love, encouragement, and assistance during difficult times. In the business world, Bringle stresses the significance of building a supportive team that shares your vision and encourages open communication. A reliable support system can help navigate challenges more effectively and lead to greater success.
Adaptability is key in both personal and professional life, according to Bringle. He learned to adapt to the unexpected changes brought on by cancer and applies that flexibility to his business ventures. In the restaurant industry, where things can change rapidly, being able to adjust to new circumstances is essential for survival. Bringle advises others to cultivate a mindset that is open to change and to establish systems that promote flexibility and resilience in the face of adversity.
Understanding one’s purpose and staying grateful for what one has is another lesson Bringle learned from his cancer experience. Surviving a life-altering event made him realize the importance of making a positive impact in his own life and the lives of others. This purpose-driven mindset guides Bringle’s decisions as a business owner, from creating top-quality barbeque to expanding his brand into new markets with Peg Leg Porker Spirits. Bringle believes that success is not just about financial gain but about fulfilling one’s purpose and making a difference in the world.
