Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Peter Hengst of Imperial Beach

We recently had the chance to connect with Peter Hengst and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Peter, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
I would hire me because I am absolutely dedicated to providing the best service and quality product I possibly can. My passion and skill are unbeatable. There are few willing to do what I do.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Peter Hengst. I am the owner and operator of BBQUSION. We are a mobile food vendor that specializes in slow smoked BBQ with a fusion of BAJA flavors and preparation methods. There is only one place in San Diego where you can get a loaded mac and cheese with brisket or a pulled pork crunch wrap.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I was 12 years old and I beat cancer. I had been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease Lymphoma and had a massive tumor in my right lung. After 1 year of chemotherapy and 3 months of radiation I was cured. I went from thinking I would die to realizing how precious life truly is.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
During the Covid-19 pandemic I felt like giving up on my business. I was forced to shutdown the only thing I loved doing and the end never seemed to come. After a year of paying to keep my corporation afloat while not being allowed to do any business, I went back to my old job as a bartender. That was a very low point for me.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My friends know that family and God come first for me. Money doesn’t matter to me, but it is a necessary commodity. I believe that the most important memories you can make are with your loved ones.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
My legacy should include my determination and love for food service. I hope my kids see what it takes to run a small business and understand the sacrifices I have made.

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