Stephan discovered cooking through a vocational program and a mentor who refused to let him treat it as just another class. That early challenge set him on a path that would lead to competing as a Culinary Olympian, appearing on Food Network, and building a career that opened doors across the culinary world. But it was the loss of his father that inspired him to create something that would last—Pop’s Secret Seasoning, a brand built in his father’s honor.

What began as small batches made in his own kitchen quickly grew into something bigger. Through his involvement with GVL Starts and Greenville’s startup community, Stephan refined his business, built a strong network, and shaped a vision that went beyond selling seasoning. Today, Pop’s Secret is rooted in three pillars: great food, strong community, and second chances. Stephan is focused on scaling production to reach both home cooks and professional chefs, while using his platform to create opportunities for others—proving that food can be a tool for transformation, not just on the plate, but in people’s lives.