We had the good fortune of connecting with Christopher Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christopher, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I have a 10 year old son. Leading by example is most important to me. Teaching him that nothing is given to you, & that you have to develop a strong work ethic in order to succeed in life. I’ve put systems in place for him with school and around the house that will help him in the long run. I truly believe that what young people are taught at a young age will help shape them into the adult they become. I try and take the time out to teach him the simple things in life like opening the door for people, and speaking up when spoken to. It’s these simple things that make a huge difference to an employer or someone that could have a major impact on his life. Now days, jobs and business are so competitive, that it’s important to stand out in a positive way.

Last but not least- if you have an idea and you believe in it, go for it! Believe in yourself and see it through! Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s not possible, or it’s too hard. Every successful person had to start somewhere, every successful venture started with just an idea. Chase your dreams, and don’t give up! No matter what he decides to do in life, I just try and support him by giving him the tools to succeed in whatever that may be. I try and breed positivity and confidence into him every single day.

What should our readers know about your business?
I started CJ’s Tacos in a 10 x 10 tent in 2017. I spent every dollar to my name to get the business started. I had no idea if it would be successful, but I took a leap of faith and trusted my instincts.

6 years later I now own a restaurant, 2 taco trucks, and a shaved ice truck. We’ve come such a long way in such a short period of time, and that makes me proud. We have now been voted “Food Truck of the Year” 5 years in a row by Knox News Sentinel and Cityview Magazine. It’s a cool feeling knowing the public loves your brand. It’s motivating and humbling. I owe a lot to Knoxville for my success!

Nothing was easy. When I first started in the tent I did everything. I did all the prep, worked every service, did all the marketing, shopping, scheduling, etc. I didn’t sleep for a year. When I look back at it, it was all worth it. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

I’ve learned that if you want something in life, nothing comes easy. Trust yourself, and work your butt off! Over time I’ve become a better businessman, and a better boss. I’ve obtained so many skills that I didn’t have before. It’s been a blessing.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Drinks- Radius Rooftop Lounge, Buckethead

Food- JC Holdway, Connors Steak & Seafood

Hookah- Skybox

Fun- Top Golf, Maple Hall Bowling Alley, Main Event

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My amazing wife Casey has been by my side long before I started CJ’s Tacos. She always believed in me and my dreams, and encouraged me to take chances and be the best I can be. I don’t know what I would do without her!

My mom also deserves a lot of credit. When I first started CJ’s Tacos, she was by my side helping me with all the random odd jobs I needed to get done to succeed. I couldn’t have done it alone.

My son is another huge motivation for me. I want to provide him with a life I never had. I know that the harder I work, the better life he will live.

Website: Cjstacos.com

Instagram: Cjstacosfoodtruck

Facebook: Facebook.com/tacospecialists

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