Like any famous iconic food, there is a good bit of fact and fiction in telling the story of the Eastern Shore’s legendary Smith Island ten layer cake. Debates on how many layers should be used; who created the first one; and what was the precise date of its discovery continue to this day, but there is an interesting list of contradictions about Smith Island Cakes that are just as interesting to the Spy.
Some of those contradictions apply to owner Brian Murphy and his business model. For example, Smith Island Baking Company is a local small business but their customer base is both national and international. Murphy grew up on the Eastern Shore but he is also the product of Wharton with over a decade of being a successful commodity trader. And, oh yes, he has also run for governor and is raises six children with his wife in Talbot County. This is not your typical homegrown entrepreneur.
In his Spy interview, Brian talks about his background and his passion to successfully move Smith Island Cakes into the high-end segment of the gourmet mail order food market. He also talks about his devotion to Smith Island but also the transportation challenges of getting thousands of cakes each year to airports to satisfy one day service. Most importantly, Brian talks about the role that excellence plays in building a company.
This video is approximately six minutes in length. Additional video provided by Smith Island Baking Company.
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