Poppin Joe’s Story

Joe’s parents first explored the concept of Poppin Joe's™ Gourmet Kettle Korn in October 2000. Poppin Joe's Gourmet Kettle Korn was officially launched in April 2005 with Joe Steffy as the sole proprietor and was established to provide Joe, a young adult with DS-ASD, the opportunity to operate and manage his own business. Joe has developed an excellent work ethic and realizes the value of good, hard work.

Kettle korn, a German way of popping popcorn with sugar, turned out to be Steffy’s path to business success. In 2000, he and his father started popping corn on weekends at grocery stores around Louisburg, Kansas.  Within ten years, he was grossing $75,000 annually.  “I showed Dad I could stay on task for up to six hours,” Steffy said. “Dad saw that I could learn the repetition of the production process. I could pop, and I could bag—both key parts of popping kettle korn.”

So his mother helped him write a business plan, and the Kansas Department for Developmental Disabilities awarded him a grant to purchase new equipment. He received additional support from Social Security. He became the business’ sole proprietor in 2005, and sold his product at festivals, local events, fundraisers, and local retail outlets.  He moved into his own apartment in 2008.  “I love my freedom — it gives me a great life!” Steffy said.  “I am a member in the community that I work in, which gives me a place to belong. I am a contributing citizen and recognized by my business peers and friends. “

Steffy moved to SE Georgia in the Summer of 2020 and has set up his new production site off I-95 at exit 7.  He offers his fresh popped Kettle Korn in a variety of flavors for Retail and Wholesale.  He is excited to be a part of the Camden County community and share his products.  Thank you for your interest and support – it helps his small business grow!

Poppin Joe’s Gourmet Kettle Korn • 1979 Harriett’s Bluff Road • 912-230-4662