Making Money With Hot Dogs and Carts

The last blog...

2011-08-27T23:52:00.000-04:00

After much anticipation Ben has finally moved his blogs and training to a central location:

LearnHotDogs.com

Best of all, everything is there, Videos, blogs, contributor blogs, news, tips and much more. Come on over and check it out.

www.LearnHotDogs.com it's free and won't hurt one bit.

Cool items for hot dog vendors

2011-08-15T20:18:00.002-04:00

Every now and then vendors submit some awesome ideas or things they have found. Here is the last batch of innovative attention getting ideas.

The hot dog gun

How bout the mustard and ketchup monsters. One vendor sales these from the cart. I think doing a kids part or catering event it would be fun to use them.

Squeeze ketchup out of their noses.

I used these some. Nothing like having a line full of people and asking the next customer what they want on their dog and picking up the ketchup or mustard trick bottles and aiming it at their face and squeezing. Out pops yellow or red string and startles the unassuming patron. Fun Fun Fun!

Squirt bottles

The hot dog pen and magnet. Write in style.

For those whom success has left you with extra cash to spend, try this 6 foot high statue that should be in the living room of every serious vendor.

Click to get yours now!

Show your team spirit with these handy grillers. Many teams to choose from.

If you have a suggestion or have found something cool, please email me.

A Critique of My Course/Book; "hot dogs saved my life"

2011-07-31T11:53:00.000-04:00

After someone purchases the course; "hot dogs saved my life from www.BensCarts.com, they are sent a letter days later about sharing their thoughts on the course. I do this not to feed my unquenchable ego, but to improve on my teaching skills.

I often receive a kind note, praising the content but I have also received feedback that is less than ego boosting. However, this letter I received today was a must share and I hope you enjoy. I am a little embarrassed by it's much too honest analysis.

Hello Ben,

You asked me for a review of your book, it is with great pleasure to oblige.

"hot dogs saved my life" is an epic adventure that will take every reader on an emotional roller-coaster ride. The adventure is reminiscent of Melville's "Moby Dick" and the mystery reminds the reader of the works of Christie. Immediately the reader knows the author has lived through the experience and has survived to tell about it not unlike Hemingway; the comedic undertones will recall fond memories of the works of Seuss. After thoroughly reading and enjoying "hot dogs saved my life" I have placed it on the shelf of my personal library right next to my signed original works of Shakespeare.

Okay, so it's a little over the top - but I loved it. I have to say the most memorable part was your definition of the ingredients of "Cheez-Whiz".

I have previously been involved with hot dog vending. I was on a business trip in Maui when I came across a man with a smoker sitting alongside the road selling hot dogs and Kabobs. I had to have a hot dog so I stopped. As I was enjoying my dog I watched many satisfied customers stop and buy dogs. I was so intrigued by this business I spent the next 3 days with him helping sell and learning the business.

I was in a rewarding job that included a ton of stress and a ton of hours but my friend was sitting alongside a road in Hawaii "slingin' hot dogs", drinking beer, working 4-5 hours per day and making about 90K - this was business I could really get into. When I came home from Maui I researched the hot dog business, made big plans, ordered my smoker and submitted my resignation.

My first foray into the business was a large 4th of July festival - I made every mistake in the book but I had the time of my life and still somehow managed to make good money.

Why didn't I stick with it? After resigning my job and before I did that first event I was offered an incredible job. The salary was large and again so was the stress and hours worked.

Well, the world has turned - I am back to excessive hours and excessive stress and back to hot dogs being the answer.

I have gotten older and a little wiser - I am starting the business the right way this time and the wisest thing I have done is to get completely immersed into your video's and book. Had this information been available the first time I jumped into hot dogs I would have saved thousands of dollars. Not only would I have saved, I would have started the business differently and very likely would have been making money "slinging hot dogs" for the past 10 years.

You will be hearing from me again very soon - there is no one on the planet I would rather purchase my cart from.

Thank you for all you've done for this business and helping everyone.

I believe the purpose of life is to serve others and all the rewards you receive, whether financial or spiritual are directly related to the number of people you serve - I hope you are enjoying the success you deserve.

I will talk with you soon,

Chris Larson

Well I must say that first paragraph couldn't have been more accurate. Nail on the head! I love an honest, straightforward, no hype critique. If only the NY Times would pick it up now.

If you are still wondering what all the hype is about: Here ya go!

Mind your QR - Quick Response Code

2011-07-28T12:47:00.000-04:00

Sounds weird, why is this on a blog about hot dog vending? QR has become more and more popular. Ever since some smarty pants over at a subsidiary of Toyota invented the code - the more popular it has become.

What is it? It's this! Looks like a puzzle huh? Well it's actually code that any QR reader can convert to the intended message. Inside this code can be a URL (website address), email address, a phone number, a special message or about anything else you can imagine.

I bet you have seen them before, right? Well now you know its a hidden message. Anyone one with a camera equipped phone and free QR software can read them.

Originally designed for Toyota to be able to inventory parts easier this code can contain much more info than the standard bar codes we all are familiar with.

You can pick up the reader software for free and most smart phones can download the app for free. Just Google QR app or QR reader.

You can also Google QR Generator and create your own special codes for flyers, business cards, on cart logos and more. The possibilities are endless.

So get started today, post a comment and tell me where you used yours or even post your QR code on my Facebook Page for everyone to see. Enjoy!

L-5 by Eccotemp and Chip Clips, lowest prices anywhere.

2011-07-28T12:17:00.000-04:00

The drawback to pressurized water systems is that they push water so fast through the hot water line that you run out of hot water very quickly. (in detail) With the addition of the L-5 hot water heater, you will only run out of hot water when you run out of water.

These units can be added to your cart fairly easy and will make your day even better. They work off propane gas and have 2 D batteries. When the unit senses water flow (you turn on the hot water) it ignites burners that heat the water as you use it. Instant Hot Water - Continuously! Finally!

We have been offering these heaters for over a year - but only sold them with a cart purchase and they included installation.

Since then we have started purchasing in bulk and can offer you the lowest prices on the web for these heaters. We will also include instructions for hooking up to your LP Gas system and installation. Click here to order

Chip clips are handy, they can display your chips, sunglasses and I even use them for ball caps. They are hooked on the end so that you can hang from your umbrella slats. Best of all, these clip strips are long, 31" and have 24 clips. Right now we are offering these at a special price and can be shipped right to your door. Sold in sets of 2, you get 48 clips in all. You want find them at a better price anywhere.

Order Here

New Place For Vendor Conversations!

2011-07-21T11:30:00.000-04:00

NAHDV (National Association of Hot Dog Vendors) has created a private page on Facebook.

Why you say? So vendors can connect, get advice, share advice and help each other out. It is awesome!

Even better: It's private, which means anything you talk about there - stays there. No one else can read your comments unless they are in the Facebook group. Your posts and theirs will appear in your newsfeed, but they will only be seen by you. There will be a little padlock image beside the post in your newsfeed that indicates that the conversation came from the private group and no one else but you can view it.

So come on over, there are many knowledgeable vendors and because we haven't all been vendors all our lives, we bring knowledge from our past experiences that can help in the vending business.

Click here and request to join. It's free and easy!

Hot Dog Cart - Buyer Beware!

2011-07-21T10:56:00.000-04:00

Today I received a phone call from a gentleman that purchased a cart from a manufacturer online. He states that he read carefully through their website and even gotten it pre-approved.

After receiving the cart he had the health inspector come inspect. IT FAILED!!!

WHY? The website states ( and I have reviewed) that the components meet or exceed related NSF standards and specifications. They even display the NSF logo on the photos. This lead the inspector, during the pre-approval review to suspect in fact the cart did meet NSF/ANSI standards.

Well it doesn't and here is the short list of violations:

Rivets around the prep and cooking area.
Improper edge gaps
All plumbing was not certified compliant by NSF/UL, only the pump.
Storage tank non-compliant.

This is the short list.

Note: Not all but some manufacturers use diamond plate steel for the carts, this allows them to use inferior grade metals and allows them to use thinner metal. It does look good on some carts, but when you find diamond plate used in areas where you cook or clean, RUN! Diamond plate has ridges and is harder to clean and so most states do not allow it in the prep, storage and cooking areas.

This cart may pass inspection in some states, but it didn't for him. He has spent his money to only find that this Florida manufacturer offered misleading information and it even misled the inspector.

Ways to avoid this problem:

Do your research online, search the manufacturer name, check with BBB, do a search at Ripoffreport.com, get on facebook and look for them, talk to other vendors and also check out Roadfood.com
Take multiple pictures to the health inspector for pre-approval. With pictures, the health inspector would have noticed the problems before he purchased. He had only taken the schematics. Also take the full description.
If the manufacturer is new and there isn't anything online about them, ask for references.

There are several great manufacturers out there. Don't get to rushed and do your homework.

I interview a legend.

2011-07-15T17:44:00.000-04:00

2 years ago I interviewed Mustards Last Stand owner. Well ok, it wasn't his last stand, he has 3 or 4 now. It has some good info and may inspire you.

If you have any questions, please let me know. http://www.benscarts.com/contact

Understanding Steam Pans, Sizes and Setup

2011-07-13T11:24:00.000-04:00

CHAPTER 17

Pan set up

Excerpt from Ben's Course Book: "hot dogs saved my life"

Are you confused?

When I first started in the business, I was very confused on the pans, the types, the sizes, etc. It really sounded overwhelming. I am going to give you the hillbilly class on pans, and it will all make perfect sense once I’m done with this chapter.

Hot dog carts use steam pans. This is just a term, and it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are going to be steaming anything. Nonetheless, all steam pans, also known as kitchen pans, share a simple sizing set up.

Above you have a full size pan(far left) then you have 1/2 size(top middle), below that you have two 1/4th size, then 1/3rd size(top right), just below two 1/6th size and then three 1/9th size pans. You could put nine 1/9th size pans in the big pan and three 1/3rd size etc...

A steam table opening is 12” deep, 20” long. Pan depth can be 2 inches, 4 inches or 6 inches.

You will find many hot dog cart manufacturers that sell carts that only hold 4” deep pans. This may limit you, so please do your homework.

A standard (full size pan) is 12” X 20” and whatever depth you chose.

If you are steaming dogs, you can put a full size spillage pan in the cart opening. A spillage pan is what you would use if you were going to steam items; it holds water and is about 6” deep. You would place two inches of water in the bottom, and then place the other pans in this one.

For example: if you were going to only steam, you could put a full size perforated pan inside the spillage pan. Now, the water below in the spillage pan will boil providing steam above in the perforated pan. This process will cook your hot dogs and steam your buns.

You would have a 6” deep spillage pan and a 4” deep perforated pan.

Don’t panic! Perforated pans come in two common sizes: ½ size and full size. If you were going to use a spillage pan and wanted half for steaming, and then use the other 1/2 for something else you can. You could choose to use the other half with two 1/4th size pans instead of one 1/2 size pan. 1/4th size pans are great for holding kraut and chili or even cheese sauce. They still sit in the hot water, but they keep the food from burning or scorching; they don’t have holes. You can also use one ½ size perforated pan and one ½ size solid pan.

Remember what a full size pan is, right? OK. All of the other pan sizes are a division of the full size pan. This picture represents two ½-size pans. Removing the spillage pan and using solid pans make it a direct heat set up; I use this method for boiling hot dogs. I purchase a 1/3 size pan that is 6” deep, and I put water inside to boil the dogs.

Here’s an example of using three 1/3 size pans: one for boiling, one for cooking onions and one for steaming. Yup, I said steaming. The trick is to find a 1/3 size pan that is perforated, and a 1/3 size spillage pan. It’s almost impossible. So, they have invented these handy plates to go in the bottom of the pans, called false bottoms. They are slotted, and they allow you to put water in the bottom of the pan; steam comes through the false bottom, thereby turning an individual pan into a steam pan.

You can check out all the options and order different pans from many places. Here’s one of my favorite companies: http://www.Katom.com

If you steam buns, I recommend a dome lid. These allow you to stack food higher and utilize more of the available space. You can imagine a standard 4” deep pan will not hold many buns if you want to put the lid on the pan, but if you get something like this, you will be able to cover an entire full size pan with a dome lid. Pan configuration underneath this doesn’t matter, but this roll top allows you more vertical area to stack buns or dogs.

Pans used for food in the U.S. must be certified ‘compliant’ to food safety laws, and a hinged lid violates the codes of food safety, because bacteria can grow inside the small areas of the hinge. So, as of my writing, there aren’t any Standard 59 compliant hinged lids.

If you have searched for a cart and found hinged pans, they will not meet state standards. The pan and lid may have an NSF or UL stamp, but once the cart manufacturer joins the two by welding a hinge, the compliancy is void. So be careful. I know a man that ordered a cart from a company, paid extra for the cart to be NSF, paid extra for the hinged lids, and when he was inspected in North Carolina, he immediately failed. All he had to do is go buy some new pans and lids, but what a waste of money.

Woooo Hoooo! You have it now! You know what a perforated pan is, a spillage pan and a one 1/3 size pan: you know how deep and all the other good stuff on pans. Right?

Okay. Please be careful when buying pans if the pans say ‘stackable,’ they are typically indented to allow for stacking. These types of pans, though, hinder you when insetting a pan into a spillage pan. You probably won’t have any issues if you will always make sure the spillage pan is not listed as ‘stackable.’

Clear as mud!

Commissaries and Why You Need One

2011-07-13T09:44:00.000-04:00

In short: A commissary is a commercially licensed kitchen like a restaurant kitchen or other that is approved by the State Health Department to store, prepare and cook food for the public. What makes it a commissary is if the owner or manager of the kitchen allows others to use the kitchen.

Most states require a hot dog vendor or any food vendor to prepare, cook and store food there. If you were to buy 1000 hot dogs and buns you could not store them on the cart. If you needed to cut sausages or slice onions or wrap tamales or fix pulled pork or, or or - the health department wants this done in a commercial kitchen; eg. a commissary.

Some states will wave the commissary requirement if your cart has adequate storage for your daily needs and if it has facilities to wash, rinse and sanitize your dirty utensils and pans. This would mean that you purchase your stock each day instead of buying in bulk. For a busy vendor this would not be feasible. But for starting out, it may suffice.

Most carts don't really have big enough sinks to wash, rinse and sanitize your pans. State health codes often require that the sinks be large enough to submerge the largest pan. With a half size pan: 12" X 10", this would require a very large cart to accommodate 3 sinks large enough to wash, rinse and sanitize. Imagine if your largest pan is a full size pan. 12" X 20" This is another major reason vendors need a commissary. A commercial kitchen will have the standard 3 bay sink and they can accommodate the large pans.

Depending on your inspector in your state, if your cart has 4 sinks (one to wash, one to rinse and one to sanitize with the required separate hand wash sink) they sometimes will wave the commissary requirement.

Even with the small sinks on a cart you can wash, rinse and sanitize your tongs or a ladle. Some states require the 4 sinks in the event you drop a fork, knife or other utensil and need to clean it properly, but they still may require a commissary for cleaning your larger items on the cart, like the pans and lids.

Most states do not allow food preparation on a cart. They allow re-thermalization (to heat up) of precooked foods, but not cooking from scratch. What I mean is they don't want you bringing raw sausages out and cooking them on the cart. Most require you precook at a commissary, freeze and then reheat on the cart. Most vendors will only use precooked foods anyway. Hot dogs are always precooked when you buy them, some sausages and brats are as well. Some states allow you to cut onions and sauté them on the cart as this is a non-potentially hazardous food product.

Some states will allow you to use your home as a commissary kitchen but most don't, but you can research and find out what the requirements are and make your own commissary. I have customers that have turned a storage building or a shed into a commissary. For example, TN will allow someone to take a portable building, add a 3 bay sink, a hand wash sink, a floor drain and hook ups to an approved septic or waste connection and be a licensed commissary. If you store food there, they will also require a freezer and refrigerator.

I have videos on http://www.benscarts.com/videos#scrollto about finding a commissary and tips on getting one.

In some areas where there are many vendors, someone may have a commissary just for the vendors. They charge a monthly fee and take the work out of finding you a restaurant or other licensed kitchen to allow you to use theirs.

If you still have questions please feel free to email ben@benscarts.com

Talk with other vendors: http://www.facebook.com/benscarts

http://www.facebook.com/nahdv

Proud member

First day out... letter

2011-07-05T18:24:00.000-04:00

This letter was sent today from Cory! Great looking set up!

Hey Ben,

Just wanted to send the attached picture along to you. My first job! I purchased the Cash Cow and man is it awesome! I love it! I set up over this past weekend and everything went smoothly. The cart did great and it was very well received by the community. However, I was at a slow location and probably will try and find somewhere with a bit more traffic. Still, I covered my cost of inventory with a little extra to spare! AND I was way overstocked for this particular location. Please extend my thanks along to your staff. The gentleman who assisted with our pickup of the cart was great (Casey I believe his name was?)!

Thanks again for a quality product! It works great and is super easy to pull and set up. Already looking ahead to upgrading to something larger and lease out this one.

Sincerely,

Cory

Just the Beginning of a SUCCESS STORY!

2011-07-04T15:59:00.000-04:00

Hi there Ben. Happy 4th of July to you and your family. Thanks for the letter.

In the 30 days since receiving my cart, I have still not sold a hotdog yet. That does not mean I have been sitting on my hands, as there is much to do.

There are some time consuming lessons I have learned about the greater Las Vegas area HDV business:

1. Health Permit-3 weeks after making your appointment for approval of the cart equipment. Of course you need a letter of authorization from the owner of the location where you will sell.

2, The Business licenses (County and City) application processes take over 30 days to complete, after submission. I am in this waiting period now.

I will tell you that the BS people are subjected to, gives me the feeling they really don't want new businesses around here. I have complied, and am more determined than ever. The startup costs have now reached close to $9,000.

The other day, I needed some inspiration. So, I picked up your book and started reading it again. I have decided that waiting, and being patient are not my strong suits. Despite all that, I have committed myself to developing marketing skills, and getting in front of people that can help me. Finding good sites (that are legal) to work is one of the primary keys to success. Your book has helped me to look in new places to find those sites.

Lastly, I have found that if someone tells me NO, what they mean is I have not said the right things, or they just need more schooling. Either way, I will get what I need to be successful. I am committed to staying motivated, and focused, even if it is 115 degrees outside. This too, shall pass.

Dennis Brumley

Las Vegas

ps. You have my permission to use my letter, or parts thereof to encourage others. Best wishes

Never Give UP!

2011-04-27T16:19:00.000-04:00

I just received this email from a gentleman out of Georgia. Many would cave in and give up when faced with obstacles involving government regulations. However, once in awhile, a great person comes along, challenges the status quo and paves the way for the rest of us.

A huge thank you and encouragement is due to this future successful vendor! Read below his letter to me:

Hope you are doing well! I had a great conversation with Giles Roberts, the Program Director for the Environmental Health Division of the Georgia Department of Community Health this morning. We were able to clear up several issues regarding the interpretations of Mobile Unit Requirements and exemptions regarding Hot Dog Push Carts and Pull-Behind-A-Vehicle-Carts in the State of Georgia (head hancho says I don't have to have commercial fridge anymore!). We do still seem to disagree on the big topic...."ownership o"f vs. "access to" a commercial kitchen in regards to whether or not this determines the legitimacy of a partnership between the owner of a Mobile Unit and the owner of a Food Service Establishment as a Base of Operation.

This is good news for two reasons: 1. Mr. Giles has agreed to accept the decision of the Division Attorney for the State who is currently reviewing my petition regarding this matter, and not consult further assistance in regards to the matter. 2. The main document the Division Attorney is reviewing is the contractual agreement between myself and the owner of the food service establishment that I will be using as my base of operation........my attorney, who drew up the contract, happens to specialize in contract law.

I have big plans for me, you, and the "soon to be friendly to hot dog vendors whether we want to or not" State of Georgia.

Catering With Your Cart

2011-04-26T11:43:00.000-04:00

One of the most asked questions involves catering. How much do I charge to cater? The following is an excerpt from the book/course "hot dogs saved my life" available online for less than $10.00

excerpt from Chapter 9:

Catering benefits include having a set time for the job

and usually a set price, which means you know what

you are going to make before you begin. One hot

dogger wrote me about his ten-year stint at a car

dealership. He worked every Saturday for a flat rate of

$600, his take home about $420. Not bad for one day

of work.

You will get the occasional, “Can you do my little

Johnny’s birthday party?” Remember, it will take the

same effort to set up and clean up after serving thirty

hot dogs to some children, as it would if you served

400 dogs to an office party.

I don’t do the little parties

and I have a minimum I charge. Your minimum may

be different but, whatever it is, stick to it.

You can determine your minimum with a little simple

math: figure what the minimum you are willing to do

the job or event. Let’s say it’s $150. Remember, you

will have set up and clean up, and you will probably

only want to agree to one hour there for that fee.

Divide the $150 by $5.00 (or whatever price you

decide to charge for your meal). In this case, 150 ÷ 5

= 30.

Add it all up and there is your minimum. Costs per

meal can vary depending on whether you are serving

eight-year olds or eighteen-year-olds.

I use this method to calculate any catering:

I want to bring in the same as if I had sold 100 meals.

My meal price is $5.00, and I give them a $1 discount

($4.00) and my minimum is $400. This covers up to

100 meals (two dogs, drink and chips). This

guarantees you a $400 income, less your costs of

about 32%. You actually profit about $280. Keep in

mind, if they get a larger turn out than expected, let

them know up front that you will prorate the

additional meals at the same rate.

I am very fair when it comes to doing this. I don’t

count all the drinks they take, I don’t worry about the

guy who ate five hot dogs; I just simply serve food and

let them have fun.

Let’s say I bring 300 buns – that’s 100 extra, and I

know I will use approximately 200. When I finish the

event/party, I will quickly count my buns. If I have

eighty left, I don’t worry about the extra twenty. But,

if I have seventy left, I charge for ten extra meals. I

essentially give them a fudge factor of twenty meals for

those big eaters or that kid who drank twelve

Mountain Dews. Most of the time, the person hiring

you will overestimate the turnout; if they estimate 200

people, I will charge them $800. If they use less, I

keep the difference. I don’t verbally price it to them at

$4.00 a meal. I base it on the number of potential

people. In the example above, that is $4.00 per

person.

Is that clear as mud now? Good.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

National Association of Hot Dog Vendors

2011-04-25T17:09:00.000-04:00

After much anticipation the NAHDV (www.nahdv.org) is almost ready to go live. In the last few days the total number of people signing up has surpassed 1300 and counting. Although paid membership is not available yet, they welcome all.

"It will be a one stop shop for everything vending" -- Randy Drumb

Features include:

extensive training
tips and tricks (words from the wise)
discounted supplies
video blogs
live forums
news
press releases
NAHDV in the news
classifieds
links to state rules and codes
certification
food safety
software
video training
manufacturer help
and much much more

One of the most discussed features currently is the bulk buying power. Already NAHDV has arranged for huge discounts on steam pans, hot water heaters, grills, and some specific deals from hot dog manufacturers. All to offer it's members the best prices. One example of this is a solid wood 5 foot market umbrella in red, it's members will be able to purchase for about $10.

My favorite part is what will become: NAHDV GROUP INSURANCE RATES!!!

"For Vendors by Vendors, Strength in our numbers!" -- Jennifer Richland

As our membership increases, NAHDV will be a welcome voice at the Local, State and Federal levels and will help to protect our rights. Already NAHDV has been invited to attend State sponsored think tanks in two different states contemplating changes in their rules.

Here at BensCarts we are excited, this has been over a year in the works and all with volunteer work. So sit back, hang on and get ready to have a big, big friend in the business!

Show your support on facebook: Like NAHDV

One Success to Another!

2011-04-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

Once his life revolved around the music industry, Rap specifically. If you are my age then you have probably sang along to the song: Bang to the Boogie. A hit in 1995 and available for download on iTunes now.

Rap star El Demonio has performed with some of the biggest names in the business and now enjoys his life as a hot dog vendor. Below is the exact letter I received from this up and coming vendor.

So Our first weekend as BULLDOGGIE'S ALL AMERICAN HOT DOGS was GREAT, better then I thought we would do, A LOT BETTER. Our Big Dog Cart preformed awesome. The Walmart (Durango, Colorado) crowd seem to love what we were doing. We started Friday, April 15th from noon to 6pm and our first day the final count was $647.00, Saturday was $1,041.00 and Sunday was $488.00. It's was amazing!!! I included some pics and video is on the way. Again I just wanted to thank you because your information was PRICELESS!!!!

Life is funny. Just under 2 years ago, I was one of the top Latino rap recording artists in American. My stage name was El Demonio. The music business got hit hard by the economy and illegal digital downloads and POOF my 16 year music career went spinning downward. Rather then go down with the sinking ship, I took my savings and left the fast life of a rising rap star from Southern California lol and moved to the country. We moved to my Wife's hometown of Ignacio, Colorado. Have you ever seen the TV Green Acres? Well, That's me lolol. From Rap Star to Hot Dog Star lolololol. I inclosed some of my El Demonio Promo stuff for laughs and below was my Bio. I had some very hard times but I LOVE MY LIFE and I love BULLDOGGIE'S.

EL DEMONIO Bio

With the chart topping, infectious single "BANG TO THE BOOGIE", which reached #9 on Billboard's Rap charts in the summer 1995, produced by and featuring Latino Rap Pioneer ODM of LIGHTER SHADE OF BROWN, Inland Empire based EL DEMONIO was well on his way to becoming a major player in the Rap and Hip Hop game.

Legal problems with his record company, derailed this rising Rap Star and put a hold to a once promising career.

EL DEMONIO's debut album "NOTHING's SACRED" (on Greenside Records 1999) was the flame that set the west coast underground on fire and set the stage for His highly anticipated major label release "IN MEMORY OF" (on AME/ BMG US Latin/ SONY 2001), which had heads ringing and the industry in a buzz.

Reality based tales, that were felt by thousands from one of the then fasting rising Chicanos in the game at the time! Following "IN MEMORY OF", EL DEMONIO experimented with styles and grew
musically, releasing the all acoustic and unplugged E.P. "JUST SOUTH OF PARADISE" (on DSB Recordings, Inc. 2004), in which He played most of the instruments. The haunting, dark first single from the E.P. "LIE TO ME" drew comparisons to Everlast & Kid Rock and added a whole new fan base to an already strong following.

EL DEMONIO has performed in a countless number of venues all across the US and beyond, including tours of Japan, Italy, Spain, France & Germany. Along the way, EL DEMONIO has shared the same stage with such Mainstream, R&B, Old School, Rap and Hip HOP acts as LUDACRIS, R. KELLY, ICE CUBE, T PAIN, MIMS, LIL FLIP, CYPRESS HILL, TLC, TOO SHORT, E-40 and the list goes on and on.

EL DEMONIO was a nominee for Best New Artist by the Heritage Awards in 2001 and a winner of the Alma Award for The Best New Artist in the same year. He has recorded with the who's who of the Hip Hop and Rap Industry. With songs featuring Multi Platinum recording artists and Grammy Award winners like Snoop Dogg, Akon, T-Pain, T.I., Three 6 Mafia, Baby Bash, Juvenile, The Game and others.

With His legal problems now behind him, EL DEMONIO is ready to finish what he once started. With over 250,000 units sold, He is ready to add to those number in a big way with his latest release BORN AGAIN (on Hi Power Ent./ KOCH/ E1 Ent. 2009) which features SNOOP DOGG, THE GAME, BABY BASH, T.I., JUVENILE and others. Available EVEYWHERE CDs and MP3s are sold.

The Illtip Magazine called the CD "an urban masterpiece" and Murderdog Magazine said "This Latino is the real deal", Mandatory Business Magazine said "It's the best Latin Rap Album ever released, Period"

Also due for release in the spring of 2010 is The Best of EL DEMONIO called EL DEMONIO "THE ALPHA MALE.

The KILLaforina Monster is BACK and in a big way!!! Witness the dawning of a new legacy and make way for the "DON" of the NEW Westcoast, Hi Power Soldier EL DEMONIO.

You know me, I thrive off of success stories and this one has just begun. Can't wait to hear more.

The long awaited cart set up video... finally!

2011-03-24T19:00:00.000-04:00

It's here, a short and sweet video giving the details on cart operations. Hope this helps!

First time dogger - First time out - HUGE SUCCESS!!!

2011-03-16T09:59:00.000-04:00

Unlike many of us, forced into this new venture of selling hot dogs, Michael K. sold his successful business and began his hot dog vending company to enjoy more free time. He purchased a Big Dog and anxiously awaited the end to cold weather so that he could get his feet wet in his new venture.

"I created a huge hot dog sign that stood above the crowd and could be seen from everywhere In the park ( I will forward that in the next email) we had not finished setting up yet in the photo but I wanted a shot of the sign when It went up. At one point I walked to the edge of the area and looked back over the crowd towards the food booths and guess who's sign was visible from way over there? Could see none of the booths... Only my hot dog sign"

His first gig was to be a big event !?&%# His Big Dog cart slung in the middle of a sea of huge experienced enclosed trailer vendors was slightly intimidating. No Worries! Michael was prepared, doing as much homework as possible, he purchased a huge hot dog sign to hang over his cart and the necessary supplies.

With much forethought and anticipation of huge success he even created a map for customers. Here's what he said;

"I split the line around the cart.. If they wanted a Chicago or chili dog they paid and went to the left of me where i had a table set up with Chicago condiments.. I knew this would take a little longer, but it got them out of line... Then if they were doing the self serve thing, they went to the right where the condiment tables were... Within seconds after ordering, they had the dog and were moving on...i will send you a copy of the site plan if you want.."

What a brilliant move. Had he not anticipated the large volumes of hot dog fans, it would of been a nightmare for he and his customers.

Here is a photo of his map sign directing customers, you can see it on the rear of the cart in the above photograph.

"We had very little wait time for the hot dog delivery.. So the line moved pretty fast.. Looking out and not seeing the end of the line for so long just blew me away.. We moved approx 2-250 an hour for at least 4 hours with no break..i think the longest time someone said they were in line was 15-20 minutes, and that was because of the length of the line... We had a blast!!!!!!!"

I must admit, I was not nearly as prepared as Michael at my first event. This guy is awesome. I have never ever heard of making a map for customers and the brilliance of directing them for faster service is pure genius. This will help us all - Thank you Michael.

6 hours of slinging dogs, 6 gallons of chili later and thousands of dogs served with his team of 4... Michael had pulled off his first successful event. With several thousand in revenue and the aching muscles to prove it he spent the next few days recouping.

Michael's son, a photographer was on hand and captured the action, I will be adding those pictures a little later.

"This whole thing was a very moving and humbling experience and I want you to know that I appreciate so much all the help you have been...

Just awesome..... "

( i only dropped 1 dog:-)

"With all the choices that were at this event ( 35 other food booths and trucks) we had a number of people that came back for a second dog rather than eat something else. (And stood in line again) It is truly humbling. I have a lot to learn."

After the event, the organizer told him he had the most customers. No waiting, fast, inexpensive, delicious quality hot dogs - Michael outdid the large experience vendors.

Thank you again Michael for sharing your story and for inspiring us all.

Follow Thunderdogs here: Facebook

If you haven't signed up, BensCarts is giving away a brand new hot dog cart, Enter to Win!!!

"I can truly say that having access to all the info that you make available, helps a newby NOT make so many mistakes starting out. This event went off without a hitch and alot of it i owe to you. Thank you again for the time you took with me answering all my many questions. I will find a way to pay it forward ,and if there is anything I can ever do for you please let me know." -- Michael K.

Update from The Thunderdog himself:

More details about how this came about: When I accepted the opportunity to do this event, I started digging into the details. The company my son works for
puts this event on, and last year they had 250,000 people attend. So there was no doubt about the fact that I was stepping into a fire storm.
that is when i started peppering you , Steve Schaible and Rick H at Wilderness cafe with questions.
One of the emails I got from Rick, he said he can do 600 per hour. By the time I had asked him that question, I had already figured out that I
might be able to do about 350. (remember I have no experience , so I was coming up with this by talking to you guys and spending a lot of time crunching numbers, to see the possibilities.
Experience: I have been doing large events for the last 24 years selling non-food items, I also have a friend that sells food at these events (he does over a million a year) I have used his booth as a staging point for my inventory. I sell glow in the dark novelty items as a walk around vendor, carrying my stuff into the crowds. I have to be efficient in order to make any money, so I have worked all those details out. And I have watched my friend work a crowd for 10+years.
I said all that to say that I just used some of those same deductive procedures to piece this together..

Was I scared? oh yeh.. but I love a challenge.. and this was certainly putting it all on the line.
I found favor at every turn as I prepared to do this.
I was taught early on that, if you can see the invisible, you can do the impossible. So I tore this apart from one end to the other on paper numerous times, sought advice from those that had gone before me, (you , Steve and Rick mostly), and proceeded like I had good sense.
Scuba divers are taught to 'plan your dive and dive your plan" I had a plan on paper, we worked it and it worked.

I had a team of 4 very good people
The food items were on site in a Sysco truck (75 yards from my booth) , so I didnt have to 'load up'
I did not have to take money and make change. It was tickets only.
I could serve no drinks
Our only job was to serve hot dogs.
I was ready with another boiler , but did not need it. The Big Dog is plenty adequate.
You saw the configuration for managing the crowd.
They gave me the space i needed to 'spread out' so that it would work....
the crowds were there
the weather was perfect
There were 2 people on the steam table at times. 1 keeping the dogs in the water and buns in the steamer the other one putting them together. and we switched off every hour or so...
When you work it all out we did just under 300 dogs an hour. Priced at $4 and $5 for the Chicago, Frito pie $2 and Chips/bag o peanuts $2
And we NEVER got a break in the line.. not once did it slow or stop.

When Rick said he could do 600 an hour, I took that and started breaking it apart to see what it all means. I didn't doubt him, he has the experience. I don't, so I took it as inspiration. After doing this event, that number is closer to being real in my mind. And I will find a way to duplicate it if given the chance. (2 carts in one booth?)
I dont know how I could have served any more than I did. NOt without changing something, and I will find a way....

Any way, there was a lot of prep that went in to this, a lot of it was mental prep. And yes, I prayed.....a lot :-)
I would say 'Jump in the fire , you wont get burned. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego didn't "

The Cart is a tool, and is limited only to what you can conceive to do with it. I would say YES, have confidence that IT will do all you can imagine, then push the limits. Be BOLD. Shoot for the moon. If you only get to the roof, so what..that is progress... the moon will be there, go at it again.

Doggers have NO FEAR!!!!! get in a crowd and sell, then do it again....

I could go on... Just take the first 2 letters off of the word IMpossible. Take time to THINK and win....

Thanks again Ben,

Michael
thunderdog.net

It's hard and I ain't making no money...

2011-03-03T08:46:00.000-05:00

My worst day ever, on the side of a busy hi-way I did $162 in 4.5 hours, including set up. Location is crucial and this is why I moved from that location and found the factory. As I added more carts I found that auto parts stores, discount stores and industrial parks did great. Some of these didn't pay off every day, so I figured out which days were good and worked the carts on those days.

I eventually figured out the best days, the best times of the month for different locations. I now have customers that run carts here in some of those same locations.

I have a customer at a courthouse in a neighboring county who has 3 carts, 2 of which are run full time and he consistently serves over 100 people a day per cart.

Sure, I get calls from customers and non-customer vendors who are struggling finding that perfect location or a combination of 2 or 3 perfect locations, but with WORK and diligence it can be done.

My sister struggled for 3 months finding a spot, she now has a location earning her far more than her college education did. She states over $4000/mo. net income.

In Nashville, I have an "illegal alien" customer from Mexico, that works a bar 3 nights a week, she now has 3 carts from me, but one she sent to New Mexico for a family member. She does over $700 a night. Horrible hours and works with some drunken often obnoxious customers, but she found a great location.

In my blog, I recently wrote of a guy that was lucky enough to get in front of a Wal-mart full time. He hasn't divulged his income but told me it is more than he's ever made. His drawback is long hours.

Bottom line: There are those making huge incomes and even more that make an "honest living". Those that are dedicated and work even when the numbers are not as they would like, they will build a clientele, they will find alternate locations or even private jobs to do to supplement their incomes.

If this business was easy then everyone would do it, from day one I have always emphasized how hard it can be. But for me the rewards outweighed the work: More free time, my own schedule and free lunch every day.

As with anything you can find people whom "poor mouth" their job or profession. There are doctors on the verge of bankruptcy, I know a lawyer that will tell you that it is horrible and that he's lucky to make $100K a year, but there are those doctors and lawyers happy after finding their niche and have excelled.

I have found 2 things to be accurate almost always in the vending business:

1: Getting vendors together is like herding feral (wild) cats.
2: Vendors will often "poor mouth" their income to discourage potential competition.

I have a friend that has soda machines in local businesses, he has always said when asked how well he's doing; "man, it's tough, if its not broke down, they are figuring out a way to steal the money from them. I'd be surprised if I make any money at all." YET EVERY YEAR HE PLACES MORE MACHINES AND RECENTLY PURCHASED 12 LIVE BAIT MACHINES AT $5K EACH.

...sounds like times are tough on him. I give him a hard time about his "poor mouthing" and he continues to attempt to maintain an aire of poverty.

Of course I'm biased, it has and is working for me, the hot dog vending business works. It is work, yet its the best trade I've ever made, time versus the dollar. Hot dogs saved my life and I will forever be grateful!

If you are struggling, keep your chin up and know that the taste of victory and success will be all that much better having endured the trials of your beginnings.

Cart Giveaway!

2011-03-02T16:19:00.000-05:00

That's right Ben's Carts is giving away a brand new hot dog cart. No catches, no gimmicks! To register go: Register to Win

Winner gets to choose from a Cash Cow or Lil' Dog Cart.

You will receive an email later with details once you register to WIN!

Also check out: Hot Dogs Saved My Life - The Book

It's a course, it's a book, its got it all!

Not $100, Not $49, Not $29, Not even $10.

The Book

Drinks on your cart

2011-02-15T20:46:00.000-05:00

I get asked often where I get my sodas. I use Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Water and sometimes Root Beer. Here in TN, I have to offer Mountain Dew also. It's a staple here.

You can find good deals at Sam's Club or Costco, but they are never really a super duper bargain.

I watch the sales papers from my local grocery stores. I have been able to get the aforementioned can drinks for as low as .18 cents each, which I sell all my drinks except Root Beer at $1.00. Root Beer in bottles: $2.00

About every two weeks the grocery stores will have sodas on sale. If you watch close you will find they alternate, one week this store offers a deal, next week a different store.

CHECK THE DATES CAREFULLY!!!

I have seen them sell drinks that are about to expire. I don't want these as I may hold 2 or 3 thousand cans I have bought over a 3 or 4 week period. Sometimes even more.

Sometimes you can find a coupon that has no limit and you can use those for your purchase. This is more rare, but you will occasionally run across a good coupon.

Hope that helps.

Giving back pays huge dividends!

2011-01-25T10:42:00.000-05:00

If you have watched my videos, you know I talk about teaming up with a charity and how this can get you in to places that you normally couldn't consider.

Well this morning, one of my past customers called to order more carts. She had just come from a meeting with the county commissioners and was so excited she almost pee'd her pants.

The commissioners love her concept of giving back and she offered to give back a part of her proceeds to the parks and recreation department. She originally just wanted a stand at one park, but after this morning she has been offered a location at every park in the county, including the public swimming pool.

She will have no competition and can work the hours she wants. With already a couple of carts, she must have more.

How exciting!

I love happy stories of success and this one is wonderful. You can learn more from her at http://www.benscarts.com/Live_Training.html

Take credit cards EZ! This has won several innovative idea awards.

2010-12-22T13:52:00.000-05:00

This is incredible. Very easy to set up, no equipment to buy. What a deal!

Have you ever needed to accept payment from someone on the go. This will do the

trick, no fancy account setups. It's PayPal for nice people. Just kidding, but really, I don't like PayPal.

Let me know if you try it. My brother got it and loves his. And it's FREE!!!

And you thought we were closed for the holidays! Ha

2010-12-22T13:47:00.000-05:00

Rob sent me the post! I had to share, featuring BensCarts: Big Dog!

Click Here to see it.

Boiled, Grilled or Steamed Video

2010-12-12T18:22:00.000-05:00

This is a video I did sometime back but lately I have received several calls regarding this topic.