Brandon Whippple

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

My family—my wife and kids—inspire me to cook with love. Their joy is my greatest reward. As a veteran, my country fuels my pride, and I honor that through food. Cooking is my therapy, my way to heal and bring people together. Every dish tells a story of resilience, service, and gratitude. Whether it’s a family meal or feeding fellow veterans, I pour my heart into every bite. Food isn’t just sustenance—it’s connection, comfort, and patriotism on a plate.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Nothing beats my ultimate comfort meal: juicy, hand-pattied burgers with secret seasoning, charred to perfection on a toasted buttered bun. Golden, crispy fries on the side—double-fried for that ideal crunch. And freshly squeezed lemonade, just tart enough with a hint of sweetness, to wash it all down. It’s more than food; it’s memories of family cookouts, the sizzle of the grill, and the laughter around the table. Every bite tastes like home.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25K, I’d rebuild my family’s home after our devastating fire and launch a veteran-focused business—hiring heroes transitioning to civilian life. We’d feed the community through outreach meals, food drives, and culinary training. This isn’t just about recovery; it’s about turning struggle into purpose. Every dollar would honor service, strengthen families, and prove food can heal hearts and hometowns.