Amiel, Found of Maritime Madness Inc.

Tell me a little about yourself and how you got started.

I started making hot sauces in 2002, and really haven't looked back. I also had a drum manufacturing business for many years, but Maritime Madness started to occupy most of my time and I was having fun, so I just rolled with it. As long as I'm making stuff I love, I'm happy.

What sets your business apart from others alike?

We produce all our sauces in-house, and have a great selection of unique flavors - 36 sauces at last count! We also make snack foods like beef jerky, peanut brittles, and more.

Out of all your products, which one is your personal favorite, and why?

My favorite seems to change all the time, it's cyclical. Right now I'm hard on the FireCandy Habanero and Habanero Mustard.

If you could jump back in time to when you first started your business, what piece of advice would you give yourself?

Remember that stress is counteractive, it makes you less productive and creative, so relax and have fun!

Were there ever any times when you wanted to throw in the towel and call it quits? How did you deal with it?

I've never been tempted to quit, but I'm always open to pivoting if it's not working.

How do you spend your time when you’re not creating?

Family time, boating, camping, fishing.

What are some of your favorite things about the town or city you live in?

We live in a rural area on a mini farm, and our nearest town has two stop lights. It's a great pace, no commuting or traffic, just fresh air and nature.

Who’s the person, dead or alive, that you would want to have over for dinner?

I think a comedian would be a great dinner guest - Ron White would have some great stories.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Slowing down time.

If you weren’t a maker, what would you be doing?

I'm not sure that's possible, my wife can vouch for me on that one!