Barkin' Creek is more than a business; it's a mission fueled by a profound love for dogs and a commitment to their health and well-being. Established in the Fall of 2015 by Flint Beamon and Jeff Springer, Barkin' Creek arose from their need to address the dietary and health issues of their rescue dogs, Bea and Jax. Disturbed by the misinformation and harmful practices in the commercial dog food industry, Flint and Jeff set out on a quest to revolutionize canine nutrition. Confronted with the reality of mass-produced dog foods high in unhealthy additives and low in nutritional value, they founded Barkin' Creek as a sanctuary of health and happiness for dogs.

Our conversation with Flint Beamon, Co-Founder of Barkin' Creek, offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of the business. With a background encompassing marketing, public relations, and restaurant management, Flint's diverse experience is the backbone of Barkin' Creek's operations and community connections. During the interview, he reflects on the journey from Barkin' Creek's early days to its current success, discussing both the hurdles and victories encountered along the way. Flint's insights into the brand's development, creative process, and core values reveal a story not just about running a business but about a shared commitment with Jeff to significantly better the lives of dogs and their owners. This interview showcases how their deep love for pets has transformed into an impactful and life-altering endeavor.

What was the inspiration behind Barkin’ Creek, and how did you get started?

Barkin’ Creek's story began with a personal quest driven by our love for our rescue dogs, Bea and Jax. Both dogs had unique dietary and health issues that led us to explore the world of dog nutrition more deeply. My background in various fields, including food, beverage, hotels, art, and marketing, combined with Jeff's extensive experience in finance, gave us a unique perspective. We were determined to find a healthier diet for Bea and Jax, and this journey led us to collaborate with Christie, a veterinary expert. Together, we developed and perfected formulas to provide the best possible nutrition for our dogs. This endeavor, stemming from our passion for our pets and a desire to make a meaningful impact, organically evolved into the creation of Barkin’ Creek. It was more than just solving a problem for our dogs; it was about transforming our approach to pet nutrition and well-being.

What does your creative process look like when working on a new product or campaign?

Our creative process is dynamic and collaborative. As the research and development person, I bring ideas to Jeff and refine them together. Our approach to product development is deeply rooted in our personal experiences and a commitment to pet health. We draw inspiration from traditional recipes, ensuring our products are nutritious and appealing. We prioritize using whole foods and avoid processed ingredients, focusing on pet longevity and health.

What is one challenge you have faced as the Founder of Barkin’ Creek, and how did you navigate it?

A significant challenge has been balancing our professional and personal lives as a couple in business together. It requires empathy, understanding, and, sometimes, letting the other person take the lead.

The key is to respect each other’s perspectives and remember our shared vision and love that sparked this venture.

What is your long-term vision for Barkin’ Creek?

Our vision is to positively impact pet nutrition and health, advocating for a longer, healthier life for pets. We also aim to create a respected and quality brand that upholds our values and can eventually be passed on to someone who shares our ethos. It’s not just about financial success but making a meaningful difference in the pet community.

Tell us about one of your values and how you have incorporated it into your brand. 

One of our core values at Barkin’ Creek is the fusion of empathy and intelligence in everything we do. This means approaching our interactions and decisions with a deep understanding of others' needs and perspectives, combined with thoughtful decision-making. We've woven this value into our brand by ensuring our high-quality products and services and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and heard, reflecting the care and compassion we believe are essential in everything we do.

If you could give one piece of advice to future LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, what would it be?

Entrepreneurship is a path filled with immense responsibility. It's more than just running a business; it's about being a crucial part of your employees' lives. My advice is to understand the weight of this responsibility and be prepared for the hard work and dedication it demands.

What LGBTQ+ owned brands are your go-to's and why?

I’m a supporter of local LGBTQ+ businesses that resonate with our values. For instance, Patika, a queer-owned coffee shop next to us, and Nina Barretto, a local jewelry designer, are among my favorites. Supporting these businesses aligns with our commitment to the community and celebrating diversity.

How do you take care of yourself, especially during this moment in history (a record number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills being passed / an increase in violence against our community)?

Honestly, self-care has taken a backseat as we focus more on supporting others, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. Our experiences and struggles have made us more resilient and committed to fighting for our community. While we’ve created a safe space in our business, the broader societal challenges continue to demand our attention and action.

Who is your favorite LGBTQ+ celebrity and why? 

One of my favorite LGBTQ+ celebrities is Troye Sivan, primarily because of his genuine and multifaceted expression of queer identity. He represents a blend of sexuality, femininity, and masculinity, all while embracing each of these parts of himself confidently and publicly. Another one of my favorites is James Baldwin, whose writings profoundly resonated with me. 

Can you share one fun fact about yourself?

One fun fact about me is my background growing up on a peanut farm in Georgia. I was also a Boy Scout and built homes with Jimmy Carter through Habitat for Humanity. This unique upbringing and experiences have significantly shaped who I am today.

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