COMPETITOR

Old Major

HEAD COOK: Mark LaFay

COMPETITION: World Barbecue Championship

Mark LaFay is a dynamic entrepreneur whose expertise spans multiple industries, including technology, music, and the culinary arts. With a history of founding successful music industry businesses, authoring “Chromebook for Dummies, Drones for Dummies, and Charcuterie for Dummies,” and co-founding tech startups like Lectio and Roust, LaFay embodies the spirit of innovation. His culinary venture, Old Major Market, is where his passion for food takes center stage. As the founder and owner, LaFay is not only a certified sommelier but also an active participant in the culinary process, developing recipes and hosting private events and wine tastings. His contributions to Old Major Market’s product development, from artisan sausages to curated dinners, are a testament to his hands-on approach and expertise in food and beverage. Beyond his professional endeavors, LaFay is an avid outdoorsman, reveling in nature through hunting, fishing, and foraging. This connection to the land is reflected in his commitment to sustainability and his support for local Indiana farms. LaFay’s love for travel has taken him to 49 of the 50 United States and 21 countries, experiences that undoubtedly enrich his worldview and influence his business practices. The spirit of adventure and cultural appreciation is palpable in every facet of his work, from international food trends incorporated into his products to the globally inspired hospitality experiences he creates. This diverse background and array of interests contribute to LaFay’s multifaceted identity as an entrepreneur and an advocate for quality, locally-sourced food, technology innovation, and cultural enrichment. Through Old Major Market, he continues to champion the values of artisanal craftsmanship, sustainability, and community engagement.