Founder & CEO Building Broth, LLC; Owner & Operator Stroud Seasonings; Owner Stroud Gourmand

M.B.A., 2020

What role do you play in the entrepreneurial ecosystem?

I am currently the Founder and CEO of Building Broth, a line of bone broth sports drinks set to launch later this year. I am also the Owner and Operator of Stroud Seasonings, a wholesale distributor offering a line of all-natural, clean, additive-free food seasoning mixes, as well as the Owner of Stroud Gourmand, specializing in wholesale meal preparation and food distribution.

What are some of your best memories of your time at Clemson?

I know this might be hard for some to imagine, but the MBAe Program was both intense and deeply supported by its equally dedicated and caring faculty and staff. As an intense and caring person myself, the program was a perfect fit for me. I formed wonderful friendships with my professors, each of whom truly demonstrated care and kindness to students who showed genuine interest and excitement in the subject material. It wasn’t for the faint of heart, as the program was extremely fast-paced, but it was truly life-changing.

What were the key inflection points in your career after you left Clemson?

I owe everything to Clemson. The guidance I have received both during and after graduation has been paramount to my success as an entrepreneur. Clemson truly cares for its alumni. As my dear Uncle Ben Rook ‘68, M ‘74 told me upon graduation, “You’re finally a Tiger. Welcome home.” 

What are your personal and professional dreams?

Personally, to be the best husband, father, son, and follower of Christ that I can possibly be. 

Professionally, to grow my companies so that they can make a true difference in the world. After accomplishing that, I one day hope to receive my PhD in Leadership from Clemson and teach there. 

What would you recommend students do to maximize their remaining time at Clemson?

Be kind. Support one another. Be accepting and giving. Truly care for others. Realize that life is not all about you but about what you can do for others. Once you discover that secret, everything will flow as it should.

What else should we know about you?

I was born and raised in Greenville, SC. I am the husband to the love of my life, Melissa, from Aiken, SC, and the proud father of the joy of my life, Donald Rook Stroud, Jr., lovingly known as “Rook.”