Cocky Business: Dalton Goode (‘17): Homegrown Entrepreneur with a Passion for Community

Dalton Goode (‘17), founder of Ron’s Goode BBQ in Alexandria and Cutter’s Pizzeria in Oxford and Alexandria, was inspired by a lifelong dream of entrepreneurship rooted in his family’s legacy of business ownership—from steel construction and car sales to farming. Witnessing both the successes and struggles, especially during the 2008 recession, motivated him to pursue that dream. Today, he runs these businesses alongside his father.

“I have dreamed of owning restaurants and other businesses since I was a kid,” says Dalton. He’s making those dreams a reality and continues to add to his portfolio.

Dalton is a seventh-generation Calhoun County resident, which gives him pride in serving those around him. Both of his restaurants aim to create a welcoming, community-focused environment that feels like being among neighbors, where good food meets good company in an enjoyable, familiar setting. Both restaurants offer special football-themed deals. Cutter’s Pizzeria has game-day pizza bundles for groups, while Ron’s Goode BBQ serves affordable meat platters with ribs, wings, pulled pork, and smoked chicken. Both also provide delivery for Jax State games. Dalton’s favorites? A 5-pound pie pizza with a thick crust that is super cheesy and stuffed with toppings. He recommends fan favorites such as the “Belt Buster” or the “Meat Lover” from Cutter’s and ribs from Ron’s.

Dalton credits his advisor, Rachel Haas, for guiding him when choosing courses and narrowing his major at Jax State. He had a focus on economics and political science and a minor in business administration, while also taking courses in management, marketing, and accounting. He credits those with teaching him how to research, plan, and make informed decisions. His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to start with the Small Business Development Center at Jax State for expert help, connect with other alumni for advice and mentorship, and don’t fear failure–trying new things and making mistakes are essential to growth.

Dalton has also expanded beyond the restaurant industry. He owns Reid Pest Control and takes pride in making this business more productive and efficient. He enjoys the multifaceted approach that can be a bit different than the operations of restaurant ownership, and he also appreciates the new relationships he’s formed while building up this company.

Giving back to the community, especially through youth sponsorships, is the most fulfilling part of owning his own businesses. Dalton often prioritizes youth-focused causes, donating a portion of revenue to support kids’ activities, trips, and sports.

Dalton is proud to be a Gamecock and serves his community and alma mater with pride. “When I think back on my time at JSU, I think of breaking out of the shyness that had held me back from so much in my youth. I gained confidence by forcing myself to go into new and unfamiliar spaces. I developed a sense of what I can accomplish when I work hard at something that I care about, and it has given me the confidence that I have today to take risks and speak up for what I believe. My experience at JSU was a major turning point for my self-confidence, and I look back upon it fondly.”

To learn more about Cutter’s Pizzeria, Ron’s Goode BBQ, and Reid Pest Control, visit Cutter's Pizzeria - Cutters Pizzeria, Delicious Quality BBQ at Ron's Goode Barbeque, and Reid Pest Control.