Meet Shandie Stewart, Marketing and Social Media Coordinator at Mckinney’s Irish Pub (mckinneyspublincoln.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – Mckinney’s was opened in 2013 by Nathan Stewart and Joel Schossow. They both had been in the hospitality industry for many years and were excited to tap into family roots and start an Irish Pub.
We’re known for our great selection of craft beer and Irish whiskeys. Our kitchen also serves up delicious and dynamic spin-offs of your favorite bar foods with daily specials throughout the week. We have over 140 types of tequilas and 40 types of mezcals! We also make all of our salsas, dips and dressings from scratch.
How did you get started in the business? – I married into the hospitality business, so it chose me. Meeting and serving my community in a different way than I ever imagined, has been a thrill. My roots are in child welfare and I still love that field deeply.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – My 25-year-old brother was killed tragically in 2018. Giving his eulogy was the most difficult thing I’ve ever done. Making him and our family proud every day is the most important thing.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Mckinney’s being open 10 years is a huge achievement. We’re so thankful for all the amazing staff we’ve had over the years to get us to this point. The other, and just as important achievement, is the opportunity we have had to support local nonprofits and help our community.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5. It was the Bible verse that I had used in my brother’s Eulogy.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “I’ll be There for You” by The Rembrants.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Singing. I love karaoke and would love to have more of it in the Haymarket!
Which talent would you most like to have? – Ice Skating. I have no idea why, but it’s so elegant and athletic.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I would have loved to have been a lawyer. Advocating for people in their moments of need is one of the highest callings.
What is your favorite movie? – Shawshank Redemption.
What is your favorite TV show? – Friends. Everyone wants a group of friends they can rely on their whole life.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – Tipsy Tina’s Taco Cantina.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – info@mckinneyspublincoln.com | (402) 890-6174