Four Inane Questions with Gangsta Goodies Kitchen’s Shelia Johnson
Photo Courtesy of Shelia Johnson
If you ask Shelia Johnson, food isn’t just something you eat; it’s a love language. This Kansas City native is the spirited host and mastermind behind Gangsta Goodies Kitchen, where sizzling skillets meet real talk, and every dish is served with a side of connection.
With a résumé as flavorful as her recipes—think project manager, director of finance, events director, and more—Johnson brings a unique blend of business savvy, community heart, and culinary flair to the table.
Armed with degrees from Rockhurst University (including her MBA) and proud roots in KCMO’s public schools, Johnson has turned her kitchen into a vibrant stage. On her YouTube page, she has over 200 episodes.
Johnson has hosted everyone from social entrepreneurs to activists, sparking conversations that feed both stomachs and souls. Oh, and she’ll tell you her perpetual secret ingredient is love, and she’s serving it up one delicious conversation at a time.
We caught up with the foodie-preneur between gigs to bombard her with our bonkers questionnaire. She quickly peppered us with her answers. Yes, literally… with pepper. Bless.
The Pitch: You can pick any character to be on a soap opera. Who you choosin’?
Photo Courtesy of Shelia Johnson
Sheila Johnson: Are you kidding me? Of course, I would choose the legendary Victor Newman of Young and the Restless fame! First, Victor is easy on the eyes, and, in his prime, he was one sexy man.
His longevity speaks volumes to his talent and the value he brings to the show. And, as an entrepreneur, I am both intrigued and inspired by his business savvy and overall success. Ultimately, I’d pick Victor because he knows how to get exactly what he wants; whether professional or personal!
What cheese deserves a permanent ban on any charcuterie board?
Colby-Jack should definitely be banned. It’s one of the most basic cheeses you can get. It’s simply not unique enough to earn space on any charcuterie board.
Clowns. Yes or No?
Clowns are a hard no for me. Going to the circus as a kid, I was always afraid of the clowns. I didn’t understand their purpose. Their gaudy makeup was enough to make me hide behind my mama’s skirt at the sight of them.
Of course, as an adult I’m no longer scared of them. I know it’s a costume, but for me it symbolizes people who are deceptive.
You can resurrect any band/musical group for a one-time reunion concert. Who is it?
You must’ve heard my recent conversation with a few of my friends. We were calling out our all-time favorite groups and who we’d love to see come together just one more time.
For me, that musical group is Outkast. Their unique hip-hop blended with Southern flare, funk, jazz, rock, and soul is unmatched. They played an important role in bringing Southern hip-hop to the mainstream. And their eclectic style and willingness to push boundaries set them apart from others.
It’s safe to say that their innovative approach and genre-defying style are why they were inducted into the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Bonus 5th Question: Describe the perfect omelet… in detail… using ingredients.
Funny story about eggs: Growing up, my maternal grandparents had a small farm in Wyandotte County and on weekend visits, my grandma would make me go to the chicken coop with her to collect eggs for breakfast. I dreaded doing this chore because the chickens didn’t take too kindly to us grabbing their eggs. The collective noise they’d make, and the pecking of my hands was enough for me to decide that I didn’t like eggs.
However, when I’ve made omelets for others, I typically include red, yellow, and green bell peppers, onions, spinach, ham, mushrooms, and smoked Gouda.
