John Schnatter began working as a dishwasher at his father's tavern in Jeffersonville, Indiana, at age 15. During busy times, John helped his father in the kitchen. After graduating from university, Schnatter returned home. By that time, his father's tavern was already on the verge of ruin. John sold his Camaro Z28 and bought his first pizza oven.

At the age of 22, "Papa" John Schnatter began making pizza and selling it to guests at his father's tavern. His pizza became so popular that within a year he was able to open his first restaurant next door. Over the years, he worked hard to expand the company, and in 2009, he bought his beloved Camaro Z28 at auction.