BBQ Therapy

Join me as I sit down with Rod Gray — I’m honored to be joined by a true icon in the world of barbecue—Rod Gray. From building Pellet Envy into one of the most decorated teams in competition BBQ, to appearing on BBQ Pitmasters, and now serving as CEO of the Kansas City Barbeque Society, Rod’s journey covers every corner of the barbecue world. 

In this bonus episode we’re turning up the heat with the voices behind Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast — a collaborative crew that’s doing big things for the BBQ community. This isn’t just about ribs and brisket — it’s about culture, storytelling, and representation.Black Smoke Barbecue is a platform that lifts up voices from all corners of the pit—from backyard grillers and food truck warriors to competition cooks and content creators—while spotlighting the African American experience in modern-day barbecue.We’re diving into their journey, the mission behind the mic, and why their work matters now more than ever in the world of BBQ.@blacksmokebarbecue on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook and Youtube

On this episode of BBQ Therapy, we’re talking with Russ Jaques, the creative mind and pitmaster behind Smokey Rebel. Russ brings a fresh perspective from the other side of the world of BBQ — blending innovation with tradition while staying true to authentic smokehouse flavor.From his approach to seasoning to his mindset behind the brand, Russ shares what it takes to stand out and stay passionate in the BBQ world.Connect with Smokey Rebel:🌐 Website: www.smokeyrebel.com📸 Instagram: @smokey.rebel📱 Facebook: Smokey.RebelFollow BBQ Therapy:Instagram: @bbqtherapypodcastFacebook: BBQ TherapyTags:#BBQTherapy #SmokeyRebel #RussJaques #BBQPodcast #PitmasterTalk #BBQLife #LiveFireCooking #GrillCulture

This week on BBQ Therapy, we’re joined by Chris Webb of Bushmaster BBQ, one of the most respected pitmasters in the game. Chris opens up about his journey from serving our country to competition success, his creative approach to flavor, and what keeps him motivated to keep pushing the limits of live-fire cooking.It’s an honest, no-nonsense conversation packed with passion, knowledge, and inspiration for anyone who loves great BBQ.Connect with Bushmaster BBQ:🌐 Website: www.bushmasterbbq.com📸 Instagram: @bushmasterbbq📱 Facebook: Bushmaster BBQFollow BBQ Therapy:Instagram: @bbqtherapypodcastFacebook: BBQ TherapyTags:#BBQTherapy #BushmasterBBQ #ChrisWebb #PitmasterInterview #BBQPodcast #GrillingLife #SmokeCulture #BBQCommunity

In this episode of BBQ Therapy, Tavis sits down with Bob Harvey, the man behind Big Daddy’s BBQ Pit, to talk about his BBQ roots, how he built his flavor identity, and creating recipes and content. Bob shares his story of turning passion into purpose — one perfectly smoked bite at a time.Get ready for an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation about hard work, great food, and the power of community in BBQ.Connect with Big Daddy’s BBQ Pit:🌐 Website: www.bigdaddysbbqpit.com📱 Facebook: Big Daddy’s BBQ Pit📸 Instagram: @bigdaddysbbqpitFollow BBQ Therapy:Instagram: @bbqtherapypodcastFacebook: BBQ TherapyTags:#BBQTherapy #BigDaddysBBQ #BobHarvey #PitmasterStories #BBQPodcast #BarbecueLife #GrillTalk #BBQCommunity

What does it take to be successful in catering and food trucks? Chris Joyner (CJ’s BBQ and More)—aka The Dapper Pitmaster—knows firsthand. In this episode, Chris shares his BBQ journey, how he built his brand, and the challenges and victories that come with serving BBQ on the move.We dig into:• The business side of BBQ catering• Lessons from the food truck grind• Building relationships with customers• Balancing passion, quality, and consistencyThis one’s for anyone curious about BBQ as a business—or just hungry for a behind-the-scenes story.

In this episode, we welcome James Pavia of Aim’em and Claim’em Smokers—a pitmaster who not only competes at a high level but also creates engaging BBQ content for fans everywhere. James takes us inside the world of competition BBQ, the grind behind the scenes, and how he balances competing with sharing his journey online.We cover his start in barbecue, favorite cooks, biggest wins, and what it takes to stand out in both the competition arena and the digital world. If you’re chasing trophies or followers—or both—this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

In this episode, we’re talking whole hog BBQ with none other than Alfred McDonald of SpoonFed BBQ. From the art of cooking hogs low and slow to the tradition and craft behind the smoke, Alfred shares his passion, process, and perspective on what makes whole hog one of the purest forms of barbecue.We dive into his BBQ journey, the challenges of mastering whole hog, the gear and wood he trusts, and what it means to carry forward this age-old tradition in today’s BBQ world. If you’ve ever been curious about cooking an entire hog—or just love good BBQ stories—you don’t want to miss this one.🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BBQ Therapy!

On Episode 18, we welcome William Tischina, better known as Smokin Willy T, a pitmaster whose name is as bold as his BBQ. William has made a mark on the competition circuit with his fierce dedication, larger-than-life personality, and passion for spreading the love of barbecue.In this conversation, you’ll hear:🔥 How “Smokin Willy T” built his brand and reputation in BBQ🔥 His biggest lessons from life and BBQ🔥 What it takes to stand out in a crowded BBQ world🔥 Advice for those that experienced challenges growing up From laughs to lessons, this episode is all about hustle, smoke, and heart

In this episode of BBQ Therapy, we sit down with Dirk Mullins and Jody Harris of the Rib Cookoff Association (RCA). They’ve created one of the most exciting and approachable BBQ sanctioning bodies in the country, bringing rib competitions to the forefront and making them fun, fair, and accessible for everyone.We dive into:🔥 How the RCA was founded and what makes it unique🔥 The growth of rib-only competitions and why they’re so popular🔥 Tips for new pitmasters looking to get started in competitive BBQ🔥 Stories from the road and what it’s like building a BBQ communityIf you’ve ever thought about competing—or just love a perfectly cooked rack of ribs—this episode will get you fired up.📌 Don’t forget to subscribe for more BBQ Therapy!

On this episode of BBQ Therapy, we head to the Gateway to the West with Brian Peyton of Meat Me in St. Louis BBQ. Brian opens up about his path into competition BBQ, the lessons he’s learned from both triumphs and setbacks, cooking with Dad and how he represents St. Louis BBQ while raising trophies in the air.  

This week on BBQ Therapy, we’re joined by the husband-and-wife duo behind Rooters-N-Tooters BBQ — Paul and Lynn Keltner. From  pink pop-up beginnings to making noise on the competition BBQ circuit, the Keltners share how teamwork, persistence, and a whole lot of smoke built their journey. We dive into their story, the highs and lows of competing as a family team, and what drives their passion that parked them in the Hall of Fame. 

In this smokin’ episode of BBQ Therapy, we fire it up with Kent “Tuffy” Harmon, the man behind Tuffy’s BBQ—a rising force in the Utah competition BBQ scene and beyond.Tuffy shares how a passion for great barbecue turned into a mission to master the pit. From early cooks in the backyard to competing at a high level across the state, Kent opens up about the hustle, the heart, and the hard-earned lessons learned through smoke and fire.We talk about the growing BBQ community in Utah, the mental game behind competition turn-ins, and what it really means to build a brand that people respect. This is more than just meat and fire—it’s about resilience, family, and a whole lot of love for the craft.🔥 Whether you’re new to BBQ or a seasoned competitor, this episode will leave you inspired to light the fire and trust the process.——👤 Guest: Kent “Tuffy” Harmon – Tuffy’s BBQ🎧 Host: Tavis Bryant – BBQ Therapy | Ya-Go HAM BBQ📍BBQ Therapy: Is now in session!!📲 Follow Tuffy: [@tuffysbarbecue]🏆 Utah ‘Cue • Competition Fire • Community Focus#BBQTherapy #TuffysBBQ #KentHarmon #UtahBBQ #CompetitionBBQ #MountainWestCue #BBQPodcast #SmokeGameStrong #GrillAndChill #PitmasterTalk #LowAndSlow #MeatTherapy

On this episode of BBQ Therapy, we sit down with Stephen Strong—owner and pitmaster of Big Wally’s BBQ, a name that’s becoming synonymous with soul-filled, flavor-packed barbecue. Stephen’s journey into BBQ is deeply rooted in family tradition, creativity, and a drive to serve his community something special.We talk about his first memories around the pit, the story behind the name “Big Wally’s”, his approach to seasoning, and how he balances business and authenticity. Whether you’re a backyard smoker or dreaming of turning your BBQ passion into a business, this conversation is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of smoke. 🔥 Learn more about Big Wally’s BBQ:🌐 Website: https://bigwallysbarbecue.bigcartel.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawL4XghleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHrhHGcYzykoWKCyq_LgNaSZCl7HKk8VL-5rVf7Ot1_w3INGSg23PCQaIKxve_aem_k-bmFPbcHwIgOC6HCpR0LQ📱 Instagram: @bigwallysbbq📘 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/share/14F8VKdGp38/?mibextid=wwXIfr

In this episode of BBQ Therapy, we’re chopping it up with the one and only Pitmaster Cheez—a rising force in the BBQ world known for his bold flavors, creative flair, and infectious energy. From his humble beginnings to making a name for himself on the competition circuit, Cheez opens up about his journey, what keeps him motivated, and how he brings personality to every plate.We dive into his signature style, his love for the craft, and how he’s building community through smoke and fire. Whether you’re a backyard griller or a pitroom vet, this is one episode you don’t want to miss!🔥 Follow Pitmaster Cheez on IG & Facebook :@pitmastercheez  https://www.pitmastercheez.com🎧 Like, follow, and subscribe to BBQ Therapy on your favorite podcast platform.#BBQTherapy #PitmasterCheez #BBQLife #SmokeSessions #GrillTalk #BBQCommunity

🔥 In this episode of BBQ Therapy, we’re joined by none other than Ronald Burns of Hotty Totty BBQ Crew/ Steak Crew—a name synonymous with championship BBQ and southern hospitality. Ronald shares his BBQ journey, the evolution of Hotty Totty, and the lessons learned from years on the competition trail. From humble beginnings to Grand Champion wins, get ready for some real insight, laughs, and plenty of BBQ and Steak wisdom.We talk flavor profiles, mental toughness in competition, and why teamwork is the secret ingredient to success. Whether you’re a backyard griller or a comp circuit regular, you’ll walk away inspired.🎯 Follow Hotty Totty BBQ Crew:Instagram: @hotty_totty_bbqFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16w9hEXbWX/?mibextid=wwXIfrWebsite:http://www.hottytottybbq.com/About-Us.html👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review BBQ Therapy to keep the smoke rollin’ every week!#HottyTottyBBQ #BBQTherapyPodcast #BBQLifestyle #CompetitionBBQ #PitmasterWisdom

On this episode of BBQ Therapy, we’re joined by Paul Hirsch of Summa Dat Que—a name that’s heating up the competition circuit with bold flavors, serious dedication, and a passion for the craft. Paul shares how Summa Dat Que got started, the meaning behind the name, and what fuels his fire both on and off the pit.From his first spark of interest in barbecue to his biggest lessons on the trail, this conversation is loaded with insight, laughs, and of course… summa dat ‘que.How to Getcha Summa Dat Que - Like & Subscribe!IG / FB / YouTube:  @summadatque 👈Order award-winning SDQ BBQ rubs and support small businesses: https://sdqbbq.com/BBQTherapy 👈SDQ barbecue seasonings are a Kansas City style blend, with smokey, sweet, and savory flavors born from the competition trail!Delicious with all proteins, really shines with chicken, pork, ribs, and brisket.   Thanks for watching!#summadatque #sdqclassic #sdqhot #sdqsweetgarlic #sdqpitmastersblend #sdqbbq

🔥 High on the Hog BBQ is all about taking barbecue to new heights—one cook, one competition, one flavor-packed bite at a time. Whether it’s brisket, ribs, or chicken, this team brings serious heat, deep knowledge, and a love for the craft that you can taste in every turn-in box. From humble beginnings to competing with the best, High on the Hog BBQ is here to inspire, entertain, and share the journey.🎤 Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, competition strategies, gear talk, and why they do it for the love of the smoke.📱Follow High on the Hog BBQ on social media:Instagram: @highonthehogbarbecue

In this episode of BBQ Therapy, we sit down with Chris Schafer, world champion pitmaster and owner of Heavy Smoke BBQ, to talk about his journey from backyard griller to one of the top names in competitive barbecue. Chris shares how he turned his culinary background and passion for cooking into a nationally recognized BBQ brand.We dive into:His “hot and fast” cooking style and why it worksWhat it takes to win at the highest levels of competitionOpening his restaurant in St. Peters, MissouriTeaching BBQ classes and giving back to the communityAnd what keeps him fired up after all these years at the pitWhether you’re a backyard enthusiast or looking to go pro, Chris brings the heat with tips, stories, and laughs that’ll keep you hungry for more.🔥 Visit ⁠⁠HeavySmokeBBQ.com⁠⁠📲 Follow @heavysmokebbq on Instagram and Facebook

I got the opportunity to go to the nascar race to join Blues Hog in promoting their brand. As well as see my 1st NASCAR race !! WHY ? Ill explain my reasoning on this bonus wrap up show !!!