The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast

🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where barbecue meets culture, community, and real stories from the pit. 🔥In this episode, host Brandon and the crew celebrate Labor Day traditions, the start of football season, and the art of cooking with special guest Tamu Gonzales, a trailblazing pitmaster at Big Bib Barbecue. Tamu shares her inspiring journey from cashier to general manager and pitmaster, proving that passion, persistence, and hard work can open doors in the BBQ world.🍖 Inside This Episode:Labor Day cookouts, football season excitement & family traditionsTamu’s rise from cashier to pitmaster and general manager at Big Bib BarbecueThe importance of cleanliness and discipline in professional BBQDebunking myths about flavor and techniqueWhat it takes to cook for large-scale events and keep quality consistentSignature dishes that showcase Tamu’s style and creativityThe impact of COVID-19 on BBQ business and expansion plansBalancing management duties with the love of cookingHow media coverage and storytelling help grow BBQ businessesTips on cooking brisket and why patience is keyReviving the tradition of communal cookouts and gatheringsWhy women belong in BBQ—and how Tamu is paving the wayA fun lightning round to close things out with laughs and flavor🔥 This episode is all about inspiration, culture, and the power of food to bring people together.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:50 Labor Day Celebrations and Barbecue Traditions05:51 The Journey of Tamu Gonzalez: From Cashier to Pitmaster11:47 The Hard Work Behind Barbecue Excellence17:36 The Importance of Cleanliness in Barbecue23:08 Influences and Inspirations in Barbecue Craft28:07 Exploring Side Dishes and Barbecue Culture28:32 Cooking Collard Greens and Sweet Potato Casserole32:09 Massive Cooking: The Brisket Challenge38:15 Empowering Women in Barbecue40:11 The Journey of Big Bib BBQ44:19 Balancing Business and Barbecue47:43 The Impact of Media Coverage48:50 Brisket Cooking Techniques54:59 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions55:01 Essential Tools in the Pit Room55:26 Music That Fuels the Fire56:52 Favorite Comfort Foods57:59 The Importance of Family and Food59:25 Bringing Back the Cookout Culture01:02:07 Where to Find the Big Bib01:03:12 Live Music and Community Events01:06:21 Connecting with the BBQ Community👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the culture and keep the smoke rolling!#BlackSmokeBBQ #BigBibBarbecue #TamuGonzales #WomenInBBQ #LaborDayBBQ #FootballSeasonBBQ #BarbecueCulture#BrisketCooking #BBQPodcast #BlackPitmasters #CookoutTraditions

🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where barbecue is more than food, it’s family, culture, and community. 🔥In this episode, the crew sits down with Steve Strong, pitmaster and founder of Big Wally’s BBQ, to explore the craft, culture, and challenges of barbecue. From backyard roots to competition pits, Steve opens up about the traditions that shaped his cooking, the sauces inspired by family recipes, and the lessons learned from catering and food trailer life.🍖 Inside This Episode:Steve’s journey in BBQ—how family memories shaped his cooking philosophyThe difference between backyard BBQ and competition barbecueWhy gravity-fed smokers offer both convenience and flavorThe cultural and therapeutic side of barbecue, connecting past to presentThe creation of signature sauces rooted in nostalgia and family traditionStories from the food trailer journey—challenges, wins, and growthHow catering pushes pitmasters out of their comfort zones with new experiencesThe balance between barbecue as a luxury craft and an authentic traditionMemorable moments from catering events and competitionsSteve’s vision for expanding Big Wally’s BBQ into competitions and cateringThe role of community, networking, and authenticity in BBQ success🔥 This conversation is a reminder that barbecue isn’t just about smoke and meat—it’s about legacy, connection, and joy in the process.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to keep the fire alive and support BBQ culture!#BlackSmokeBBQ #BigWallysBBQ #SteveStrong #CompetitionBBQ #BBQCatering #BBQPodcast #BarbecueCulture #FamilyRecipes #BBQFoodTrailer #BBQCommunity #BlackPitmasters #GrillAndGrowChapters00:00 Introduction and Nerves02:58 Cooking Experiences and Techniques05:46 Barbecue Products and Recommendations08:39 Community and Engagement in Barbecue11:30 The Reality of Cooking Failures14:33 Competition Barbecue vs. Backyard Cooking17:27 Introducing Steve Strong and His Journey22:44 The Art of Barbecue Equipment30:19 Family Traditions and Culinary Influence34:23 The Journey of Barbecue Business40:18 Catering: Challenges and Opportunities48:38 Equipment Evolution and Competition Preparation54:48 Catering Challenges and Memorable Events59:49 Influences and Inspirations in Barbecue01:07:19 Barbecue as a Luxury: Perspectives and Future Plans

🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where barbecue is more than food, it’s culture, creativity, and community. 🔥In this episode, hosts Brandon, Tee and Alton sits down with Bridgie Zapata, a rising voice in the barbecue world known for blending Tex-Mex creativity with traditional BBQ techniques. From fire management to family balance, Bridgie shares the lessons, struggles, and triumphs that shape her journey as a pitmaster and content creator.🍖 Inside This Episode:Why barbecue is culture—a way of life, not just cookingHow personal growth and change influence cooking stylesBridgie’s unique approach: Tex-Mex meets barbecue traditionThe importance of quality ingredients in making unforgettable foodHow social media can build a platform but also bring challengesMastering fire management and the art of balancing flavorsThe role of patience, practice, and persistence in BBQ successThe unique challenges women face in barbecue—and the strides being madeFlavor secrets: cherry wood for pork & peach bourbon injections for tendernessThe balance between family life and content creationLessons from brand collaborations and content creation hurdlesWhy experimentation, resting meat, and listening to the cook matter most🔥 This episode is packed with flavor, culture, and inspiration—showing that the road to great barbecue is paved with passion, persistence, and plenty of trial and error.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from the smoke.#BlackSmokeBBQ #BridgieZapata #TexMexBBQ #WomenInBBQ #BBQPodcast #BarbecueCulture #CherryWoodPork #PeachBourbonPork #BBQContentCreators #PitmasterJourney #FireManagement #GrillAndGrowChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:58 Navigating Personal Life and Barbecue Culture06:03 Introducing Bridgie Zapata: A New Voice in Barbecue11:49 Bridgie's Unique Approach to Barbecue and Content Creation17:48 The Bougie Identity: Elevating Barbecue22:31 Bridgie's Culinary Journey and Family Influence22:46 The Clickbait Effect in BBQ Shopping25:20 Challenges of Being a Female Pitmaster29:58 The Influence of Tex-Mex on BBQ35:36 Signature BBQ Techniques and Flavor Profiles40:22 Balancing Family Life and Content Creation46:25 Behind the Scenes of BBQ Content Creation47:09 Navigating the Heat of BBQ Cooking48:33 Building a Relationship with Oklahoma Joe's51:30 Mastering BBQ Techniques and Methods53:57 The Importance of Listening to Your Meat01:00:06 Overcoming Challenges in BBQ as a Woman01:02:10 Future Aspirations in BBQ and Beyond

🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where barbecue is more than food, it’s culture, tradition, and community. 🔥In this episode, host Brandon and Charlie welcome special guest Ricky Farmer, founder of Meat Stall Barbecue, for a powerful conversation about family, tradition, and the flavors that define Eastern North Carolina barbecue. From humble beginnings to creating his signature sauce Meat Frosting, Ricky shares how discipline, innovation, and community have shaped his journey as a pitmaster.🍖 Inside This Episode:Ricky’s journey from Eastern NC roots to barbecue recognitionHow his military background shaped his discipline and approach to cookingThe creation of Meat Frosting—family-inspired, flavor-packed, and made to elevate any dishWhy barbecue is storytelling, heritage, and community bondingThe role of family and teamwork in building Meat Stall BBQ, including his wife’s key role in logistics and marketingNavigating customer relationships and the perception of barbecue as a luxury foodThe power of social media in sharing barbecue passion and connecting with the communityCooking tips for aspiring pitmasters—mastering your equipment, heat, and smokeWhy quality control and consistency are essential for reputation and successRicky’s vision for the future of Meat Stall BBQ and the legacy he wants to leave🔥 Whether you’re chasing the perfect bite, building your own BBQ brand, or just love the culture that comes with smoked meat, this episode is packed with lessons, laughter, and love for the pit.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the culture and keep the smoke rolling!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:54 Transitioning to Rural Living05:50 Introducing Ricky Farmer: The Meat Stall Barbecue07:35 Behind the Scenes with Thiron Matthews09:59 The Power of Social Media in Barbecue12:51 Growing Up in Eastern North Carolina16:23 Influence of Family on Barbecue Style20:19 Creating Meat Frosted: A Unique Barbecue Sauce23:42 Teamwork in Barbecue Business24:46 Military Background and Its Influence on Barbecue29:50 The Birth of Meat Frosting32:10 The Versatility of Meat Frosting36:40 Barbecue as a Cultural Symbol43:10 Understanding Barbecue as a Luxury Item47:39 The Value of Professional Barbecue50:24 Navigating Customer Relationships51:10 The Barbecue Avengers: Teamwork in Cooking54:43 Passion for Cooking: Personal Favorites01:00:20 Legacy and Future Aspirations01:04:22 Advice for New Smokers#BlackSmokeBBQ #MeatStallBBQ #RickyFarmer #MeatFrosting #EasternNCBBQ #BarbecueTradition #BBQCommunity #BlackPitmasters #BBQPodcast #BBQCulture #StorytellingThroughFood #BarbecueHeritage #GrillAndGrow

In this episode, host Brandon and the crew sit down with Gerald “Pitmaster Papi” Vinnett Jr. to talk about barbecue as more than food—it’s a culture, a connection, and a way of life. From food festivals to block parties, Gerald shares his journey, his flavors, and his passion for bringing people together.The cultural significance of barbecue and why community is always at the centerStories and lessons from food festivals and BBQ competitionsGerald’s culinary journey, rooted in St. Rose, Louisiana traditionsHow Louisiana flavors inspire unique creations like Dock Rub and Papi's Bayou SauceThe art of making boudin and why it’s a Southern stapleThe impact of free food events in building trust and connectionExciting updates on the upcoming Big Papi's Festival and a barbecue & blues block partyTips on cooking techniques, the joy of tailgating, and the mindset needed to succeed in BBQ🔥 This episode blends flavor, storytelling, and community spirit—reminding us all that barbecue is more than what’s on the plate, it’s about who’s gathered around it.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the culture and stay tapped into the best stories from the pit.#BlackSmokeBBQ #GeraldVinnett #DockRub #PapisBayouSauce #LouisianaBBQ #BBQFestival #BigPapisFestival #BBQCommunity #BBQPodcast #BlackPitmasters #BoudinMaking #BarbecueCulture #FoodAndMusicChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:55 The Importance of Community and Culture in Barbecue05:55 Experiences at Barbecue Festivals08:57 The Journey of Pit Master Poppy11:52 The Impact of the Kingsford Grant14:58 Growing Up in St. Rose and Its Influence on Cooking17:52 The Role of Positivity in Barbecue and Life20:51 Incorporating Louisiana Flavors into Barbecue23:36 The Path to Netflix's Barbecue Showdown29:49 The Value of Experience in Barbecue34:00 Confidence and Self-Worth in the Culinary World34:55 Creating Unique Flavor Profiles38:09 The Importance of Sauce in Barbecue41:20 Plans for Product Expansion48:04 The Big Poppy Festival Announcement50:28 Community and Culinary Connections52:25 Exciting Announcements and Collaborations55:22 Culinary Experiences and Community Engagement59:17 Future Plans and Brand Development01:02:40 Social Media Presence and Promotions

🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where food, family, and culture come together at the pit. 🔥“Labor Day Cookouts & Family Reunions: From Pulled Pork to Smoked Desserts”In this episode, hosts Charlie and Tee celebrate the transition from summer to fall with a lively conversation about Labor Day cookouts, family reunions, and the food that brings everyone together. From pulled pork to smoked desserts, they share stories, tips, and flavors that capture the spirit of the holiday.🍖 Inside This Episode:The cultural significance of barbecue as community and connectionWhy Labor Day marks the end of summer and the start of a new seasonFamily reunions and the traditions that make them specialPulled pork as the ultimate crowd-pleaser for big gatheringsWhy wings should never be covered with foil if you want crispy perfectionCreative twists on burgers to elevate your cookout gameAdding flair to the menu with smoked dessertsWhy corn salsa makes the perfect side dish for reunions and cookoutsThe importance of engaging with your community and supporting local creators🎙️ Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood cookout or bringing a dish to the family reunion, this episode will leave you with fresh ideas, laughs, and plenty of barbecue wisdom.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the culture and keep the smoke rolling!#BlackSmokeBBQ #LaborDayCookout #FamilyReunionBBQ #PulledPork #SmokedDesserts #CornSalsa #BBQCulture #WingsDoneRight #BBQPodcast #BlackPitmasters #CookoutSeason #CommunityThroughFood

In this episode, the crew sits down with Ron Conner, the celebrated Chicago pitmaster behind UWantDatSmoke, to talk about the journey, challenges, and triumphs of life in barbecue. From post oak and presentation to community and culture, Ron brings heat, insight, and wisdom to the table.🍖 Inside This Episode:The cultural significance of barbecue and what it means to be a pitmasterWhy sourcing the right wood (like post oak) is key to flavor perfectionRon’s experience judging barbecue and his signature cooking techniquesThe pivotal James Beard Award after party moment that put You Want That Smoke on the mapHow presentation and authenticity set great barbecue apartThe rising costs of quality barbecue and the challenges pitmasters faceRecognition for Black pitmasters—and why it’s still overdue in the mainstreamThe importance of mentorship and building connections in the BBQ worldRon’s advice for the next generation of pitmasters and enthusiastsA look at the future of barbecue culture and where the craft is headed🔥 This episode is equal parts inspiration, education, and celebration—a must-listen for anyone who loves the craft and community of barbecue.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from the pit.#BlackSmokeBBQ #YouWantThatSmoke #RonConner #ChicagoBBQ #BarbecueCulture #BlackPitmasters #JamesBeardAwards #BBQPodcast #BarbecueCommunity #MentorshipMatters #PostOakBBQ #FutureOfBBQChapters00:00 Introduction to Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:49 Meet the Guests: Barbecue Enthusiasts05:46 Ron Conner: The Journey of a Barbecue Master08:54 The Influence of Southern Roots on Barbecue Style11:38 The Dedication to Quality: Sourcing Post Oak14:23 The Art of Competition vs. Backyard Barbecue17:29 Patience in Barbecue: Techniques and Timing26:24 Crafting the Perfect Rub27:53 Signature Dishes and Flavor Profiles29:10 Seasonal Menu Highlights32:48 The Moment It Became Real36:09 Blending Culinary Cultures41:30 Overcoming Challenges in the Business43:50 Barbecue as a Luxury Item47:37 Recognition of Black Pitmasters50:08 The Gentrification of Barbecue50:55 Building Connections in Barbecue55:32 Mentorship and Sharing Knowledge58:59 The Future of Barbecue: Personal Journeys01:04:42 Passion and Commitment in Barbecue

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecueIn this episode, hosts Charlie and Tee welcome back the always-entertaining Stan Battle to talk all things Summer Royale 2025—one of the most anticipated barbecue cook-offs of the year. This event isn’t just about incredible whole hog and rib competitions—it’s about community, charity, and keeping BBQ culture alive.🐖 What’s in This Episode:Inside scoop on the whole hog and rib competitionsWhy Summer Royale continues to grow year after yearThe art, skill, and patience behind whole hog cookingThe importance of giving back through BBQHow this event fosters camaraderie among pitmastersDetails on the Friday meet & greet—your chance to connect with the pros, swap stories, and learn BBQ secrets🔥 Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a backyard griller, or just love the smell of smoked meat in the air, this episode will get you fired up for Summer Royale 2025.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay tapped into the best of BBQ culture, competitions, and community.#BlackSmokeBBQ #SummerRoyale2025 #WholeHogBBQ #RibCompetition #BBQCommunity #PitMasterCheez #CharityThroughCooking #BarbecueCulture #BBQPodcast #MeetThePitmasters #CookOffSeason #BBQEventsChapters00:00 Welcome to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:59 Introducing Summer Royale 202504:49 The Heart of Summer Royale: Community and Charity09:12 Friday Meet and Greet: Building Connections11:53 The Unique Experience of Whole Hog Cooking18:50 Event Details: When and Where to Join Us

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecue🔥 Welcome to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where fire meets flavor and stories feed the soul. 🔥In this episode, host Brandon, Alton and Tee sit down with Chuck Matto, a rising star in the barbecue world known for his flavorful food, infectious energy, and creative content. From his early days as a backyard pitmaster to competing on Food Network’s Barbecue Brawl, Chuck shares the highs, the lessons, and the laughs that shaped his journey.🍖 Inside This Episode:Chuck’s journey from backyard cook to culinary pro & content creatorMemorable moments from catering events and large-scale cooking challengesBehind-the-scenes insights into Food Network’s Barbecue BrawlThe role of flavor, technique, and gear in achieving BBQ greatnessThe power of social media and creating a relatable online presenceChuck’s thoughts on seafood barbecue, favorite drinks while cooking, and those legendary catchphrasesHow the barbecue community lifts each other upBalancing creativity and consistency as a chefReflections on drag racing events, family support, and what’s next for Chuck’s culinary career🔥 Whether you’re a pitmaster, a fan of BBQ culture, or just love a good comeback story, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and heat.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay in the loop with the legends and rising stars of the pit.#BlackSmokeBBQ #ChuckMeadow #BarbecueBrawl #BBQContentCreators #BBQCommunity #SeafoodBBQ #CatchphrasesAndCooking #BarbecuePodcast #BBQCatering #BlackPitmasters #GrillAndChill #SmokeStories #FromThePitToTheScreenChapters00:00 Introduction to Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:55 The Journey of a Barbecue Enthusiast13:39 The Impact of Social Media on Barbecue Culture15:50 Casual Connections and Barbecue Culture17:11 Grill Talk: Favorites and Essentials20:29 Cooking Styles: Flavor Forward and Fun23:42 From Backyard to Catering: A Culinary Journey29:26 Social Media Surge: The Rise to Fame34:35 Barbecue Brawl: The Experience and Impact40:05 Handling Criticism: A Chef's Perspective44:02 The Art of Cooking Seafood Sauces44:46 Cooking Techniques and Personal Preferences47:14 Chuck's Cooking Journey and Inspirations48:07 The Influence of Drinks on Cooking49:04 The Evolution of Chuck's Catchphrases50:56 Wrestling Promos and Their Impact on Cooking53:35 Building Hype and Anticipation in Cooking56:02 The Barbecue Community and Collaboration57:10 Struggles and Challenges in Cooking59:39 The Complexity of Brisket Cooking01:02:05 The Power of Cooking and Personal Connections01:04:04 Barbecue: A Culinary Perspective01:06:01 Experiences Beyond the Grill01:08:57 The Thrill of Drag Racing01:14:56 Future Endeavors and Closing Thoughts

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecueIn this inspiring episode, host **Brandon** and the crew reflect on their time at the **Country Style Cook Off**, while highlighting powerful conversations with trailblazing women in barbecue like **Chef Michelle Wallace** and **Erica Blaire**. From brisket judging to building meaningful friendships, this episode explores the heart of barbecue culture and the women pushing it forward.👩🏽‍🍳 **Key Takeaways:*** The **Country Style Cook Off** continues to be a pillar in the barbecue community.* **Judging barbecue** is rewarding but no easy task—especially after 30+ brisket bites!* **Michelle Wallace** brings fearless flavor and authenticity to everything she cooks.* **Erica Blaire** is a force, focusing on **empowering women** and lifting as she climbs.* In a competitive field, **genuine friendships** and **real support** are everything.* **Cookouts may have changed post-COVID**, but their spirit of unity still thrives.* **Mentorship, community, and shared wisdom** are the backbone of barbecue growth.* **Trusting your gut**—in life and business—is essential.* **Barbecue welcomes newcomers**, and the culture grows stronger through inclusion.* Lessons from **Top Chef**: be bold, be fearless, be you.* Transitioning from **competitor to educator** opens doors to deeper impact.* **Women in barbecue face unique challenges**—but they also lead with resilience.* The culinary world demands hustle—**hard work, networking, and authenticity** are non-negotiable.* **Mistakes are part of the process**—growth comes from every cook.🎙️ This episode is a love letter to **women in BBQ**, the power of **community**, and the belief that **food can bring us all together**.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations from the pit.\#BlackSmokeBBQ #WomenInBarbecue #MichelleWallace #EricaBlaire #CountryStyleCookOff #BBQCommunity #BarbecueSisterhood #TopChef #BBQMentorship #CulinaryLeadership #BlackPitmasters #GrillAndGrow #FoodWithPurpose #AuthenticCookingChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:56 Recap of Country Style Cook Off05:51 Introducing the Guests08:58 Celebrating Michelle's Achievements12:00 Erica's Journey and Empowering Women in Barbecue23:50 Engaging New Audiences in Barbecue25:09 Engaging with the Community through Cooking27:10 The Evolution of Cookouts Post-COVID29:40 The Importance of Friendship in the Culinary World31:18 Building Connections: The Story of Two Chefs36:09 Navigating Friendships in a Competitive Industry46:11 Lessons from Top Chef: Branding and Storytelling47:39 Transitioning from Competitor to Educator51:04 Empowering Others in Culinary Spaces54:10 Authenticity and Making an Impression55:28 Navigating Gender Dynamics in Barbecue01:00:11 Creating Opportunities for Women in Barbecue01:04:08 Advice for Aspiring Black Women in Barbecue01:09:08 The Importance of Networking and Community01:11:12 The Journey to Success in Barbecue

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecue🔥 Welcome back to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where smoke, soul, and stories come together. 🔥In this flavor-packed episode, host Brandon and the crew dive into their unforgettable experience at the Country Style Cook Off 2025 in Blenheim, South Carolina. From roadside adventures to judging brisket and interacting with fans, this episode captures the essence of what makes barbecue more than just food—it’s a culture, a community, and a celebration.🍽️ In This Episode:Behind-the-scenes stories from the journey to BlenheimInside look at the unique brisket judging processFestival highlights, standout dishes, and fan-favorite momentsHilarious flashbacks to childhood food trauma (yes, liver and okra!)Exploring creative culinary experiments like goat head soup and brisket fried riceReflections on how our tastes evolve over timeThe emotional highs of competition and the power of barbecue as connectionWhat’s next for the crew—and a preview of upcoming BBQ events🎙️ Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just love great food and storytelling, this episode delivers laughs, insight, and a whole lot of heart.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay locked in with the culture of the pit.#BlackSmokeBBQ #CountryStyleCookOff #BrisketJudging #BBQFestival #BarbecueCulture #GoatHeadSoup #BrisketFriedRice #SouthernBBQ #BBQCommunity #BlackPitmasters #FoodAndFamily #bbqpodcast

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecueIn this powerhouse episode, the crew sits down with Les Rhodes Jr., founder and pitmaster of LES BBQ, known nationwide for his viral smoked oxtails, bold flavors, and community-first mindset. From working oil rigs to building a USDA-certified BBQ brand and restaurant, Les shares his inspiring journey of hustle, innovation, and staying rooted in authenticity.🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How Les went from front-yard football grilling to viral BBQ sensationThe Sam’s Club moment that sparked his signature “Candy Red” smoked oxtailsNavigating overnight success, $100K weeks, and scaling nationwide shippingThe power of family in business, mentorship, and raising the next generationUsing social media and storytelling to build community and brand identityLessons from touring, catering, and innovating products (yes, even oxtail-infused sausage!)Why pricing, quality, and presentation matter more than ever in today’s BBQ economyLes’s commitment to elevating BBQ without losing the soul or the sauceWhat it means to scale a business while staying authentic, grassroots, and intentional🔥 Whether you're a pitmaster, entrepreneur, or foodie, this episode is full of real talk, game-changing insights, and mouthwatering inspiration from one of BBQ’s rising stars.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to keep the smoke rolling with every episode.#BlackSmokeBBQ #LESBBQ #SmokedOxtails #CandyRedBBQ #BarbecueCulture #BlackPitmasters #FamilyBusiness #BBQPodcast #CulinaryInnovation #TexasBBQ #FoodEntrepreneurship #GrillAndGrowChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:45 The Journey of Les Rhodes: From Oil Rigs to Barbecue05:56 Revolutionizing Mail Order Barbecue08:57 The Rise of Oxtails in Barbecue Culture12:05 The Art of Achieving the Perfect Barbecue Color14:43 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Failure17:56 The Importance of Staying Humble and Inspired20:39 Les Rhodes' Barbecue Beginnings and Early Experiences23:56 Favorite Proteins and Cooking Techniques26:41 The Art of Slow Cooking Oxtails28:08 Transitioning from Backyard to Brick and Mortar30:35 The Role of Family in Business30:55 The Importance of Quality Control35:28 Innovative Culinary Creations40:04 Engagement Through Social Media43:43 Applying Business Skills from Drilling to BBQ47:11 Cooking for Celebrities: A Memorable Experience49:49 The Rise of a BBQ Star51:52 Family Dynamics in the BBQ Business53:55 From Backyard to Business55:09 Navigating Customer Expectations and Pricing59:43 Life Beyond BBQ: Hobbies and Family01:01:10 Future Plans: Fitness and BBQ01:02:26 Being a Black Pitmaster in Utah01:05:48 Barbecue as a Luxury Item

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecue🔥 Welcome to another episode of The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where fire meets flavor and stories bring the smoke. 🔥This episode is all about celebrating barbecue as a culture, a craft, and a community. We sit down with Chef Shaticka Robinson, winner of Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown Season 3, to talk about her journey, the lessons learned along the way, and how she’s shaking up the BBQ scene with confidence, style, and serious flavor.🔥 Takeaways from the Pit:Barbecue is more than food—it’s family, culture, and connection.The Country Style Cook Off feels like a family reunion with fire and flavor.Chef Shaticka found her passion young, and it’s taken her to national recognition.Winning Barbecue Showdown was life-changing—and proof that confidence is key.Elevating BBQ is about top-tier ingredients, presentation, and pride.Women have always held it down in BBQ, even if they haven’t always been in the spotlight.Barbecue can be bougie and bold—and that’s okay.Customer service and experience matter just as much as the food.Sometimes simple rubs hit the hardest—flavor doesn’t have to be complicated.As a Black woman in BBQ, Shaticka shares the unique challenges and triumphs of her journey.Passion isn’t optional—it’s the fuel behind the fire.Nashville-style BBQ brings its own flavor to the table.Traveling for BBQ? Yes, please. It’s the best education.Great food is about making people happy and feeling seen.Cigars, cocktails, and ribs that aren’t boiled—because life’s too short to eat bad food.🎙️ Tune in for a soulful, funny, and flavor-packed episode that highlights what makes barbecue special—from the smokehouse to the soul.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to keep the fire burning with every episode.#BlackSmokeBBQ #BarbecueShowdown #ChefShaticka #WomenInBBQ #BlackPitmasters #BougieBBQ #CountryStyleCookOff #BBQPodcast #BBQCulture #NashvilleBBQ #GrillAndChill #BarbecueExperience #CulinaryConfidence #BarbecueCommunity

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecue🔥 Welcome to another powerful episode of The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where food, farming, and purpose intersect. 🔥This week, host Brandon is joined by a panel of passionate barbecue enthusiasts for a heartfelt conversation with Marvin Frink, founder of Briarwood Cattle Farms. From serving in the military to cultivating the land, Marvin shares his inspiring journey and how agritherapy—farming as a form of healing—became his mission to help others, especially veterans.🌾 In This Episode:Marvin’s transition from the military to farming, and how the land became a space of healingThe concept of agritherapy and its powerful mental health benefitsA look into daily life at Briarwood Cattle FarmsThe impact of community events like the Day of HealingWhy local farming is essential for food securityAn eye-opening breakdown of the economics of barbecue and the real cost of meat productionThe need for transparency in the food industryMarvin’s mission to mentor and inspire the next generation of farmers🌱 This episode goes beyond barbecue—it’s about building community, honoring tradition, and creating pathways for healing and growth through food and farming.🎧 Tune in for a raw, educational, and motivating conversation that will change how you view your plate and the people behind it.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories from the smoke and the soil.#BlackSmokeBBQ #BriarwoodCattleFarms #Agritherapy #VeteransInFarming #BBQPodcast #BarbecueEconomics #FoodSecurity #DayOfHealing #LocalFarmingMatters #MentorshipInAgriculture #TransparencyInFood #BlackFarmersMatter #BBQCultureChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast02:58 The Joy of Cooking and Barbecue Culture05:55 Introducing Marvin Frink and Briarwood Cattle Farms08:54 The Impact of Agri-Therapy on Mental Health11:54 Business Ventures: From Beef to Coffee14:41 The Importance of Knowing Your Food Source17:38 The Role of Farming in Mental Health20:25 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors23:50 The Therapeutic Nature of Barbecue24:54 Creating a Space for Healing27:21 Expanding the Day of Healing29:44 A Day in the Life at Briarwood Cattle Farms33:28 Understanding Custom Meat Orders41:54 Food as National Security48:45 The Importance of Food Safety Education50:15 The Importance of Professionalism in Food Handling54:32 Mentorship and Resources in Agriculture59:16 Understanding the Economics of Meat Production01:00:50 Briarwood Farms: A Model for Community and Education01:05:18 Invitation to Collaborate and Educate

👉🏽 Before you do anything else — check out the site below!🎙️ The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/BlackSmokeBarbecue🔥 Welcome back to The Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast – where smoke meets soul, and the pit tells a story. 🔥In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the heart of barbecue with a conversation that goes far beyond the food. From the evolving Chicago BBQ scene to the importance of cultural representation, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and wisdom from the pit.🍖 Key Takeaways:Barbecue is more than a meal—it’s a culture, a community, and a ministry.Chicago BBQ is evolving, blending traditional roots with craft innovation.Pop-ups offer one-of-a-kind culinary experiences that build community and brand recognition.Video editing is now an essential tool for chefs and creators in the BBQ world.Reverse searing is hailed as a superior technique for steak perfection.Local support is crucial for new BBQ styles to take root and grow.Presentation and pricing matter—quality should look and feel premium.Knowing your market and competition is key to building a successful BBQ business.First-time TV appearances are a mix of nerves and excitement—and a step toward growth.Food is a form of emotional connection, storytelling, and even empowerment.👩🏽‍🍳 Empowerment Through Education:Cooking classes can inspire diverse audiences, especially women and youth.Hands-on learning and mentorship are essential for passing down pit knowledge.Teaching young people about barbecue helps shape the next generation of chefs.🤝 Community, Representation, and the Future:Building relationships in the BBQ community is everything.Networking events are both professional meetups and family reunions.Black pitmasters have long been innovators, yet mainstream recognition is lacking.The barbecue industry must be recognized as a culinary art form, not just backyard fare.Collaboration over competition—a guiding principle for growth.If there's no seat at the table, build your own table.🔥 Plus, hear about Daniel’s vision to open a restaurant in five years, his passion for traveling to experience new barbecue cultures, and why he believes in making space for others in the BBQ world.🎙️ Whether you're a pitmaster, foodie, or fan of authentic storytelling, this episode will leave you fired up, inspired, and ready to turn up the heat in your own kitchen—or your community.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations from the world of barbecue.#BlackSmokeBBQ #BarbecueCulture #ChicagoBBQ #BlackPitmasters #FoodIsMinistry #BBQPodcast #CraftBBQ #WomenWhoGrill #YouthInBarbecue #ReverseSear #BBQCommunity #RepresentationMatters #MakeYourOwnTable #PopUpCulture #BarbecueAsArtChapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Smoke Barbecue Podcast06:09 Meet Chef Daniel Hammond: A Barbecue Innovator07:28 The Evolution of Chicago Barbecue09:44 Milestones and Challenges in Barbecue12:05 Understanding Pop-Ups in the Culinary Scene14:53 Personal Growth and New Skills in Barbecue17:09 Craft Barbecue: Local Reception and Nostalgia19:21 Cooking Techniques: Hot and Fast vs. Low and Slow21:07 Premium Barbecue: Pricing and Presentation25:57 The First Time on TV28:19 Barbecue as a Form of Ministry30:49 Future Partnerships and Aspirations35:34 Pop-Ups and Classes: Smoke and Spice39:06 Barbecue Legacy Academy: Teaching the Next Generation45:00 Bridging Education and Barbecue50:41 Future Aspirations in Barbecue53:13 The Importance of Networking and Community54:07 Growth and Recognition in the Barbecue Industry56:46 The Role of Black Pitmasters in Barbecue01:04:40 Culinary Legacy and Cultural Representation