BBQ Nation

Lynnae Oxley, Chopped Champion, BBQ Pitmaster, Culinary Consultant, Private Chef, and Restaurant Development Specialist is in studio with JT for this encore presentation Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JT and LeAnn Whippen chat with Chris Sussman, the BBQ Buddha, about his favorite foods, favorite things to do, and life Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JT and LeAnn Whippen chat with Chris Sussman, the BBQ Buddha, a two-time published author and the creator of The Ultimate Big Green Egg Cookbook. He has worked with every live fire environment imaginable, and can help you master everything from charcoal and gas grills to commercial-grade smokers. This lively show will can help make you a BBQ Star in your own backyard. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Clint Cantwell, President of AmazingRibs.com, spends time with JT in Afterhours Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JT visits with Clint Cantwell,  President of AmazingRibs.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tuffy Stone, The Professor of Barbecue, spends some time in Afterhours with JT and LeeAnn. Some secrets get spilled. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Professor of Barbecue, Tuffy Stone, joins JT and LeeAnn for an insight into how Tuffy's career has evolved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We speak with David Knight, the founder of Old Hickory Pits, about his convection technology and the design of high-quality smokers. I ask him how his interest began, and he explains it started in first grade and grew through work in restaurants. He describes how problems in his restaurant led him to develop commercial pits and later smaller backyard models up to the large Hogzilla unit. He explains that his convection method controls airflow to recycle heat and smoke, ensuring even low and slow cooking while keeping the fire separated from the meat. We discuss cleaning methods, grease drains...

I state that the central point of our conversation is that authentic Texas barbecue is defined by cooking with wood and by regional adaptation of techniques and equipment. I explain how different Texas regions favor distinct approaches, from Hill Country fire discs to large offset smokers made from oil tanks. We discuss the rise of backyard smokers and regulated oiler smokers and how those designs have spread beyond Texas. I note that barbecue television shows spur interest but do not teach traditional technique, and that competition methods can differ from restaurant practice. I emphasize that proper barbecue requires respect...

I welcome Daniel Vaughn, the barbecue editor at Texas Monthly, and we focus on the regional diversity of Texas barbecue. I ask how he moved from architecture to writing and how a blog grew into his job. We discuss how I and he judge barbecue places, with attention to brisket, sausage, and local specialties in East, Central, and South Texas. We share stories about pitmasters and characters, including Tootsie at Snow's, and we explain why those human stories matter. I critique trends like oven‑baked brisket and the recent popularity of stuffed turkey legs. We conclude that barbecue is st...

Guidance on how to enter and succeed in barbecue competitions, accompanied by pragmatic counsel for aspiring competitors. I delineate procedural and attitudinal recommendations, advising entrants to embrace incremental victories, hone category-specific skills, and persist despite the vicissitudes of judging that render outcomes unpredictable even for seasoned teams. We elucidate the social and familial dimensions of barbecue, describing how collaborative roles, shared tasks, and home cooking rituals reinforce both professional practice and personal gratification. I reflect on experiential subtleties such as palate variability and the etiquette of tasting other teams’ offerings, urging restraint and constructive feedback rather than corrosive criticism. We...

We state at the outset that competitive barbecue is often decided by the luck of the judge, and that judge variability can affect results as much as cooking skill. I advise beginners to learn the sanctioning rules thoroughly, follow allowed equipment and garnish rules, and study presentation standards. We recommend joining a team or observing contests to learn timing, box setup, and judge expectations. I emphasize making a strict timeline, bringing reliable gear and enough charcoal and wood, and preparing for weather and lighting. We stress photographing boxes, recording scores, and refining technique from contest to contest while remaining...

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the exploration of culinary passions and personal anecdotes shared by our esteemed guest, Megan Day, a prominent figure in the barbecue realm. Throughout the discourse, we engage in a profound dialogue concerning her admiration for historical figures, specifically the intrepid Amelia Earhart, and the culinary delights she would prepare for such a distinguished guest. Furthermore, we delve into Megan's aspirations and reflections on her journey within the competitive barbecue landscape, discussing the intricacies of mastering techniques and the influence of mentorship from established barbecue icons. Additionally, the conversation traverses personal...

The salient focus of this podcast episode centers on the remarkable journey of Megan Day from Burnt Fingers Barbecue, as she elaborates on the origins of her barbecue brand and her experiences within the competitive barbecue circuit. Megan shares the intriguing anecdote behind the name "Burnt Fingers," emphasizing the communal joy of cooking and the unanticipated risks associated with culinary enthusiasm. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the evolution of barbecue competitions, examining how shifting flavor profiles and the quality of ingredients have influenced the outcomes in recent contests. We also explore the significance of family engagement in barbecue...

This podcast episode delves into the intricate world of hot sauces, highlighting the essential notion that the selection of a singular, optimal sauce can significantly enhance culinary experiences. I engage in a profound dialogue with John Hallner, who is affectionately referred to as the hot sauce sensei, accompanied by my co-host, Ms. Leanne Whippen. Together, we explore the diverse array of hot sauces available, discussing the merits of various flavors and ingredients, while underscoring the importance of reading labels to ensure quality. Hallner emphasizes the value of a well-balanced pepper blend sauce tailored to individual heat preferences, further elucidating...

The central theme of this podcast episode is an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationships between hot sauces, salsas, and barbecue sauces, as articulated by our esteemed guest, John Hallner, the Hot Sauce Sensei. In our discussion, we delve into the culinary elements that define these condiments, emphasizing how their foundational ingredients such as peppers, vinegar, and sweetness contribute to their unique flavor profiles. Hallner elucidates the distinctions and commonalities among these sauces, drawing attention to how regional variations influence their composition and culinary applications. Furthermore, we examine the burgeoning trend of hot honey and its rising popularity in...

The central theme of this episode revolves around the profound culinary artistry inherent in barbecue, as discussed by our esteemed guest, Tori Campbell, from Felton and Mary's Artisan Foods. Our conversation delves into the intricate processes and personal stories that shape one's barbecue journey, highlighting the significance of familial influences and the communal aspects of this cherished cooking method. Tori articulates the transformative potential of barbecuing, revealing how it elevates even the most unassuming cuts of meat into gastronomic delights through the application of low and slow cooking techniques. Moreover, we explore the emotional connections tied to barbecue, emphasizing...

The central theme of today's discourse revolves around the rich tapestry of barbecue culture as embodied by our esteemed guest, Tory Campbell, of Felton and Mary’s Artisan Foods. Tory elaborates on the profound legacy of his grandparents, who established a revered barbecue restaurant in Portland, and how their traditions continue to influence his culinary endeavors. We delve into the intricate interplay between heritage and innovation, as Tory recounts his journey from the familial roots of barbecue to the modern-day challenges of running a food business. Furthermore, he shares invaluable insights into the art of marketing and the significance of...

In this episode of Barbecue Nation, we delve into the multifaceted world of barbecue, exploring the complexities and challenges that practitioners face in both competitive and casual settings. One of the salient points discussed is the notion that while many aspire to carve out a niche in the barbecue industry, the reality is that achieving financial stability through barbecue alone remains a formidable challenge. We reflect on the evolution of competitive barbecue and the influence of social media, noting that the proliferation of similar recipes and techniques often stifles creativity among cooks. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the personal...

The salient point of this podcast episode is the introduction of Clint Cantwell as the newly appointed president of AmazingRibs.com, a position that he has embraced with enthusiasm and ambition. During our discussion, we delve into Clint's extensive background in barbecue, exploring his evolution from a backyard griller to a pivotal figure in the barbecue community. We also examine the influence of social media on contemporary barbecue culture, highlighting the challenges faced by seasoned pitmasters in an era where digital content can sometimes overshadow years of experience and dedication. Furthermore, Clint shares his thoughts on the significance of...