Podcast

BBQ Nation

Arts, Food, Leisure

BBQ Nation is more than just smoking a brisket. BBQ Nation is a fun and interesting hour with
guests ranging from World Champion BBQ Pitmasters to renowned Chefs from all walks of the
culinary world. Hosted by Jeff Tracy, TV and Radio celebrity, (The cowboy Cook) along with
BBQ Hall of Famer and TV personality Lee Ann Whippen. Jeff and Lee Ann bring their vast
knowledge of the food and BBQ world to the forefront.
Both Jeff and Lee Ann have years of experience in catering, restaurants and competition, as
well as hundreds of appearances on TV between them. Lee Ann beat Bobby Flay on The Food
Network’s “Throw Down” along with appearing on a number of shows on the network.
Add a large helping of personality and you have the recipe for a fun, interesting and informative show.
BBQ Nation is a permanent selection on the radio and podcast list for thousands of listeners.
Guests range from TV icons like Graham Kerr “The Galloping Gourmet” and Emmy winning
writer and producer John Markus to BBQ business icons like Carey Bringle from Peg Leg
Porker and Megan Day from Burnt Finger BBQ.
Meathead Goldwyn, creator of AmazingRibs.com is a frequent guest on BBQ Nation. Meathead brings science along with superb techniques and flavor of thoughts to the show.
BBQ Nation is produced to cover everything from time, temperature to personality, ideas, and
award-winning styles.
Step up your BBQ, Grilling and overall cooking game with BBQ Nation.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Episodes
306
Releases
Twice a week
Typical length
42 min
On air since
2023
Latest episode
17 hours ago

Episodes

306 episodes, newest first

  1. Jim Haas, Regional Sales Manager for Blaze Outdoor Products - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 305

    Show notes

    Jim Haas (aka, Jimbeaux) - Life long musician. Singer / song writer. Grilling enthusiast. Regional Sales Manager for Blaze Outdoor Products, spends time in Afterhours with JT and LeeAnn.

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    18 min
  2. Jim Haas, Regional Sales Manager at Blaze Outdoor Products - Encore

    Episode 304

    Show notes

    JT visits with Jim Haas, Regional Sales Manager at Blaze Outdoor Products. Jim is also know as Jimbeaux Haas, a lifelong grilling enthusiast and musician.

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    42 min
  3. Lynnae Oxley, Chopped Champion, BBQ Pitmaster - Encore

    Episode 303

    Show notes

    Lynnae Oxley, Chopped Champion, BBQ Pitmaster, Culinary Consultant, Private Chef, and Restaurant Development Specialist is in studio with JT for this encore presentation

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    42 min
  4. Chris Sussman, The BBQ Buddha - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 302

    Show notes

    JT and LeAnn Whippen chat with Chris Sussman, the BBQ Buddha, about his favorite foods, favorite things to do, and life

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    29 min
  5. Chris Sussman, The BBQ Buddha - Encore

    Episode 301

    Show notes

    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.

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    42 min
  6. Clint Cantwell, President of AmazingRibs.com - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 300

    Show notes

    Clint Cantwell, President of AmazingRibs.com, spends time with JT in Afterhours

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    21 min
  7. Clint Cantwell is President of AmazingRibs.com - Encore

    Episode 299

    Show notes

    JT visits with Clint Cantwell, President of AmazingRibs.com

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    42 min
  8. Tuffy Stone, The Professor of Barbecue - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 298

    Show notes

    Tuffy Stone, The Professor of Barbecue, spends some time in Afterhours with JT and LeeAnn. Some secrets get spilled.

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    27 min
  9. Tuffy Stone, The Professor of Barbeque - Encore

    Episode 297

    Show notes

    The Professor of Barbecue, Tuffy Stone, joins JT and LeeAnn for an insight into how Tuffy's career has evolved.

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    42 min
  10. David B. Knight, President and Founder of Ole Hickory Pits - Encore

    Episode 296

    Show notes

    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, and the use of power washers, and we note the company’s presence at competitions and in international sales. I conclude that Old Hickory continues to refine its designs and to support relief and competitive barbecue efforts.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://amazingribs.com
    • https://paintedhillsnaturalbeef.com
    • https://gunterwilhelm.com
    • https://oregondungeness.org
    • https://heritagesteel.us
    • https://barbecuenationjt.com

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  11. Daniel Vaughn, Contributor at Texas Monthly - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 295

    Show notes

    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 for the animal and careful cooking and service. We thank Daniel Vaughn of Texas Monthly for joining us and encourage listeners to seek his writing.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Barbecue Nation
    • Texas Monthly
    • J and R Manufacturing
    • The Beast
    • Marriott Hotel
    • Moberg Smokers
    • KBQ
    • Liquid Smoke

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    18 min
  12. Daniel Vaughn, Contributor at Texas Monthly - Encore

    Episode 294

    Show notes

    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 strong, varied, and rooted in local tradition, and that the people who make it keep the craft alive.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://paintedhillsnaturalbeef.com
    • https://heritagesteel.us
    • https://gunterwilhelms.com
    • https://bbqnationjt.com
    • https://thecowboycook.com
    • https://oregondungeness.org

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  13. JT and Lee Ann Whippen - Competition BBQ Part 2 - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 293

    Show notes

    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 relate illustrative anecdotes that underscore humility and delight in the craft, and we affirm that barbecue continues to provide daily pleasure and communal connection. Ultimately, I exhort novices to view competition as a learning trajectory, to cultivate patience, and to measure success by continual improvement as much as by trophies.

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    11 min
  14. JT and Lee Ann Whippen - Competition BBQ Part 2 - Encore

    Episode 292

    Show notes

    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 persistent despite setbacks.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://paintedhillsnaturalbeef.com
    • https://heritagesteel.us
    • https://gunterwilhelm.com
    • https://barbecuenationjt.com
    • https://oregondungeness.org

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  15. Megan Day, Burnt Finger BBQ - Encore Afterhours

    Episode 291

    Show notes

    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 insights, ranging from favorite culinary experiences to the challenges faced in both professional and personal realms. We conclude with a light-hearted yet meaningful exchange about aspirations, favorite foods, and the essence of enjoying life's simplicity, leaving our audience with not only culinary inspiration but also a reminder of the importance of kindness and connection.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://BurntFingerbbq
    • https://BurntFingerMegan

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Bronson's
    • Burnt Fingers

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    14 min
  16. Megan Day, Burnt Finger BBQ - Encore

    Episode 290

    Show notes

    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 culture, particularly how Megan's children are following in her footsteps, albeit with their own aspirations. Ultimately, this episode serves as a testament to the passion, creativity, and community spirit inherent in the world of barbecue.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • oregon dungeness.org
    • https://heritagesteel.us
    • https://burntfingerbbq.com
    • https://pigpowder.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Oregon Dungeness Crab commission
    • Burt Fingers Barbecue
    • Pig Powder
    • Heritage Steel
    • Weston Kia

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  17. John Hollner - Hot Sauce Sensei - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 289

    Show notes

    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 nuanced relationship between sauces and the foods they complement. Ultimately, we advocate for the exploration of new flavors, encouraging listeners to expand their palates and embrace the myriad of options that exist within the realm of hot sauces.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://hotsaucecookbook.com
    • https://hotsauceblogger
    • https://hotsaucesensei

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Tabasco
    • Sriracha
    • Heinz
    • Kraft
    • Dirty Dick's Hot Pepper Sauce
    • Spicy Shark

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    19 min
  18. John Hollner - Hot Sauce Sensei - Encore

    Episode 288

    Show notes

    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 contemporary cuisine, alongside the complexities of balancing heat and flavor in homemade sauces. This episode promises to enrich our listeners' understanding of flavor dynamics, ultimately guiding them toward crafting their own signature sauces.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://paintedhillsnaturalbeef.com
    • https://barbecuenationjt.com
    • oregon dungeness crab
    • https://oregondungeness.org
    • https://heritagesteel
    • https://hammerstahl.us

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painterdale's Natural Beef
    • Yellowbird
    • Gator Hammock
    • Swamp Dragon
    • Instacart
    • Tabasco
    • Sweet Baby Rays
    • Heritage Steel
    • Weston Kia
    • Hammerstahl
    • Spicy Shark
    • Underwood Ranches

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min
  19. Tory Campbell - Felton and Mary's Artisan Food - Afterhours Encore

    Episode 287

    Show notes

    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 its role as a medium for social interaction and shared experiences among friends and family. As we traverse various anecdotes and culinary philosophies, the episode serves as both an homage to the art of barbecue and a celebration of the bonds it fosters within our communities.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://Belton&Mary.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Felton and Mary's Artisan Foods

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    20 min
  20. Tory Campbell - Felton and Mary's Artisan Food - Encore

    Episode 286

    Show notes

    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 storytelling in cultivating a loyal customer base. Join us as we explore the depths of barbecue craftsmanship and the personal narratives that enrich this beloved culinary art form.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • https://paintedhillbeef.com
    • https://oregondungeness.org
    • https://paintedhillsbeef.com
    • https://pigpowder.com
    • https://heritagesteel.us
    • https://feltonandmary.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Painted Hills Natural Beef
    • Felton and Mary's Artisan Foods
    • Campbell's
    • Casey's Barbecue
    • Burgerville
    • Oregon State University
    • Weston Kia
    • Heritage Steel
    • Oregon Dungeness Crab
    • Pig Powder

    This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

    OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min