We are a passionate group of BBQ enthusiasts and seasoned competitors who are dedicated to sharing valuable information, expert advice, insider tips, and captivating tales about our beloved barbecue culture. Our mission is to inspire and fuel the enthusiasm of cooks at every level, from beginners to seasoned pros, as they strive to surpass their own culinary expectations and perfect the art of mastering the pit!
Jesse Johnson
24 Time Grand & Reserve Grand Champion
Reserve World Grand Champion in Pork at World Food Championships
High Rollers Champion at Wild West Shootout in Wendover
Founder of Pitmaster BBQ Supply Company stores in Utah & has taught BBQ Classes all over the Nation!
Follow me
Derrick Walz
Online Tasting Co-Host
My name is Derrick Walz, and I am based in San Diego, California, where my BBQ journey began back in 2009 with my first smoker. Since then, I've added a few more cookers to my collection, became a certified KCBS Judge/Table Captain, worked as a Pitmaster for a local BBQ restaurant and been involved in organizing backyard and Master Series Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) BBQ competitions in Southern California. In 2022, I was invited to join the BBQ competition trail and cook with West Coast BBQ Shop with the aim of achieving rookie of the year for California BBQ Association (CBBQA). During this journey, we managed to secure the rookie of the year title, as well as 5 Grand/Reserve Grand Championships and sponsorship from Big Green Egg.
I currently serve on the board of directors with CBBQA, where I am committed to spreading the joy of BBQ and its ability to bring communities together.
Follow me
Crystal Thompson
Booking Director
My name is Crystal Thompson. I began my journey into barbecue when my husband gifted me a Traeger for Christmas in 2015. In the following September, I won a local smoke-off competition and became hooked on barbecue. I had previously attended culinary school in 2012-2013, and barbecue allowed me to further develop the skills I had acquired. In 2018, I competed against Anthony for the first time, and I have been an avid follower of the podcast since its inception. In addition to teaching elementary school, I conduct basic cooking classes when time permits and enjoy cooking for friends and family. I lead a competition barbecue team called The Failed Vegan, and this year, I achieved my first victory in an official backyard barbecue competition.
Follow me
Travis Bates
Facebook Community Manager
Hi, I’m Travis Bates. I’ve always enjoyed cooking at home and have a bit of a “problem” when it comes to collecting grills and outdoor cookers (I’m up to 15 as of this writing.)
I got my start in BBQ Competitions when a college friend told me I should think about getting certified as a K.C.B.S. Certified Barbecue Judge. It sounded like a good way to learn some tricks and eat some of the best barbecue around.
I am now certified with the KCBS and am a Prime Judge with the S.C.A.
My family and I call northern Utah home and when I’m not eating great barbecue, I work for the world’s largest retailer of grills and smokers.