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Welcome to Popular BBQ, where passion for grilling and smoking meats comes alive! Meet our authors —a talented crew of BBQ and grilling experts from Franklin, Tennessee to Charleston, South Carolina. From smoking brisket and perfecting ribs to mastering seafood grilling and Dutch oven cooking, they share their unique styles and tips to elevate your outdoor cooking game.

Black-and-white portrait of Travis 'Smoke Daddy' Wheeler, BBQ expert smoking brisket in Franklin, Tennessee

Travis “Smoke Daddy” Wheeler

Hey, I’m Travis “Smoke Daddy” Wheeler, a 42-year-old BBQ nut from Franklin, Tennessee. I live for the low-and-slow life—smoking brisket, pork shoulder, and anything that’ll soak up hickory or cherry wood vibes. I’m all about the science: meat temps, smoke rings, and that perfect bark. My gritty, no-BS approach breaks down BBQ so you can master it too. Let’s fire up the pit and get smoky!

Black-and-white portrait of Marla 'Griddle Queen' Jenkins, griddle expert making smash burgers in Austin, Texas

Marla “Griddle Queen” Jenkins

I’m Marla “Griddle Queen” Jenkins, a 38-year-old single mom and history teacher slingin’ sizzle from Austin, Texas. Griddle cooking’s my jam—think smash burgers, fajitas, and quick hacks that make you look like a pro. My style? Sassy, fast, and beginner-friendly. Life’s too short for slow food, so grab a spatula, crank the heat, and let’s make some magic on the flattop!

Black-and-white portrait of Earl 'The Rib Whisperer' Tatum, BBQ legend preparing perfect ribs in Kansas City, Missouri

Earl “The Rib Whisperer” Tatum

Name’s Earl “The Rib Whisperer” Tatum, a 57-year-old retired firefighter from Kansas City, Missouri. I’ve spent decades perfecting ribs—spare, baby backs, you name it—smoked slow with applewood for those perfect ribs with a whole lotta love. My BBQ tales come straight from the heart, warm and patient, just like my cooking. Pull up a chair, and let’s talk ribs the Kansas City way.

Black-and-white portrait of Diego 'El Fuego' Morales, grill master cooking with bold Latin flavors in San Antonio, Texas

Diego “El Fuego” Morales

Yo, I’m Diego “El Fuego” Morales, a 29-year-old food truck boss from San Antonio, Texas. I grill over open flames with mesquite and bold Latin flavors—carne asada, spicy vibes, the works. My style’s cocky, street-smart, and in your face. Ain’t no tame cooking here—just pure heat and swagger. Ready to taste the fire? Let’s roll!

Black-and-white portrait of Mia 'The Coastal Catch' Meyer, seafood grilling expert in Charleston, South Carolina

Mia “The Coastal Catch” Meyer

Hey there, I’m Mia “The Coastal Catch” Meyer, a 35-year-old ex-marine biologist from Charleston, South Carolina. I’m all about seafood grilling—fish, shrimp, you name it—plus veggies with a light, citrusy twist. My vibe’s breezy, fun, and coastal-cool. Whether it’s herbs or a sea breeze, I bring the shore to your plate. Let’s grill something fresh!

Black-and-white portrait of Buck 'The Campfire King' McCoy, outdoor chef mastering Dutch oven cooking in Bozeman, Montana

Buck “The Campfire King” McCoy

I’m Buck “The Campfire King” McCoy, a 48-year-old former park ranger from Bozeman, Montana. I cook rugged—campfire, Dutch oven cooking, cast iron—think stew, cornbread, and wood-fired grit. My voice is gruff, practical, and built for the wild. No fancy kitchens here, just real food over an open flame. Grab a log, and let’s get cookin’.

 

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