We’re back in the pit, and this week’s episode is smokin’ with stories, hot takes, and a whole lotta flavor!

Rasheed’s celebrating Pops’ 60th (Happy Birthday, OG!), and shouting out BBQ legends and rising stars—from Big Bob Gibson turning 100 to Cornerstone BBQ dropping breakfast bombs. Plus, what’s going on with M&M BBQ? Securing patents like it's 1999—because if you don’t protect your rig, someone else will fire it up!

Meanwhile, James is back from his Charleston food tour (mystery dates, shrimp & grits, and pants-optional weekends), and he’s had enough of bad takeout. Where’s the love? Where’s the care? Where’s...the ribs?! We’re talking delivery disasters, wilted lettuce, and how pride in your craft is going up in smoke.

Also in this episode:

• SmokeSlam announcements

• BBQ grifts: Which products are worth your money—and which ones should go straight in the trash

• Why you should be making brisket waffles for International Waffle Day (yep, that’s a thing)

• Rent-a-chicken follow-up and the wildest egg-smuggling fine we’ve ever heard

But most importantly—we're getting real about why pride still matters. Whether you’re behind a smoker, on the line, or leading a crew: your name’s on the plate. So treat it like it counts.

Tune in, tap in, and let’s talk about how we bring that fire back—one dish at a time.