Daniel Vaughn is the most influential — and controversial — voice in barbecue.

As the BBQ Editor at Texas Monthly, he curates the legendary Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas list: the ranking that pitmasters dream of, fight for, fear, and loathe. But his path to becoming America’s only full-time barbecue critic is anything but traditional.

In this episode of Smokeless, Daniel Vaughn reveals:

• How a simple blog changed his entire life
• The BBQ meal that hooked him instantly
• His unlikely journey from Ohio to Texas, from architecture to food criticism
• What people get wrong about the Texas Monthly Top 50
• How he handles pressure, backlash & pitmaster expectations
• Stories from the road, the pits, and behind the scenes of the list

If you’re into Texas BBQ, the restaurant world, or just love a good origin story, this is a must!

ABOUT THE GUEST

Daniel Vaughn is the BBQ Editor for Texas Monthly and author of The Prophets of Smoked Meat. He is considered the most influential barbecue critic in the world and has eaten at more BBQ joints than anyone alive. He curates the iconic Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas list.

Big thanks to Vic Barry for helping out!

In this episode of the Smokeless Podcast, hosts Nick, Wayne, and Justin engage in a deep conversation with barbecue pioneer Aaron Franklin. They explore his journey in the barbecue industry, discussing his innovative approaches, the challenges of burnout, the importance of delegation, and the impact of family dynamics on his career. Franklin shares insights from his experiences, including the fire incident at his restaurant and the lessons learned in leadership and crisis management. The conversation highlights the evolution of barbecue and the significance of community support in the culinary world, reflecting on their life choices, the importance of collaboration in the barbecue industry, and the impact of reputation and lists on their businesses. They discuss the evolution of barbecue culture, the challenges they face in the industry, and their aspirations for the future, including a desire to leave a positive legacy and family involvement.

Happy Father's Day! In the following episode, we discuss starting a podcast, opening a BBQ joint, and the impact and influence of Dads.

On the cover: Bobby Mueller (Louie Mueller BBQ)

Smoke(less) is a podcast born from fire — not just the fire that cooks meat, but the fire that fuels life’s hardest questions and boldest decisions. Hosted by three award-winning Texas BBQ professionals, it’s a series of raw, honest conversations that go deeper than food.At its core, Smoke(less) is a mentor's voice in a loud, performative world. It's for anyone navigating personal or professional growth — from young creatives to service industry veterans — and seeking stories that don’t just entertain, but resonate.

Why “Smoke(less)”? Because we're not here to blow smoke. No ego. No filters. No smoke and mirrors. Just the real stories behind the flame — where clarity, craft, and connection live. Pull up a chair. Let’s clear the air.

Join us online at Smokeless Podcast

Produced By Clinton Granberry

Justin, Nick, and Wayne delve into the journey of Matt Pittman, the founder of Meat Church BBQ, as he shares insights on content creation, the evolution of his business, and the challenges of balancing family life with a rapidly growing brand. The conversation delves into the art of food styling, cooking for celebrities, and the importance of community in the barbecue world. With humor and authenticity, they discuss the future of Meat Church and the personal connections that make this journey worthwhile.

In this teaser, Wayne describes the similar journey he shares with both Justin and Nick.

Smoke(less) is a podcast born from fire — not just the fire that cooks meat, but the fire that fuels life’s hardest questions and boldest decisions. Hosted by three award-winning Texas BBQ professionals, it’s a series of raw, honest conversations that go deeper than food.At its core, Smoke(less) is a mentor's voice in a loud, performative world. It's for anyone navigating personal or professional growth — from young creatives to service industry veterans — and seeking stories that don’t just entertain, but resonate.

Why “Smoke(less)”? Because we're not here to blow smoke. No ego. No filters. No smoke and mirrors. Just the real stories behind the flame — where clarity, craft, and connection live. Pull up a chair. Let’s clear the air.

Join us online at Smokeless Podcast

Produced By Clint Granberry

Smoke(less) is a podcast born from fire — not just the fire that cooks meat, but the fire that fuels life’s hardest questions and boldest decisions. Hosted by three award-winning Texas BBQ veterans, it’s a series of raw, honest conversations that go deeper than food.

At its core, Smoke(less) is a mentor's voice in a loud, performative world. It's for anyone navigating personal or professional growth — from young creatives to service industry veterans — and seeking stories that don’t just entertain, but resonate.

Why “Smoke(less)”?

Because we're not here to blow smoke. No ego. No filters. No smoke and mirrors. Just the real stories behind the flame — where clarity, craft, and connection live. Pull up a chair. Let’s clear the air.