The American Royal World Series of BBQ is special to many pitmasters, none more so than Darren Warth. A three-time American Royal Open Grand Champion with his Iowa Smokey D’s BBQ, Darren is ready to chase No. 4 this weekend when more than 500 teams converge on Kansas Speedway for the world’s biggest BBQ competition. The man known as the “GOAT” for his two-decade run of success also will be inducted into the BBQ Hall of Fame on Saturday, making it even more special. On Episode 230 of the Tailgate Guys BBQ Podcast, we visit with Darren about the upcoming weekend and reflect a bit on his career, the restaurant business and why he’s never been interested in teaching a BBQ class.

We also talk it over with Joe Gera, owner of Keystone Que in Pittsburgh. Joe has celiac disease, a serious and potentially deadly disorder for those who consume gluten through cross contamination in the kitchen. Joe has a book coming out soon titled “From Scratch With Love, Professional Gluten-Free Home Cooking.” He discusses healthy eating and how to keep enjoying quality BBQ, even with a celiac disorder and about his Carolina-inspired BBQ sauces.

Meanwhile, co-hosts Lyndal and Steve discuss their BBQ weeks and preview the Tailgate Guys BBQ team’s upcoming trip to The Royal.  

Thanks to all our sponsors and marketing partners for making the show possible:  Blues Hog #blueshognation Royal Oak Charcoal #teamroyaloak2023 The Butcher Shoppe #alwayshandpicked  Clark Crew BBQ #clarkcrew Proud Souls BBQ Kansas City #proudsoulsbbqkc #kingdomofq #proudsoulsbarbecueandprovisions Randy Vanslyke and Pro Technology Solutions The Grill Guys of Missouri Allquedup #arkassippicombo Vietti Marketing Group #marketing  In the Garden of Eden Marty "Real Sign Man" Prather #pizza

Have a great BBQ week and thanks for listening! #SmokeEmIfYouGotEm