From Backyard Smoke to Global Fire: The Eat More Barbecue Story
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In this episode of Barbecue Radio Network, host Freddie Bell sits down with Ryan Sanderson, founder of Eat More Barbecue and a key figure in Canada’s growing barbecue culture. Ryan shares his journey from backyard grilling novice to passionate pitmaster and storyteller, sparked by a gift of Mike Mills’ 'Peace, Love & Barbecue' and his first successful moose roast in the Alberta mountains. He discusses how his blog and podcast evolved into a vital resource for barbecue enthusiasts across North America, emphasizing community, mentorship, and the joy of sharing food. The conversation dives into the state of Canadian barbecue—still emerging but vibrant, with no singular regional style but a rich blend of American influences, especially Texas and Carolina traditions. Ryan highlights the significance of Barbecue on the Bow, Canada’s longest-running sanctioned competition and a qualifier for the 2027 Barbecue World Cup in Las Vegas, which offers a $1 million prize. He reflects on the friendships forged through the culture, the importance of storytelling in preserving barbecue heritage, and the accessibility of the craft for newcomers. Ultimately, Ryan’s mission is simple: to inspire others to cook, connect, and keep the fire alive.
Start small: A gift of a barbecue book sparked Ryan Sanderson’s journey into the culture—showing how accessible and transformative the world of slow-smoke barbecue can be.
Community is everything: Whether through social media, local competitions, or mentorship, barbecue thrives on connection and shared knowledge.
Barbecue is love: Ryan views cooking and sharing food as a profound way to express care and appreciation for others.
Canada’s barbecue is growing fast: Despite lacking deep historical roots, the culture is flourishing through events like Barbecue on the Bow and a strong network of backyard cooks and pitmasters.
Get involved the right way: For newcomers, reach out locally—most pitmasters are eager to share knowledge and help beginners get started.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the Fire: Introducing Ryan Sanderson
Freddie Bell welcomes listeners to Barbecue Radio Network and introduces Ryan Sanderson, founder of Eat More Barbecue and a leading voice in Canada’s barbecue scene. The episode begins with a warm introduction to Ryan’s journey from backyard grilling to becoming a cultural ambassador for slow-smoke barbecue.
From Book to Smoker: The Spark of a Passion
“It was amazing. So, that was kind of, that was fairly early on in real my first success cooking anything on the smoker low and slow. That kind of, okay, I can do this.”
Building a Culture: From Blog to Podcast
Ryan details how his food blog evolved into the Eat More Barbecue podcast after he discovered the power of audio storytelling. He reflects on the aha moment that led him to expand beyond writing and into podcasting, driven by the growing global interest in barbecue culture.
Barbecue North of the Border: Canada’s Unique Identity
“Really not a specific style. And it's something I, when I was doing my podcast, tried to find kind of is there an Alberta barbecue flavor profile on it. Never really came up with anything concrete.”
The World Cup Dream: Barbecue on the Bow at 35
“We are one of only two competitions in Canada that's a qualifier for the Barbecue World Cup. So, that is really exciting for us being our 35th anniversary.”
“Cooking and sharing food for me is how I show love and appreciation for people.”
“We are one of only two competitions in Canada that's a qualifier for the Barbecue World Cup. So, that is really exciting for us being our 35th anniversary.”
“Honestly, just the friendships and the relationships I made doing that podcast for six years. I did over 250 episodes of eat more barbecue podcast and just I've made through that lifelong friends.”
Host
Guest
Ryan Sanderson
person
Freddie Bell
person
Eat More Barbecue
organization
Barbecue Radio Network
organization
Barbecue on the Bow
organization
Barbecue World Cup
organization
Calgary
place
Alberta
place
KCBS
organization
Louis Mueller Barbecue
other
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