#bbqcompetition #bbq #podcast
In this episode of The Duce Raymond Podcast, Duce sits down with pitmaster Richard Fergola of Fergolicious BBQ to talk about his rise from wrestling coach to barbecue champion, seasoned pitmaster, and BBQ educator. They dive into Richard’s journey on the competition circuit, the lessons he’s learned from years of perfecting Kansas City–style barbecue, and what it takes to stay passionate in an ever-changing food world. From starting Fergolicious BBQ to appearing on national TV, Richard shares real insights on branding, business, and the art of authentic barbecue. If you love smoked meat, competition BBQ, or stories of turning passion into purpose, this episode is packed with fire, flavor, and inspiration.
00:00 – From Wrestling Coach to Pitmaster
5:23 – Inside the BBQ Competition World
12:14 – How BBQ Pitmasters Changed Everything
18:11 – Inside the World’s Biggest BBQ Competition
28:27 – Is Competition BBQ Dying Out?
34:05 – The Truth About Teaching BBQ Classes
40:55 – Pellet Grills vs. Offset Smokers
46:51 – Why Offset Cooking Still Reigns
49:21 – The Ultimate Backyard BBQ Setup
51:26 – The Power of BBQ Content
57:21 – Richard's Life on the Road
59:32 – Why Pitmasters Are Skipping the American Royal
1:03:00 – How to Handle Pressure in BBQ Competitions
1:07:13 – Richard’s Step-by-Step Guide to Competition Brisket
1:10:51 – What’s Next for Fergolicious BBQ
Follow Richard Fergola on Social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fergoliciousbbq
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FergoliciousBbq
X: https://x.com/FergoliciousBBQ
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RichardFergolaBBQ/featured
Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fergolicious_bbq
Website: https://www.fergoliciousbbq.com/
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Website: https://www.sweetbabyraysbbq.com/
