Shows
Que The MicNobody Likes A LoserIn this week's episode we really break down Darren's latest competition and what Randy is going to serve at the big county fair he has coming up. It's nothing crazy, but it's always good information!
2025-07-141h 05Que The MicIf It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix ItIn this week's episode Darren is a handy-man yet again, Randy's got the food truck out crushing it, and we talk about whatever else comes to our minds. You know the drill.
2025-07-071h 17Que The MicIs Darren a Has-Been?In this week's episode Darren gives us a recap of his competition in Idaho, Randy fills us in on the generator saga, and we get into the price of brisket. There's a little bit of everything for everyone.
2025-07-011h 12Que The MicIs The Customer Always Right?In this week's episode we get in to some of Darren's recent Google reviews, the latest BBQ competition, Randy's generator (spoiler: still not fixed), and then of course Randy gave us the ultimate WTF moment.
2025-06-231h 06Que The MicThings That Make You Go HmmmIn this week's episode DARREN IS BACK!! We get to talking about all the things going on with Randy's food truck, Darren's busy life, picking on Emma and of course things that make go "hmmm"!
2025-06-161h 09Que The MicEmma & Randy Go SoloIn this week's episode Emma and Randy take it solo. No Darren. We get into where things are with Randy's generator...spoiler, it's not good. We also get into his busy week with the food truck and a little wedding catering.
2025-06-0948 minQue The MicMaybe You Should Have A Plan CIn this week's episode we get into Darren's recent trip in Florida, things going on at the restaurants, and then we have Randy's food truck issues. Now comment below if you believe Randy's truck will be done before the next episode or even by June 20th. The bet is on!
2025-06-021h 08Que The MicWeekend in “Owatonna”In this week's episode we recap Darren's weekend in Ottumwa, what's been going on in the chicken market, how the AI world is evolving, and Randy gives us yet another "grammar lesson". You know the drill.
2025-05-191h 01Que The MicMight Become MechanicsIn this week's episode, we get into how everything falls apart! If it's not one thing then it's another but maybe the way to handle it is just becoming mechanics and fixing it ourselves...well in most instances, Darren just does.
2025-05-121h 04Que The MicWhere's Randy?This week's episode Darren and Emma get into the catering world, AI world, and much more all while missing the handsomely Randy Twyford.
2025-05-0558 minQue The MicHere’s What We Think You Should DoIn this week's episode we do what we do best and talk a little bit about everything. The biggest thing is answering some of our listeners questions! We also get into Randy's upcoming BBQ adventures and Darren's health journey.
2025-04-211h 01Que The MicHow Can We Cater Like That?In this week's episode we talk about Darren's latest BBQ competition, different ways of catering, and Emma has a first...find out what it is!
2025-04-141h 11Que The MicJust A Couple of BBQ BoyfriendsIn this week's episode we catch up like always! We get into Emma's trip to Dallas, Randy's St. Patrick's Day event, Darren's most recent BBQ competition, and of course much much more!
2025-03-241h 32Que The MicBBQ In The ColdIn this week's episode we do a little bit of catching up! We get into how Randy did at the Beef Expo, how Darren came out at the Fire & Ice BBQ Competition, technology and more!
2025-03-031h 12Que The MicDon't Forget About The Ghost KitchensIn this week's episode we talked about the forgotten child, ghost kitchens. We also got into the future of Des Moines Catering. When will Darren ever stop growing the business? The world may never know!
2025-02-2451 minQue The MicRandy's Going To The Beef ExpoIn this week's episode we get into Randy's prep for the Beef Expo, future menu items, and preparing for the upcoming food truck season!
2025-02-1757 minQue The MicSituational AwarenessIn this week's episode we talk about situational awareness and moments we just thought customers didn't quite have it. We also get in to how Darren makes grouper cheeks and everything business for Randy.
If you are looking for the Oil Dispenser that Darren shares in the podcast you, can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D54PM77N?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
2025-02-101h 12Que The MicTime To Work On The SystemIn this week's episode Darren gives us a recap about the KCBS Banquet, Randy fills us in on the catering business, Emma gives some insight on her newest cooking adventure, and we get into working on the business during this slow season.
2025-01-201h 07Que The MicThis Seems FishyIn this week's episode we talk about Darren's latest Florida meals, Randy's last minute catering, Darren getting inducted into the KCBS Hall of Fame, and more!
2025-01-131h 05Que The MicChristmas DinnerIn this week's episode we get into some tips for Christmas Dinner, what's been going on in the catering world for both Randy and Darren, and much much more!
2024-12-161h 08Que The MicWhat Happens In VegasIn this week's episode we talk about Darren's recent to trip to Vegas! How his competition went, his concert with Sherry, and more! We also get in to what's been going on with Randy and Emma. There's a little something for everyone!
2024-12-1059 minQue The MicPost Thanksgiving "Break"This week's episode we talk about Thanksgiving Orders, what's going on at It's My Jam Cafe, and shockingly enough Darren is going on a little trip to Las Vegas to see a concert....and to also compete, obviously!
2024-12-021h 00Que The MicSafety TipsIn this week's episode we get into a couple of safety tips when using kitchen equipment, how the breakfast restaurant is doing, and just whatever else pops into Darren and Randy's brains!
2024-11-1857 minQue The MicDammit RandyIn this week's episode we get into some of the ins and outs of Toast, how things are going at It's My Jam, Holiday Meats, and MUCH MUCH more.
2024-11-111h 04Que The MicThe Royal RecapIn this week's episode Darren gives us a little recap on his time at the American Royal! We also get into cooking pork steaks, brussel sprouts, and ways to cater to everyone!
2024-11-051h 05Que The MicOpen For BusinessThe wait is OVER! It's My Jam Cafe is OPEN FOR BUSINESS! Darren gives us the run down of what business has been like since opening. Talk about 5 days of chaos! But it's open and business is rolling!
2024-10-281h 01Que The MicFinishing TouchesIn this week's episode Darren gives us a recap on The Jack and we get into where he's at with It's My Jam Cafe! All the of the finishing touches are coming together and an opening date may be coming soon...ish???
2024-10-211h 02Que The MicThe Jack 2.0In this week's episode Darren is at The Jack! He gives us a little rundown of what's going on down in Tennessee, how he's feeling about the competition, cooking brisket and more!
If you are wanting Darren's brisket Snake River Farms video check it out, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFNqiyCFR1c&t=64s
2024-10-141h 03Que The MicBreakfast Prep & BBQ StrategyIn this week's episode we get more insight on what's going on in the breakfast world, how Darren plans on utilizing all of his businesses to work together, and how he is feeling going into The Jack!
2024-10-071h 06Que The MicThe Murphysboro CompetitionIn this week's episode the guys give use a recap over their time in Murphysboro, Randy gets into acronyms, and Darren gives us a sneak peek into the new breakfast restaurant.
2024-09-231h 03Que The MicTime ManagementIn this week's episode we talk a little bit about time management along with many other things like Darren's new attempt at cold brew for the breakfast restaurant!
2024-09-091h 08Que The Mic3 More WeeksIn this week's episode we talk about Randy's upcoming caterings, Emma's big feast, and, of course, Darren's progress on the breakfast restaurant! Is it 3 weeks out or will it open on December 1st? Your guess is as good as ours!
2024-09-021h 11Que The MicAnswering Your Catering QuestionsIn this week's episode Darren gives a recap of what's going on at the breakfast restaurant, Randy talks about the food truck season kind of winding down, and we answer some catering questions from our listeners!
2024-08-261h 07Que The MicDarren Gives Us Some Of His TricksIn this week's episode Darren shares some of his competition tricks with us! We also get into testing new breakfast items, what's going on with Randy's food truck, and more!
2024-08-121h 08Que The MicWhy Are Prices So High?In this week's episode we break down why prices at certain events between a music festival or the farmers market. Are the prices worth the amount of food you're getting? We talk about it! Darren also gives us an update on what's going on with the breakfast restaurant!
2024-08-051h 21Que The MicBBQ Pet Peeves, Superstitions & RitualsIn this week's episode we talk about the guys BBQ Pet Peeves, Superstitions, and Rituals at BBQ Competitions along with Darren's most recent win and Randy's meet up with some old college buddies!
2024-07-291h 08Que The MicGrills, Gigs, and Good TimesIn this week's episode we do a little catching up! We talk about Randy's time at the Windy City Smokeout, Darren's recent BBQ contest in Wisconsin, what's coming up with Darren's breakfast restaurant, and more!
2024-07-2253 minQue The MicTrip Down Memory LaneIn this week's episode we take a little trip down memory lane! Darren and Randy share some of their competition BBQ stories from over the years!
2024-07-151h 03Que The MicDarren Did Another One Can ChallengeIn this week's episode we recap Darren's last BBQ competition out in Idaho. He gives us a little insight on the adversity he faced to get the win! We also talk about new equipment for Randy's food truck along with some great BBQ ideas for the 4th of July!
2024-07-011h 13Que The MicGrill Talk With The Guys...and EmmaIn this week's episode Darren gives some great tips on grilling this summer, Randy talks about the heat effecting business, and PLOT TWIST the guys tell Emma about a viral TikTok going around right now.
2024-06-2458 minQue The MicBack To BusinessIn this week's episode Darren is back! We talk about his trip, Randy's FFA Convention, and things going on at all of Darren's restaurants.
2024-06-1758 minQue The MicThe Food Truck LifeIn this week's episode there is no Darren so Emma and Randy dive into all things Food Truck! From things Randy wants to work on, to the future, to the ambience.
2024-06-1049 minQue The MicAll A Part Of The BusinessIn this week's episode we have some special guests! Randy's employees join us for a little bit of the episode to give their point of view of the the business. We also get into some of the dos and don'ts of cooking, cooling, and retherming your meat.
2024-06-031h 04Que The MicFood Truck MovesIn this week's episode we have another catch all. We get into Food Truck moves for Randy and Darren, recent BBQ Competitions, and everything else going on for the guys!
2024-05-201h 02Que The MicWhat's Up Brother 👆In this week's episode we just decided to do a little catching up. We talked about TikTok trends, the new breakfast restaurant, Randy's food truck moving, and more!
2024-05-131h 04Que The Mic1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PT. 2The fun continues with PART TWO of our 1 Year Anniversary episode with more guests and more into what we think the future of this podcast holds for us!
2024-05-061h 10Que The Mic1 YEAR ANNIVERSARYThis week's episode is very special because WE MADE IT 1 WHOLE YEAR OF RECORDING! Emma took the lead this week and actually had a couple of surprises for the guys while we also recapped the last year of podcasting.
Note: This episode will be two parter so make sure you tune in to episode 55 next week too!
2024-04-2942 minQue The MicFlat Top Grill Tips for BeginnersIn this week's episode we find out what's going on with Randy's food truck, the new name of Darren's breakfast restaurant, and then we get into some tips and things to make on a flat top grill for those getting into them this summer!
2024-04-221h 06Que The MicBreakfast Coming SoonIn this week's episode we talk about Darren's next business venture, BREAKFAST! From naming the restaurant, to menu, to business aesthetic, we talk about it all.
2024-04-151h 09Que The MicThe Restaurant Dilemma: Balancing Food Costs, Inflation, and Fair WagesIn this week's episode we talk about some of the bigger restaurant dilemmas that people are facing nowadays. Between the costs in products going up to raising wages, how do you make a profit?
2024-04-081h 09Que The MicYes ChefIn this week's episode we talk about Randy's upcoming TV appearance, Darren's food truck testing and Emma's new approach on cooking and more!
2024-04-0158 minQue The MicThe Evolution of Work: Navigating Attitude, Business, and LaborIn this week's episode we do a little catching up! Randy is thinking about starting a Food Truck class and getting people to work, Darren discusses things from new concepts in the area to what is going on in the beef world to working on attitude, and Emma is just along for the ride!
2024-03-251h 04Que The MicTalking MenusIn this week's episode we really talked about new menu items, adding to the business and St. Patrick's Day weekend! It was a little bit of everything and more.
2024-03-181h 00Que The MicTips & Tricks for First Time BBQ CompetitionsIn this week's episode we discuss some of Darren's tips and tricks for those going to their first BBQ Competition. From things he would do, to things he would recommend, and more!
2024-03-111h 12Que The MicBrisket, Bell Peppers, and Big ScoresIn this week's episode we recap Randy's time at the Beef Expo and all the fun things at Darren's last BBQ Competition! It is an episode filled with interesting facts, wild comments, and more.
2024-03-041h 03Que The MicHow Will Business Change With Time?In this week's episode we talk about ways that the businesses can change over time. What's the next move? Is it drive-thrus, carry-out, a different style of restaurant? What does customer convenience look like in the future? We talk about a little bit of it all.
2024-02-261h 07Que The MicDarren's One Can ChallengeIn this week's episode Darren gives us a recap on his One Can Challenge BBQ Competition. What it was like to cook on one gateway drum, all the things he learned, and what he wants to try next!
2024-02-191h 17Que The MicFacing AdversityIn this week's episode we talk about facing adversity. From solving problems at the restaurant, fixing equipment, or even moving into a new house. There's always a challenge for you to overcome somewhere.
2024-02-1259 minQue The MicA Day in Darren's LifeIn this week's episode we a get a glimpse of what an average day looks like Darren! From when he wakes up to when he goes to all the chaos in between.
2024-02-051h 08Que The MicRandy's Pop-Up RecapIn this week's episode Randy gives us a recap on his BBQ Pop-Up! We talked about how it went, things he learned, and tips on what he thinks people should do if it's something they want to try!
2024-01-291h 10Que The MicSunday MusingsIn this week's episode, we just catch up and talk a little bit about everything! From food truck bookings to AI to graduation catering menus to much more.
2024-01-221h 02Que The MicThe History of Twyford BBQIn this week's episode, Emma and Randy dive in to The History of Twyford BBQ. How he started, what he used, and what his next plans are. It's all about Randy.
If you want to go to Randy's pop-up, you can order tickets at this link: https://twyfordbbqusa.square.site/#items.
2024-01-1552 minQue The MicThe MukbangIn this week's episode, we touch base on Randy's Pop-Up Restaurant, should you do mukbangs on social media, and is creating merchandise worth it.
2024-01-081h 05Que The MicThe End Of The Holiday SeasonIn this week's episode, EMMA IS BACK for a little holiday special. We talk about the gifts and great food we got for Christmas and get into a little bit of business talk!
2024-01-011h 10Que The MicA Day in Randy’s LifeIn this week's episode, we break down Randy's day by day and the things he goes through running a food truck and catering business.
2023-12-251h 12Que The MicIs a BBQ Pop-Up Night a Good Idea?In this week's episode, we discuss the holidays coming up, what's going on in the BBQ world, and if a BBQ Pop-Up Night is a good idea. Randy is thinking about doing one, and would love to hear your feedback!
Find us on social media @QueTheMicPod to send us your thoughts!
2023-12-181h 04Que The MicImportance of MarketingIn this week's episode, Darren and Randy dive into the importance of marketing and the things they've learned as it continues to become a key role in growing your business.
2023-12-1155 minQue The MicAI and The Value PropositionIn this week's episode we dive into the benefits of AI and The Value Proposition for your business and how they can help you improve the system!
2023-12-0453 minQue The MicThe Holiday MassacreIn this week's episode, Darren and Randy talk about the aftermath of Thanksgiving orders. From the number of orders to how can they improve the system, they get into it all!
2023-11-2757 minQue The MicWelcome Randy TwyfordIn this week's episode we officially welcome Randy Twyford on as the new co-host! We take the opportunity to catch up while talking about fun recipes, upcoming holiday plans, and more!
2023-11-2052 minQue The MicQ & A w/Randy TwyfordIn this week's episode, we answer some questions from our listeners! Whatever questions were on their mind, we answered. Emma also dropped some big news, you won't want to miss it!
2023-11-131h 05Que The MicBalancing BBQ Competitions and BusinessIn this week's episode, Darren talks about balancing his BBQ Competitions and the Business back in the early days of Smokey D's BBQ along with the importance of growing the business.
2023-11-061h 01Que The MicItaly and Beyond w/Randy TwyfordIn this week's episode, Emma gives a recap on her trip to Italy! From the food to the culture to her travels home, she gives us the details. We also get into the end of Food Truck season and what to expect with Randy Twyford!
2023-10-301h 07Que The MicPreparing for the HolidaysIn this week's episode, Darren talks us through how he does Holiday Meat Orders between how to price, how much meat to make, how to store it, and more.
2023-10-2343 minQue The MicFrom The JackThis week's episode was something special! With Darren in Lynchburg, Tennessee for The Jack Daniels World BBQ Competition we talked about his upcoming plans, the Jack environment, and the fun of it all with special guests, Johnny Trigg and Blane Hunt!
2023-10-1640 minQue The MicThe American Royal RecapThis week Darren gives us a recap on the 2023 American Royal, from the Tenderloin Fry to his BBQ Hall of Fame Induction to the memories made with friends. He gives us a little look into all the fun!
2023-10-0946 minQue The MicPreparing for The American RoyalIn this week's episode, Darren gets into details about all the things he did to prepare for the American Royal and his emotions going into it. We also discussed his time with buddies at the Praise The Lard competition in Murphysboro, IL.
2023-10-0249 minQue The MicBackyard BBQ w/Randy TwyfordGUESS WHO'S BACK!? This week we brought Randy Twyford of Twyford BBQ back to talk about Backyard BBQing with us! Darren and Randy dive into things beginners should know when getting into BBQing on their own.
2023-09-251h 15Que The MicImproving The SystemThis week Darren gets into improving the system. From trying to find efficient new ordering systems, to finding ways to make new menu items work, to the structure of our catering. There's something for everyone!
2023-09-1847 minQue The MicThinking Like The CustomerIn this week's episode, we get into thinking like the customer to improve your business. It's all about value proposition! Get into some things that Darren looks at to make business better.
2023-09-1159 minQue The MicAge GapsIn this week's episode, we discuss the differences between our generations. Between our versions of the "American Dream" to employing the younger generation and more!
2023-09-0456 minQue The MicLife on The Competition TrailIn this week's episode, Darren gives us a look into his recent travels between Illinois and Wisconsin. From different foods, he tried to places he visited! Along with some behind-the-scenes of his recent competitions.
2023-08-2957 minQue The MicDarren Talks PricingIn this week's episode, we talked about how you determine food cost and markup vs what the market is. Higher prices with scarcity or lower prices with volume.
2023-08-2154 minQue The MicWe’re Headed To The JackDarren and Emma talk about the process behind the Jack Daniel’s World Championship and what it means to get the draw.
2023-08-1459 minQue The MicWhat Would Darren Do DifferentlyIn this week's episode, Darren talks about his latest BBQ Competition and the BBQ world while also diving into what he would do differently if he could start his business all over again.
2023-08-0758 minQue The MicEmma Talks Social Media MarketingThis week we did things a little differently and Darren asked Emma all the questions. Take a dive into some Social Media Marketing with us and learn some ways to utilize social media platforms.
2023-07-311h 02Que The MicFacing AdversityIn this week's episode, we discuss facing adversity. Darren gives us insight into how he handles problems thrown at him in the restaurant and also competitions. When things get tough, just think What Would Darren Do (WWDD)?
2023-07-2454 minQue The MicLet Data Drive Your BusinessIn this week's episode, we talk a little bit about everything from last week's episode with Randy Twyford, Darren being a not-so-secret fan of Taylor Swift, the effects of California's Proposition 12, and most importantly letting your data drive your business. There's a little bit of something for everyone!
2023-07-171h 10Que The MicCatering and Food Trucks w/ Randy TwyfordIn this week's episode of Que The Mic, we ask Randy Twyford about his experience in BBQ Catering and Food Trucks! It's an episode full of great information, good stories, and all the trends that Randy has set over the years.
2023-07-101h 14Que The MicGhost KitchensIn this week's episode, Darren talks a little bit more about his ghost/virtual kitchens. Giving a behind-the-scenes look at how they started, how they are doing, and the challenges they face.
Find our virtual kitchens on social media at @TheOrneryChicken or @TheCraftyMac!
2023-07-0351 minQue The MicWe Catch UpThis week we are just catching up! We talk a little bit about Darren's trip to Canada, Emma's episode with Luke Darnell, Darren's Grand Champion Win at State Center's Rose Festival BBQ Competition, and more!
2023-06-2647 minQue The MicBBQ, Podcasting, and More with Luke DarnellWe have a special guest in this week's episode! Luke Darnell from Old Virginia Smokes filled in for Darren this week and talked to us about BBQ, Podcasting, and some great projects he has coming up.
Check out Luke's Podcast and YouTube at the links below!
Pitmaster's Podcast - https://pitmasterpod.podbean.com/
OVS YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OldVirginiaSmoke
2023-06-1948 minQue The MicTransitioning from Competition BBQ to a RestaurantIn this episode, Darren talks about things to think about when transitioning from a BBQ Competition Team to a Catering Company, to a Restaurant with some of the tips and tricks he's learned over the years.
2023-06-1254 minQue The MicManagement Tips Darren Lives ByDarren took the lead on this episode giving you 15 management tips that he lives by when it comes to running his businesses! Full of great information from what to think about, to how to act, and how to budget.
2023-06-0554 minQue The MicDarren Warth - BBQ Hall of FamerDarren was inducted into the 2023 BBQ Hall of Fame so you know we had to talk about it! We get into what that's been like for Darren along with all the usual stuff like Darren's most recent competition in Ottumwa, Pork-Strami, and apologize to Luke Darnell.
After you finish our episode, go check out Luke Darnell's podcast - Pitmaster, an Old Virginia Smoke Podcast. Linked here: https://www.podbean.com/pu/pbblog-paxtm-8e81b7!
2023-05-2949 minQue The MicDarren’s Thoughts on Google ReviewsIn this episode, we dive into Google Reviews! Darren talks about how restauranteurs need to see them as directionals and how sometimes it's okay to admit the customer isn't always right. We also get into Catering with The Ornery Chicken and have a live tasting of our new Pesto Mac and Cheese from The Crafty Mac!
2023-05-2247 minQue The MicLet’s Talk About DoorDashIn this episode, we get into the conversation about DoorDash fees from a restaurant and a consumer's point of view while sprinkling talks about the podcast's first couple of episodes being live, what Emma was cooking, some local food staples in Des Moines, and more!
2023-05-1544 minQue The MicBBQ, Business, AND MOREThis episode shows where the "And More" in "BBQ, Business, and More" comes from. Darren and Emma talk about a little bit of everything from Darren's past BBQ Competition in Osage City to Griffin helping Darren out in the kitchen to what to think about when ordering catering for Graduation Parties to much more. We are just catching up and taking you guys along with us!
2023-05-0849 minQue The MicBBQ Competitions Through Darren’s EyesToday's episode is a behind-the-scenes talk with Darren about the world of BBQ Competitions. With 20 years of experience and too many trophies to count, Darren gives insight into what it's like for him while giving Emma a little BBQ lesson.
2023-05-0348 min
Que The MicWelcome to Que The MicWELCOME TO QUE THE MIC! This is a podcast for BBQ lovers, aspiring Restauranteurs, and everyone in between. We talk about all things BBQ, Business, and MORE! Take a dive into BBQ Pitmaster Darren Warth's thoughts with his Marketing Manager Emma Durflinger!2023-05-0138 min