* What separates Cajun-influence on pits and grills.

* Detailed techniques on everything from pork chops and loins, to frog legs and gator.

* Who doesn't love gumbo and etoufee -- especially on a grill.

* If you're not trying these sides, what are you even doing?

Despite no traditional culinary training, self-made influencer Karen Wheeler has gained a legion of fans with unique, but simple cooking ideas.

She'll offer insight on her story and ideas and approaches that anyone can master. Plus, insight on international influences and Easter go-tos.

• HeartBrand Beef’s Jordan Beeman clears up confusion and offers insight on:
• Packaging
• Natural vs. organic.
• Nitrates ... what does that mean?
• Grass fed vs. grain fed.
• Not all Choice and Prime cuts are created equal.

* How a love for South Texas barbecue took over the world * Melding the love of the outdoors and barbecue * Gaining confidence for every cook * Is Fred a brother from another mother? Finding your passions and turning them into a lifestyle

* Don't ever underestimate weather, elements and positioning your pit

* What to look for when shopping for a brisket

* Wrapping made easy

* The biggest challenges backyard pitmasters face

* Are there "magic numbers" for internal temps

* Appearance matters, even for your family and friends

*Four-time Canadian BBQ Team of the Year pitmaster Janice Smella became the first Canadian to walk the stage at the Cookoff in 2025.

* She shares her story, techniques and approach, her affinity to Texas BBQ and becoming a champion.

• Moodswing BBQ's Sunny Moody has won world championships and wowed judges on Food Network ... without compromise.
• Misconceptions about how "unhealthy" barbecue can be
• Pork shoulders for dummies.
• Different steaks ... different cooking styles?
• Everything you should know on spritzing, water pans, wrapping, wet brine vs. dry brine

* World champs Ronnie Killen, Doug Scheiding, Abel Nuncio and others take us behind the scenes of what the Cookoff really is all about

* The massive and unique details of making it on one of the biggest stages in the game.