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EPISODE · Feb 28, 2026 · 42 MIN

Paul Holden - Willinghams Pitmaster - Encore

from BBQ Nation · host Jeff Tracy

The episode features an engaging dialogue with Paul Holden, the esteemed pitmaster from Willingham's Barbecue in Georgia. A salient point of discussion revolves around Holden's experiences stepping into the prominent legacy of John Willingham, a revered figure in the barbecue community. Throughout the conversation, we explore the intricate techniques employed in competition barbecue, particularly focusing on the unique vertical cooking methods that define Willingham's style. Additionally, Holden shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining the revered traditions while fostering innovation within the craft. As we navigate this rich narrative, we also delve into the nuances of flavor profiles, seasoning development, and the vibrant culture surrounding competitive barbecue. Links referenced in this episode: paintedhillsnaturalbeef.com heritagesteel.us oregondungeness.org pigpowder.com gobarbecuenationjt.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Painted Hills Natural Beef Willingham's Heritage Steel Pig Powder This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Feb 28, 2026

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The episode features an engaging dialogue with Paul Holden, the esteemed pitmaster from Willingham's Barbecue in Georgia. A salient point of discussion revolves around Holden's experiences stepping into the prominent legacy of John Willingham, a revered figure in the barbecue community. Throughout the conversation, we explore the intricate techniques employed in competition barbecue, particularly focusing on the unique vertical cooking methods that define Willingham's style. Additionally, Holden shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining the revered traditions while fostering innovation within the craft. As we navigate this rich narrative, we also delve into the nuances of flavor profiles, seasoning development, and the vibrant culture surrounding competitive barbecue.Links referenced in this episode:paintedhillsnaturalbeef.comheritagesteel.usoregondungeness.orgpigpowder.comgobarbecuenationjt.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Painted Hills Natural BeefWillingham'sHeritage SteelPig PowderThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

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