D Magazine DALLAS 500: Laura Rea Dickey 

In this insightful [video](https://youtu.be/G9WdZGgUX7s), [Roland Dickey Jr.](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolanddickeyjr/) delves into the invaluable lessons he gained from **Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson**, sharing how the biography’s rich exploration of Musk’s approach to decision-making, problem-solving, and driving innovation resonated with him. 
Roland highlights how Musk’s unique ability to assess situations quickly and make bold decisions is key to achieving optimal output—a trait essential for any entrepreneur striving to push the boundaries of possibility. 
This book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the ambition, risk-taking, and relentless drive that built companies like Tesla and SpaceX. For entrepreneurs, it’s a compelling guide on how to transform vision into reality through tenacity and innovative thinking. Click [here](https://youtu.be/G9WdZGgUX7s) to tune in to see how these insights inspire Roland’s own leadership and drive at Dickey’s!

Barbecue, Books, & Business by Roland Dickey Jr.: Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

Dickey's Barbecue Pit CEO Laura Rea Dickey talks Supply Chain Crunch

The Dickey Foundation Donates $10k to Beckley Fire Department

In memory of Greg Smith, beloved franchise owner of Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Dothan, Alabama, and a dedicated Army veteran, his brother Mike Smith III, alongside business partner Larry Brunson, is stepping up to honor and continue Greg's legacy of serving quality barbecue and supporting their community. Greg, who passed away suddenly, was known for his passion for high-quality barbecue, a commitment to his customers, and his respect for the Dickey’s brand, which he believed stood by its franchisees with steadfast support.

To celebrate Greg’s life and dedication, Mike Smith III and Larry Brunson are inviting the Dothan community to a special “Buy One, Get One Free” [Pulled Pork Sandwich](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday/dothan/sandwiches-a-la-carte/pulled-pork-sandwich-3) promotion from November 20th through November 27th. Guests can enjoy this offer in-store or online by using the code “DOTHAN” at checkout. The Dothan Dickey’s is located at [2115 E Main St, Dothan, Alabama 36301.](https://www.dickeys.com/locations/alabama/dothan/dothan)

“Continuing my brother’s work at Dickey’s is an honor and a responsibility I take deeply to heart. Greg built a place where our community could come together over great barbecue, and I am proud to keep that tradition alive,” said Mike Smith III, current franchisee of Dickey’s in Dothan. “This special offer is a way for us to remember Greg’s passion for hospitality and to thank the Dothan community for their continued support.”

[Laura Rea Dickey](https://enterprenuer.org/ceo/meet-laura-rea-dickey-ceo-of-dickeys-barbecue-restaurants-inc/), CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., expressed her heartfelt sentiments, stating, “Greg was a remarkable member of our Dickey’s family and a dedicated veteran whose passion for quality and service was evident in every plate of barbecue he served. We are proud to stand with Mike, Larry, and the Dothan community as they continue Greg’s legacy.”

[Roland Dickey, Jr.,](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weddpg9ZWOI&ab_channel=Dickey%27sBarbecuePit) CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, reflected, “Greg Smith exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit we value so highly at Dickey’s. His commitment to his business and community left a lasting impact, and we are honored to support Mike and Larry as they carry on the tradition of serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue in Dothan.”

Visit the Dothan location to enjoy this special offer, honor Greg’s memory, and continue supporting his mission of bringing family and community together over a great meal.

## About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the world’s largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For over 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ 
Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickey’s barbecued meats are paired with a variety of southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickey’s never takes shortcuts—because real barbecue can’t be rushed.

With over 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickey’s Barbecue Franchise and Dickey’s Restaurant Brands continues to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Inc.
Dickey’s has been recognized on Newsweek’s 2022 "America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nation’s Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Today’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneur's Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technology’s Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine.
For more information, visit [www.dickeys.com](https://www.dickeys.com/). For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit [www.dickeysfranchise.com](https://franchise.dickeys.com/)


Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Dothan Honors Late Franchisee Greg Smith’s Legacy with Special Offer

Even though barbecue looks a little different everywhere you go, the slow smokiness of pit barbecue has spread to every part of the world. However, no matter what language you speak or where you call home, it’s safe to say that we all love barbecue — especially here at [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/). So, to celebrate our love of the best ‘Cue around, here are a few reasons why we LOVE barbecue.

 Anyone who’s ever hand trimmed, rubbed, and [how to smoke a brisket](https://www.dickeys.com/press/videos?name=Videos) for the next 8–14 hours of their life will understand the commitment and patience that goes into the process. If you are that kind of backyard pit master, then you will appreciate the work that goes into perfectly smoked meats almost as much as you enjoy eating it. Here at Dickey’s, our first love is this; it’s our process, not processed. In every Dickey’s [barbecue restaurant](https://www.dickeys.com/press/videos?name=Videos) around the world, we serve Legit. Texas. Barbecue. Our Pit Masters are smoking the finest quality meats every single day in the same way [Mr. Dickey](https://www.dickeys.com/company/our-story) did starting in 1941. After more than 80 years, we love that we’ve stayed true to our humble beginnings. 

 The very nature of barbecue creates a special event opportunity to break bread and slice brisket with your tribe. Back in barbecue’s earliest iterations, a pit was dug out of the earth, and then filled with hot embers and wood for smoke flavor. A quarter or half cow or whole pig would go into the pit, and then it all would be covered with leaves and earth and left to do its magic until the next day. This wasn’t just a family affair unless you’re talking about the WHOLE extended family. Barbecue is meant to be enjoyed together with family, friends, and even that guy in the neighborhood you just happen to wave at when he’s walking his dog. A whole brisket can feed a whole lot of folks. Ribs come in a rack for a reason. Our second love of barbecue is that it is meant to be shared with the people who mean the most to you – or whomever you happen to invite to your table (like the dog-walker guy).

 Our last love of barbecue is this — there is no better flavor and experience than when quality meats are hand trimmed and rubbed, then smoked low and slow in a hickory pit. We’ve said it before — there is no shortcut to what we do at [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/). Our Pit Masters are up at dawn, long before the craving hits you, so that we can slice or chop your barbecue favorites. Paired with classic barbecue sides like potato salad, barbecue beans and mac-n-cheese, and then finished with [Dickey’s barbecue sauce](https://barbecueathome.com/collections/rubs-and-sauces/products/dickeys-original-barbecue-sauce), we cherish the fact that nothing satisfies your craving for good, wholesome food like only barbecue can do.

 To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

WHY WE LOVE LEGIT. TEXAS. BARBECUE

## What is Texas Barbecue
 Texas barbecue is a style of slow-cooked smoked meat that originated in the state of Texas. It consists of cooking beef brisket, pork ribs, and/or sausage over wood or charcoal in an open pit using indirect heat. 

Texas barbecue is usually seasoned with a dry rub consisting of spices such as black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. This combination of spices results in a complex flavor that has become synonymous with Texas barbecue.

 ## The History Texas barbecue
 Texas BBQ has a long and fascinating history. It dates back to the early 1800s with the first settlers of Texas, who needed a way to preserve their meat as they made their way down South. They adapted the traditional American barbecue techniques of cooking over an open flame, but used native ingredients such as mesquite wood for flavor. 

This style of barbecue eventually became the Texas style we know today. 

In the mid 1800s, German immigrants started what is now known as Central Texas BBQ. This style of cooking was based on beef, slow-cooking it over smoke and using a dry rub to season it. This gave rise to the famous Texas BBQ joints that still exist today. 

In the early 1900s, East Texas BBQ began to gain traction. This style of barbecue used pork and beef that was cooked low and slow with a sweet tomato-based sauce. This sweet, sticky sauce is still incredibly popular today in places like Memphis and the Carolinas. 

Texas BBQ has been shaped by its rich history, combining different traditions and ingredients to form the style we know and love today. 

From the German influence of Central Texas BBQ to East Texas's sweet tomato-based sauce, there is a lot to explore when it comes to Texas barbecue. Whether you prefer your brisket cooked low and slow or hot and quick, one thing is for sure: Texans take their barbecue seriously. 

## The Fires Burn Low and Slow 
 Low and slow is the key to achieving the best barbecue. The low and slow method of cooking means using indirect heat and keeping the temperature of your grill as low as possible, usually between 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. 

This will allow you to slowly cook your food over a longer period of time, allowing it to soak up all those delicious flavors. 

With the low and slow method, the barbecue will be evenly cooked. Since you’re not cooking at a high temperature, it prevents the outside of your food from becoming too charred while still having that nice smoky flavor. 

It also helps to lock in all those juicy flavors, creating some amazing tasting dishes! This makes it ideal for larger cuts of meat like brisket, ribs and pulled pork. 

The low and slow method also helps to keep your meats tender and juicy. Not only does the indirect heat help to create an evenly cooked dish, but it also allows for more time for the fat in the meat to render away which will make your food tenderer and juicier. This makes it the perfect way to cook those tender cuts of meat! 

Low and slow is definitely the way to go when it comes to creating tasty, restaurant-quality barbecue. While it might take a little more time, the result will be worth the wait. So fire up that grill and get ready for some delicious, mouthwatering barbecue! 

## Wood is favored over charcoal or gas 
 Cooking with mesquite wood is the preferred way to make Texas style barbecue because it adds an unmistakable flavor that can't be replicated any other way. The smoky, nutty notes of the wood infuse into the meat for a unique and delicious taste that you just can't get anywhere else. 

There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, mesquite-smoked brisket or pork shoulder. Not to mention that the scent of a mesquite fire wafting through the air is one of the most iconic aromas in Texas BBQ culture! 

Plus, cooking with mesquite offers some practical advantages over charcoal and gas. The wood burns for a longer time than charcoal and offers more consistent heat than gas. 

So, if you're looking for that slow-smoked flavor and tender, juicy meat, mesquite is definitely the way to go! 
And with its unique flavor profile, texas style barbecue just isn't the same without a mesquite fire. It's no wonder why so many pitmasters choose mesquite as their go-to cooking fuel! 

 So, if you're looking to get your BBQ on in Texas style, it's time to put some mesquite wood on the fire! 

## Texas Beef Brisket 
 Texas beef brisket is one of the most beloved BBQ staples in Texas and beyond. Not only is it flavorful, but its unique texture makes it hard to replicate elsewhere! It's made by cooking a large cut of beef over a low heat for several hours until tender and juicy. 

This slow-cooking process helps to break down the tough fibers in the beef, resulting in a succulent and flavorful meal.
When it comes to Texas-style brisket, there's no better way to enjoy it than with traditional sides of light pickles, sweet onions, and warm bread. 

The combination creates a symphony of flavors that can't be replicated anywhere else! Brisket also pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from mac and cheese to coleslaw. 

No matter how you enjoy Texas beef brisket, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether served in sandwiches or as part of a larger meal, the flavor is robust and unforgettable. 

And if you're lucky enough to find yourself in Texas one day, be sure to make it a point to try out some of the state's delicious beef brisket! You won't be sorry.
 
## The Two Types of Brisket 
 Brisket is an incredibly flavorful cut of meat that has become a popular ingredient in all sorts of dishes. It's especially beloved for its bold flavor and the deliciousness it adds to any dish. 

The two main types of brisket are moist and lean, each with their own unique characteristics. 

Moist brisket is the most popular type and has a higher fat content than lean brisket. This makes the meat incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It's great for slow cooking methods like smoking or braising since the additional fat helps lock in moisture and make the meat even more flavorful. It's perfect for barbecues since you can get that characteristic smoky flavor and still enjoy the tenderness of the meat. 

On the other hand, lean brisket is a great option for dishes that require faster cooking methods since its lower fat content allows it to cook quickly.
It has a more intense beefy flavor than moist brisket, making it perfect for flavorful stews or tacos. It's also a healthier option since it contains less fat, so you can enjoy the bold flavors without worrying about your health. 

Whether you go for moist or lean brisket, both types are sure to add delicious flavor to any dish. So the next time you're looking for some bold and flavorful ingredients, don't forget about these two types of brisket. They're sure to make your meal even more delicious! 

## Sausage is Historically Important 
 When it comes to the history of sausage in Texas barbecue, it's a flavor that has been around for centuries. Sausage has been a part of the region's culinary landscape since Spanish settlers first arrived in the 1700s, introducing chorizo and other sausages to the area. Soon enough, this delicious meat had become an integral part of Texas barbecue. 

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought their own sausages to Texas and began producing them in the state. By the 1900s, sausage had become such a staple of the local cuisine that it was even included in some historical cookbooks from the era. The popularity of sausage only increased as more new flavors and varieties of sausage were introduced to the region. 

Today, sausage remains an integral part of Texas barbecue, its flavors are incredibly diverse, ranging from traditional kielbasa sausages to zingy jalapeno and cheddar stuffed sausage and everything in between. It's no wonder why it's been such a popular part of regional cuisine for so many years – sausage is simply delicious! 

## BBQ Pork Ribs 
 BBQ ribs are an essential part of Texas barbecue. They have been a staple of the Lone Star State’s barbecue culture for generations, and with good reason! 
For starters, the flavor combination of slow-smoked pork ribs and savory, smoky spices is truly hard to beat. Whether you’re piling them high on your plate or savoring them one-by-one, juicy BBQ ribs are a must for any Texas barbecue meal. 

The secret to making delicious BBQ ribs lies in the combination of spices and techniques used in the cooking process. 

In Texas, we’re lucky to have access to some of the tastiest marinades and flavorful rubs around. From classic mesquite flavors to spicy chipotle-based recipes, there’s something to please everyone’s palate when it comes to BBQ ribs. 

And then of course, there’s the slow-smoking process that gives these succulent cuts their signature flavor and texture. 

## 4 Styles of Texas Barbecue 

### Central Texas Style Barbecue 
 Central Texas Barbecue is known for its unique style and smoky flavor. The meat, usually beef brisket, pork ribs or sausage, is cooked over mesquite wood which gives it a distinct smokey taste and is typically served with no sauce as the flavor of the meat speaks for itself. 

It is traditionally served with white bread and pickles, but can also come with potato salad or coleslaw. Central Texas Barbecue is often referred to as "Texas Style Barbecue" because of its distinctive blend of seasonings and spices. 

### East Texas Style Barbecue 
 East Texas Barbecue has a distinct flavor and style of its own. It generally includes beef briskets, pork ribs, or sausages that are slow cooked over oak wood for several hours. 

Unlike Central Texas Barbecue which is served with no sauce. East Texas Barbecue is usually served with a thick tomato-based sauce. The meat is also often served with sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or beans. 

East Texas Barbecue is favoured for its sweet and smoky taste that is both tangy and spicy. It has become a popular style of barbecue throughout the United States. 

### West Texas Style Barbecue 
 West Texas barbecue is known for its unique style and flavors. Its distinct flavor profile comes from the use of mesquite wood to smoke the meat, giving it a smoky taste that complements the other ingredients. 

It also features a variety of regional spices and sauces, such as pico de gallo, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, and garlic. The meat is usually cooked over an open flame or in a smoker, allowing the flavors to permeate the meat thoroughly. 

There’s also a focus on low-and-slow cooking that allows the fat to render down and give the dish its characteristic tenderness. 

### South Texas Style Barbecue 
 South Texas style barbecue is a style of slow smoked meats that is influenced by Mexican and German flavors. This type of barbecue typically features beef, pork, or chicken cooked over mesquite charcoal for hours until it is falling-apart tender. 

Sauces and rubs used in South Texas-style barbecue generally include chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, and other spices. The dish is often served with tortillas, beans, rice, and salsa to create a complete meal. 

## White bread, Onions and Pickles are Free 
 When it comes to Texas Barbecue, you can always count on a few yummy sides. Bread, onions and pickles are essential staples that come on the side with nearly every barbecue plate in the Lone Star State! 

The hearty bread helps soak up all of those flavorful juices from the meat while crunchy onions add texture. 

And of course, the pickles bring a classic tartness that perfectly balances out all other components. With these three items on your plate, you can rest assured that your barbecue experience will be complete! 

### Other Texas BBQ Traditions 
 Texas Barbecue isn't just about the food - it's also about the experience. In many parts of Texas, barbecue restaurants are family-run and have been in operation for generations, so you can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere coupled with traditional recipes that have been passed down through the years. 

Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or planning an all-day barbecue excursion with friends, there's no denying that Texas Barbecue is best enjoyed with other people! 

## What Are Common Texas Barbecue Side Dishes? 
 Texas barbecue sides often include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and potato casserole. Additional items such as pickles, chips or french fries are also common. 

Depending on the style of barbecue, macaroni and cheese may be replaced by pinto beans or cream corn. 

Other popular sides include green salad, corn on the cob, hushpuppies and sliced white bread. Popular desserts at Texas barbecues include banana pudding, peach cobbler and pecan pie. 

## Where to get the Original Texas Barbecue 
 If you’re looking for the same great taste that has made Central Texas Barbecue a favorite for generations, then make a visit to Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.
Dickey's Barbecue is one of the oldest and most beloved barbecue chains in existence. 

Founded in 1941, Dickey’s has been a Texas favorite for more than three-quarters of a century. Dickey’s Barbecue has been serving up slow-smoked pit barbecue throughout the country since its founding, with more than 500 locations in 43 states. 
Place an order online to see what Texas Barbecue Restaurants are all about. 
 
 To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

Texas style barbecue? Everything you need to know.

### Valentines Day 'Cue For Two
Looking for the perfect meal for that special person this Valentine’s Day? A [date with Dickey’s](https://www.dickeys.com/press/press-releases/dickey-s-barbecue-pit-spreads-love-with-valentine-s-day-deals) is just what you need to make this holiday one to remember. Love is in the air and this year it smells like smokey goodness of Legit. Texas. BarbecueTM.

 This Valentine’s Day, the world’s largest [barbecue franchise](https://franchise.dickeys.com/smokin-franchise-brand/) is offering one-day-only deals for everyone when you [order online](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday). Single and not ready to mingle? Dickey’s has you covered with a one meat, one side, and one Big Yellow Cup meal for just $9.99. For the perfect date night, couples can kick up the romance with Two, Two-Meat Plates for just $29! You can choose from brisket, pulled pork, chicken, kielbasa sausage or ribs. Dickey’s has the quality, slow-smoked meats and wholesome sides that are sure to stoke your fire for a romantic Valentine’s celebration.
 
 You can’t call this date finished without satisfying your sweet tooth. Make sure to order a [Blondie Brownie](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) or [Chocolate Chunk Cookie](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) for the perfect sweet ending for your sweetie. If you’re looking to avoid Valentine’s Day crowds, don’t get off that couch. Instead, grab your phone, download our app, and let Dickey’s deliver when you want it, where you want it. Spend this Valentine’s Day in the comfort of your own home by ordering online, and use the extra time to make a macaroni necklace. Or better yet, don’t forget to order Dickey’s famous Mac & Cheese!
 
 Everyone knows that the key to anyone’s heart is through their stomach and Dickey’s is the locksmith of love. Available only at bbqathome.com, order the Texas Two Step giftbox filled with seasonings, sauces, and a cookbook with recipes from around the world. Happy Valentine’s Day from the barbecue restaurant that loves you, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. 

 To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

THE ‘CUE FOR TWO

Its holiday time and you’re ready to get this party started! Though, getting to the party is another story.
Traveling during the holidays can be a drag, but not if you know how to battle the crowds while keeping a smile on your face. As many of you prepare to take on both the roads and the airports, we thought we’d share some helpful holiday tips.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Plan Ahead
&nbsp;You’ll need your energy after waking up at the crack of dawn and battling the crowds. Don’t be hasty when planning your dining destinations on the road. &nbsp;Plot your stops on the road with Dickey’s Barbecue locations across the country. With over 470 locations in 42 states, you’re bound to find some Dickey’s slow smoked barbecue on your route. Just check out our locations <a href="https://www.dickeys.com/locations">here</a> and see where you can stop along the way. We even have locations in airports -- if you find yourself flying in or out of Dallas Love Field or Dallas-Fort Worth, you’re in luck!
&nbsp;
Stay Hydrated
It’s crucial to stay hydrated when traveling and you also need to stay energized to survive the holiday rush. Grab the perfect refillable companion for you trek on the road with a Big Yellow Cup. &nbsp;
Have Fun
Have fun with your family on the road or at the airport by packing travel-sized editions of your favorite board games or a pack of cards. The best games on the road don’t need supplies with I Spy, License Plates, 20 Questions and Slug-a-Bug are great for long car rides!
Dickey’s wishes you and your family happy trails and a happy holiday season!&nbsp;

Don’t Let Traveling Hinder Your Holiday Cheer

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