D Magazine DALLAS 500: Laura Rea Dickey 

**Introducing "Barbecue, Books & Business with Roland Dickey, Jr."** 

Hi, I’m [Roland Dickey, Jr.](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolanddickeyjr/), and I’m excited to share my new series, [Barbecue, Books & Business with Roland Dickey, Jr](https://www.rolanddickeyjr.com/barbecue-books-and-business). As a business leader, I believe that growth never stops. In fact, one of the most important qualities of successful leaders is a constant hunger for learning. Leaders must be readers—or, in my case, listeners. 

You see, I’m a pretty avid reader. But actually, I’m not a reader at all. Why? Because I’m dyslexic. I do audio books. I listen to a lot of books. And I’m excited to share my recommendations with you. I’ve found that consuming the right information, whether through books, podcasts, or other sources, is essential for personal and professional development. 

In Barbecue, Books & Business, I’ll be sharing the books and podcasts that have shaped my thinking as a [CEO](https://franchise.dickeys.com/smokin-franchise-brand/the-team/#roland-dickey-jr) and entrepreneur. Whether you're a business owner, leader, or someone passionate about personal growth, these recommendations are sure to inspire. 

Here are three books and two podcasts that I highly recommend: 

**Books** 
**1. Working Backwards: Insights, Stories, and Secrets from Inside Amazon by Colin Bryar and Bill Carr** 
If you want to understand how one of the most successful companies in the world operates, Working Backwards gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Amazon’s leadership principles and how they approach innovation. This book reveals Amazon’s methods for scaling, decision-making, and building customer-obsessed teams. It’s full of lessons that any business leader can apply to their own company. 

**2. Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson** 
This biography dives deep into the mind of one of today’s most visionary leaders, Elon Musk. Isaacson explores Musk’s life, his relentless drive, and the decisions that helped him build Tesla, SpaceX, and other groundbreaking companies. For any entrepreneur, this book is a must-read to understand how ambition and risk-taking can lead to world-changing innovations. 

**3. Poor Charlie’s Almanac by Charlie Munger** 
Charlie Munger, Warren Buffett’s longtime business partner, is one of the greatest minds in investing and business strategy. In Poor Charlie’s Almanac, Munger shares his philosophy on decision-making, life, and success. This book is packed with wisdom about thinking critically and making smart, long-term decisions—principles that are crucial for any leader looking to build a sustainable business. 

**Podcasts** 
**1. Founders by David Senra**
The Founders podcast is one of my go-to listens. David Senra tells the stories of some of the greatest entrepreneurs and leaders throughout history, offering lessons in resilience, risk-taking, and creativity. Each episode is like a mini-biography packed with insights that can inspire any aspiring leader to push their limits. 

**2. Business Wars by Wondery** 
Business Wars takes you through some of the most intense rivalries between big-name companies like Nike vs. Adidas or Netflix vs. Blockbuster. This podcast not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into competition, innovation, and strategy in the business world. It’s a great way to learn how leaders respond to pressure and adapt to market changes. 

I’ve always believed that learning is a lifelong journey. While my dyslexia made traditional reading difficult, I’ve found ways to keep growing through audiobooks and podcasts. Every leader must find what works for them, but the most important thing is that you keep learning.
So, join me in Barbecue, Books & Business as we explore the books and ideas that are shaping the business world today. Whether you're a barbecue lover or a business enthusiast, I can’t wait to share these insights with you. 

Go ahead and tune in via this [link](https://www.rolanddickeyjr.com/barbecue-books-and-business). Happy listening! 

Roland Dickey, Jr.

Barbecue, Books, & Business with Roland Dickey, Jr.

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

Laura Rea Dickey on Fox Business Cavuto Coast to Coast talking about the change in workforce. Over the past year we have experienced a difference in the employees with there age and experience. We are getting more employees that are in-between jobs, coming out of retirement, or wanting to start a new career. 

In addition, we are seeing customers order our [Cue Combos]( https://www.dickeys.com/menu-at-a-glance/cue-combos) as they are looking for deal options that are more affordable for the family. 

[Click Here]( https://video.foxbusiness.com/v/6324818592112) to watch.

CEO Laura Rea Dickey Today On Fox Business Cavuto Coast to Coast

On Thursday, March 10 Fox Business had a segment discussing Americans reacting to a 4-day work week, as it is growing momentum. That is a reduction of about 20% in labor, all while maintaining the same pay rate and salary. How do businesses react? Some agree and think that a 4-day work week is more efficient and productive, rather than working a 5-day hybrid schedule. Other industries disagree like manufacturers and restaurant owners, as they are unable to maintain sales and commitments with less time working. 

To watch more of [Laura Rea Dickey](https://www.dickeys.com/company/meet-our-team), CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Pit, on Fox Business click [here.](https://video.foxbusiness.com/v/6322231524112#sp=show-clips)

Americans React to a 4 Day Work Week

### World’s largest barbecue concept offers family-friendly deal all of January
 
DALLAS (Jan. 4, 2023) – What better way to ring in 2023 than by bringing the family to the world’s largest barbecue concept [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/), where KIDS EAT FREE all January long.

 With classes starting back up following the holiday break, be sure to treat the kiddos to an after-school treat of Legit. Texas. Barbecue. paired with Dickey’s signature sides we all know and love. Now through Jan. 31st, [Kids Eat Free](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) every day in-store only with a minimum $12 adult meal purchase. On Sundays, Kids Eat Free in-store and online at [dickeys.com](https://www.dickeys.com/), or the [Dickey’s app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app), using the code KEFOLO at checkout.

 “We’re all about family at Dickey’s, and we know everyone could use more for their money right now. We want help to keep the family dinner tradition going without breaking the budget,” said CEO Laure Rea Dickey. “And if there is one thing we know, it’s that our Texas-style barbecue is something that both kids and parents can agree on.

 Dickey’s Kids Eat Free offer is available at participating [BBQ locations](https://www.dickeys.com/locations) only and is not valid with any other coupons, offers, discounts and promotions. 

 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).

#### About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. 
Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the world’s largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ At Dickey’s, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickey’s proudly believes there’s no shortcut to true barbecue and it’s why our name isn’t BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickey’s Barbecue 550 locations across the United States and eight other countries.
 
 Dickey’s was named to Newsweek’s 2022 America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers’ choice awards. Dickey’s won first place on Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technology’s Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the country’s 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nation’s Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickey’s Barbecue is part of Dickey’s Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit dickeys.com.

Celebrate 2023 at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit with Kids Eat Free

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., was on CNBC's "Power Lunch" today talking about soaring beef prices and how they are affecting the bottom line. [Click here](https://www.cnbc.com/video/2023/06/09/soaring-beef-prices-are-hurting-restaurants-bottom-line.html) to watch the full segment.

CEO Laura Rea Dickey on CNBC talking about Soaring Beef Prices

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