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

NORTH BRANCH, MN (November 21, 2024) – [Dickey's Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/) in North Branch is proud to reflect on a busy and rewarding fall season filled with community-centered events, from football tailgates to family fun and heartfelt acts of appreciation. As a new member of the [North Branch ](https://www.dickeys.com/locations/minnesota/north-branch/north-branch)community, Dickey’s has been delighted to participate and make connections while serving up their famous, mouthwatering barbecue.
 
## Tailgating with the Vikings


Dickey’s brought their delicious barbecue experience straight to Minnesota Vikings fans during the tailgating festivities at the Vikings vs. Detroit Lions football game. Football enthusiasts enjoyed samples of Dickey’s smoked meats and creamy mac and cheese while learning about their catering services. They even featured a giant Vikings helmet for fans to snap memorable photos. Franchisee Hannah Davis expressed, “This was our first year bringing Dickey’s to Vikings tailgating, and we couldn’t be happier with the warm reception we received. We plan to make this an annual tradition!”
 
## Trunk or Treat in North Branch


Earlier this fall, Dickey’s was thrilled to participate in North Branch’s Trunk or Treat event, connecting with nearly 900 attendees. “We loved seeing all the costumes and the smiles on kids' faces,” said Davis. “Giving out treats like candy, branded frisbees, can koozies, and more allowed us to meet families, introduce them to our barbecue, and share our catering options. It was great exposure, and we’re excited to do even more next year!”
 
## Feeding and Thanking Our Local Heroes


At Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, supporting local heroes is at the heart of what they do. Hannah and her team recently had the honor of donating a classic buffet-style meal to the North Branch Fire Department during one of their monthly meetings. The 26 fire department members enjoyed a hearty spread that included smoked pulled pork, chopped brisket, mac and cheese, barbecue beans, baked potato casserole, cabbage slaw, and Texas toast. “We are beyond grateful for the dedication and service of our local first responders,” said Davis. “This meal was our way of showing our appreciation for their hard work in keeping our community safe.”
 
## Community Commitment from the Dickey’s Team
![hannah halloween.jpg](https://cms-www-dickeys-com.s3.amazonaws.com/hannah_halloween_4434ebdad4.jpg)



“We believe in creating meaningful connections within the communities we serve,” said [Laura Rea Dickey](https://enterprenuer.org/ceo/meet-laura-rea-dickey-ceo-of-dickeys-barbecue-restaurants-inc/), CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “The North Branch location has gone above and beyond in its first year, making a real impact. We’re excited to see them continue to build on this commitment.”
 
[Roland Dickey, Jr.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weddpg9ZWOI), CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, added, “Giving back is part of who we are at Dickey’s. Seeing the incredible work Hannah and her team are doing in North Branch inspires us all. It’s what sets Dickey’s apart as a family-owned business focused on community and barbecue excellence.”

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in North Branch remains committed to being more than just a barbecue restaurant—it is a dedicated partner and supporter of the community. By sharing their love for smoked meats with sports fans, engaging with families at local events, and expressing gratitude for first responders, Dickey’s aims to make a lasting positive impact. The team looks forward to deepening their roots in North Branch, building connections through service, great food, and community spirit. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is grateful to the community for the warm welcome and is excited to continue creating unforgettable memories together.
 
## 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. For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com



Dickey's Barbecue Pit in North Branch Celebrates a Fall Season of Community Engagement

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

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit invites the community to support future leaders while enjoying a great meal. Join us in helping students from Putnam City North High School as we host a special fundraiser for the school's Leadership Development Institute (LDI).
 
On Tuesday, November 19, from 11 AM to 9 PM, the [Dickey’s location at 7800 N. May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK](https://www.dickeys.com/locations/oklahoma/oklahoma-city/n-may-ave), will donate 5% of all sales to support the Putnam City North LDI when customers use the code “PUTNAM” at checkout. Orders can be placed in-store or online at Dickeys.com.
 
In addition, 5% of sales for any Holiday Meal or [Catering](https://www.dickeys.com/locations/oklahoma/oklahoma-city/n-may-ave) pre-orders placed on this day will also benefit the institute. Funds raised will enable Putnam City North students to attend their annual leadership retreat, offering them the chance to grow, lead, and gain valuable skills for their future endeavors.
 
As a proud Putnam City North graduate, [Laura Rea Dickey](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCoBWDcfKXU), CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., is deeply committed to giving back and empowering young leaders through opportunities like this fundraiser. “Supporting the next generation of changemakers is at the heart of what we do,” said Dickey. “We’re honored to help ensure that students from Putnam City North have the resources and experiences needed to thrive.”
 
How to Participate:
Visit Dickey’s Barbecue Pit at 7800 N. May Ave, OKC, on November 19, and mention the code “PUTNAM” at checkout.
Order online at Dickeys.com using the code “PUTNAM.”
Pre-order a Holiday Meal or Catering to further support the fundraiser.
 
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy authentic Texas-style barbecue while contributing to the development of local student leaders.

##  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. For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com


Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Hosts Fundraiser for Putnam City North High School's Leadership Development Institute

(Forney, TX) On Thursday, May 14 at 11 a.m., Sarab Shwani will achieve her dream of owning her own restaurant when she opens Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Forney at the Mustang Crossing Plaza. To celebrate, the fast casual barbecue joint is hosting a three day barbecue bash where three lucky guests will win free barbecue for an entire year.
“Our grand openings are a way to get the community excited,” said <a href="http://www.dmagazine.com/publications/d-ceo/2010/july-august/dickeys-texas-barbecue-aims-to-conquer-the-country">Roland Dickey, Jr.</a>, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “It’s great to see our expansion in the Forney area and I look forward to the success of Sarab.”
Three-day grand opening includes:
<ul>
 <li>Thursday, the new barbecue option offers the first 50 guests gift cards worth up to $50.</li>
 <li>Friday, guests can feed their cravings with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday" target="_blank">$2 pulled pork sandwiches</a>&nbsp;and radio station&nbsp;96.3 KSCS&nbsp;will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. One lucky winner will receive a $500 gift card and three winners will win free barbecue for an entire year.</li>
 <li>Saturday, guests can grab t-shirts, sunglasses, koozies and more all day giveaways.</li>
</ul>
“I can’t wait to fulfill my dream of owning my own restaurant,” said first time franchise owner, Sarab Shwani. “After doing my research, Dickey's Barbecue pit was one of the best family oriented restaurant franchises out there.”
Prior to opening Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Shwani was a senior analyst for the Department of Defense. The new store in Forney is located at 450 FM 548, Suite 112 and the number is 972.552.9520.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Forney Celebrates with Three Day Barbecue Bash

MORE ARTICLES