From The Shack – Details, episodes & analysis

We’re kicking off Season 2 of From the Shack with exciting news — we’ve got new sponsors, big plans, and a massive community event on the horizon!

👉 In this episode:

• We welcome Alfresco Chapel BBQ Centre — the ultimate BBQ showroom in the northwest

• We’re now powered by Pit Barrel Cookers — simple, flavour-packed cooking in a barrel

• Thermapen continues supporting the show with their industry-leading thermometers

• And we give a full update on the Big BBQ Community Cookout — a free BBQ celebration with live fire cooking, competitions, brands, and prizes

💬 Whether you're a weekend warrior or a pro pitmaster, there's something in this one for you.

• Alfresco Chapel: @alfresco_chapel_bbq/

• Pit Barrel Cookers: @pitbarreluk

• Thermapen: @thermapen

• Big BBQ Community Cookout info: cheshirebbqschool.org

🔗 Links & Shoutouts

🎙 Season 1 finale is here — and it’s a special one!We went LIVE for the very first time, with tongs in hand and coals burning hot to celebrate the final day of UK BBQ Week 2025.🔥 This episode was streamed straight from the Shack, featuring:👇— World Cuisine on Fire: The UK BBQ Week theme was global flavours, so we cooked up a full Texas BBQ tray — but with a twist on every single item.— Season 1 Wrap-Up: We look back on an epic few months of community, conversations, cooks and chaos — all from two backyard BBQers just doing what we love.— Live Vibes: No edits, no filters, just pure BBQ passion — recorded live with our audience, questions, and plenty of meat.🙏 Massive thanks to everyone who tuned in, listened, shared, and supported Season 1. You’ve helped build something really special.We’re taking a few weeks off to reset, rest, and stoke the fire — but don’t worry:Season 2 is coming in HOT.🛠️ This episode was proudly sponsored by:🔥 Thermapen – https://thermapen.co.uk🎯 Use code SHACK-20 for 20% off sitewide!🥩 The Catering Butcher – top-quality meat for real BBQers🔥 Globaltic Charcoal – the fuel behind the fire📍 Join the Shack community:📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/fromtheshackpodcast🎬 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@fromtheshackpodcast▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fromtheshackpodcast👨‍🍳 Steve (Charred Food Co): https://instagram.com/charredfoodco👨‍🍳 Dec (Cheshire Grill): https://instagram.com/cheshire_grill🔥 Cheshire BBQ School: https://instagram.com/cheshirebbqschool🎯 Want to work with us in Season 2?We’re open to podcast sponsors, product collabs, BBQ events, and shoutouts. Let’s build something 🔥🎧 Catch up on all episodes of Season 1 on:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts🔥 Hit play, raise a glass (or a brisket), and help us close out Season 1 with a bang.#FromTheShackPodcast #UKBBQWeek #BBQPodcast #LiveFireCooking #BBQCommunity #Thermapen #GlobalticCharcoal #TheCateringButcher #TexasBBQ #CheshireBBQSchool #KamadoCooking

From The Shack - Episode 8 | Influencers You Should Be Following

Episode Summary:

We’re back together! Dec’s fresh from his Stateside adventures, and it’s our first joint episode of 2025. This week, we’re catching up on all the foodie escapades we’ve been up to since the last pod—everything from fire-fueled feasts to culinary inspiration we’ve picked up along the way.

Our main topic? The must-follow influencers who are shaping the world of BBQ and fire cooking right now. Between us, we’ve got six incredible accounts to share that will up your grilling and BBQ game. Whether you’re looking for plant-based fire cooking, masterful meat techniques, or stunning food photography, we’ve got you covered.

So grab a drink, fire up the grill, and join us for another fun-filled episode of From the Shack!

Featured Influencers You Need to Follow:

👉 @chefdandanielwatkins – Game-changing plant-based cooking.

👉 @jamespecckk – The man behind Ember, bringing fire-fueled feasts to life.

👉 @melissafood – Stunning storytelling paired with bold flavors.

👉 @genevieveeats – A true trailblazer in the UK BBQ scene.

👉 @charlieboy_bbq – Master of meat and fire.

👉 @keithcooks – BBQ brilliance with a creative twist.

What to Expect:

• A big welcome back to Dec and a Happy New Year from the shack.
• Foodie catch-ups: our culinary highlights over the holidays and what’s inspired us. Loaded Spuds!!
• Our top 3 influencers each: six accounts you need to follow to elevate your BBQ game.
• Exciting plans for 2025: amazing guests, BBQ community-building, and inviting YOU to be part of the pod.

Connect with Us:

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, BBQ creations, or let us know your favourite BBQ influencers:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• TikTok: @fromtheshackpod
• YouTube: @fromtheshackpod

Don’t forget to tag us in your BBQ photos or leave us a message about what’s cooking in your shack!

Outro:

Thanks for tuning in! It’s great to kick off the year together, and we’ve got so much more in store for 2025. Until next time, happy grilling, and don’t forget to give those influencers a follow—they’re guaranteed to inspire your next cook!

From The Shack - Episode 7 | Steve Solo hosts while Dec is on holiday

Episode Summary:

This week, it’s just Steve holding down the shack while Dec explores the bright lights of New York! In this more laid-back, solo episode, we’re kicking off 2025 with big plans, bold flavors, and a love for BBQ that keeps us fired up.

Join me as I share what’s on the horizon for From the Shack this year, from exciting guest interviews to building the U.K. BBQ community. I’ll also take you through my upcoming cooks, including a show-stopping Côte de Boeuf and a low-and-slow brisket, plus I’ll highlight a smoky, hearty Mexican Black Bean Stew that’s perfect for winter grilling.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just love great food, this episode has something for everyone. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s talk fire, food, and community!

What to Expect:

• A casual New Year’s catch-up from the shack.
• 2025 plans: big guests, BBQ events, and how YOU can join the podcast as a guest.
• Upcoming cooks to inspire your grilling sessions:
• Thick-Cut Ribeye Steaks with sautéed wild mushrooms and potato gratin.
• Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with root vegetables and red wine jus.
• Low-and-Slow Brisket with celeriac mash and charred broccoli.
• Côte de Boeuf with potato dauphinoise, honey-glazed carrots, and rocket salad.
• Sticky Lamb Ribs with fennel slaw.
• Recipe Spotlight: Mexican Black Bean Stew
• This smoky, South American-inspired dish is packed with flavor. Made with hotlink sausages, homemade Mexican rice, and crispy tortillas, it’s a winter BBQ favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for customizations like leftover brisket.

Featured Recipe:

Mexican Black Bean Stew

• Oil, for cooking

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 poblanos, seeded and diced (use sweet peppers and some green hot peppers if you can’t get poblanos)

• 2 tomatoes, diced

• 30g+ of your favourite rub or seasoning

• chiote paste if available adds great flavour

• 170g tomato purée

• 1 veg stock jelly

• 3 garlic cloves, grated

• 1 tbsp chilli powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 2 tsp smoked sweet paprika

• 1 tsp chipotle powder (use chilli powder for milder flavour)

• Two or three 400g cans black beans (or any beans you prefer )

• 240ml water

• 4 hotlink sausages, smoked, then grilled and sliced into 1.5cm discs

• sliced white tortillas, deep-fried until golden and salted

• 340–450g shredded cheese (e.g., Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend)

• 60g sour cream

• 1 lime optional

Mexican Rice Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 200g long-grain rice

• 400ml chicken or vegetable stock

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh coriander, chopped, for garnish

Updated Method

1. Preheat your BBQ or oven to 190°C.

2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and poblano, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until tender.

3. Stir in tomatoes, seasoning, tomato purée, and stock. Cook for 2 minutes.

4. Add 2/3 of the garlic, chilli powder, cumin, paprika, and chipotle powder. Cook for 1 minute.

5. Stir in the beans with their liquid, along with 240ml water. Cover, reduce heat, and let stew for at least 1 hour.

6. Meanwhile, smoke and grill the hotlink sausages. Slice them into 1.5cm discs and add to the stew for the final hour of cooking.

7. Combine sour cream, remaining garlic, and lime juice in a small bowl. Season to taste.

8. Fry sliced tortillas until golden and crunchy, then salt and set aside.

9. For the Mexican rice: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook onion and garlic until softened. Stir in rice, stock, tomato purée, paprika, and seasoning. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is cooked. Fluff with a fork and garnish with coriander.

10. Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve with the lime crema, Mexican rice, and crispy tortillas on the side.!

Connect with Us:

We love hearing from our listeners! Share your thoughts, BBQ creations, or ideas for the podcast:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• TikTok: @fromtheshackpod
• YouTube: @fromtheshackpod

Tag us in your BBQ posts—we can’t wait to see what you’re cooking!

From The Shack - Episode 6 | Christmas Episode

Release Date: 22/12/2024

Episode Summary:

It’s Christmas at From the Shack! 🎄 In this festive episode, Steve and Dec take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on their cooking journey and how the podcast has evolved. Join us as we share some of our favorite moments, lessons learned, and what’s next for the show. Whether you’re a BBQ pro or just love good food, this episode is packed with holiday cheer and plenty of inspiration for your next cook!

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• YouTube: @fromtheshackpod
• TikTok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe & Review:

Enjoying the show? Don’t forget to hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Leave us a review to let us know what you think—it really helps us bring the BBQ love to more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

We’re cooking up something exciting—Patreon is coming soon! Stay tuned for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.

Sponsorships:

We’re open to sponsorships that align with our ethos. Let’s collaborate!

Release Date:

08/12/2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the great BBQ debate: grilling vs. smoking. Whether you’re all about the high-heat sear or prefer the low-and-slow method, we weigh up the pros, cons, and best times to use each technique.

We also touch on the latest buzz around Bovaer, a methane-reducing feed additive that’s making waves in the sustainability space—could it change the future of BBQ meats?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Firefly BBQ - https://www.fireflybbq.co.uk
• Alfresco Chapel - https://www.chorleybottlegas.co.uk/
• Globaltic Charcoal - https://www.globalticltd.co.uk/
• Orbie Coolers - https://orbie.co.uk/
• Thermapen - https://thermapen.co.uk/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• Youtube: @fromtheshackpod
• Tik Tok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe and Review:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to From The Shack on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

Patreon coming soon

Sponsorships:

We are open to conversations about podcasts sponsorship's if it suits our ethos

Release Date:

24/11/2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of From The Shack, Steve and Dec dive into some BBQ inspiration with Steve’s top three must-have BBQ books! Whether you’re a beginner looking to up your grill game or a seasoned pitmaster searching for new techniques, these books are packed with tips, recipes, and expert knowledge that every BBQ enthusiast needs.

The guys also take some time to catch up on their recent cooks, sharing stories, successes, and lessons learned from the grill. From low-and-slow briskets to sizzling steaks, this episode is a feast for BBQ lovers everywhere!

Topics Discussed:

• Steve’s top 3 BBQ book recommendations
• Why these books stand out
• Key takeaways and must-try recipes
• A recap of recent cooks and grilling adventures
• Successes, challenges, and what’s next on the menu

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the best BBQ books to elevate your skills
• Get inspired by recent BBQ stories and experiments
• Tips and techniques to try in your own backyard

Links and Mentions:

• Grill Stock by Jon Finch & Ben Merrington, The BBQ Book - https://amzn.eu/d/aJ3PRkq
• Berber & Q by Josh Katz - https://amzn.eu/d/eFUr2sM
• Food & Fire by Marcus Bawdon - https://amzn.eu/d/iLKabyg

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Firefly BBQ - https://www.fireflybbq.co.uk
• Alfresco Chapel - https://www.chorleybottlegas.co.uk/
• Globaltic Charcoal - https://www.globalticltd.co.uk/
• Orbie Coolers - https://orbie.co.uk/
• Thermapen - https://thermapen.co.uk/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• Youtube: @fromtheshackpod
• Tik Tok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe and Review:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to From The Shack on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

Patreon coming soon

Sponsorships:

We are open to conversations about podcasts sponsorship's if it suits our ethos

Release Date:

10/11/2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of From The Shack, Steve and Dec welcome their friend and special guest, Liam Sharkey, a skilled butcher with The Catering Butcher. Together, they explore Liam’s path to becoming a butcher, highlighting the challenges, experiences, and passion that have defined his career. Liam shares personal stories from the cutting block and provides an inside look at the vital role butchers play in the BBQ community, from sourcing the finest cuts to building lasting relationships with chefs, pitmasters, and BBQ enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a BBQ fan, a food industry professional, or just curious about what goes on behind the butcher’s counter, this episode is packed with insights, humour, and plenty of meat talk!

Topics Discussed:

• Liam’s journey to becoming a professional butcher
• Behind-the-scenes insights into the life of a butcher
• The connection between butchers and the BBQ community
• Building relationships with chefs and BBQ enthusiasts
• Tips on selecting quality meats for BBQ and cooking
• The evolving role of butchers in the modern food scene

Key Takeaways:

• Insights into what it takes to be a great butcher
• How butchers contribute to the BBQ world beyond meat supply
• Personal stories and anecdotes from Liam’s experiences

Connect with Liam Sharkey:

• Instagram - @thecateringbutcher

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Firefly BBQ - https://www.fireflybbq.co.uk
• Alfresco Chapel - https://www.chorleybottlegas.co.uk/
• Globaltic Charcoal - https://www.globalticltd.co.uk/
• Orbie Coolers - https://orbie.co.uk/
• Thermapen - https://thermapen.co.uk/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• Youtube: @fromtheshackpod
• Tik Tok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe and Review:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to From The Shack on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

Patreon coming soon

Sponsorships:

We are open to conversatons about podcasts sponsorships if it suits our ethos

From The Shack - Ep. 2 | Running a Pop Up

Release Date:

27/10/2024

Episode Summary:

In this exciting episode of From The Shack, we dive into the world of planning and executing a successful BBQ pop-up! Fresh off our latest pop-up event, we share behind-the-scenes insights on everything from menu planning to marketing and logistics. Whether you're a BBQ pro or just starting out, you’ll learn valuable tips for pulling off a memorable pop-up experience.

But that’s not all! We’re thrilled to announce a HUGE giveaway exclusively for our podcast listeners, featuring an amazing prize pool with contributions from Firefly BBQ, Alfresco Chapel, Globaltic Charcoal, Thermapen, and Oobie Coolers. Don’t miss your chance to win some fantastic BBQ gear!

Topics Discussed:

• Our experience running a recent BBQ pop-up event
• Key steps to planning and executing a successful pop-up
• Menu creation, venue selection, and logistics
• Marketing and promoting your event to attract the right crowd
• Lessons learned and tips for improving future pop-ups
• Special announcement: Giveaway details and how to enter
• Highlighting the amazing prize pool from Firefly BBQ, Alfresco Chapel, Globaltic Charcoal, Thermapen, and Oobie Coolers

Key Takeaways:

• Essential planning tips for running a successful BBQ pop-up
• Behind-the-scenes insights into our latest event
• Details on entering the podcast giveaway and winning top BBQ gear

Giveaway Details:

We’re giving away a prize pool packed with premium BBQ products, including items from Firefly BBQ, Alfresco Chapel, Globaltic Charcoal, Thermapen, and Oobie Coolers! Be sure to tune in for the full details on how to enter and increase your chances of winning. This is one giveaway you won’t want to miss!

Prizes Include:

• Firefly BBQ rubs and sauces
• Alfresco Chapel have donated and awesome YETI lunch cooler
• Globaltic Charcoal premium lumpwood charcoal
• Thermapen meat thermometers
• Oobie Coolers voucher

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Firefly BBQ - https://www.fireflybbq.co.uk
• Alfresco Chapel - https://www.chorleybottlegas.co.uk/
• Globaltic Charcoal - https://www.globalticltd.co.uk/
• Orbie Coolers - https://orbie.co.uk/
• Thermapen - https://thermapen.co.uk/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• Youtube: @fromtheshackpod
• Tik Tok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe and Review:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to From The Shack on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

Patreon coming soon

Sponsorships:

We are open to conversatons about podcasts sponsorships if it suits our ethos

Episode Title:

From The Shack - Ep. 001 | Welcome & Introduction

Release Date:

13/10/2024

Episode Summary:

In this inaugural episode of From The Shack, we introduce ourselves and try to give an insight into what we hope the pod will be. We’ll give you a peek into what this podcast is about, its inspiration, and what you can expect from future episodes. Whether you’re here for stories, insights, or casual conversation, this podcast aims to deliver something for everyone. Tune in, and let’s start this journey together!

Topics Discussed:

• Introduction to From The Shack
• Host’s background and why this podcast exists
• Themes and topics we’ll cover in upcoming episodes
• What to expect in future shows (guest appearances, listener Q&As, etc.)

Key Takeaways:

• Get to know your host and the inspiration for From The Shack
• Sneak peek of future episodes and exciting content
• A community-driven podcast where your voice matters

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Noel Bateman - Firefly BBQ - https://www.fireflybbq.co.uk
• Steve Ball - Alfresco Chapel - https://www.chorleybottlegas.co.uk/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @fromtheshackpod
• Youtube: @fromtheshackpod
• Tik Tok: @fromtheshackpod
• Email: fromtheshackpod@gmail.com

Subscribe and Review:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to From The Shack on [Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.] and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Support the Podcast:

Patreon coming soon

Sponsorships:

We are open to conversatons about podcasts sponsorships if it suits our ethos