At CaterZen, we’re focused on helping BBQ restaurant operators turn catering into a true profit center—not just an add-on. That’s exactly why we created Barbecue Catering Smarts: your go-to podcast for actionable insights, proven systems, and real-world strategies to grow your BBQ catering business.
Hosted by me, Michael Attias, founder of CaterZen Catering Software, each episode is built around one goal: helping operators like you build, structure, and scale a more profitable catering operation.
We’re excited to share Episode 31 of Barbecue Catering Smarts, featuring Dale Lockwood, Owner & Pit Master of Hickory BBQ & Grill.
Episode 31: From Backyard to High-Volume Catering — Building a BBQ Business That Scales with Dale Lockwood
In this episode, I sit down with Dale Lockwood to break down how he built a catering-first BBQ business from the ground up—and scaled it into a high-volume operation serving everything from weddings to 1,000-meal-a-day contracts.
Dale brings a true operator perspective—combining pitmaster discipline with real-world business experience—to show what it actually takes to grow catering without losing control of quality, margins, or your team.
Here’s what you’ll learn in Episode 31:
- How Dale built his business starting with catering first—not a restaurant
- Why relationships and local business networks drove early growth (and still matter today)
- The role of speed, responsiveness, and professionalism in winning catering orders
- How to use email marketing and CRM systems to generate repeat business and referrals
- Why pricing discipline matters—and how to avoid the trap of low-margin, high-volume work
- How documenting recipes and building systems creates consistency at scale
- The importance of sales skills in turning inquiries into long-term catering revenue
This episode is a powerful reminder that building a successful BBQ catering business isn’t about chasing trends or shortcuts—it’s about doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. From showing up in your community and building real relationships, to responding fast, pricing with confidence, and putting systems in place, sustainable growth comes from discipline, consistency, and execution over time.
How to Tune In
You can listen to Episode 31 of Barbecue Catering Smarts on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode right here.
Why Barbecue Catering Smarts?
Barbecue Catering Smarts is built specifically for BBQ operators who want to grow catering the right way.
This isn’t theory—it’s operator-to-operator insight from people who are doing it every day. Each episode dives into the real challenges of BBQ catering: managing production, protecting food quality off-site, building repeatable systems, and turning one-time orders into long-term revenue.
If you’re serious about building catering into a predictable, scalable profit center, this podcast is for you.
Let’s Hear From You!
What’s one challenge you’re facing in your catering operation right now?
Send us a message—we’re always looking for real operator questions to cover in future episodes.
Stay Connected with Us on Social Media!
Don’t miss out on updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive tips for growing your catering business. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop:
- Instagram: @bbqcateringbizacademy
- Facebook: BBQ Catering Business Academy
Join the conversation and let us know how Barbecue Catering Smarts is helping you level up your catering game. We love hearing your wins!
Ready to Grow Your Catering Profit Center?
Dale’s story is a reminder that catering success doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from doing things right.
With the right systems, the right discipline, and a focus on relationships, catering can become one of the most reliable and profitable parts of your business.
If you’re still treating catering like overflow, it’s time to rethink your approach.
Tune in to Episode 31 and start building a catering operation that actually scales.
Launching Soon: The BBQ Catering Business Academy - for Operators Who Want More Sales (Without More Chaos)
If you’re looking to build a more predictable, profitable catering operation, the BBQ Catering Business Academy was built for you.
Learn how to:
- Generate consistent catering leads
- Put systems in place that save time and reduce stress
- Turn catering into a reliable, high-margin revenue stream
Join the waitlist and be the first to know when doors open:
bbqcateringbusinessacademy.com
