At CaterZen, we believe barbecue catering isn’t just “extra food.” When it’s built with intention, systems, and consistency, it becomes one of the most reliable profit centers a BBQ operation can have. That’s precisely why we created Barbecue Catering Smarts — your go-to podcast for actionable insights, expert advice, and real-world strategies to grow your restaurant’s catering profit center.
Hosted by me, Michael Attias, founder of CaterZen Catering Software, each episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities unique to BBQ catering. We talk with pitmasters, smokehouse owners, and catering leaders who’ve figured out how to turn barbecue into a scalable, repeatable catering operation — without chaos, compromise, or guesswork.
We’re excited to share Episode 29 of Barbecue Catering Smarts featuring Julie Reinhardt, Co-Owner of Smokin' Pete's BBQ — a seasoned BBQ operator who knows how to build catering as a profit-driven, sustainable business model.
Episode 29: Slow Growth, Strong Margins — The Smokin’ Pete’s Catering Model
In this episode, I sit down with Julie Reinhardt, who — along with her husband Eric — has spent decades refining a catering operation built on intentional growth, strong systems, and financially sound decision-making.
After operating a combined restaurant-and-catering business for years, they made a strategic shift: close the restaurant and go 100% catering. The result wasn’t just more freedom — it was a more focused profit engine that allowed them to:
- Protect margins
- Reduce seasonal drag
- Build repeatable systems
- Prioritize long-term client relationships
- Plan for growth with clarity
Julie’s approach underscores a powerful truth in BBQ catering: slow, strategic growth and disciplined operations win far more than overnight scale.
Here’s what you’ll learn in Episode 29:
✅ Focus Drives Margin: Why going all-in on catering strengthened profitability and operational clarity.
✅ Master Seasonality: Use slow months to build pipeline and peak months to maximize revenue.
✅ Systems Protect Profit: Documented processes and standardized execution reduce errors and support scalable growth.
✅ Speed Wins Sales: Fast response times close more deals and eliminate slower competitors.
✅ Build for Lifetime Value: Long-term client relationships create predictable, repeat catering revenue.
How to Tune In
You can listen to Episode 29 of Barbecue Catering Smarts on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode right here.
Whether you’re launching your BBQ catering program or looking to scale what you’ve already built, this episode is packed with real-world strategies you can implement today.
Why Barbecue Catering Smarts?
This podcast isn’t about generic tips or surface-level ideas. It’s built specifically for BBQ operators who want repeatable systems, practical guidance, and proven strategies that hold up in the messy, unpredictable world of catering.
Each episode delivers:
- Actionable strategies you can implement immediately
- Proven systems that remove chaos and protect profit
- Real stories from operators who’ve successfully grown BBQ catering
Whether you’re just launching your BBQ catering program or scaling into larger events and corporate accounts, Barbecue Catering Smarts gives you the playbook to grow smarter, not harder.
Let’s Hear From You!
Got a catering challenge you want us to tackle on a future episode? Or a topic you’ve been dying to learn more about?
Reach out — we’d love to hear from you.
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: @bbqcateringbusinessacademy
- 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 Catering as a Real Profit Center?
Julie’s story proves that catering success doesn’t come from quick fixes or chaotic hustle. It’s built on clarity, discipline, systems, and strategic planning.
If you’re serious about building a BBQ catering operation that’s profitable, predictable, and sustainable, this episode is for you.
Tune in and start implementing smarter today.
