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

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Pit, talks with Bloomberg News about how restaurants and small businesses are working through the current environment of inflation, taxing tips for food service employees, and maintaining a loyal customer base.

Laura Rea Dickey Talks with Bloomberg News About Inflation

DALLAS, TX (November 7, 2024) –The Dickey Foundation’s 3rd Annual Denim & Diamonds fundraiser sparkled brighter than ever, bringing together over 250 attendees and raising an impressive $230,000 to support our nation’s first responders. Held at The Empire Room in Dallas, this record-setting event blended glamorous style, heartfelt giving, and a shared commitment to those who protect our communities every day.

The evening featured a unique and dazzling Champagne Diamond Bar provided by Carter Malouf, while the popular Beer Burro stole the show, delighting guests with its craft selections and creating buzz as attendees lined up for photos. Guests enjoyed delicious food curated by Dickey’s very own world-renowned chef Matt Burton. Entertainment included lively performances by the popular band 90 Proof and engaging live line dancing from Everlasting Dance, keeping spirits high throughout the night. Guests and supporters came together to celebrate, connect, and raise funds, reinforcing The Dickey Foundation’s ongoing mission to equip and support first responders with vital resources.

"We are thrilled by the community’s incredible generosity and support this year," said Betsy Orton, Executive Director of The Dickey Foundation. "Raising $230,000 sets a new milestone for us and will help us continue to provide critical safety equipment and resources to protect first responders. This night was a powerful reminder of the unity and appreciation our community holds for those on the front lines."

The Dickey Foundation was founded by Maurine Dickey, former Dallas County Commissioner, following the tragic night in 2016 when 14 officers were injured or lost their lives in a shooting in Downtown Dallas. "The Dickey Foundation was created to support the brave men and women who risk their lives daily to ensure our communities’ safety," said Maurine Dickey. "Our goal is to continuously provide the necessary support to ensure first responders’ safety and success in the communities they serve."

Since its inception, The Dickey Foundation has awarded more than $900,000 in grants for life-saving protective armor, firefighting gear, and rescue equipment. Through strong partnerships with franchisees and communities across the nation, the Foundation works to make a lasting impact both locally and nationally.

[Roland Dickey](https://roland-dickeyjr.com/), Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, expressed his pride in the event’s success and mission. "The support we saw tonight was overwhelming and humbling," said Roland Dickey, Jr. "This partnership is about more than just fundraising – it’s about standing with those who protect us and making a meaningful difference together."

[Laura Rea Dickey](https://www.franchisetimes.com/franchise_news/get-to-know-dickey-s-bbq-ceo-and-why-she-d-nix-ketchup/article_ce7aaace-a1ea-11eb-82cd-d3a825092be1.html), CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., added, "Dickey’s Barbecue is about creating connections and supporting our communities. This event, and all those who participated, demonstrated the strength and care that defines who we are."

The 3rd Annual Denim & Diamonds event showcased the power of community-driven action and a shared passion for helping first responders, making it a standout success that will leave a lasting impact.

The Dickey Foundation hosts one major fundraiser per year, but support for their mission is welcomed anytime. Donations can be made directly through their website to help equip and protect first responders with essential resources. The Foundation also invites everyone to join the fun at the 4th annual Denim & Diamonds celebration in 2025!

## About The Dickey Foundation
The Dickey Foundation, formerly known as Barbecue, Boots & Badges, is the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Dedicated to supporting first responders across the United States, the Foundation provides essential safety equipment, protective armor, rescue gear, and financial support to enhance the safety and well-being of those who risk their lives to protect their communities. By partnering with local franchisees and communities nationwide, The Dickey Foundation works tirelessly to ensure first responders have the tools and resources they need to keep us all safe. For more information or to get involved, visit www.thedickeyfoundation.org.

## About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.
Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family,[ Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc](https://www.dickeys.com/). 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.


The Dickey Foundation Raises Record-Breaking $230,000 at 3rd Annual Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser, Supporting First Responders Nationwide

# After 80 years in Dallas, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is still smokin’

What started in 1941 as a single barbecue stand at the corner of Central Expressway and Knox-Henderson has grown into a Dallas institution as the oldest, continuously operating restaurant that has never moved, changed names or changed ownership in the city. Today [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit’s](https://www.dickeys.com/) iconic flagship location is still serving loyal guests, but the brand has since grown into the largest barbecue restaurant company in the world with more than 550 locations in 43 states and seven countries.

## Roland Dickey Jr and how they stay authentic
People ask how Dickey’s stays authentic. “Simple. We still prepare things the way my grandfather and father did. We work with suppliers to get the best cuts of meat. We use our secret seasonings and sauce. Every restaurant has a real hickory wood-burning barbecue pit. You can always smell the smoke from the parking lot,” says [Roland Dickey Jr](https://roland-dickeyjr.com/about/), CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group.

In 1967, when the second generation of the Dickey family took over the business, Roland Dickey Sr., with the help of his brother Travis Dickey Jr., opened more family-owned restaurants. They expanded the menu, adding more slow-smoked meats and sides. By 1969, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit was a small family chain with nine restaurants.

“We do barbecue, not rocket surgery, around here. It’s a great way to make a living – playing with fire, selling brisket and sharing laughs. I’m not cut out for anything else, so we have to serve the best barbecue to folks. I don’t want to get fired,” says Roland Dickey Sr., founder of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.
![NBPU2YW75VFPZFUI5CGN66HA3Y.avif](https://cms-www-dickeys-com.s3.amazonaws.com/NBPU_2_YW_75_VFPZFUI_5_CGN_66_HA_3_Y_c0d6befd7b.avif)

In 1994, Dickey Sr. began [Dickey’s franchising](https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/dickeys-barbecue-pit/294377) and started serving its trademarked “Legit. Texas. Barbecue.” outside Texas. Roland Dickey Jr. joined the company in 1999 and worked his way up to president in 2006 and CEO in 2011. Dickey Jr. expanded the brand from 90 restaurants to more than 500, before starting Dickey’s Capital Group, where he serves as CEO today. Since 2016, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants has been led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who previously served as chief information officer and brought big data, technology development, delivery and online ordering to the brand.

In 2018 Dickey’s became an international brand, opening the first Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and now has locations in seven countries, including Japan, Brazil and Singapore. The brand continues to focus on ensuring that the guest experience is the same around the world — authentic Texas barbecue served with genuine hospitality that will bring guests back time and time again.

Roland Dickey Sr. introduced the original Dickey’s kielbasa sausage in the 1980s, and in 2010, Roland Dickey Jr. took the kielbasa sausage recipe to the next level by adding jalapeños and cheese. Now there are more than 20 varieties of Dickey’s handmade artisan sausage, handcrafted by Chef Phil Butler, and available at BarbecueAtHome.com.

“Our focus on authentic, quality barbecue is what has led us to bring so many parts of the barbecue business ‘in house’ and ‘online.’ From making our own sauce and spices, to BarbecueAtHome.com, to making our craft sausages by hand — we see our mission as protecting, preserving and serving the highest-quality Texas barbecue to as many folks as we can every day,” says Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants.

The brand’s recent launch on BarbecueAtHome.com allows folks to go online and order their favorite Dickey’s meals plus an expanded selection of chef-curated meal subscription boxes. All offerings arrive ready to heat and serve, designed for an easy, in-home Dickey’s experience.

Dickey’s growth and expansion have enabled the brand to give back. In 2016, Maurine Dickey started The Dickey Foundation to support first responders by providing them with safety and protection equipment. To date, The Dickey Foundation has donated more than 150,000 pulled pork sandwiches through first responder support packs and raised more than $250,000 for equipment donations.

Many amazing people have helped make Dickey’s Barbecue what it is today. The Dickey family recognizes many of them in a new cookbook publishing later this month, titled Behind the Barbecue: Recipes, Tall Tales and Cocktails from Dickey’s Barbecue. The new cookbook is a companion cookbook to Mr. Dickey’s Barbecue Cookbook, published in 2012.

Coming up, Dickey’s is celebrating its 80th anniversary with two parties in Dallas. On Wednesday, Oct. 20, Mr. Dickey’s Dollar Dinner Party will kick off the celebration from 5 p.m. to close at the original Dickey’s Barbecue Pit at 4610 N. Central Expy. The restaurant will serve dollar Lone Star beers and dollar pulled pork sandwiches, with all proceeds from sandwich sales benefitting The Dickey Foundation. All locations nationwide are offering an anniversary combo for $8.80, available at Dickeys.com.

On Thursday, Oct. 28, the Dickey family is hosting a celebration at The Rustic Dallas that includes live music by Josh Ward, live and silent auctions, plus an attempt to set a mark for the Guinness World Records with Dickey’s iconic Big Yellow Cup. Tickets are available online at Prekindle.com.

Eighty years hasn’t slowed down Dicky’s one bit. The company continues to bring authentic flavor to its fans globally and authentic support to its community locally.



Dickey’s Barbecue Pit - 82 years after

The Dickey Foundation – the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit – is once again celebrating their support of local first responders with their annual Denim & Diamonds fundraiser event this fall. 

This fun-filled event will be held on Thursday, October 24th at 6:30 p.m. at The Empire Room located at 1225 N Riverfront Blvd Dallas, TX 75207. The night of fundraising and fun will include food and drinks, live entertainment by the popular, local band 90 Proof, the fan favorite Champagne Diamond bar, and a celebration of the brave men and women of our communities.

Ticket sales for the Denim & Diamonds dinner will benefit The Dickey Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting first responder teams all over the country. With several sponsorship opportunities starting at $1,000, Dickey’s encourages the entire ‘cue-mmunity to pitch in and turn out to honor those who protect and serve us all. You can get your early-bird tickets and review sponsorship opportunities HERE. 

“We are so excited to partner with the Dickey Foundation for another great Denim & Diamonds fundraiser event this year,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “We’re always looking for ways to give back, and we invite the entire DFW community to join us in doing so. We can’t wait to see everyone on this fun night for a great cause!”

Tickets purchased before October 1st qualify for an Early Bird price of $80, while general admission will be $100. Guests are also invited to become Denim & Diamonds Sponsors, with a variety of levels available.

“Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is grateful for the opportunity to support the Dickey Foundation in hosting the 3rd Annual Denim & Diamonds event,” said Roland Dickey, Jr. CEO, Dickey’s Capital Group. “It’s going to be such a great night honoring our brave police officers, firefighters, medical professionals and other first responders,” 

To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
  
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. Dickey’s is led by both Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO, Dickey’s Capital Group, who has had a large hand in the brand’s international expansion into 8 countries, as well as the opening of their USDA Certified manufacturing and distribution plant, and his wife, Laura Rea Dickey, CEO, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Inc. 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 has over 500 locations across the United States and eight other countries. 
 
Dickey’s was named to Newsweek’s 2022 America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains list, Nation’s Restaurant News 2024 list for ‘Fast-casual restaurant brands that scored the highest for ‘value’, and USA Today 2021 readers’ choice awards. Dickey’s has finished in the Top 20 of the Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” four out of the past five years. The barbecue brand has 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 recently named to D Magazines Top 500 CEO’s in 2023, 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 www.dickeys.com.


 The Dickey Foundation Hosts 3rd Annual Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser Event

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is once again joining the fight against breast cancer this October with the return of  their popular limited-edition Pink Big Yellow Cup.

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the world’s largest barbecue brand’s signature Big Yellow Cup will once again turn PINK. Throughout the month, Dickey’s will offer the limited-edition 32-ounce Tribute Cup for purchase to pit masters and barbecue enthusiasts in all of its locations across the country.  A portion of the proceeds from each charitable cup sold will be donated to The Dickey Foundation. The funds collected from the collectible Pink Big Yellow Cup Dickey will then be used to provide mammograms and other breast cancer detections, treatments and services for local first responders.

“We are thrilled to once again bring back our popular Pink Big Yellow Cup to support our local first responders in the battle against breast cancer,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “This tribute cup demonstrates our commitment and passion for the safety and health of the brave first responders across the country. And we couldn’t be happier to continue this tradition each October.”

The Pink Big Yellow Cup is coming soon to your local Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and made an early appearance to help cheer on the LSU Tigers at a recent football tailgating event hosted by local Dickey’s Baton Rouge Owner/Operator, Scott Carlton and his Pit Crew. 

“Dickey’s, along with The Dickey Foundation knows that early detection is key to increasing survival rates against breast cancer, said Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group. “Therefore, every cup donation can potentially life-saving mammography screening. Dickey’s is proud to continue doing its part to raise awareness and support for this cause.”

To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

## 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. Dickey’s is led by both [Roland Dickey Jr](https://www.offthemrkt.com/lifestyle/power-couple-roland-dickey-jr-and-laura-rea-dickey-leading-dickeys-barbecue-pit-franchise-to-new-heights) CEO, Dickey’s Capital Group, who has had a large hand in the brand’s international expansion into 8 countries, as well as the opening of their USDA Certified manufacturing and distribution plant, and his wife, Laura Rea Dickey, CEO, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Inc. 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 has over 500 locations across the United States and eight other countries. 
 
Dickey’s was named to Newsweek’s 2022 America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains list, Nation’s Restaurant News 2024 list for ‘Fast-casual restaurant brands that scored the highest for ‘value’, and USA Today 2021 readers’ choice awards. Dickey’s has finished in the Top 20 of the Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” four out of the past five years. The barbecue brand has 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 recently named to D Magazines Top 500 CEO’s in 2023, 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 www.dickeys.com.


Dickey’s Barbecue Bringing Back Their Pink Big Yellow Cup to Support Breast Cancer Awareness

(Albuquerque, NM) On Thursday October 23 at 11 a.m., Deepak Shah will open the first Dickey’s Barbecue Pit location in Albuquerque with a three day grand opening. &nbsp;Shah, the former chief financial officer of Southwest Cheese Company, is ready for the new challenge. The first location in New Mexico opened in Hobbs last week with the highest <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/photos/a.227785679105.134546.14408104105/10152788105779106/?type=1&amp;theater">grand opening</a> sales in Dickey’s Barbecue history.&nbsp;
“Even though New Mexico is in the Southwest, we unfortunately have very few barbecue options,” said first time owner operator, Deepak Shah. “Dickey’s was the perfect franchise for me and I know Albuquerque is going to love the food and fast casual concept.”
Thursday, the first 50 dine-in guests receive gift cards worth up to $50. Friday includes free t-shirts, koozies, sunglasses and more with all day merchandise giveaways. &nbsp;On Saturday, radio station 103.3 ED FM is onsite from noon to 2 p.m. and this location is serving <a href="https://www.dickeys.com/menu">$2 pulled pork barbecue sandwiches</a>. &nbsp;During the event, one lucky winner will be chosen for a $500 gift card and three winners receive free barbecue for an entire year.
The new Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Albuquerque is located at 4320 The 25 Way NE, Suite 650 and the phone number is 505.750.1331. You can follow along with this location on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dickeys-Barbecue-Pit/1512981178919118">Facebook</a>.
&nbsp;

Albuquerque Wins Big with First Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

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