Episode
Episode 169: How Barbecue and Faith Sparked a Global Relief Movement with Stan Hays
- Podcast
- Your Biggest Breakthrough
- Published
- Sep 9, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 2714
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Summary
What if something as simple as a pulled pork sandwich could remind people they aren’t forgotten? In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough , we sit down with Stan Hays , co-founder of Operation Barbecue Relief, whose story began in the aftermath of the devastating Joplin tornado. What started with a few smokers in a parking lot has now grown into an organization that’s served over 13 million meals in disaster zones and communities in need. We loved this conversation because it’s not just about barbecue, it’s about faith in action, taking that first step without having all the answers, and discovering your “why” through serving others. You’ll hear how God used ordinary skills and a willing heart to meet extraordinary needs, and how something as simple as food can unify people, restore hope, and remind them of love. If you’ve ever wondered how to find your purpose, where to start serving, or whether your gifts really matter, this episode is for you. Stan’s story will challenge you, inspire you, and encourage you that God can use your passion, no matter what it is, to change lives. 👉 Learn more about Operation Barbecue Relief, get involved, or support their mission by visiting https://operationbbqrelief.org/ Chapters: [00:00] Podcast Preview [01:10] Topic and Guest Introduction [03:58] The Joplin Tornado That Started Everything [09:12] Cooking Under Tornado Sirens [11:57] Serving Thousands of Meals on the First Day [15:25] A Woman’s Words that Changed My Perspective [19:18] Building a Sustainable Relief Effort [24:51] How Faith Reshaped Stan’s Priorities [27:55] The Growth of Operation Barbecue Relief [29:22] Why The Simplest Acts Matter Most [33:26] Volunteering as a “Selfish Act” [34:42] Culinary Therapy for Heroes and Veterans [36:15] Being Called a CNN Hero [39:02]…