Building Something That Lasts:
All Things Barbecue opened its doors in July 2009 – less from a grand plan and more from a practical instinct. Wichita didn’t yet have a barbecue-focused retail store, and the Delano District offered the right mix of character and momentum. Having built Yoder Smokers since 2006, the opportunity to showcase them in a dedicated retail space made sense.
ATBBQ began with a handful of people: Don’s wife Kathy, their daughter Jessica, her husband Andy, and Don himself (who was still officing in Yoder, KS, in those early years). The goal was simple – offer great products, serve people well, and keep things rooted in authenticity. The belief was that steady work would lead to something worthwhile.
From Offset Smokers to Outdoor Living
The shop started with offset smokers, charcoal and gas grills, accessories, and fuel. The Yoder Smokers pellet grills became a flagship offering, and when the business expanded into a row of old Delano buildings, so did the vision – adding outdoor furniture and a full outdoor kitchen showroom.
Customers asked for cooking classes early on, and that led to a modest warehouse setup before eventually becoming a purpose-built teaching kitchen connected to the showroom. What began with running a smoker on the sidewalk to draw in curious passersby has grown into a full educational arm of the business.
The launch of the website marked another milestone. Back then, 25 online orders in a day was a reason to celebrate. Orders were packed on a folding table in the back. Today, e-commerce brings ATBBQ’s products, recipes, and expertise to a national audience.
A Family Effort
From day one, this has been a family endeavor. Jessica has guided much of the internal structure. Don’s sons, Josh and Justin, were instrumental in launching the company’s YouTube channel – Josh helped shape the educational content and got the website off the ground, while Justin brought a cinematic eye that elevated the video production from the start. Kathy, ever the heart of the team, made the store a place where people feel welcome. Even the grandkids have had a turn on the retail floor.
It’s always been an “all hands on deck” operation – from unloading trucks to painting walls. Over time, a passionate and growing team has carried that same spirit forward. While some family members have moved on to other ventures, their early contributions laid the foundation.
What We Stand For
ATBBQ was never just about selling grills. It was about helping people cook better, gather more, and feel confident in their tools. That’s why the company invests in education, why the team tests and knows their products, and why customer service remains a top priority.
Family-run isn’t just a label – it’s a commitment to integrity, accountability, and building something lasting. Whether it’s a new grill, a recipe, or a class, the goal is always to bring value beyond the transaction.
Looking Ahead
Past highlights include the S-Series launch for Yoder Smokers, the growth of Cattleman’s Grill into home kitchens across the country, and the evolution of the teaching kitchen as a cornerstone of the brand’s mission.
Today, the focus is on working smarter, mentoring the team, and staying involved in ways that matter. You’ll still find Don around the store most afternoons, lending a hand and checking in.
ATBBQ was built on family, a love of barbecue, and the conviction that doing good work – quietly and consistently – can build something worth sharing.
