Professional Bio
I’m Janet Phelps, Managing Partner of Barbecue News Magazine and the National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA). Barbecue is more than a career for me—it’s a passion that connects people and builds community.
My journey in barbecue began in 2006 when a college friend requested an article in Barbecue News Magazine. That connection led me to Kell Phelps, the magazine’s Owner and Publisher, who later became my husband. Before stepping fully into barbecue, I worked in insurance, gaining valuable business and customer service experience.
Since joining NBBQA, I’ve been actively involved in its growth, serving as Board Secretary in 2021 and 2022 and supporting governance, events, and fundraising. I continue to help with auctions, raffles, and major industry events that bring the barbecue community together.
At Barbecue News Magazine, I work alongside Kell to provide high-quality content on industry trends, competitions, and product innovations. I’m also excited about the Barbecue News Magazine’s Future of Q Magazine, a youth-focused outdoor cooking publication written by and for young people, inspiring the next generation of pitmasters.
Kell and I live in Douglas, Georgia, and we’re enjoying life as parents of two grown children. Our son married in November, and we are thrilled to welcome our new daughter-in-law, who manages a BBQ restaurant in Middle Georgia. Our daughter is completing her college education, and we couldn’t be prouder.
I’m grateful to be part of the barbecue world and look forward to continuing to support, celebrate, and grow this amazing industry!
My journey in barbecue began in 2006 when a college friend requested an article in Barbecue News Magazine. That connection led me to Kell Phelps, the magazine’s Owner and Publisher, who later became my husband. Before stepping fully into barbecue, I worked in insurance, gaining valuable business and customer service experience.
Since joining NBBQA, I’ve been actively involved in its growth, serving as Board Secretary in 2021 and 2022 and supporting governance, events, and fundraising. I continue to help with auctions, raffles, and major industry events that bring the barbecue community together.
At Barbecue News Magazine, I work alongside Kell to provide high-quality content on industry trends, competitions, and product innovations. I’m also excited about the Barbecue News Magazine’s Future of Q Magazine, a youth-focused outdoor cooking publication written by and for young people, inspiring the next generation of pitmasters.
Kell and I live in Douglas, Georgia, and we’re enjoying life as parents of two grown children. Our son married in November, and we are thrilled to welcome our new daughter-in-law, who manages a BBQ restaurant in Middle Georgia. Our daughter is completing her college education, and we couldn’t be prouder.
I’m grateful to be part of the barbecue world and look forward to continuing to support, celebrate, and grow this amazing industry!
Business
NBBQA
NBBQA
Professional Member
Areas of Expertise
Media, Event Coordination