Managing partners

Kell Phelps
Managing Partner, National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA)
Publisher, Barbecue News Magazine

Kell Phelps is a lifelong ambassador of the barbecue world and the current Managing Partner of the National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA). With deep family roots in the BBQ community, Kell’s journey began at a young age—learning the craft of live fire cooking from his father, Joe Phelps, a founding member and former president of NBBQA.

In 2002, Kell took the reins of Barbecue News Magazine, originally founded by his father in 1990 as a newsletter. Since then, he has grown it into one of the most trusted and widely-read publications in the industry—serving backyard enthusiasts, competition pitmasters, restaurateurs, and manufacturers across the globe. His leadership in publishing has helped spotlight countless small businesses, industry legends, and up-and-coming talent in the world of barbecue and grilling.

In 2022, Kell and his wife Janet took ownership of the NBBQA and began leading the association into a new era—preserving its mission of education, connection, and community while expanding its reach through digital access, enhanced member benefits, and national live fire experiences. Under his direction, NBBQA has become a hub for innovation and mentorship—offering monthly special interest groups (SIGs), the Now That’s Smokin’ podcast, and new programs like the Rubs of Honor, Sauces of Honor, and the Future of Q youth initiative.

Kell is widely respected for his heart-first leadership and approachable style. His motto, “We just want to help people,” drives everything he does—from mentoring young pitmasters to helping BBQ brands grow and thrive. Whether he’s emceeing a steak cook-off, editing a feature story, or shaking hands with legends at the American Royal, Kell’s passion for people and the craft of barbecue shines through.

Today, Kell continues to serve the BBQ industry from his home base in Douglas, Georgia, where he and Janet work side-by-side to grow the NBBQA, produce Barbecue News Magazine, and support the people who make the BBQ world so special.

Janet Phelps
Managing Partner, National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA)
Office Manager, Barbecue News Magazine

For Janet Phelps, barbecue isn’t just a business—it’s a calling rooted in connection, community, and celebration. As Managing Partner of both Barbecue News Magazine and the National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA), Janet plays a vital role in shaping the future of the industry while preserving its rich traditions.

Her journey into the world of barbecue began in 2006 with a simple article request from a college friend. That request led her to Kell Phelps, the magazine’s Owner and Publisher—who would later become her husband and business partner. Before joining the barbecue world full-time, Janet built a strong foundation in insurance and customer service, bringing valuable operational expertise to her roles today.

Since stepping into leadership, Janet has helped drive the evolution of NBBQA, serving as Board Secretary in 2021 and 2022. Her contributions span governance, event planning, fundraising, and hands-on support at major industry gatherings. Whether organizing auctions, managing communications, or helping with logistics, Janet approaches every task with professionalism and heart.

At Barbecue News Magazine, Janet works daily to ensure readers and advertisers receive thoughtful, timely service. She's also a passionate advocate for the Future of Q Magazine, a youth-led outdoor cooking publication that fosters the next generation of pitmasters, storytellers, and culinary innovators.

Janet and Kell live in Douglas, Georgia, where they cherish their roles as parents to two grown children. Their son recently married, adding a daughter-in-law to the family who manages a barbecue restaurant in Middle Georgia, and their daughter is currently completing her college education.

Grateful for the opportunity to serve such a passionate and purpose-driven community, Janet remains committed to uplifting the people and stories that make the world of barbecue so extraordinary.