Hey everyone! Brian here. If you're new to the group or just joined, this is your one-stop starting point. Take 2-3 minutes to read throughâ it'll help you get the most out of our community right away. Let's keep it simple, fun, and all about great smokes.
1. Quick Walkthrough: How Skool Works Here Skool is super easy once you know the basicsâno complicated forums, just clean discussions and tools to share your cooks.
- Posting a New Thread or Sharing: Click "Write something". First, pick a Category (super importantâe.g., "Beginner Basics" for questions, "Recipes and Rubs" for your latest spice blend, "Show & Tell" for photos of your bark). Give it a clear Title (e.g., "First Brisket â Tips Needed!"), write your post, add photos/videos (they get way more replies), and hit Post. You can edit or delete your own stuff anytime.
- Replying / Commenting: Scroll to any post and type in the comment box at the bottom. Reply directly to someone's comment for threaded convos. Use @ + their name to notify them (e.g., @BrianBeddingfield). React with emojis (fire, thumbs up) or likes. Comment early/oftenâit's how friendships and great advice happen!
- Using Categories: Top Bar (under "Write Something") shows all categories like Beginner Basics, Recipes and Rubs, Equipment Reviews, Advanced Techniques, Q&A Help Desk, Show & Tell, Events and Challenges, Announcements, etc. Click one to see only posts thereâmakes finding rub tweaks or gear advice fast. Always post in the right category so people see it.
- Searching for Stuff: Use the search bar (magnifying glass at top). Type keywords like "maple rub," "brisket stall," "Weber Kettle smoking," or "Crimson Core tweaks." It searches posts, comments, and even Classroom modules. Great for finding answers without asking the same question twice!
- Notifications â Stay in the Loop: You'll get alerts for replies to your posts, @mentions, or new activity. Customize in your profile pic â Settings â Notifications. Turn on/off email/push for new posts in categories, replies, or events. Follow specific members (their profile â Follow) for alerts when they post. Bell icon on any thread = get notified for new comments there. Turn on Calendar notifications so you never miss a live smoke session!
2. My Vision for This Community
I started this group because I love low & slow BBQ/smokingâwhether it's your first rack of ribs or dialing in competition-level brisket. My goal: a welcoming, no-gatekeeping space for all levels to share real tips, recipes, rubs, gear reviews, successes, fails, and laughs over the pit. No pros-only vibesânewbies get mentored, experienced folks share knowledge, and we all get better together. Let's make this the best BBQ crew on Skool: helpful, fun, and full of actual smokes. Smoke on with me! đ„
3. A Few Quick Things to Note đ„ A FEW THINGS TO NOTE:
1ïžâŁ Whether you're new to low & slow or a seasoned pitmaster, you're welcome here! No judgmentâjust great smokes, honest advice, and good vibes.
2ïžâŁ Say hello below and introduce yourself â tell us your go-to smoker/grill (Z Grills? Weber? Big Green Egg?), favorite cut to smoke (ribs? brisket? pork butt?), where you're from, and how long you've been into BBQ/smoking.
3ïžâŁ Be on the lookout for live smoke sessions, rub challenges, Q&A events, and group cooks on the calendar!
Let's make this space fun, helpful, and all about real community over the grill. Smoke on, and let's build something awesome together! đđ„
Next Step: Head over to the Welcome category for my full intro post, vision details, and pinned resources. (Click here to jump there: [Welcome Category Link]) Drop your intro belowâwhat's your setup or dream first smoke? Let's get you rolling! đ