Stan Hays

Stan Hays is the CEO and co-founder of Operation BBQ Relief, a much-loved disaster relief organization deeply rooted in American spirit. Following the catastrophic tornado in Joplin, Missouri, in May 2011, Hays called on fellow competition pitmasters from eight states to join him in providing BBQ for Joplin’s displaced families and first responders. In just 13 days, they served 120,000 meals, and a movement was born.

Since then, Operation BBQ Relief has evolved into a formidable force for good, providing over 12 million meals in 42 states plus the Bahamas. In 2017, Hays was recognized as a “CNN Hero” for his exemplary leadership and commitment to service.

Operation BBQ Relief's programs, including Camp OBR and The Always Serving Project, offer profound transformations for heroes and their families, focusing on culinary therapy, connection, and meaningful outdoor experiences. By fostering meaningful conversations and strengthening family bonds, Hays' organization is building better communities, one hero at a time. Participants, including Military, Veterans, Families of Fallen Heroes, First Responders, and their loved ones, receive far more than BBQ expertise; they gain a renewed sense of confidence, purpose, connection and the support of a purpose-driven community.

Hays is an accomplished pitmaster, boasting numerous grand champion awards and four reserve champion titles. He showcased his skills as a runner-up in the 2015 season of Chopped: Grill Masters on Food Network and clinched victory in Food Network Canada’s Firemasters in 2019. Moreover, Hays is an esteemed cookbook author, having co-authored "Operation BBQ" in 2019 and, most recently, "Grilling with Golic and Hays" alongside Mike Golic, Sr. in 2022.