Phil the Grill

The Pitmaster's Podcast · Feb 6, 2025 · 27m

Self-sufficiency and discipline are hallmarks of Johnson's persona, ingrained early in his life by his hard-working and devoted parents. Growing up a "latchkey kid" while his parents worked, Johnson learned to cook and take care of himself, while navigating the streets of Manhattan on his own. His parents' hard work paid off, and they moved their family to Wyandach, a suburb on Long Island, known equally for its less-than-stellar public schools and the exceptional artists and athletes it turned out. At times tempted to rebel, Johnson was set straight both by his parents, and his elders in the…