About Us

Who Is The Grilling Dad?

Hi, I’m Shawn, founder of thegrillingdad.com

I started The Grilling Dad to help you find the best grilling tools and techniques for creating delicious foods even your kids will enjoy! 

With 4 biological boys and 3 adopted girls, I’m sure you can imagine we have a few picky eaters. 

My wife and I had to learn the hard way on how to cook, grill, and smoke foods that aren’t only good for them, but foods they want to eat!

Dad grilling with kids
Fun Fact: I’ve lost 65 pounds since this picture was taken!

A Little Story About How I Got Started…

I got started into grilling as a teen in my hometown of Monrovia, IN. I didn’t get to practice much then, but the art of making food in a way our ancestors once did was fascinating to me. 

Now that we’re married, had kids, adopted kids, and spent a lot of time entertaining friends and family, I’ve learned a lot about grilling foods that everyone seems to love.

I’ve even been honored for being the honorary Thanksgiving turkey smoker with the in-laws. Pretty impressive, huh?

I regularly contribute to this site as an author, the lead content strategist, and serve as the chief editor. 

Shawn Hill With Family
We don’t have a new family pic with our new baby…I’ll update that soon

Meet the Dream Team

Our team has grown! In addition to multiple regular contributors (and counting?!), we now have a food scientist and registered dietitian! The quality of our team’s work has led to mentions by some of the top publications in the world including Forbes, Fox News, Parade Magazine, Parents Magazine, AAA, Mashed, Better Homes and Gardens, Tasting Table, and hundreds more!

Adam Truhler

Owner and BBQ Enthusiast

Matt Mulligan

Owner and BBQ Enthusiast

Shawn Hill

Author and BBQ Enthusiast

Hope Davis

Author and BBQ Enthusiast

Melissa Macher, Food Scientist

Melissa Macher

Food Scientist and RD

Here’s How We Can Help You…

We’ve had the opportunity to try many types of grills, smokers, and just about all grilling accessories you can imagine. We’ve found what works well…and what’s a complete dud. 

We want to help you save time and money by avoiding those duds and finding the best options for you and your family.

Whether it’s trying a few new recipes, different grilling techniques, or guiding you through the grill buying process, we’re here to help!

If you have questions, concerns, or just want to say “Hi,” please feel free to reach out to us directly at [email protected] or [email protected].