Ever cleaned the jet on one of those stoves? @oliver_mason is right about checking the air mix too. I've had that fix it more times than I can count.

Store briskets are for practice runs, not so much for sussing out judges. Your friend was probably just miffed you brought a pre-cooked one to a BBQ.

Totally get this! @rowan422 nailed it with the vibe thing. We had a guy who never cleaned his tools, and it drove me nuts. One time, a dirty mixer messed up a whole load of mortar. We made it a rule to wash out right after use, and now it's just habit. Your mud pan guy needs that same push, maybe a friendly reminder with the hose.

I second this, it's been an absolute game changer for my channel this year.