Eats: JR’s Barbeque

Meet the friendly purveyors of California’s only original, authentic Memphis-style BBQ. That means dry rub pork ribs and pulled pork, smoked 15 hours for supreme tenderness and flavor. Did we mention that it’s made and served with love? …

Speakeasy: Simon Helberg

The precocious Big Bang Theory star tells Paul F. Tompkins about emergency landings, performing in bookstores, show business false starts and Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog. Also, the surprising challenges of being a 10-year-old black belt… …

Eats: Bigmista’s Barbecue Catering

Meet Neil and Phyllis Strawder, the happy couple behind Southern California’s tastiest “mobile barbecue establishment.” At farmers’ markets and celebrations of all kinds, they serve up a combo of top-notch ’cue and nonstop laughs that can’t be beat. …

Speakeasy: Aaron Eckhart

With intense passion, the Erased star tells Paul F. Tompkins about acting techniques, green screen challenges and close encounters with Harrison Ford, Neil LaBute, Sean Penn, Jack Nicholson and Heath Ledger. Oh, and Charlie Brown, of course. …

For the Win: Score on the Third Date

Sure, you could rely on your good looks and charm, but what fun is that? Mike Capes shows you sneaky psychological, culinary and electronic tricks that will have any girl swooning in minutes. Hope you don’t have to get up early tomorrow! …

Eats: Smoke City Market

Let owner Michael Gans take you through his authentic Texas BBQ oasis. How authentic? Dry rub, no sauce, smoked over white oak for hours, no forks or plates needed. And you’ve gotta see their “Are You Texas Enough” Challenge to believe it… …

For the Win: How to Scam Free Drinks

Being a guy is great, until you realize all the pro bono booze goes to women. Thankfully, Mike Capes is here with a variety of tricks that will put plenty of un-paid-for alcohol in your hands. And may even lead to some hot company later in the night… …

Eats: Bludso’s Bar-B-Cue/Bar & Cue

Like Texas-style BBQ? Let Kevin Bludso show you his Compton grilled meat outpost, home of brisket smoked 15 hours for ultra-tenderness. Then meet it’s younger, boozier West Hollywood brother. You won’t go hungry—or thirsty. …

Inside Dating: How to Hook Up

Some online daters are seeking a soulmate, and others are looking for something a little more, um, casual. If you fall in the latter category, check out Mara’s take on the approach, sites and apps you need to make a quick and, um, dirty connection… …

For the Win: How to Delay Paying Your Rent

Don’t quite have the dough your pesky landlord needs this month? Relax. On this week’s For the Win, Mike Capes has a boatload of clever tricks to keep a roof over your head for at least a little while longer. And some of them might even be legal! …