From Coma to Calling: How a Gold Coast BBQ Founder Is Serving Faith, Food, and Purpose

By Kendra Hall

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA — At first glance, Dylan Verdun Sullivan is just another man tending to barbecue at a weekend market. But behind the smoker stands a survivor, evangelist, and soon-to-be published author whose work is igniting more than grills—it’s igniting hope.

Sullivan is the founder of Porky’s Paradise, a barbecue brand born out of his passion for food and forged in the aftermath of a near-death experience that reshaped his life.

“Barbecue is a language of community for me,” Sullivan said. “But it’s also therapy—healing through fire and smoke.”

A Journey That Began on the Edge of Death

At 18, Sullivan was placed in an induced coma after contracting a deadly illness. During that time, he believes he encountered Jesus in a spiritual realm—a transformative moment that became the foundation for everything that followed.

“I flatlined, but I woke up filled with peace,” he said. “Since then, I’ve faced 26 major surgeries. And I’m still here, sober, and walking in purpose.”

That experience became the centerpiece of his upcoming memoir, Kissed by Death: My Journey to Finding Life in the Darkness, slated for release in July 2025.

Faith and Food Become a Mission

Porky’s Paradise is not your average barbecue business. The brand is built on storytelling, hospitality, and Sullivan’s deep desire to foster connection. While currently selling artisan barbecue rubs through local markets and his first stockist, Steak Kings, Sullivan envisions a larger footprint.

His plans include:

• Opening a chain of Porky’s Paradise butcher shops across Australia

• Launching a soup kitchen for the disadvantaged and homeless

• Planting a church that welcomes all people into a space of restoration and community

“Food slows people down,” he said. “It invites them to sit, talk, listen—to feel seen.”

A Memoir Meant to Heal

Kissed by Death chronicles Sullivan’s journey through trauma, illness, addiction, recovery, and rebirth. He describes the book as raw and redemptive—meant to reach those who are struggling in silence.

He’s also working on a campaign to donate copies of the book to patients in intensive care units across Australia, starting with Mater Hospital in Brisbane, where he received care. Conversations are also underway with organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation about possible collaborations.

“This book isn’t about me,” Sullivan said. “It’s about giving voice to pain—and helping others find their way through it.”

Barbecue as Ministry

At weekend markets, Sullivan shares more than food. He shares testimony. His followers range from spiritual seekers and trauma survivors to curious foodies drawn in by the aroma—and impacted by his words.

He’s also developing a cinematic reel for the memoir launch, blending barbecue visuals, voiceover, and storytelling to continue reaching audiences both online and in person.

“The slow process of smoking meat mirrors healing,” he said. “It takes time, attention, and grace.”

Community and Recovery at the Core

Sullivan’s message also resonates with people in recovery—those navigating sobriety, trauma, or loss. He often finds himself offering encouragement to strangers who open up during market visits. “Sometimes all it takes is one story,” he said. “That moment of connection is what helps people believe again—believe in healing, in purpose, in themselves.”

Looking Ahead: A Global Vision

Sullivan’s long-term goals include publishing Kissed by Death globally, expanding Porky’s Paradise into multiple cities, and building a faith-and-food-driven movement that transcends borders.

“This is about light,” he said. “If my story can help even one person feel seen, it’s worth everything I’ve been through.”

Contact & Connect:

• Website: www.porkysparadise.com.au

• Email: [email protected]

• Instagram: @porkysparadise

Sources:

• Interview with Dylan Verdun Sullivan, April 2025

• Porky’s Paradise brand and product listings

• Mater Hospital (Brisbane) public health records (contextual reference only)