Mad Scientist BBQ Founder Builds Retirement Plan

Jeremy Yoder, known online as Mad Scientist BBQ, has successfully transformed a hobby into a sustainable career. Originally on a path to medicine, Yoder pivoted to teaching and eventually content creation when he realized his original career plan wasn't a fit. Today, he focuses on building a business model that protects his family's financial future.

Yoder's strategy relies on diversification rather than just YouTube ad revenue. By creating merchandise, securing brand deals, and maintaining a hands-on approach to production with his wife, he ensures the business can survive platform changes. His primary financial goal is securing a comfortable retirement, a priority that shapes his current business decisions.

Jeremy Yoder initially planned to build a career around science and medicine. Growing up in an Amish community until elementary school, he developed a fascination with the Discovery and Science Channels. He studied biochemistry with the intention of becoming a doctor and participated in a shadowing program at the University of Louisville.

However, the experience changed his perspective. Yoder observed that many practicing physicians, despite having high salaries and nice homes, seemed miserable. He realized that the stability and meaning he associated with medicine did not match the reality he witnessed. This realization led him to move to Los Angeles to study biblical languages and work as a private school teacher.

While teaching, Yoder struggled to pay rent and recognized that the job was not a long-term solution. He became obsessed with the science of barbecue, specifically noticing that many online creators explained concepts like heat transfer incorrectly. Believing he had a unique perspective to offer, he began filming videos, a decision driven by the belief that the regret of trying and failing is easier to handle than the regret of never trying.

Yoder's first videos performed well, with students noting his growing popularity. Encouraged by the response and seeing a lack of quality barbecue in Los Angeles, he began catering events on the side. This period was grueling, often involving teaching all day, catering overnight in a $500 truck, and sleeping only a few hours before returning to work.

The onset of the pandemic provided a critical pivot point. With gatherings outlawed and catering income gone, Yoder shifted his focus entirely to YouTube. He began posting weekly videos filmed by his wife, who was five months pregnant at the time. As restrictions eased, YouTube revenue had already outpaced his catering income, and he found he enjoyed the work more.

Today, the production process remains a family affair. Yoder's wife films and edits the vast majority of the content, handling the creative vision while he focuses on the science and cooking. A typical video, such as a brisket cook, can take 24 to 30 hours to film. Despite the time commitment, Yoder values the flexibility to be present for his family daily.

Yoder understands that relying solely on on-camera work is risky. To avoid being 'trapped on camera forever,' he intentionally built multiple revenue streams to protect against platform changes or a decline in viewership. He notes that if a platform like Google were to stop monetizing videos, his business would remain viable, a security he did not have five years ago.

His diversified income includes:

• Ad revenue from YouTube
• Sponsored content and brand deals
• Affiliate links
• Merchandise, including T-shirts and barbecue accessories
• Custom offset smokers manufactured in the US

This business model allows him to maintain financial stability without depending entirely on his personal presence in every video. He emphasizes that his ability to generate income is directly tied to his willingness to be on camera, making diversification essential for long-term longevity.

Yoder's financial priorities differ from many parents. Despite his background in education, he is skeptical of the traditional US education system and does not believe college is necessary for his children unless they pursue specific fields like medicine. Consequently, he and his wife have not established an education fund.

Instead, retirement savings are the primary focus. Yoder admits he is not an expert in personal finance, so he relies on professional guidance. He works with a financial advisor to manage contributions to accounts like Roth IRAs and investment stocks.

His ultimate goal is to build a real and resilient business rooted in science, teaching, and cooking. He wants to ensure the brand can carry his family long after he steps away from the camera, turning an unexpected career pivot into a lasting legacy.