027 From Backyard Barbecue to Chef Success with Jon Lloyd

(01:00) Ever wondered how a Father's Day gift can ignite a passion and transform a career? This week, we sit down with Jon Lloyd, a self-taught barbecue enthusiast who turned his newfound love for smoking meats during the pandemic into a thriving private chef business in Pittsburgh. He shares the variety of services he offers, including intimate dinners, large catering events, and cooking classes at local venues like the Kitchen by Vangura and Third Space Bakery.(06:49) Get inspired by the success story behind “Holy Smokes BBQ,” Jon's YouTube channel that has captivated nearly 8,000 subscribers. With his background in graphic design and marketing, Jon crafts appealing and authentic content that resonates with viewers, like making crispy chicken wings on a smoker. (14:20) Learn about his pivot into the private chef world, how his Southern roots influence his bold culinary creations, and he teases some new pursuits into the culinary TV world. (29:13) Later on this episode, we dive into wine serving temperatures with insights from wine expert Catherine Montest, helping you elevate your culinary experiences at home. And we end with elevated crispy treats from Sophia Lo of the Citycast Pittsburgh Podcast. Tune in for a deliciously inspiring conversation filled with practical tips, personal stories, and a shared passion for food.Support the show