Jerry Stephenson is more than just a pitmaster — he’s a flavor architect with a passion for precision. As the founder of Redneck Scientific and the creative mind behind The BBQ Lab, Jerry has spent over a decade redefining North Carolina barbecue with a scientific twist. From humble beginnings in competition BBQ circuits to national recognition on platforms like Chopped and PBS, his commitment to excellence has earned him multiple Grand Championships and a loyal fanbase across the Carolinas.

Fueled by curiosity and a deep respect for tradition, Jerry blends competition-proven techniques with constant experimentation. Whether he’s perfecting a sauce formula, mentoring his kitchen crew, or shaking hands at a catered event, his mission remains the same: share world-class BBQ with as many people as possible.

When he’s not tending to the smoker or serving customers, Jerry is championing community causes, collaborating with local breweries, and pushing the boundaries of what barbecue can be.