By Kenneth McDade
At just 10 years old, Brody Yarborough is making quite a name for himself in the world of baking. Specializing in sourdough bread and cinnamon rolls, Brody has already built a budding business that is delighting the taste buds of his local community. Brody’s Bread is the name of his business. We talked with Brody to learn more about his passion, his process, and his plans for the future.
Brody’s journey into baking began in an unexpected place: YouTube. “I saw a video on YouTube,” he says, describing the initial spark that ignited his interest. From there, it was his grandmother, affectionately known as Mimi, who nurtured his budding passion. “My Mimi taught me how to bake,” Brody recalls fondly.
What started as a fun activity quickly turned into a serious pursuit. “I enjoyed the fun,” Brody says, but it was clear he had a knack for it. Now, his baking routine is methodical and precise. “We have three starters that we feed every four to seven days. Then we make the dough and let it rise. After that, we roll out the cinnamon, cut them to size, and let them rise again.”
When asked about his favorite part of baking, Brody’s eyes light up. “The fun,” he says without hesitation. But there’s more to it than just enjoyment. Brody reveals that his secret ingredient is “an abundance of love.” This love is evident in every batch, especially in the specialty rolls he’s been experimenting with. “We add things we like. We are making specialty rolls, birthday cakes, homegrown and handpicked blueberries, and cookies and cream.”
Balancing his baking business with his education might seem challenging, but Brody manages it well. “I work around my homeschooling to get things done,” he explains. Initially, he even hired his big brother to help clean the kitchen. “Now the whole family is involved with the volume I make,” he adds.
Brody sells his cinnamon rolls at Down Right Southern, his family’s store, and at the local Farmer’s Market each month. Pricing and other business decisions are a family affair. “Momma helps with that part,” he says.
Running a business at such a young age is not without its challenges. “Working every day” is the toughest part, according to Brody. However, seeing the positive response from his customers makes it all worthwhile. “That everyone is loving what I am doing,” he says proudly, is his greatest achievement so far. And when things don’t go as planned? “Start over,” he advises simply.
Looking ahead, Brody has big dreams. “Growing the business and becoming the Mayor of Pelahatchie, and opening a restaurant and having a food truck,” he shares with a smile. For now, he’s enjoying the journey. “Making the money and making the dough,” he says, summing up his dual love for baking and business.
Despite his busy schedule, Brody still finds time for fun. “I still play tennis, ride dirt bikes, and play games with my uncle,” he says. His advice for other young aspiring entrepreneurs? “Just do it and don’t be scared.”
When asked who he’d most like to bake for, Brody chooses a close-to-home hero: “My neighbor David.” And when it comes to his favorite non-baked food? “Potato soup with bacon bits,” he confesses.
Brody Yarborough’s story is a testament to what passion, family support, and a little bit of fun can achieve. With his talent and determination, the future looks bright for this young baker and his delicious creations.
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