How it started
Our original store on Bradley Ave, El Cajon, CA
How it's going
Our new flagship store on 202 Greenfield Dr., El Cajon, CA
Our Story
Pimp My Grill® was founded in 2021 by two BBQ-obsessed innovators: Eric McFadyen and Ron Smith. With a shared passion for outdoor cooking, tech, and customizing grills for peak performance, the two joined forces to build a brand focused on functional and cosmetic upgrades for serious grillers.
Co-Founder
Eric McFadyen
Eric's journey began while earning his Business Administration degree from Chico State, where he double-majored in Financial Management and Financial Planning. During college, he worked part-time in the technical support department of a leading pellet grill manufacturer. His hands-on exposure to grill mechanics and his instinct for innovation led him to develop features that are now industry standards—including the concept for the world’s first app-controlled pellet grill, which ultimately became the first app-controlled cooking appliance to hit the market.
After graduating in 2012, Eric transitioned to a full-time hybrid role in technical support and sales, where he spent the next decade pioneering improvements, supporting dealers, and expanding the company’s footprint. One of his top accounts was Pellet Grills Galore, run by Ron Smith—who quickly became his #1 dealer and close collaborator.
Co-Founder
Ron Smith –
Ron entered the spa industry at age 20, and over the next 47 years, he developed several products and innovations that are now standard across the industry. In 1999, he founded Spa Parts Depot, where he continues to provide sales and tech support to this day.
In 2013, Ron expanded into the BBQ world with Pellet Grills Galore, growing it into one of California’s top single-location pellet grill retailers. A hands-on entrepreneur with a love for tinkering and teaching, Ron also began entering BBQ competitions—earning impressive results—and regularly leads BBQ classes to share his expertise.
Married with three children—two of whom work alongside him—Ron now manages leadership roles in three companies, including Pimp My Grill®.
