In the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence, age is no longer a barrier to success. Zach Yadegari, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Miami, has already achieved what many seasoned entrepreneurs only dream of—building a profitable AI startup with $1.4 million in monthly revenue. His company, Cal AI, is disrupting the health and wellness industry with a smart, AI-powered calorie-tracking app that has taken the fitness world by storm.
From Coding Prodigy to Startup CEO
Zach’s journey into technology started early. By the age of 7, he was experimenting with coding, and his fascination with artificial intelligence grew steadily through his teenage years. While most high school students focused on exams and extracurriculars, Zach was teaching himself advanced programming, building projects, and networking with innovators online.
That passion led him to co-found Cal AI in May 2024, just before starting college. Unlike traditional calorie-tracking apps, Cal AI uses machine learning algorithms to analyze eating habits, predict nutrition gaps, and provide personalized health recommendations in real time.
What Makes Cal AI Different
The health-tech market is saturated with apps that log meals, track workouts, and count calories. Cal AI stands out for its AI-first approach, offering:
- Image Recognition for Food Tracking – Users can snap a meal photo, and the app identifies ingredients, portion sizes, and calorie counts with 90%+ accuracy.
- Behavior Prediction Models – AI learns from user habits, suggests healthier alternatives, and sends reminders for nutritional targets.
- Seamless Integrations – Syncs with Apple Watch, Oura Ring, Fitbit, and more.
- Community + Coaching – Connects users with certified nutritionists and trainers, plus AI chatbots for instant guidance.
This blend of personalization and automation has made Cal AI a favorite among fitness enthusiasts, professionals, and college students.
Explosive Growth Since Launch
Launched in May 2024, Cal AI reached hundreds of thousands of users in less than a year. It runs on a freemium model:
- Free – basic tracking features
- Premium – $15/month for advanced insights, AI-driven meal plans, and direct access to experts
With strong word-of-mouth and viral TikTok campaigns, Cal AI rose to the top of health & fitness app charts. As of September 2025, it generates $1.4 million in recurring monthly revenue, ranking among the fastest-growing health-tech startups globally.
Balancing College and a Million-Dollar Startup
Despite the success, Zach is still a full-time freshman. He manages by keeping a disciplined schedule:
“I wake up at 5 a.m., handle company tasks before classes, and use evenings for strategy sessions,” he said.
A strong team of engineers, nutritionists, and marketers, plus experienced advisors, allows Zach to focus on scaling and innovation.
Investor Interest and Future Plans
Cal AI has already drawn interest from venture capital firms. While funding details are private, insiders suggest a Series A round could value the company in the hundreds of millions.
Future plans include:
- Expanding into Europe and Asia
- Launching a corporate wellness version
- Developing AI-driven hardware like smart kitchen scales and nutrition scanners
With digital wellness projected to hit $400 billion by 2030, Cal AI is well-positioned to lead.
A Gen Z Success Story
Zach’s rise showcases Gen Z entrepreneurs leveraging AI to build scalable businesses early. Unlike traditional startups, Cal AI became profitable in under a year, proving the potential of AI-driven consumer platforms.
But for Zach, it’s not just about revenue:
“I want to create tools that actually help people live healthier, longer lives. If Cal AI can improve daily habits for millions of people, then I’ll consider it a success.”
Conclusion
At just 18, Zach Yadegari is proving that passion, persistence, and smart use of technology can overcome barriers of age and experience. With Cal AI generating $1.4 million monthly and gearing up for global expansion, it’s on track to become a household name in digital health and wellness.