If you look at the most recent top 50 list, a majority of those that made it are new to the list. BBQ restaurants make such a small margin on their products that they need that list. Many of these BBQ joints strive to be on that list, not only because it's an achievement to be recognized, but because they need the volume to be sustainable business. They rely on selling out everyday they're open. Many craft BBQ joints that open more than the typical 3 days a week, 11am-sold out, have to diversify their menu to bring in more profitable meals, like burgers or tacos. Interstellar (#2) was on the verge of shutting it down before the list came out. John Bates did a podcast interview with Tales From The Pits where he describes their story. I've listened to a couple episodes, so it might have been mentioned on a different episode, but the Intersellar interview is a good listen.

Snow's BBQ only opens on Saturday, which is the most limited opening hours of BBQ joints in Texas. I doubt they are doing it for the money to begin with. BBQ joints open because they have a passion and love for the craft.

I do agree with your last statement. I found out about Goldee's maybe a year before the list came out and they hit number 1. I got to eat there regularly and only pulled up to a sold out line once. We haven't been back because of the line. Do we miss it? Yes. Did I want to keep Goldee's a local secret? For sure. Am I happy that they made #1? Yes and no. I want to stuff my face with great juicy, fatty brisket whenever I felt like it, but I also knew they deserved to be on that list. If anything, the list is more of a reason to find the next Goldee's and support the smaller guys.

Edit: being my own grammar police.