Doubling Down at 48—How Scott Kleckner Built a Growing Catering Business

Scott Kleckner of Olive Wood Pizza talks about leaving the corporate restaurant world at 48 to bet on himself. Recorded at CREATE for Emerging Restaurants in Rancho Palos Verdes, Kleckner traces his path from renovating iconic venues such as Lambeau Field and Citi Field to acquiring a mobile wood-fired pizza catering company. After more than doubling the business in 20 months, he is building a 5,500-square-foot commissary to increase capacity, introduce new catering options and support future acquisitions. Kleckner also discusses building in public, sharing the difficult parts of entrepreneurship and helping other hospitality leaders succeed.Bet on Yourself at Any Age – Scott Kleckner spent years leading restaurant turnarounds before acquiring Olive Wood Pizza at 48. Rather than uproot his family for another executive role, he used his industry experience to build a business of his own.Stop Doubting the Plan – Kleckner approached entrepreneurship with the same caution he used when managing other people’s money. After more than doubling the company in 20 months, he learned to trust its momentum and think beyond his original growth plan.Build in Public – Kleckner openly shares the real numbers, challenges, and lessons behind growing Olive Wood Pizza. By documenting more than the polished moments, he can help other hospitality leaders while building stronger relationships within the industry.Episode LinksScott Kleckner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottkleckner/Olive Wood Pizza LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/olive-wood-pizza/Olive Wood Pizza: https://www.olivewoodpizza.com/  Where to find Cali BBQ MediaVisit our WebsiteFollow Restaurant Technology SubstackFollow us on InstagramFollow us on LinkedInLearn About our Media Services