Redefining Leadership: Women’s Pizza Month with Christy Alia from @RealCleverFood

In this episode of The Pizza Story Podcast, I am joined by a woman who is truly a force of nature in the pizza community. You likely know her as @realcleverfood on Instagram, where she shares her stunning recipe development and masterclasses.Christy Alia isn’t just a pizzaiola; she’s an East Coast collective leader, a global Gozney ambassador, and the visionary founder of Women’s Pizza Month.We dive deep into her story—from growing up in the Bronx and Queens and learning the art of the dough from her Sicilian grandfather, to how a backyard oven purchase during COVID sparked a global movement. Christy shares her philosophy on why "you eat with your eyes," the importance of seasonal foraging (wait until you hear about the wild ramps!), and why building a supportive network is the secret ingredient to success for women in this industry.🎙 Episode Highlights:✅ [00:54] Roots in New York: Learning the "pizza culture" from her Sicilian grandfather.✅ [03:42] The COVID Pivot: How a 2021 backyard oven purchase changed her career trajectory.✅ [05:46] The Art of the Pizza: Why visual appearance matters as much as the taste.✅ [06:04] Seasonal & Local: Foraging for ramps in Westchester and the importance of fresh ingredients.✅ [10:05] Founding Women’s Pizza Month: How an anonymous Instagram handle led to a global celebration of women in pizza.✅ [15:51] Community Over Competition: The power of a support network and working with legends like Sarah Minnick and Ann Kim.✅ [22:43] Social Media Truths: Advice for creators on staying authentic and "showing up" despite the algorithms.✅ [28:47] Giving Back: Details on the Women’s Pizza Month scholarship to Pizza University.Join the Movement: Women’s Pizza MonthMarch is Women’s Pizza Month! Whether you are a professional pizzaiola, a home cook, or a pop-up owner, this month is about celebrating YOU.🍕 Apply for the Scholarship: Christy is awarding five women a scholarship to Pizza University in partnership with Corto and Stanislaus.🍕 Get the Kit: Support the cause and elevate your pizza game with the Women’s Pizza Month kit (featuring those incredible tomatoes Christy raves about!).🍕Apply/Purchase here: corto-olive.com🔗 Connect with Christy AliaInstagram: @realcleverfoodWebsite: Real Clever Food🇮🇹 About Erica D’Arcangelo & The Pizza Story Podcast:From my family's first shop in 1960 to the podcast mic today, pizza has always been my life's work. It’s more than just dough and sauce—it’s a connection to our past and a bridge to our community. Join me as I sit down with the industry legends and rising dreamers who put the heart into every slice ❤️. Website: https://www.astoryaboutpizza.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astoryaboutpizza/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@storyaboutpizza YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AStoryAboutPizza A Story About Pizza Book: https://www.amazon.com/Story-About-Pizza-Erica-DArcangelo/dp/1917116993 Pietro’s Pizza Children’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pietros-Pizza-Story-About/dp/B0DTYZ15WB/ Pietro’s Pizza Toppings Children’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJM15W22/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0Pietro’s Italian Christmas: https://www.amazon.com/Pietros-Italian-Christmas-Erica-DArcangelo/dp/B0G2GQX78W/ #pizza #podcst #realfood #womenspizzamonth