JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS

An 800-square-foot restaurant generating $2.5 million in its first year is every food entrepreneur’s dream—but as Stephen Le of The Kroft discovered, early success can quickly become a nightmare without discipline and operational control. In this incredibly raw and transparent episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Stephen Le to unpack the meteoric rise, painful fall, and triumphant rebirth of his fast-casual empire. Stephen’s story is a masterclass in extreme accountability. He shares how his ego grew alongside his sales, leading him to step back from the business just when it needed him most. As standards slipped and the pandemic hit, revenues plummeted by more than 50%, and Stephen found himself spiraling into substance abuse. His decision to check into rehab in April 2022 didn't just save his life—it saved his business. By taking absolute ownership of his failures, re-establishing daily discipline, and getting back into the trenches with his staff, he rebuilt The Kroft into a highly optimized, scalable brand. The Journey of The Kroft 1990s-2000s: The Spark - As a first-generation Vietnamese American latchkey kid, Stephen discovers his passion for food by cooking for his family's weekend BBQs.   2010: First Venture of Shabu-Shabu - Opens a shabu-shabu restaurant in Irvine with friends. He learns the hospitality ropes through a concept that requires heavy prep but no traditional line chefs.   2013-2014: The Kroft Explodes - Pivots to fast-casual with The Kroft, serving artisan poutine and sandwiches. The tiny 800 sq. ft. Anaheim location does a staggering $2.5 million in year one.   2018-2021: The Decline - Success breeds ego. Stephen steps back to golf and pursue side projects. Standards slip, sales drop to $1.2 million, and pandemic stress leads to a downward spiral.   April 2022: Rehab & Rebirth - Checks into rehab, gets sober, and takes full accountability. He starts building daily habits (like making his bed) and returns to lead the business from the front lines.   Present: Optimization & Expansion - Returns to original recipes, empowers staff, dials in finances, and hires a dedicated marketing team. The Kroft scales successfully across Southern California. The 3 Spreadsheets That Saved The Business A major turning point for Stephen was moving away from "gut feeling" management to data-driven leadership. He maintains a strict 26% to 30% Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) target by relying on three core reports: Report Type Primary Purpose Impact Gross Sales Analysis Tracks MoM and YoY growth. Allows for direct performance comparisons across all locations. Bread Par Sheet Tracks exact daily usage of artisan bread. Eliminated $300/month in bread waste by adjusting pars based on product mix. COGS Tracker Monitors vendor invoices (meat, produce, supplies). Identifies location-specific waste (e.g., catching when one store uses 10% more meat than another).   Key Lessons for Scaling Entrepreneurs Extreme Ownership: You cannot fix your business until you accept that every failure—from slipping food quality to high turnover—is ultimately your fault as the owner. Invest in Your Core Team: Stephen’s turnaround relied heavily on identifying five key players at each location. By investing in them and genuinely caring about their growth, he transformed $15/hour line cooks into six-figure General Managers. Standardize Before You Market: Never pump the gas on marketing if your operations are broken. Stephen spent a full year walking the line, tasting food, and re-standardizing the original recipes before he spent a dime on new ad campaigns. The Power of Routine: Chaos in the kitchen is inevitable. Stephen manages it by ruthlessly scheduling his life—if an inventory check, vendor order, or staff lunch isn't on the Google Calendar, it doesn't exist. The episode covers practical lessons: recipe standardization, staffing and culture, financial tracking, marketing strategies, R&D, and personal recovery and discipline—straightforward advice for food entrepreneurs planning to scale.   IG: @thekroft Address: www.thekroft.com  Location: 440 S Anaheim Blvd #109, Anaheim, CA 92805   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? Justin Ryan Bizzarro is a multi-dimensional entrepreneur, mentor, and strategist whose career is defined by the intersection of legacy, leadership, and human growth. With a journey that began in his family’s basement in 1998, Justin helped scale a 24-year-old ecosystem of food and technology enterprises into a global benchmark for vertical integration and lean manufacturing. While his professional foundation is built on complex supply chains, restaurant development, and brand acceleration, Justin’s true north is development—whether it’s a startup, an elite athlete, or a community. As the founder of GorillaBrave, he has transitioned from building businesses to building humans, utilizing his "Troop" philosophy to empower the next generation of culinary and agricultural entrepreneurs. Justin is a sought-after voice on free markets, food diversity, and high-performance culture. His influence extends from the boardroom to the soccer pitch, where he coaches with the same tactical precision and "warrior" mindset he applies to his corporate ventures. Whether he is hosting a global podcast that reaches millions or developing curriculum for youth athletes, his mission remains constant: accelerating human potential. A lifelong student of leadership and service, Justin holds a BA from Dickinson College and an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill, and deepen his perspective through taking classes towards a  Master of Divinity in Leadership at Denver Seminary. Based in Colorado, he is a dedicated father, a steward of his family’s legacy, and a persistent advocate for those brave enough to capitalize on their own opportunities.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.    

How does a Navy veteran go from turning wrenches on F-18 Hornets and managing thousand-person teams at Amazon to slinging double-smashed "Jedi Jammer" burgers out of a 16-foot trailer in Delaware? In this powerhouse episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, Justin sits down with Chris Wheeler to unpack the raw, unfiltered reality of leaving the corporate safety net to launch Mealz on Wheelz. Chris breaks down his incredibly fast-paced startup journey, including a grueling 26-hour round trip to secure his trailer and how he utilized AI—specifically his custom digital assistant, "Phyllis"—to design his branding, map out his equipment flow, and execute his menu in a fraction of the usual time. The mental toughness required to pivot when things go wrong is a major theme in this conversation. Pushing through adversity and teaching resilience through tough losses on the pitch with GorillaBrave FC perfectly parallels the exact perseverance Chris needed to transition into the high-stakes chaos of food entrepreneurship. Justin and Chris dive deep into the mindset required to survive 16-hour days, the importance of finding the right mentors, and why true leadership means getting behind the scenes to clean up the mess rather than just leading from the front. Whether you are looking to break out of the corporate grind, want to learn how to leverage AI to shortcut your startup phase, or just need a masterclass in relentless execution, this episode delivers.   IG: @mealzonwheelzde Address: www.mealzonwheelzde.com  Location: 17603 Shady Road, Lewes, DE 19958   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? Justin Ryan Bizzarro is a multi-dimensional entrepreneur, mentor, and strategist whose career is defined by the intersection of legacy, leadership, and human growth. With a journey that began in his family’s basement in 1998, Justin helped scale a 24-year-old ecosystem of food and technology enterprises into a global benchmark for vertical integration and lean manufacturing. While his professional foundation is built on complex supply chains, restaurant development, and brand acceleration, Justin’s true north is development—whether it’s a startup, an elite athlete, or a community. As the founder of GorillaBrave, he has transitioned from building businesses to building humans, utilizing his "Troop" philosophy to empower the next generation of culinary and agricultural entrepreneurs. Justin is a sought-after voice on free markets, food diversity, and high-performance culture. His influence extends from the boardroom to the soccer pitch, where he coaches with the same tactical precision and "warrior" mindset he applies to his corporate ventures. Whether he is hosting a global podcast that reaches millions or developing curriculum for youth athletes, his mission remains constant: accelerating human potential. A lifelong student of leadership and service, Justin holds a BA from Dickinson College and an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill, and deepen his perspective through taking classes towards a  Master of Divinity in Leadership at Denver Seminary. Based in Colorado, he is a dedicated father, a steward of his family’s legacy, and a persistent advocate for those brave enough to capitalize on their own opportunities.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.  

How does a mechanical engineer who cut his teeth at Tesla and Apple pivot to revolutionizing one of the oldest foods in the world while earning his MBA at Harvard Business School? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Brian Youngblood, the innovative founder of the hummus brand Prest. This is a conversation about the intersection of high-tech manufacturing, environmental responsibility, and the grit required to build a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) brand from a dorm room. Brian shares his journey from a childhood spent tinkering and building on a South Carolina lake to the high-stakes, fast-paced worlds of Tesla and Apple. He reveals how a pivotal role at a food-waste reduction startup opened his eyes to the massive environmental impact of spoiled food and single-use plastics, sparking the idea for Prest. His solution? A shelf-stable, powder-based hummus that consumers mix with water and their own fresh olive oil at home—eliminating the slimy residue, rapid spoilage, and plastic waste of traditional store-bought brands. This episode is a masterclass in "scrappy" entrepreneurship. Brian details how he bootstrapped his brand while studying at Harvard, utilizing the university's network of CPG alumni while ignoring the pressure to pursue trendy tech or AI ventures. He explains the strategic decision to skip building his own manufacturing facility in favor of partnering with a co-packer, allowing him to focus on sourcing high-quality, sesame-free ingredients and perfecting the formula. Listeners will also learn how Brian navigated the expensive world of branding on a tight budget by creatively partnering with a talented graduating design student. Justin and Brian discuss the deeper philosophy of entrepreneurship—how true innovation often comes from identifying a problem right in front of you, managing resources outside of your control, and ultimately, building a legacy that betters the world. Tune in for an inspiring look at how one entrepreneur is using lessons from the tech world to solve real-world problems in the food aisle. Key Takeaways The Problem with Store-Bought Hummus: How traditional packaging and preservatives lead to massive food and plastic waste, and how Prest’s powder-based formula solves this. The "Scrappy" Startup: How Brian leveraged university networks, cold-emailed design professors, and utilized co-packers to launch a CPG brand on a student budget. Sesame-Free Accessibility: How the decision to remove tahini (due to powderization issues) unexpectedly opened the product up to a massive allergy-conscious market. Tech Lessons for Food: Applying the rapid problem-solving skills learned at Tesla and Apple to the slow, physical world of food manufacturing. The "Hero" Product: Why focusing intensely on perfecting one core item is essential before expanding a product line. IG: @presthummus Address: www.eatprest.com  Articles: https://www.entrepreneur.com/side-hustle/harvard-dorm-room-side-hustle-500000-in-sales-this-year-prest    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? Justin Ryan Bizzarro is a multi-dimensional entrepreneur, mentor, and strategist whose career is defined by the intersection of legacy, leadership, and human growth. With a journey that began in his family’s basement in 1998, Justin helped scale a 24-year-old ecosystem of food and technology enterprises into a global benchmark for vertical integration and lean manufacturing. While his professional foundation is built on complex supply chains, restaurant development, and brand acceleration, Justin’s true north is development—whether it’s a startup, an elite athlete, or a community. As the founder of GorillaBrave, he has transitioned from building businesses to building humans, utilizing his "Troop" philosophy to empower the next generation of culinary and agricultural entrepreneurs. Justin is a sought-after voice on free markets, food diversity, and high-performance culture. His influence extends from the boardroom to the soccer pitch, where he coaches with the same tactical precision and "warrior" mindset he applies to his corporate ventures. Whether he is hosting a global podcast that reaches millions or developing curriculum for youth athletes, his mission remains constant: accelerating human potential. A lifelong student of leadership and service, Justin holds a BA from Dickinson College and an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill, and deepen his perspective through taking classes towards a  Master of Divinity in Leadership at Denver Seminary. Based in Colorado, he is a dedicated father, a steward of his family’s legacy, and a persistent advocate for those brave enough to capitalize on their own opportunities.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a young girl from Kazakhstan, whose mother encouraged her to wear high heels and oversized belts at age eight, eventually become a high-end fruit carving artist in Overland Park, Kansas? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Zhamilya Koshmambetova, the founder and creative force behind Azaya Fruit Design Studio. This is a conversation about the power of creativity, the immigrant journey, and how a simple act of bringing fruit to a party blossomed into a unique and thriving business. Zhamilya shares her incredible international story. Born in Kazakhstan to an artistic family that championed self-expression, she traveled to Moscow for her education in advertising. It was there she met her husband, leading them on a global journey to Australia, Canada, and eventually Denver, before finally putting down roots in the welcoming community of Overland Park. This episode delves into the unexpected origin of her business. As a mother of three, Zhamilya was searching for a creative outlet when she noticed a recurring issue at social gatherings: many friends couldn't eat traditional sugary desserts due to health or dietary restrictions. Her solution? Bringing beautifully arranged fruit platters. What started as a thoughtful gesture for friends quickly escalated into a demand for her stunning, hand-carved fruit displays at weddings and major events. Zhamilya opens up about the realities of being a self-taught artist, learning intricate carving techniques from Russian masters on YouTube, and the constant drive to elevate her craft from simple platters to grand, architectural fruit table installations. She also discusses the importance of community support, leaning on her faith during challenging times, and her commitment to giving back through local charities like KC for Refugees. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on finding your niche, the beauty of building a business that aligns with your values, and why true entrepreneurial success is about more than just profit—it's about bringing joy, health, and a touch of art to your community. Key Takeaways The Power of the Pivot: How Zhamilya transitioned from a background in ballroom dancing and advertising to becoming a self-taught fruit carving artist. Solving a Problem: The origin of Azaya Fruit Design Studio, born from a desire to provide beautiful, healthy dessert alternatives for friends with dietary restrictions. The "Free" Marketing Strategy: How Zhamilya built her brand and portfolio by initially offering her elaborate fruit displays for free at large community weddings. The Importance of Community: The role of the supportive vendor community in Kansas and the necessity of asking questions and learning from peers. Faith-Driven Business: How Zhamilya’s faith shapes her approach to business, emphasizing the importance of giving back (Zakat/Sadaqah) and trusting the journey during difficult times.   IG: @azayafruits Address: https://www.facebook.com/azayafruits/    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? Justin Ryan Bizzarro is a multi-dimensional entrepreneur, mentor, and strategist whose career is defined by the intersection of legacy, leadership, and human growth. With a journey that began in his family’s basement in 1998, Justin helped scale a 24-year-old ecosystem of food and technology enterprises into a global benchmark for vertical integration and lean manufacturing. While his professional foundation is built on complex supply chains, restaurant development, and brand acceleration, Justin’s true north is development—whether it’s a startup, an elite athlete, or a community. As the founder of GorillaBrave, he has transitioned from building businesses to building humans, utilizing his "Troop" philosophy to empower the next generation of culinary and agricultural entrepreneurs. Justin is a sought-after voice on free markets, food diversity, and high-performance culture. His influence extends from the boardroom to the soccer pitch, where he coaches with the same tactical precision and "warrior" mindset he applies to his corporate ventures. Whether he is hosting a global podcast that reaches millions or developing curriculum for youth athletes, his mission remains constant: accelerating human potential. A lifelong student of leadership and service, Justin holds a BA from Dickinson College and an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill, and and deepen his perspective through taking classes towards a Master of Divinity in Leadership at Denver Seminary. Based in Colorado, he is a dedicated father, a steward of his family’s legacy, and a persistent advocate for those brave enough to capitalize on their own opportunities.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a kid immersed in the high-velocity, rebel culture of East Coast skateboarding and punk rock eventually become a leading figure in the San Francisco Bay Area bakery and restaurant scene? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Matthew Kosoy, the founder of Rosalind Bakery and Jerry’s Roast Pork. This is a story about the intersection of tech, art, and food, proving that the DIY ethos of a skateboarder translates perfectly into the grit required to build a culinary brand from the ground up. Matthew shares his journey from building websites for BMX and skate brands in Philadelphia to moving to the Bay Area. Seeking an escape from the repetitive grind of startup tech culture, he found a new obsession: baking sourdough bread. What started as a hobby in his kitchen quickly exploded into a sold-out farmer's market booth, pushing him to take the terrifying leap of leasing an abandoned 3,400-square-foot grocery store in the food desert of Pacifica. This episode is a masterclass in learning by doing and failing fast. Matthew details the sheer physical labor of building his bakery—literally chipping up concrete and doing the demolition with family and friends—while maxing out credit cards and learning the business side on the fly. He shares how his willingness to be vulnerable, hire experts (like attending the San Francisco Baking Institute), and embrace failure allowed him to survive the grueling early years. Discover how the pandemic turned Rosalind Bakery into an essential community hub, and how Matthew’s relentless drive led him to launch Jerry’s Roast Pork in downtown San Francisco. He explains how a single product—a custom-developed hoagie roll—became the "hero" that connected his baking expertise to his Philadelphia roots. Tune in to hear how Matthew is now bringing his journey full circle, combining his tech background with his baking experience to develop a new ERP software designed specifically to help small and medium-sized bakeries streamline their operations. It’s an inspiring look at how stacking your unique skills can lead to unexpected, community-changing success. Key Takeaways The DIY Mindset: How the independence, creativity, and resilience learned from skateboarding culture directly applied to the struggles of entrepreneurship. Failing Fast: Applying software development principles to food—being willing to make mistakes, learn quickly, and pivot without losing momentum. The "Hero" Product: How focusing intensely on perfecting one item (the sourdough loaf, and later the hoagie roll) creates a strong foundation for a brand. Community Building: The importance of choosing a location that needs your product (like a food desert) and growing deep roots in that neighborhood. Stacking Skills for the Future: How Matthew is combining his past as a web developer with his present as a baker to build software that will help the entire baking industry.   IG: @jerrysroastpork Address: https://www.jerrysroastpork.com/  Roast Pork Sammie Location: 2 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA.   IG: @ rosalindbakery Address: https://www.rosalindbakery.com/  Bakery Location: 450 Manor Plaza Pacifica, California 94044   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How do you bulletproof a food business in an industry notorious for its failure rate? You start by planning for the worst-case scenario. In this sobering but essential episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, Justin sits down with veteran bankruptcy attorney Barry Levine. With over 45 years of experience navigating business failures and Chapter 11 reorganizations, Barry delivers a masterclass in defensive entrepreneurship. This conversation strips away the romanticized version of owning a restaurant and tackles the harsh financial and legal realities that can sink a business—and ruin personal finances—if ignored. From the hidden traps of "trust fund taxes" to the vital importance of proper cost accounting, Justin and Barry provide an actionable roadmap for structuring your business to survive crises and pivot when necessary. Here is a breakdown of the vital legal and practical strategies discussed in the episode: 1. The Danger of Blind Optimism Entrepreneurs are natural optimists, but Barry warns that this trait becomes fatal when a business starts failing. Instead of making the hard choice to close the doors, owners often drain personal savings, take out second mortgages, or borrow from family to keep a sinking ship afloat. The Fix: Establish your "breaking point" metrics from day one. Know exactly what your absolute bottom line is, and have the discipline to cut your losses before you compromise your personal livelihood. 2. Shielding Your Assets: Entity Structure Operating a food business as a Sole Proprietorship or a DBA (Doing Business As) exposes all of your personal assets—including your home—to business liabilities. The Fix: Form a proper LLC or Corporation. Treat it as a completely separate entity with its own bank accounts and tax returns. Do not commingle funds, or you risk "piercing the corporate veil," which allows creditors to come after you personally. 3. The "Trust Fund Tax" Trap When money gets tight, struggling businesses often stop paying meals taxes, sales taxes, or employee withholding taxes to cover rent or inventory. Barry highlights that these are "trust fund taxes." The government views this money as theirs from the moment it is collected. If you fail to remit it, the corporate shield disappears, and you are held personally liable. The Fix: Outsource your HR and payroll to a third-party company or Professional Employer Organization (PEO). Let them handle the tax compliance and withholding so you never have the opportunity to repurpose those funds. 4. Navigating Personal Guarantees In today's lending environment, it is nearly impossible to secure a business loan without a personal guarantee. However, not all guarantees are created equal. The Fix: Understand the difference between secured and unsecured guarantees. An unsecured personal guarantee can often be discharged in bankruptcy. But if a lender (like the SBA) secures that guarantee with a second mortgage on your home, your house is directly on the line. 5. Cost Accounting & The "Micro-Adjust" Justin points out that businesses often fail because owners stick their heads in the sand regarding volatile ingredient prices (like wild fluctuations in dairy or beef). When costs jump, restaurants wait too long to raise prices, eventually hitting customers with massive sticker shock (e.g., a $62 lobster roll). The Fix: Run a cost analysis on your recipes monthly or quarterly. Adjust your menu prices incrementally. Customers are much more likely to accept a consistent 25-cent increase than a sudden $5 hike. 6. The "Bankruptcy First" Business Plan The most powerful piece of advice from the episode is a paradigm shift in how to start a company. Don't just plan for success; plan your business backward from bankruptcy. The Fix: Before you sign a lease or take a loan, ask yourself: If this fails in 12 months, what exactly do I lose? Structure your operating agreements, supplier contracts, and corporate entities to minimize the blast radius if the worst happens.   Address: https://bankruptcythrough.podbean.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1pJOOD1GCTNn3YpmqZ884j10DC_T1K3c    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a young girl from a tiny Thai village with no running water build a multi-location spa empire in Canada, all while preserving the authentic, communal spirit of her homeland? In this deeply restorative and insightful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes Neata Goutier, the founder of Sabai Thai Spa, an established brand with seven corporate locations in Vancouver and a newly launched franchise model. This is a conversation about the intersection of hospitality, healing, and the long-game of building a legacy business. Neata’s story begins in a 200-person village in Thailand, where community support was a way of life and natural healing—through herbal remedies and massage—was a daily routine. Discover how she identified a massive cultural gap when she moved to North America: a fast-paced society that felt guilty about self-care. Neata opened her first spa 20 years ago with less than $1,000 and a vision to create a sanctuary where Westerners could experience the warmth, five-sense hospitality, and preventative health benefits of traditional Thai culture. This episode is a masterclass in slow, sustainable growth. Neata details her evolution from an exhausted owner-operator to a strategic CEO. She explains the critical importance of stepping back to work on the business rather than in it, the necessity of trusting your team, and why she spent nearly three years meticulously building out her systems and SOPs before ever offering a franchise. More than just a business playbook, this is a profound discussion on purpose. Neata and Justin delve into the difference between a money-driven "sole proprietor" and a true "entrepreneur" who seeks to elevate the world. Learn about Sabai Thai Spa’s incredible commitment to the environment—planting a tree for every massage and kelp for every product sold—and why Neata believes that the ultimate superpower in business is finding joy in the journey and leaving the world better than you found it. Key Takeaways Cultural Translation: How Neata successfully introduced the Thai philosophy of holistic, preventative self-care to a fast-paced North American market. The Power of Grassroots Marketing: Building a customer base by physically knocking on doors, introducing the business to neighbors, and sponsoring local sports teams and schools. Scaling with Systems: Why it took two and a half years to build the foundational systems (HR, accounting, training) required to support a franchise model, ensuring long-term success over rapid expansion. From Operator to CEO: The necessary, often difficult transition of handing over the keys to management and stepping back to focus on business development. Purpose-Driven Profit: How tying the business to environmental restoration (planting trees and kelp) provides deep motivation and connects the brand to a larger global mission.   IG: @sabaithaispa Address: www.sabaithai.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a kid selling rocks from his bedroom turn into a touring musician, and eventually the founder of a powerhouse marketing agency? In this episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, Justin sits down with John Smiddy, the visionary behind NutraMarketers (www.nutramarketers.com). This conversation dives deep into the gritty reality of building a business from the ground up. Justin and John bond over the mental toughness forged through physical disciplines like 75 Hard, exploring how training the body is the ultimate preparation for surviving the chaotic, high-stress world of entrepreneurship. John pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to market consumer packaged goods and nutritional supplements today. Listeners will get a masterclass in consumer psychology, learning why having a great product simply isn't enough if you don't understand the math behind your marketing. John breaks down the exact formulas for scaling: balancing customer acquisition cost (CAC), maximizing lifetime value (LTV) through strategic subscribe-and-save models, and crafting a unique "story within the formula" that builds instant brand credibility. Whether you are trying to break into a crowded retail market, dialing in your e-commerce strategy, or just need the raw motivation to keep pushing forward when you want to throw in the towel, this episode delivers the exact playbook you need to win.   Address: www.nutramarketers.com   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

What does it actually take to turn a dilapidated fast-food shell into a thriving, community-centered brand? In this gritty and revealing episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes back Michael Spencer, the founder of Nash Dogs, for a raw look at the transition from food truck to brick-and-mortar. This isn't just a success story; it’s a survival guide. Michael walks listeners through the harrowing eight-month journey of converting an old Subway location into his new café. He shares the nightmares that no business plan can predict: peeling back wallpaper to find walls crumbling with black mold, HVAC units venting directly into block walls, and contractors quoting $30,000 for grease traps that the city eventually approved for $2,000. Discover the financial and emotional reality of scaling up. Michael explains how a project budgeted for $35,000 ballooned to $65,000, and how he had to teach himself mold remediation to save the budget. He opens up about a frustrating battle with a sign contractor who took his money and delivered nothing, highlighting the critical importance of integrity and iron-clad contracts in a world where handshake deals are fading. But the struggle yielded massive rewards. Michael details the strategic menu expansion that turned Nash Dogs from a lunch stop into a destination. Learn how adding high-margin items like homemade banana pudding (a customer favorite), loaded curly fries, and fountain drinks increased his average ticket from $11 to nearly $18. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of asking questions. It’s about the difference between a task-oriented manager and an entrepreneurial leader, and why, in a world of shortcuts and "good enough," sticking to your morals and delivering excellence is the only way to build a legacy that lasts. Key Takeaways The General Contractor Trap: How Michael saved over $25,000 by calling the city water department himself rather than accepting a contractor's quote for a grease trap. Menu Engineering: The pivot from pre-packaged sides to high-margin, house-made items like banana pudding and loaded fries to boost profitability. The Reality of Renovation: The unexpected horrors of taking over a second-generation restaurant space, including mold remediation and HVAC failures. Marketing for Survival: Why waiting for customers to walk in is a death sentence, and Michael's strategy of hiring a marketer to aggressively pursue B2B catering. Integrity as a Strategy: The long-term value of keeping your word and building a brand based on trust, even when vendors and contractors fail to do the same.   IG: @nashdogs   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a family recipe born in the 1930s survive Jim Crow, traverse the country to Los Angeles, withstand a global pandemic, and spark a worldwide culinary phenomenon? In this fiery episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Kim Prince, the dynamic force behind Hotville Chicken and the Dulansville Food Truck. Kim is third-generation royalty of the Prince family—the undisputed originators of Nashville Hot Chicken. This is not just a story about frying poultry; it is a masterclass in legacy, resilience, and the relentless spirit of "keeping it going." Kim takes listeners back to her roots in College Grove, Tennessee, where she grew up on 13 acres in a family of educators and entrepreneurs. She shares the profound advice passed down from her grandmother: "Handle many pots." This mantra drove Kim to master multiple skills, from the entertainment industry to the kitchen, eventually leading her to bring the authentic heat of Nashville to Los Angeles in 2016. The conversation dives deep into the realities of operating in a tough market. Kim details the rollercoaster of opening a brick-and-mortar location in Baldwin Hills, only to face the "triple threat" of COVID-19, civil unrest, and gentrification that led to the demolition of her building. Rather than folding, she pivoted. Discover how she formed a powerful partnership with Greg Doolin (of Doolin’s Soul Food) to launch the Dulansville Food Truck, a mobile concept that combines the best of both their family legacies. This episode explores the soul behind the spice. Kim explains why she refuses to compromise the integrity of the product for rapid expansion, emphasizing that true Nashville Hot Chicken isn't just about heat—it's about a 24-hour marinade, hand-dredging, and a specific frying process that requires patience and love. She also touches on her work with World Central Kitchen, feeding communities during wildfires, proving that a business is only as strong as its connection to the people it serves. Key Takeaways: The Origin Story: The history of the Prince family and how they turned a revenge recipe into a global staple. The "Handle Many Pots" Philosophy: How diversifying skills prepares an entrepreneur for the unexpected. Resilience in Crisis: How Hotville pivoted from a closed restaurant to a thriving food truck through strategic partnership. Authenticity over Expansion: Why Kim chooses to keep the operation tight to ensure quality rather than selling out for rapid franchising. Community First: The role of the food truck in disaster relief and community support.   IG: @hotvillechicken IG: @dulanville IG: @dulangregory IG: @kimprincetwin   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

The Union of Two Families The story of Compton's Original is not just about food; it is about the convergence of two couples—Barbara and James (owners of Queen Bee's Delightful Catering) and David and Yolanda (owners of Colbert Southern Gourmet). Despite attending the same church for over 30 years without knowing it, the couples connected through the catering circuit. The Vision: David wanted a restaurant; Yolanda did not. Barbara wanted a restaurant; James did not. They balanced each other out and decided to partner up to purchase an existing fish fry business from a retiring owner. The Transition: Moving from catering to a brick-and-mortar restaurant required a massive shift in mindset. Catering offers controlled, prepaid environments, whereas a restaurant requires predicting daily traffic, managing immediate customer service, and maintaining constant inventory. Trials by Fire: The Build-Out The journey to opening day was fraught with expensive and emotional hurdles. The team spent over a year paying rent on a closed building while renovating to meet their standards. The Contractor Nightmare: They hired a company to install a massive hood system (a $20,000+ investment). The contractor took the money, performed substandard work, and abandoned the job. The Response: Rather than suing, the partners chose to pray for the contractor and move forward, viewing the loss as a tuition fee for business wisdom. This decision solidified their partnership and reliance on faith. Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating city permits, grease traps, and Ansul systems proved to be a steep learning curve, highlighting the operational complexity of frying food commercially compared to catering. The Menu: Soul Food with Standards Compton's Original positions itself differently from the typical "fish fry market." They focus on fresh preparation rather than holding food under heat lamps. The Offerings: Beyond fried fish and shrimp, the menu features scratch-made sides like mac and cheese, collard greens with smoked turkey, red beans and rice, and James's signature garlic mashed potatoes. Health Consciousness: Listening to the community's desire for healthier options, they introduced grilled fish (sand dabs, catfish, red snapper) and salmon salads, moving away from a strictly deep-fried menu. Faith, Leadership, and Operations The episode heavily emphasizes the spiritual foundation of the business. Conflict Resolution: With four partners, disagreements are inevitable. They established a rule where majority votes rule, and they utilize prayer to navigate impasses. They hold "face-to-face" meetings to resolve issues, prioritizing the business's health over personal ego. Community Stewardship: They view their employees as family, often hiring from the local community and mentoring young staff members. They aim to create an atmosphere where customers feel they are at a family reunion, not just a transaction. Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs Actions Follow Intent: You must know your intention before you act. If you intend to build a legacy, you cannot cut corners. The Value of Slow Growth: Growing too fast can destroy a brand. Taking the time to build a solid foundation (SOPs, culture, recipes) ensures longevity. Authenticity is Currency: In a world of AI and automation, the "human touch"—remembering a customer's name, asking about their day, and serving food with love—is the ultimate competitive advantage.   IG: @comptonsoriginalseafood Location: 1526 S Wilmington, Compton, CA 90220   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does someone pivot from aspiring air traffic controller and real estate investor to cookbook author and radio show host? In this inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Lisa Parda, author of the new cookbook My Love Language is Food. This is a story about reinvention, the unexpected paths life takes us on, and the power of food to connect us all. Lisa shares her fascinating journey, starting with a childhood dream of guiding planes that led to a stint at the FAA, followed by a successful career in real estate. But it was meeting her husband that unlocked a latent passion for cooking—a creative outlet that balanced the demands of her professional life. Discover how a self-taught cook, who grew up on takeout and diet culture, transformed her relationship with food into a mission to help others answer the daily question: "What's for dinner?" This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the gritty reality of self-publishing. Lisa is candid about the challenges she faced, from scrapping her first manuscript to navigating the high costs and logistical nightmares of professional food photography. She shares the invaluable lessons learned from hiring the wrong—and then the right—creative partners, and the discipline required to turn a passion project into a marketable product. Lisa also dives into her strategies for building a brand without a traditional culinary background. Learn how she leverages her local radio show, "Lisa and Robyn on the Mic," and community partnerships to market her book, and why she believes in the power of "guerrilla marketing" tactics like collaborating with local artisans for holiday gift bundles. Tune in for a conversation that celebrates the joy of cooking, the importance of family meals, and the courage it takes to pursue a dream, no matter where you are in life. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful success comes from simply sharing what you love with the world. Key Takeaways The Pivot: How skills from unrelated careers like real estate and aviation can apply to food entrepreneurship. The Reality of Self-Publishing: The financial and creative hurdles of producing a high-quality cookbook, including the critical role of photography. Simplifying for the Home Cook: Why Lisa focuses on making recipes accessible and less intimidating for busy families. Community Marketing: Using local platforms like radio and community magazines to build a grassroots following. Food as Connection: The philosophy that cooking is not just a chore, but a vital tool for health, connection, and family legacy.   Address: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-love-language-is-food-lisa-parda/1149285733    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does someone who fell in love with the chaotic energy of restaurants transform that passion into a thriving career as a technology consultant? In this insightful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Brianne Harvey, the founder of Break Bread Consulting and the innovative new platform, Restaurant Resource. This is a powerful story about navigating a career path with intention, embracing the chaos of hospitality, and finding a unique way to serve the industry you love. Brianne shares her journey from a server and bartender in Southern California to a sought-after restaurant technology expert. She recounts the pivotal moment in her early twenties when, after dabbling in "real jobs" outside of hospitality, she had an emotional realization: she truly loved the vibrant, people-focused world of restaurants. This clarity propelled her up the management ladder, from running single locations to overseeing multi-unit operations before the age of 25. The conversation dives deep into her transition from operations to technology, a move sparked during her time as a consultant for OpenTable. While working with over a thousand restaurants, she discovered her unique talent for understanding the complex "spiderweb" of restaurant systems. She saw firsthand how improperly implemented technology was failing operators and became determined to bridge the gap between powerful software and practical, on-the-ground execution. This episode is a masterclass in modern restaurant leadership. Brianne unpacks the invaluable lessons she's learned, emphasizing three crucial pillars for success: The discipline to slow down and make thoughtful, strategic decisions. The humility to own your role, taking responsibility for your team's failures as well as their successes. The wisdom to identify the right leaders, understanding the critical difference between a task-oriented manager and an entrepreneurial one. Finally, discover the "why" behind her latest venture, Restaurant Resource—a comprehensive directory designed to be the "Yelp for restaurant vendors." Born from the chaos of COVID, it’s a tool built to empower operators by consolidating the fragmented world of software, suppliers, and service providers into one unbiased, easy-to-navigate platform. Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom for any leader who believes that the heart of hospitality and the logic of technology can, and must, work together.   Address: www.breakbreadconsulting.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a family-owned business survive the death of its founder, a brutal reality TV takedown, and the sudden loss of its biggest manufacturing contracts, only to reinvent itself as a nine-figure snacking powerhouse? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Michael Emanuel, the third-generation leader of MGT Foods (formerly Mr. Green Tea). This is a masterclass in resilience, engineering, and the art of the pivot. Michael shares the rich history of his family’s business, which began with his grandfather, a WWII bomber pilot, delivering green tea ice cream to New York City’s burgeoning Japanese restaurant scene in the 1960s. He recounts the lean years when his father drove the delivery trucks himself to keep the legacy alive, and his own decision to leave a Department of Defense engineering job to join the family fold. The conversation dives deep into the turning points that defined the company’s modern era. Michael opens up about their appearance on the reality show The Profit with Marcus Lemonis, which—despite a rocky start—led to the investment that built their first state-of-the-art facility. He details the engineering breakthroughs they pioneered, specifically the Vacuum Form Seal (VFS) technology that revolutionized mochi ice cream manufacturing by eliminating costly stainless steel molds. But the real story is about grit. When COVID-19 decimated their food service business and a massive contract with Yasso evaporated due to a Unilever acquisition, MGT Foods didn't fold. instead, they leveraged their manufacturing innovation to launch Biddy Bites, a clean-label, bite-sized cookie dough ice cream snack that exploded onto shelves at Wawa, Costco, and Trader Joe’s. This episode is packed with lessons on navigating supply chain disasters, the importance of "clean label" ingredients, and why sometimes the best way to grow is to stop waiting for permission and build the solution yourself. It’s an inspiring look at how a legacy brand can stay relevant by combining old-school work ethic with cutting-edge innovation.   IG: @mr_green_tea Address: www.mrgreentea.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Maria Leyesa, the passionate founder of Foodologie Baked Goods in Long Beach, California. This is a story about the power of the pivot, the importance of listening to your intuition, and how a hobby born out of necessity can transform into a full-fledged career. Maria shares her unconventional path from a career in healthcare to the kitchen. While her professional background was in occupational therapy, helping patients regain independence, her heart had always gravitated toward food. She recounts how the lockdown of 2020 became the catalyst for her transformation. Armed with nothing but curiosity and a craving for the perfect chocolate chip cookie, she embarked on a self-taught baking journey, obsessively testing recipes and learning the science behind every ingredient. This episode is a masterclass in building a brand with intention and authenticity. Maria details her strategic decision to launch with a hyper-focused menu of just four items—perfecting her cookies and brownies before expanding. She explains how she leveraged her "foodie" Instagram account, originally just a personal diary of her culinary adventures, into a powerful marketing tool that built a loyal community before she even opened her brick-and-mortar shop. Discover the unique philosophy behind Foodology Baked Goods. More than just a bakery, Maria has created a "one-stop shop" experience that blends her Filipino heritage, innovative flavors like Ube and Pandan, and a curated gift shop featuring products from other small businesses. She shares invaluable insights on the challenges of scaling a small business, the art of hiring a team that shares your passion, and why sometimes, the best business plan is simply to start, stay flexible, and relentlessly pursue quality over rapid expansion. Tune in for a dose of motivation for anyone who has ever dreamed of leaving the "safe path" to follow their true calling. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and that the skills you learn in one career can be the secret ingredients to your success in the next.   IG: @foodologiebakedgoods Address: https://www.eatfoodologie.com/  Location: 195 Claremont Ave, Long Beach, CA 90903   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a retiree, after a 30-year career running a paint store, end up inventing a patented device that is disrupting the traditional wine world? In this relaxing and insightful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Michael Fors, the inventor and founder of Liquid Jazz. This is a story about observation, second acts, and the pursuit of a better sensory experience. Michael shares his unique origin story, which began not in a boardroom, but on the rocky shores of Gloucester, Massachusetts. While watching the ocean crash against the rocks and smelling the salt air released by the agitation, he had an epiphany: could wine be opened up in the same way? This led to the creation of the Liquid Jazz Decanter, a patented vessel designed with internal "steps" that allows wine to gently rock back and forth, increasing surface area and aerating a bottle in just four minutes—a process that traditionally takes hours. This episode offers a fascinating look at the nuts and bolts of bringing a physical product to life. Michael details the hurdles of manufacturing, from navigating high mold costs in the US to managing supply chains in China, and the "faith" required to invest retirement funds into a dream. He discusses his old-school, boots-on-the-ground sales strategy—walking into vineyards and restaurants to give live demonstrations—and the challenges of aligning inventory with modern influencer marketing. Beyond the mechanics of business, this conversation delves into the psychology of the consumer experience. Justin and Michael explore how the rhythmic motion of the decanter offers a moment of tranquility and mindfulness in a chaotic world, turning the act of drinking wine into a soothing ritual. Tune in for a story that proves innovation has no age limit. It’s an inspiring look at how a simple observation of nature can lead to a product that enhances connection, flavor, and peace of mind. Key Takeaways The Power of Observation: How watching nature (ocean waves and river rapids) inspired a mechanical solution for wine aeration. The "Rocking" Technology: How the patented steps inside the decanter soften tannins and release aromatics in minutes rather than hours. Second Act Entrepreneurship: The reality of starting a global product business in retirement, including the financial and logistical risks. The Human Element: Why the product is about more than taste—it’s about creating a calming, shared experience that brings people together. Strategic Growth: Michael’s vision for partnering with larger distributors or wineries to scale the business while he focuses on the face-to-face demonstrations he loves.   IG: @liquidjazzexperience Address: www.liquidjazzezperience.com   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a chance discovery of artisanal beef jerky at a roadside stand ignite a journey that leads to building a nationally recognized, nine-figure CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) powerhouse? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Eugene Kang, the visionary co-founder of Archer (formerly Country Archer). This is a masterclass in strategic growth, brand building, and the incredible power of seeing an opportunity where others see only a commodity. Eugene shares his remarkable origin story, which began not in a culinary school, but on a road trip to the Grand Canyon. He recounts the moment he and his partner tasted an incredible, craft-made beef jerky and, driven by a blend of passion and curiosity, tracked down the 80-year-old butcher who was making it. Discover how they took a monumental leap of faith, getting a bank loan as college students to buy the small, family-owned co-packing business, armed with an entrepreneurial spirit inherited from Eugene's immigrant parents. This is a story about the grueling, unglamorous, and absolutely essential work of scaling a business. Eugene details the pivotal first few years of learning the intricacies of USDA regulations, production planning, and the human element of manufacturing. He shares a powerful lesson about overcoming resistance to change, telling the story of investing in a state-of-the-art $60,000 slicer to increase efficiency, only to find his lead production manager—afraid of being replaced—refusing to use it. The conversation is a blueprint for breaking into a hyper-competitive market. Eugene reveals the "Trojan horse" strategy that landed them their first major retail accounts: securing the official license for Huy Fong Sriracha during a national shortage, creating a unique product that no buyer could refuse. He also provides invaluable insights into the art of packaging, forecasting, and why his core leadership principle, learned from his father, is that your people are your greatest asset. Tune in for an incredible story of how two college students transformed a small, private-label operation with eight employees into a national brand with over 200 team members, available in more than 25,000 stores. It's a must-listen for any entrepreneur who wants to understand the vision, grit, and humility it takes to build an empire.   IG: @archerjerky Address: https://archerjerky.com/   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

What happens when a high-flying venture capitalist and best-selling business author, weary of a life of PowerPoint presentations and airplane rides, trades it all for dirt, dust, and a dilapidated historic house in Napa Valley? In this deeply inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Richard Moran, author of the captivating new book, The Accidental Vineyard. This is a powerful story of reinvention, a testament to the human need to build something tangible, and a masterclass in the art of creating a family legacy. Richard shares the "why" behind his incredible journey: a desire to give his city-raised children a taste of a freer, more hands-on life, and his own personal quest to become a "maker." He recounts the monumental, 30-year undertaking of restoring an 1870s house, a project he envisioned from day one as the future setting for his four-year-old daughter's wedding—a vision that recently, and beautifully, came true. Discover the almost mythical origin story of the vineyard itself. This wasn't a calculated business plan; it was a miraculous accident. Richard tells the amazing story of how a neighboring vineyard manager simply showed up one day with a thousand leftover Cabernet vines and a simple question: "Do you want us to plant them on your property for you?" That single, spontaneous "yes" launched a family into the wine business. This conversation is a raw and honest look at the grueling reality of that decision. Richard gets candid about his initial incompetence—"I am not a gifted farmer"—and the humbling failure of their first vintage, which he admits was "terrible." He details the long, patient process of learning the craft of pruning, picking, and winemaking, a journey that ultimately led their small-batch, authentic wine to a list in a five-star Manhattan restaurant. Packed with wisdom from a lifetime of advising top CEOs, this episode is about more than just wine. It's a profound reflection on the core principles of leadership: the power of clear intent, the underrated skill of listening, and the courage to make a decision. For anyone dreaming of a second act or seeking to build something with meaning, this story is an unmissable lesson in patience, perseverance, and the profound joy of creating a place that brings a family together.

How does a family transform a 100-year-old cotton farm into a thriving, diversified hub of organic produce and community, all while honoring a deeply personal legacy? In this incredibly moving episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes Marty Loya, affectionately known as "Bodega Loya," from Growing with Sarah Farm in Socorro, Texas. This is a powerful story of rebirth, resilience, and how the deepest losses can plant the seeds for the most profound growth. Marty shares the farm's extraordinary evolution, a journey that began with a pivotal decision by her and her husband to move away from conventional cotton farming and embrace a more sustainable future. She reveals the powerful and poignant story behind the farm's name, "Growing with Sarah," a tribute to the baby they lost, whose memory now fuels their mission to nourish and grow their community. This is a masterclass in scrappy, resourceful, and innovative farming. Discover how Marty and her husband leveraged grants to build their first high-tunnel greenhouse, a game-changer that allowed for year-round production. Learn about their journey of regenerating the soil with compost and chicken manure, and how they transformed the farm's historic adobe buildings into a vibrant community marketplace, complete with a coffee shop, local artist showcases, and artisan boutiques. The conversation highlights a truly revolutionary approach to community outreach: the Mobile Bodega Loya. Hear the inspiring story of how they converted a trailer into a mobile farmer's market, taking fresh, organic produce directly into food deserts and underserved areas, and making it accessible through programs that offer 50% discounts for SNAP users. For anyone who believes in the power of local food systems, this episode is an essential listen. It is a testament to the fact that you don't need hundreds of acres to make a massive impact. It’s a story about the power of partnership, the importance of community, and how one family's vision is creating a legacy of health, education, and hope that extends far beyond the farm gate.

How do you take a centuries-old cultural ritual, steeped in tradition, and revolutionize it for the modern global consumer? In this fascinating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Ashley Bock, a global marketing expert from Advanced Inhalation Rituals (AIR). This is a deep dive into the business of culture, innovation, and community, exploring how their groundbreaking electronic hookah device, OOKA, is transforming a beloved social tradition. Ashley, a South African native with years of experience scaling brands across the US, the Middle East, and Asia, shares her unique perspective on building culturally relevant businesses. She explains that while the tools may change, the deep human desire for social connection remains universal. The conversation centers on how OOKA brilliantly solves the biggest pain points of traditional hookah—the messy setup, the hassle of managing hot coals, and the need for specialized staff—with an intuitive, pod-based system that is both simple and elegant. This episode is a masterclass for any entrepreneur looking to break into international markets. Ashley details AIR's strategic approach to global expansion, which starts by identifying and partnering with the cultural epicenters of the hookah community, primarily within the Middle Eastern diaspora. Discover their grassroots strategy of launching in hotels, restaurants, and lounges, allowing consumers to experience the product with a low barrier to entry, thereby building trust and organic demand before expanding into retail and e-commerce. More than just a product discussion, this is a story about elevating an entire experience. Ashley articulates a powerful vision where OOKA is not just a gadget, but a revenue-driving tool for hospitality businesses and a centerpiece for social gatherings at home. It’s about giving people back their time to focus on what truly matters: conversation, connection, and community. Tune in for an inspiring look at the intersection of tradition and technology. This is a story about honoring the past while boldly innovating for the future, proving that the most successful products are those that enhance, rather than replace, our most cherished human rituals.   Address: www.air.global    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a successful executive in the high-stakes world of finance and technology channel his creative energy into an entirely different venture: a family-centric, craft sauce company? In this inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Stefan, the founder of Saucy Rascals. This is a powerful story about balancing a demanding corporate career with a passion project, and the journey of turning a backyard hobby into a legitimate, scalable brand. Stefan shares the authentic origin story of his company, which began not in a boardroom, but at a local charity barbecue competition on Long Island. He recounts how, with the help of his two young sons, he created a signature barbecue sauce that won the competition two years in a row. Spurred on by friends and a desire to create, he began the long process of transforming a home recipe into a commercial product. This is a masterclass for anyone with a "side hustle" they dream of growing. Stefan details his strategic evolution, from initial kitchen experiments to taking a pivotal "gap year" to focus on scaling the business. He provides invaluable insights into navigating the complex world of CPG, from finding the right bottle suppliers to partnering with a third-generation co-packer who could execute his vision with precision. Discover the heart and soul behind the Saucy Rascals brand. Stefan explains how the company is a true family affair, with the logo featuring the charming, mohawked faces of his two sons—the "original saucy rascals." He unpacks his product line, from the award-winning barbecue sauce to a creative Black Garlic Teriyaki, all built on a core philosophy of clean ingredients and flavor-first development. This is an essential listen for any aspiring entrepreneur trying to balance their passion with their profession. It's a story filled with practical lessons on product development, finding the right partners, and the grit it takes to build a brand that is as meaningful as it is delicious.   IG: @saucyrascals Address: www.saucyrascals.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a punk rock motorcycle garage in Portland, Oregon become the unlikely epicenter of a hot dog revolution? In this sizzling episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes back Sage Houser, the visionary chef behind Third Coast Dogs and the Gray Horse Saloon, for a masterclass in building an unforgettable food experience. This isn't just about hot dogs; it's about telling a story on a bun. Sage dives deep into his unique culinary philosophy, what he calls "Texas-style hot dogs." Discover how he transforms the humble hot dog into a canvas for a diverse range of cultural influences—from Mexican to Vietnamese—with each creation named after a specific Texas town that inspired its flavor profile. He unpacks his formula for the perfect bite: a delicate balance of crunch, sauce, and fresh and pickled elements that creates a true umami explosion. Listeners get an inside look at the vibrant and rebellious world Sage has built inside a working motorcycle shop. It's a one-of-a-kind destination where the grit of biker culture meets the art of high-concept street food. Sage shares his journey from a scrappy pop-up to a celebrated brick-and-mortar, revealing the secrets to his rapid success, from local press in The Oregonian to features on Good Morning Oregon. This conversation is a powerful lesson in entrepreneurial grit and the importance of authenticity. Sage gets candid about the immense challenges and work ethic required to succeed, the power of a supportive community, and the mindset of "aiming small to miss small" when you're just starting out. He even pulls back the curtain on his legendary secret menu, which features wildly creative, nostalgia-fueled creations like the "Big Mac Dog" and the "Olive Garden Salad Dog." Tune in for an episode brimming with passion, innovation, and practical advice. It's a story about the power of a unique vision, the magic of an unexpected location, and how one entrepreneur is proving that with enough creativity and hustle, you can turn one of America's most familiar foods into something entirely new and exciting.   IG: @greyhorsesaloon  IG: @thirdcoastdogspdx Location: 2227 SE 7th Ave, Portland, Oregon.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a Special Forces Green Beret, trained for the complexities of global conflict, pivot to tackling one of the most pressing issues at home: the integrity of our food system? In this eye-opening episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Patrick Samuels, the founder of Kentucky-based Sunnyside Egg Company. This is a powerful conversation about transitioning from a life in the military to a new mission on the farm, driven by a deep commitment to stewardship, transparency, and building a truly regenerative food future. Patrick shares his remarkable journey from West Point to the elite ranks of the Green Berets, a path that took him on deployments around the world. He reveals how the global shutdown during COVID sparked a deep dive into the American food system, exposing him and his wife—also a military veteran—to the stark contrast between industrial agriculture and the principles of regenerative farming championed by pioneers like Joel Salatin. This discovery ignited a new purpose: to leave the military and build a small homestead that would one day become a force for change. This episode is a must-listen for any consumer who has ever been confused by labels at the grocery store. Patrick pulls back the curtain on the egg industry, delivering a stunning exposé on how misleading terms like "pasture-raised" are legally used by large corporations. He reveals the industry standard: a shocking 85% or more of chickens in so-called "pasture-raised" systems may never actually go outside. Discover how Sunnyside Egg Company is challenging this deceptive status quo. Patrick details his innovative and truly regenerative practices, including mobile chicken coops and multi-species rotational grazing, where his flocks follow cattle or sheep to naturally fertilize the soil and express their innate behaviors. He explains how this commitment to stewardship results not only in healthier land and happier animals but in a demonstrably more nutritious egg. This is a story about building a business—and a movement—from the ground up. It’s a testament to the power of applying the discipline, strategic vision, and leadership skills honed in the military to the immense challenges of creating a new, more honest food system. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will change the way you think about the food on your plate and empower you to support the farmers who are truly regenerating our world.     IG: @sunnysideeggco Address: https://sunnysideeggco.com/   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.  

How does a young entrepreneur navigate the immense pressure, loneliness, and uncertainty of launching a business while his peers are following a more traditional path? In this incredibly raw and inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Trajan, the young founder of Denver's unique tea shop, TropiTai. This is a powerful, vulnerable conversation about the immense personal and professional sacrifices required to chase a dream, and a testament to the resilience of the entrepreneurial spirit. Justin Bizzarro shares exciting updates about GorillaBrave Studio's rebranding efforts as it transitions into a creative studio, which will allow deeper and more more realistic education and case studies, while adding an upgraded educational experience to Elite [FOOD] Entrepreneurs' spiritual, physical, mental, business, and emotional growth. Trajan opens up about the immense challenges he’s faced since dropping out of college to pursue his vision. He speaks with candid honesty about the loneliness of his journey, the constant fear of making the wrong decision, and the mental and physical toll it has taken—from losing weight to battling sciatica from the sheer stress and physical demands of building a business from scratch. This isn't a glamorized story of success; it's a real-time look at the struggle and the courage it takes to keep going when every instinct might tell you to quit. Discover the brilliant strategy Trajan is using to manage the chaos: breaking down overwhelming business objectives into focused, week-long sprints. One week is dedicated to financials, the next to deep cleaning and organization, and the week after to creative R&D for his next menu launch. It's a masterclass in how to create order and progress amidst the constant demands of a new venture. At the heart of this conversation is the power of community and finding your "why." Trajan shares how connecting with other local business owners has become a vital support system, a comforting reminder that he's not alone in the struggle. Ultimately, this episode is a story about choosing the hard path—the path of creation, risk, and immense sacrifice—and finding the strength within to endure, knowing that the ultimate reward is building something truly your own.   IG: @tropitai Location: 98 Wadsworth Blvd., STE 122, Lakewood, CO.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a man rise from a turbulent youth, navigate immense personal tragedy, and endure years of grueling, thankless work to build a brand that is not just a business, but a legacy? This powerful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show brings you the incredible story of Frederick Russell, the founder of Tennessee’s beloved and utterly unique food truck, This Turkey Here. This is more than a story about food; it’s a profound testament to the power of resilience, the importance of mentorship, and the miracles that can be born from grief. Frederick shares his raw and honest journey, which began as the only boy among four older sisters in a house rocked by divorce. He found his solace and creative spark in two places: art, and his grandmother Rosie’s kitchen, where he first fell in love with the detailed, from-scratch craft of cooking. His path forward was anything but easy, marked by a series of tough, low-paying restaurant jobs, including a nightmarish two-year management training program that had him working 70-hour weeks and sleeping in his car. The conversation pivots to the heartbreaking loss of his wife’s parents—first her mother to cancer, and then her father, Michael Boyle, who had been Frederick’s biggest believer. It was in this moment of profound loss that a miracle, planted years earlier, came to fruition. Discover the incredible story of how his father-in-law’s faith and foresight provided the unexpected capital that allowed Frederick to finally launch the turkey-focused food truck he had only dared to dream of. This is a masterclass in building a niche brand from the ground up. Frederick details the strategic genius behind his all-turkey concept—a blue ocean in the crowded food truck world—and how he developed a creative menu that transformed a holiday staple into a year-round craving. He gets candid about the brutal first year of business, the discipline it took to push through when he was barely making money, and how the encouragement from his community became the fuel that kept him going. For anyone who has ever felt lost or believed their dream was out of reach, this episode is an essential listen. It’s a story about enduring the unimaginable, honoring the legacy of those who believed in you, and proving that with enough faith, grit, and hard work, you can build a truly great and purposeful life.   IG: @thisturkeyhere Address: thisturkeyhere.com Phone: 615-569-4912  Email: [email protected]   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this deeply inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Ahmad Tarin, the passionate founder of The Burger Shop, for a remarkable story about how faith, family, and a perfect smash burger can forge a path through life's biggest storms. From his family's roots in Afghanistan to the heart of Union City, California, this is a must-listen tale of resilience and the power of community. Ahmad's journey begins not in a professional kitchen, but in the heart of his Afghan family, where massive gatherings and a deep-seated culture of hospitality ignited his love for cooking. But the spark for his business was lit in a crucible moment: just as the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the world, and only a month before his first child was born, Ahmad was laid off from his high-profile recruiting job in the tech industry. Faced with profound uncertainty, he and his wife took a leap of faith, starting with nothing more than a tiny Blackstone grill in a desolate parking lot. What happened next is nothing short of miraculous. Ahmad recounts the story of a pop-up he held in a torrential rainstorm, the day after his daughter was born. Despite the weather, a massive line formed, with loyal customers traveling from all over the Bay Area. It was undeniable proof that he had created something truly special. This moment became the catalyst for going all-in, investing in a food trailer, and eventually building a buzzing, beloved business. This episode is a masterclass in building a brand with soul. Ahmad shares how the core tenets of his culture—generosity and hospitality—are the secret sauce to his success. It's about more than just profit; it's about giving a free drink to a thirsty kid, covering the last couple of dollars for a customer who's short, and treating every person not as a transaction, but as a respected member of the community. He delves into his meticulous process of perfecting his product by humbly listening to every piece of customer feedback, turning criticism into a stronger, more beloved burger. Join Justin and Ahmad for a heartfelt conversation about taking risks, the spiritual importance of breaking bread, and how the hardest moments in life can often be the miracles that propel us toward our true purpose. This is an unforgettable story about the grit, grace, and community spirit that fuels a truly great food entrepreneur.   IG: @_theburgershop_ Address: The Burger Shop   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Steve and Shelley Schneider, the dynamic husband-and-wife team from Marysville, Washington, behind the artisanal coffee company, Miss Cherry Coffee. What began as a transformative trip to Asia, culminating in Vietnam, sparked a passion that would unexpectedly lead them down the path of entrepreneurship. The Schneiders recount how their love for the unique, high-quality Vietnamese coffee they experienced in Hanoi led to a frustrating search back home. Unable to find the same authentic flavors, and with the encouragement of a home-roasting friend, they decided to take matters into their own hands. This set them on a journey from hobbyist roasters, sharing their creations with friends, to landing their first major contract and realizing they had a viable business. Steve shares how his seemingly unrelated background as a Chinese Mandarin linguist in the U.S. Army gave him the confidence to navigate the complexities of international travel and sourcing, a crucial skill for their new venture. Shelley’s experience as a barista provided the foundational knowledge of what makes a great cup of coffee. Together, they delved into the art and science of coffee, from understanding the different processing methods—natural, washed, and honey—to the sensory nuances of the roasting process itself, where smell and sound are as important as sight. Listeners will get a fascinating education on the world of coffee, from the journey of the coffee "cherry" from farm to cup, to the critical importance of freshness—a realization that Steve describes as a "my whole life's been a lie" moment. They explain why coffee roasted just days ago offers a peak experience that can't be matched by beans that have sat on grocery store shelves for months. Beyond the beans, this is a story with a mission. The Schneiders shed light on the inequities within the coffee industry, where women perform the vast majority of the labor but hold a tiny fraction of the equity. This discovery drove them to partner with organizations like Cafe Femenino, sourcing their beans from women-led farms and contributing to programs that empower these communities. They also discuss the future of coffee, highlighting the potential of drought- and pest-resistant varietals like Excelsa to combat the challenges of climate change. Join us for a rich and aromatic conversation that blends culture, history, and business. Steve and Shelley’s story is a testament to how a shared passion, a commitment to quality, and a desire for positive change can brew a truly remarkable entrepreneurial adventure.   IG: @misscherrycoffee Address: https://misscherrycoffee.com/    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does an entrepreneur transform a cottage food operation into a nationally recognized brand that’s about more than just heat? For Lucas Lentz, the answer is found in mentorship, radical collaboration, and a core philosophy he calls "flavor you feel." In this dynamic episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Lucas, the innovative founder of Papa Caps Foods, for an inspiring look at the power of community in the hyper-competitive hot sauce world. This is a story about how a passion for spice became a vehicle for creating unforgettable experiences and giving back. Lucas recounts his journey from selling at small farmers' markets to taking a leap of faith at the massive Illinois Hot Sauce Expo. It was there he discovered that his greatest competitors were also his most valuable allies—a tight-knit community of creators willing to share knowledge and support one another's growth. He shares powerful stories of the mentors who guided him, from the marketing executive at SCORE who helped him start, to the business coach who is now helping him master the analytics of scaling a CPG brand. Discover the brilliant strategy behind his growth: creative collaboration. Lucas gives a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming "Dr. Gindo & Mr. Caps" project, a dual-branded hot sauce that allows customers to mix their own heat level. It's a masterclass in how to partner with another brand to cross-pollinate audiences and create a product that is truly unique. But the heart of this conversation is about purpose. Lucas reveals how his role as a student leader at his church and his mission to support St. Jude Children's Hospital through his "Hearts on Fire" sauce are inextricably linked to his brand's identity. This is a powerful blueprint for any entrepreneur who wants to build a business that not only succeeds financially but also makes a tangible, positive impact. Tune in for an episode packed with lessons on finding the right mentors, turning competitors into collaborators, and building a brand that truly connects with the hearts—and palates—of its community.   IG: @papacapsfoods Address: www.papacapsfoods.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free. Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does an entrepreneur, after years of grinding through corporate jobs and failed ventures, transform a personal pain point into a revolutionary, multi-million-dollar food tech company? In this deeply insightful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes Andy Sartori, the brilliant and tenacious founder of MealPro. This is a masterclass in perseverance, strategic thinking, and the relentless pursuit of a vision, detailing a journey that took Andy from cleaning soda machines at Panda Express to the helm of a nationwide meal delivery service. Andy shares the powerful origin story behind MealPro, which was born from a simple yet profound frustration: as a dedicated bodybuilder, he was tired of one-size-fits-all restaurant menus that ignored his specific nutritional needs. This sparked the mission to create a service that truly allows people to "eat with purpose." Discover how he ingeniously combined technology and tradition, building a custom online platform that allows users to tailor every meal to their exact goals—adjusting proteins, carbs, and dietary preferences—while using classic culinary techniques to ensure every dish is delicious. This is a raw and honest look at the grueling reality of building a business from the ground up. Andy recounts the years of preparation—working in every facet of the restaurant industry, from quick-service giants to mom-and-pop shops, and teaching himself to code and build websites in a tiny, out-of-business donut shop. He gets vulnerable about the early days of MealPro, working 18-hour days, facing near-financial ruin, and the sheer force of will it took to push through six months of breaking even before finally achieving liftoff. The conversation is a blueprint for any entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of starting with a hyper-niche market, the discipline of "working smarter, not harder," and the critical moment a founder must learn to build and trust a team to scale. This is more than a story about meal prep; it's a testament to the power of solving your own problem, the grit required to master every aspect of your business, and the incredible success that lies on the other side of perseverance.   IG: @mealpro Address: www.mealpro.net Location: 7433 Greenback Lane, Citrus Heights, CA 95610 HQ: 11231 Gold Express Drive, Gold River, CA 95670   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does an ice cream brand, launched from the trunk of a car during a global pandemic, become one of the hottest culinary tickets in a major city? In this incredible episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with David Right, the innovative founder of Denver’s acclaimed Right Cream. This is a powerful story about perseverance, radical creativity, and how a moment of career uncertainty can become the catalyst for building the business of your dreams. David shares his unconventional journey from a successful but unfulfilling career in software sales to the world of food. He recounts the pivotal moment in early 2020 when he was laid off just two weeks before the global lockdown. With an unexpected surplus of time, a lifelong passion for cooking, and a deep appreciation for culinary storytellers like Anthony Bourdain, David began making ice cream. What started as a creative outlet quickly became a clandestine operation, selling pints to friends and followers out of his car in grocery store parking lots. Discover the hustle and ingenuity that took Right Cream from a trunk-based side gig to a local phenomenon. David details the challenges of those early days and the game-changing moment when a local magazine feature turned his small-batch operation into a full-time, must-have brand overnight. He offers a raw and honest look at the trials and tribulations that followed—navigating leases, sharing kitchens, and the immense pressure of scaling a business that grew faster than he could have ever imagined. This episode is a masterclass in evolution and listening to your customers. David explains his brilliant strategic move to expand beyond ice cream, adding hot food like his now-famous smash burgers, breakfast sandwiches, and fried fish. It was a way to solve a business problem—how to get customers to show up more than once a week—that simultaneously unlocked a new level of culinary creativity, culminating in exclusive, multi-course tasting dinners served at his 800-square-foot ice cream shop. This is a story about the power of trusting your team, delegating responsibility, and having the courage to evolve. For any entrepreneur who has ever felt stuck or feared taking a leap of faith, David Right’s journey is an unmissable testament to the fact that with enough passion and persistence, you can build a thriving, authentic, and utterly unique business against all odds.   IG: @rightcream Address: www.rightcream.com Location: 2423 S Downing St, Denver, CO 80210   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes back the trailblazing Peter Elias to pull back the curtain on the intense spiritual and logistical journey of building a restaurant empire. With his new upscale seafood concept, "Oyster and Scales," taking shape in Ocean City, Peter shares a raw and honest account of navigating the immense pressures of entrepreneurship through the lens of unwavering faith. This isn't just a conversation about business; it's a testament to impact. Peter reveals how his last appearance on the show forged an unexpected fellowship with a local fan, proving that these discussions are building communities far beyond the airwaves. He then dives into the immense challenges he’s currently facing—juggling multiple high-stakes projects, including the long-anticipated Sand and Cedar, while battling construction delays, frustrating inspector issues, and the daily complexities of leading his teams. Peter offers a profound perspective on these trials, framing them not as mere business problems, but as spiritual warfare. Discover how he maintains a state of calm and peace amidst the chaos by developing a "spiritual reflex"—a conscious choice to trust in God's timing over his own, letting go of the need to react and instead leaning into steadfast faith. The heart of the episode lies in Peter's mission to build more than just restaurants; he's building platforms for grace. He discusses his non-negotiable commitment to using the highest quality ingredients, like wild-caught seafood and organic produce, as a direct reflection of his values, refusing to be a hypocrite by preaching grace while serving processed food. The true measure of his success, he reveals, is not in profits, but in creating a supportive, family-like culture where his team can thrive—a success validated by over 1,700 glowing online reviews that consistently praise his staff by name. Join Justin and Peter for a conversation that transcends business strategy and touches the soul. It's a gripping look at what it means to lead with integrity, to find peace in the storm, and to build a legacy that nourishes both the body and the spirit.   IG: @spainwinebar Address: www.spainwinebar.com   Sand and Cedar Taverna: 11070 Cathell Rd, Ocean Pines, MD. Bai-Tee Bakery: 1401 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD The Bistro & Lounge: 1700 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City, MD.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro)   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a lifelong obsession with spice, a five-year expat journey in Shanghai, and a life-altering global pandemic all converge to create a fiery new food brand in Connecticut? This episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show brings you the incredible story of Maria Carlucci, the globetrotting, flavor-chasing founder of BamuBamu Fire Club. This isn't just a story about hot sauce; it's a testament to how a winding personal journey, full of unexpected detours and cultural discovery, can become the perfect recipe for entrepreneurial success. Maria shares how her passion for all things spicy was ignited by her diverse Italian and Turkish family roots. But it was a college study abroad program, "Semester at Sea," that truly opened her eyes to a world of flavor, sending her on a mission to collect and journal about spices from ports in Africa and beyond. This obsession led her to a five-year adventure living in Shanghai, where she immersed herself in a new culture and discovered the unique, numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns. The conversation pivots to the dramatic moment when COVID-19 stranded Maria in Japan, forcing her to abandon the life she had built in China—including her apartment, her belongings, and even her dog—and return to a life she thought she'd left behind in Connecticut. It was in this moment of anger, frustration, and starting over that the seeds for her business were planted. Discover the serendipitous story of how a late-night brainstorming session with a friend—a Japanese restaurant owner—transformed a fun idea for a "spicy ramen challenge" into a full-fledged business. They launched BamuBamu Fire Club, a completely unique concept that fuses the bold flavors of global peppers with a distinctly Japanese culinary sensibility. Maria provides a masterclass in scrappy, grassroots marketing, from hitting the farmers' market circuit to finding a passionate community in the burgeoning world of hot sauce expos. This episode is a powerful narrative about resilience, reinvention, and the art of turning a personal passion into a profession. It’s a story for anyone who has ever had their life's path dramatically rerouted, proving that sometimes the most unexpected journeys lead to the most exciting destinations.   IG: @bamubamu_fireclub Address: www.bamubamufc.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

What if the key to unlocking your entrepreneurial dream isn’t about having a flawless plan, but about having the right mindset to navigate the inevitable chaos? In this deeply insightful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes back Chris and Crystal Green, the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind the fast-growing Texas brand, Skyrocket Coffee. This isn’t just a conversation about coffee; it’s a masterclass in building a business—and a life—with intention, resilience, and a relentless commitment to growth.   Chris and Crystal pull back the curtain on the meticulous craft behind their brand. They dive deep into their decision to focus exclusively on single-origin, certified organic coffee, explaining how this commitment to purity—backed by rigorous testing for molds and mycotoxins—is their ultimate differentiator in a crowded market. Discover the secrets of their air roasting technology, a game-changing method that creates a smoother, richer, and more consistent flavor profile by eliminating the burnt, bitter notes common in traditional drum roasting. This episode is a powerful testament to the idea that a successful business is a direct reflection of personal growth. Chris and Crystal get vulnerable about their journey of self-development, sharing how they transformed their own lives by building consistent, healthy habits, from daily workouts to absorbing knowledge through books and podcasts. They reveal how this shared commitment to becoming the best version of themselves became the unshakable foundation for their business, allowing them to navigate the immense pressures and setbacks of entrepreneurship as a unified team. You’ll also learn their brilliant strategies for building a passionate community from the ground up. Find out how they leverage social media to educate consumers, turning customers into advocates by transparently sharing their entire process, from sourcing beans to live-roasting sessions. It’s a story about creating a brand that stands for something more, with a mission to support literacy programs and make a tangible, positive impact.   Tune in for an inspiring and actionable conversation about turning a shared passion into a thriving enterprise. This is a must-listen for any entrepreneur who understands that the journey to building a great company starts with building a great self.   IG: @skyrocket_coffee   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

What does it take for a man to walk away from a successful 30-year career in commercial construction and dive headfirst into the fiery, competitive world of professional barbecue? This episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPREPRENEURS Show brings you the incredible story of Ron Cohen, the founder of Reno’s Battle Born Smokers, in a masterclass on reinvention, grit, and the relentless pursuit of a passion. Ron shares his journey from accomplished construction company owner to a rookie on the barbecue competition circuit. He gives a raw and hilarious account of his first contest, where he and his team, thinking they were "king shit at Turd Island," promptly "made a fool of themselves." This humbling trial by fire wasn't a deterrent; it was the spark that ignited a deep obsession with mastering the craft, pushing him to learn from the tight-knit barbecue community and begin racking up awards. This is where the story takes a brilliant turn. Discover how Ron leveraged his three decades of construction expertise to gain a unique competitive edge. He recounts the "aha" moment of designing his own ultimate barbecue food trailer, a mobile machine so innovative that the professional builders had never seen anything like it. Hear how he sold his Blazer and his Harley to pay for it in cash, drove to Tennessee to pick it up, and then spent two months personally finishing the build to his exacting specifications—a testament to a craftsman's dedication. This conversation is packed with hard-won wisdom from the pit. Ron pulls back the curtain on the secrets to his acclaimed barbecue, from his unconventional but effective technique of smoking briskets from frozen to lock in flavor, to his smart menu engineering, like creating "The Trough" burrito to ensure no delicious ingredient ever goes to waste. This is more than a story about barbecue; it's a powerful lesson in second acts. It's about how the skills you've honed in one life can become your superpower in the next. For anyone who has ever dreamed of turning a weekend passion into a thriving business, Ron Cohen’s journey is an unmissable dose of inspiration.   IG: @battle_born_smokers Address: www.battlebornsmokers.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

Welcome to a masterclass in culinary craftsmanship and entrepreneurial evolution. In this episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Alan Maniscalco, the seasoned chef and visionary behind two of the Portland area's most beloved spots: the Lucky Horseshoe Lounge and Rally Pizza. This is the captivating story of a journey forged in flour and fire, from Sicilian roots to the pinnacle of the artisan food scene. Alan's story is the winding path of a true craftsman. He recounts how a passion for food, first sparked at college dinner parties, led him away from a conventional path and into the demanding world of artisan bakeries. From the gritty, creative scene of early 90s Portland to mentored apprenticeships in Arizona and Michigan, he learned a foundational lesson that would define his career: there is a profound difference between doing things the easy way and doing them the right way. This episode charts Alan's remarkable ascent from baker to partner to renowned proprietor. After helping build the iconic Ken's Artisan Pizza into a Portland institution, he and his wife and business partner, Shan, took the leap to create their own legacy with Rally Pizza. But it's their journey through the pandemic and beyond that offers the most powerful lessons in resilience. Alan details the brilliant and strategic pivot of keeping the Rally Pizza brand alive as a permanent pop-up inside a local brewery after closing their original location. Simultaneously, he shares the story of realizing a long-held dream: transforming the Lucky Horseshoe Lounge, a quirky Portland dive bar, into a vibrant, nostalgic Italian-American hub. Discover the artful balance of preserving the soul of a beloved local haunt while infusing it with an elevated menu of red-sauce classics, inventive cocktails, and the warm spirit of his San Francisco upbringing. This is a story about building a business—and a life—with intention, integrity, and the people you love. Alan speaks candidly about the power of family, with both his wife and daughter playing integral roles in their operations, and the importance of empowering his team through partnership. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the patience of craft, the wisdom of strategic pivots, and the enduring joy of sharing great food with a cherished community.   IG: @luckyhorseshouloungeportland Address: https://www.luckyhorseshoeportland.com/  Location: 2524 SE Clinton St., Portland, OR 97202   IG: @rallypizza Address: www.rallypizza.com  Location: 2905 St Johns Blvd, Vancouver, WA   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

What happens when the soulful rhythm of Music City gets infused into the sizzle of a burger grill? In this captivating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Daniel Frazier, Director of Operations for the Nashville institution, The Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden, for a fascinating conversation about the powerful synergy between music, creativity, and hospitality. Daniel shares his remarkable and unconventional journey, revealing that his original path was not in food, but in music. A lifelong musician raised in the orbit of Nashville's legendary industry, he saw his future on a stage, not in a kitchen. But when a part-time job as a server at The Pharmacy became an unexpected calling, he discovered that the principles of performance, passion, and connecting with an audience were the perfect ingredients for a career in hospitality. This is the story of an organic ascent into leadership. Daniel recounts how he rose from server to the head of the company not by design, but by consistently stepping up, earning the trust of his team, and finding his purpose amidst the chaos of a busy restaurant. He provides a masterclass on how skills learned in one creative field can become a superpower in another, framing the restaurant experience as a "performance that's edible." The episode serves as a love letter to Nashville itself, exploring how the city's creative heartbeat fuels its thriving food scene. Daniel explains that his staff is filled with musicians and artists, creating a unique, high-energy culture that translates directly into an unforgettable guest experience. He pulls back the curtain on The Pharmacy's formula for success: a relentless focus on elevating the familiar with unique, high-quality ingredients—from locally-baked buns and house-made sodas to their award-winning, in-house sausages. Tune in for an inspiring look at the intersection of art and commerce. This is more than a story about a successful burger joint; it's a testament to the power of a city's culture, the importance of a people-first leadership style, and the magic that happens when a musician finds a new stage.   IG: @thepharmacynashille   Location: Nashville Airport [BNA] 1 Terminal Dr, Nashville, TN 37214 Location: Assembly Food Hall 5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 Location: East Nash 731 Mcferrin Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events and Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

How does a successful marketing professional with three cookbooks and a viral men's grilling club end up starting over from scratch? And what if that painful reset is the only path to finding your true purpose? This powerful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show brings you the incredible story of Jesse Valenciana, the "accidental restaurateur" and creative visionary behind Nashville's Secret Bodega. Host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Jesse for a raw and inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the profound impact of community. Jesse pulls back the curtain on his unconventional journey, which began in Chicago with "ManBQue," a tongue-in-cheek grilling club that became an unlikely culinary incubator and media sensation, landing him two cookbook deals after a fateful encounter. But with success came burnout, and a devastating personal loss forced him to re-evaluate everything. This led him to make a life-altering move to Nashville, where he discovered a completely different kind of food scene. This is a masterclass in community over competition. Jesse contrasts the guarded, scarcity mindset he knew in Chicago with the radical collaboration he found in Nashville, where chefs like Julio Hernandez of Maiz De La Vida didn't see a competitor, but a brother in arms, offering up his own food truck to help Jesse get started. You'll hear the trial-by-fire story of Secret Bodega's launch inside the Pearl Diver bar, where Jesse's inherited team "jumped ship" at the last minute, forcing him to build his dream from the ground up, alone. Discover how he crafted a menu that is a true culinary autobiography—a nostalgic, innovative, and deeply personal reflection of his Chicago-Mexican heritage, filled with playful and critically acclaimed dishes that led to him winning Nashville's "Burger Week." This episode is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the greatest opportunities are born from the deepest struggles. It's an unforgettable story about the grit it takes to start over and the magic that happens when a passionate entrepreneur finds the right community to call home.   IG: @thesecretbodega IG: @jessevalenciana IG: @pearldiver_nashville   Book: Birrias: 65 Recipes from Traditional to Modern Book: Eat Street: The ManBQue Guide to Making Street Food at Home Book: ManBQue: Meat. Beer. Rock and Roll.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this powerhouse episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Micha Magid, the strategic mind behind the New York City barbecue institution, Mighty Quinn's Barbeque. This is a masterclass in how an unlikely team—a Wall Street financier, a classically trained chef, and a seasoned operational expert—joined forces to build a barbecue empire in one of the world's most competitive markets. Micha shares his unique journey, detailing his decision to leave the high-stakes world of investment banking and hedge funds to team up with his stepbrother, Chef Hugh Mangum, and brother-in-law, Christos. He recounts the brand's origin as an "insanely popular" pop-up at Brooklyn's outdoor markets, a crucial proof of concept that de-risked their leap into a brick-and-mortar restaurant. What followed was a meteoric rise: just three months after opening their flagship East Village location, Mighty Quinn's landed a glowing cover story in the New York Times dining section—a moment Micha likens to "winning the Oscars for a new restaurant." This conversation is packed with invaluable insights on how to scale a food business the right way. Micha breaks down their strategic approach to growth, from their flexible, non-cookie-cutter location models—ranging from a 650-square-foot express shop on Wall Street to a full-service bar in the suburbs—to their organic expansion into franchising, which began with an unexpected request to bring the brand to Dubai. Throughout the episode, Micha emphasizes that for Mighty Quinn's, the greatest innovation is consistency. In the notoriously difficult world of barbecue, the team's relentless focus on perfecting their craft and executing it flawlessly across every location is their ultimate competitive advantage. For any entrepreneur dreaming of scaling their concept, this is an unmissable look at the discipline, strategy, and teamwork required to build a brand that not only succeeds but endures.   IG: @mightyquinnsbbq Address: https://www.mightyquinnsbbq.com/    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

This powerful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show is a masterclass in resilience, redemption, and the unbreakable spirit of a true entrepreneur. Host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Johnny Yarusi, the founder of the New Jersey institution Johnny's Pork Roll and Coffee Too, for a raw, authentic, and deeply moving conversation about building a beloved brand from the ashes of a life turned upside down. Johnny takes listeners on his incredible journey, starting from a moment of absolute crisis. He recounts a period where he faced a perfect storm of personal and professional collapse: his successful advertising agency imploded, a hurricane devastated his world, his father passed away, and his marriage ended. Left with nothing and unable to find a job, he found himself working as a barista for $10 an hour, a humbling fall that became the unlikely launchpad for his next chapter. Discover how, fueled by prayer and a deep-seated desire to create, Johnny channeled his energy into a singular vision: to celebrate and elevate New Jersey’s most iconic comfort food. With just $5,000, he bought a beat-up Grumman truck from under a bridge, built it out himself, and hit the streets. He shares the unfiltered stories of the early days—the hustle, the grind, and getting chased by the police—all while building a grassroots following one delicious pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich at a time. This episode goes far beyond business tactics. It’s a profound exploration of what it means to build a brand with soul. Johnny discusses his transition from a scrappy food truck to a beloved brick-and-mortar community hub, and the challenges of scaling while maintaining the quality and passion that started it all. He and Justin delve into the spiritual nature of hospitality, framing the act of feeding people as a sacred trust and a platform for creating connection and positive impact. This is a story about second chances. It’s about how the darkest moments can forge an unbreakable purpose, and how a simple, nostalgic food, when prepared with love and integrity, can become a symbol of hope and community. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation that is packed with hard-earned wisdom, grit, and a powerful reminder that sometimes, you have to lose everything to find out what truly matters.   IG: @porkrolltruck Address: www.johnnyporkroll.com  Location: 8A Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this deeply inspiring episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Tiffani Neal, the passionate founder of Atlanta-based Barlow's Foods. Tiffani shares the incredible story of how she transformed a tribute to her grandfather's agricultural legacy into a thriving food brand, celebrated for its "Better for You" pancake, biscuit, and waffle mix and its award-winning line of seasonal syrups. This is a masterclass in resilience and resourcefulness. Tiffani recounts her scrappy beginnings, from leaving samples on neighborhood porches to chasing down joggers on the Atlanta Beltline with freshly made pancakes just to get her product into people's hands. The conversation delves into one of the biggest hurdles for any CPG founder: production. Tiffani gets candid about her frustrating search for a co-packer, facing impossible minimums and a lack of care that clashed with her vision. Discover why this challenge became a blessing in disguise, leading her to take control of her own production, a decision that has allowed her to maintain impeccable quality and scale on her own terms. The episode beautifully captures the serendipity of entrepreneurship. You'll hear the story of how the brand's now-famous syrups were born by accident at a pop-up event, when a last-minute, homemade peach concoction unexpectedly stole the show. This very syrup would go on to win the Grand Prize at the prestigious "Flavor of Georgia" competition, beating over 250 other brands and catapulting Barlow Foods into major retailers like The Fresh Market. Tiffani’s journey is a powerful lesson in building a brand with heart. It’s about listening to your customers, staying true to your commitment to clean and simple ingredients, and finding the perfect balance between comforting, traditional foods and a healthier lifestyle. Join us for an engaging conversation that proves that with enough passion, grit, and creativity, you can build a household name from the ground up.   IG: @barlowsfoods Address: www.barlowsfoods.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarlowsFoods/  Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffaninealceobarlowsfoods/    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this raw and fiery episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Texas Pitmaster Alan Curtis for an unfiltered look into the high-stakes, high-heat world of Texas barbecue. This isn't just a story about food; it's a story of grit, humility, and the relentless competitive drive it takes to achieve mastery. Alan shares his incredible journey, from bouncing between jobs to finding his calling in the smoke-filled pit rooms of Fort Worth. He recounts his trial-by-fire beginnings—working 80-hour weeks only to get fired, a humbling moment that ignited a lifelong fire to be the best. This experience became the fuel for his obsession, propelling him on a path from apprentice to a leader in the barbecue game. The conversation takes you right into the heart of the pit room. Alan gives a masterclass on what it takes to operate at an elite level, from managing ten pits at once to the meticulous, "psycho" level of detail required to treat each of the 180 briskets he cooks on a Saturday as its own individual masterpiece. He reveals that the secret to his growth has been a constant quest for feedback, learning from every mistake, and an obsessive dedication to daily improvement. Now a key player at the legendary The Original Roy Hutchins Barbecue, Alan discusses being part of a team that shares his ambition and values. He provides a fascinating look at how they're scaling excellence, preparing to be the official barbecue for the Texas Motor Speedway, and opening new locations, all while fostering a tight-knit culture where everyone is treated like family. This episode is a powerful testament to the fact that in the world of barbecue, competition and camaraderie are two sides of the same coin. It’s about wanting to respectfully "kick the ass" of every other Pitmaster while simultaneously building up the people around you. For Alan, the ultimate legacy isn't just cooking great food; it's living by the creed: "A chef is only as good as the chefs he leaves behind." Tune in for an inspiring and deeply authentic conversation about what it truly means to dedicate your life to a craft.   IG: @something_bbq IG: @royhutchinsbbq Address: https://www.royhutchinsbbq.com/  Location: 3000 TX-114, Trophy Club, TX, 76262   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this captivating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Matthew Osman Sr. of Blinky's Offset BBQ for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable journey from the farms of Miami to the competitive barbecue scene. Matthew shares the foundational experiences that shaped his path, starting with his childhood summers spent on his grandfather's hog and crop farm in the Florida panhandle. He offers a vivid picture of farm life, from learning the agricultural process firsthand to understanding the full cycle of farm-to-table before it was a trend. This early immersion in food continued in his parents' Subway franchises, where from a young age, he was exposed to the inner workings of a restaurant, from back-of-house operations to the importance of the fresh-baked bread that defines the brand. Listeners will follow Matthew's entrepreneurial evolution, which began not in food, but in the automotive industry as a 19-year-old co-owner of a Line-X spray-on bedliner franchise. He discusses the invaluable, real-world business lessons learned from this venture and the profound impact of mentorship from figures like former Miami Dolphin Jim Mandich, who instilled in him the principle of "paying it forward." The conversation then navigates through Matthew's transition back into the food and beverage industry, detailing his experiences in the demanding hotel sector, including a memorable stint at the Renaissance Hotel in Nashville. He shares candid stories about the challenges of working within a large corporate structure, the humbling process of going from business owner to employee, and fighting for his job by meticulously studying the company handbook. Matthew provides a transparent account of his subsequent entrepreneurial endeavors, including opening a Giardino Gourmet Salads franchise with his sister. He breaks down the critical lessons learned about the importance of location, the complexities of expanding a franchise into a new market, and the frustrations of clashing with a franchisor that was unwilling to adapt to a different customer base. Finally, the discussion turns to his current passion, Blinky's Offset BBQ. Matthew delves into the nitty-gritty of running a barbecue business, from the meticulous process of perfecting his brisket to the difficult decisions surrounding food costs and pricing. He explains the concept of yield in barbecue, the financial realities of using commodity versus locally sourced meats, and his unwavering commitment to quality, even if it means taking an item off the menu for the day. He emphasizes his "In-N-Out Burger approach" of perfecting a smaller menu and the importance of allowing customers to sample his food to drive sales. Whether you're an aspiring food entrepreneur, a barbecue aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates a story of resilience and passion, this episode is packed with inspiration, hard-won wisdom, and practical advice on navigating the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss the chance to learn from Matthew's unique experiences. You can find him and Blinky's Offset Barbecue on Facebook at Blinky's Offset BBQ and on Instagram at @BlinkysOffsetBBQ__   IG: @blinkysoffsetbbq__   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Sage Houser, the creative force behind Portland's Grey Horse Saloon and the acclaimed Third Coast Dogs. Sage takes us on a deeply personal journey, from his roots as an eighth-generation Texan growing up in New York to overcoming significant adversity and finding his calling as a celebrated food entrepreneur. He shares how early experiences with food insecurity shaped his profound connection to food as a source of comfort and security, sparking a lifelong passion for culinary creativity. Dive into Sage's story as he recounts the challenges of his youth in San Antonio, navigating a difficult environment, and finding stability and purpose in the kitchen. After a series of setbacks, a pivotal move to Portland, Oregon, marked a turning point, saving his life and setting the stage for his entrepreneurial dreams. The real catalyst, however, came after a serious motorcycle accident left him bedridden for months. It was during this forced hiatus that he fully committed to developing his long-held concept for a unique hot dog venture. Discover the mission at the heart of Third Coast Dogs: to deliver accessible, innovative, and deeply satisfying culinary experiences. Sage explains his unique "Texas-style" hot dog concept, which is not about a single regional style, but a reflection of the diverse cultural melting pot of his home state. Each hot dog is a chapter of his story, named after a Texas city and inspired by its flavors, from the best-selling "El Paso" with green salsa and cilantro ranch to the "San Antonio," featuring black mole and crushed Takis. Learn how he masterfully combines nostalgia with novel flavor profiles, creating memorable and "bizarre" toppings that encourage customers to step out of their comfort zones. Sage also details his commitment to inclusivity and quality, designing a menu where every item can be made vegan without sacrificing the experience, and strategically partnering with suppliers to keep his gourmet creations affordable. He shares the incredible story of how his pop-up gained instant notoriety after a visit from food influencer and "The Simpsons" writer, Bill Oakley, and how a viral video later transformed his business overnight, creating lines down the block. Whether you're a food enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, Sage Houser's journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, the importance of community, and the unifying magic of comfort food. His story is a compelling example of how passion, hard work, and a clear vision can turn a pop-up in a motorcycle garage into a culinary destination.   IG: @greyhorsesaloon  IG: @thirdcoastdogspdx Location: 2227 SE 7th Ave, Portland, Oregon.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this special Fourth of July episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with author and entrepreneur Josh Kosnick for a powerful conversation about hitting rock bottom and finding redemption and the true purpose in our calling as one nation under GOD. This isn't just a story about business; it's a raw and honest account of losing a massive financial empire and rebuilding a life of true, eternal impact. Josh shares the incredible story behind his new book, "The Kairos Code: Discover Your Purpose, Tap into High Performance, and Become a Leader of Eternal Impact." He recounts the pivotal moment that changed everything: after being terminated from the financial asset management firm he grew, that was managing $4 Billion in financial assets, he was faced with boxes of his belongings—trophies, accolades, and awards. He realized with gut-wrenching clarity that in his darkest hour, these symbols of worldly success offered zero comfort. The only thing that mattered was his faith and his family. This epiphany became the foundation for his Five Bridges concept, a transformative framework for living a truly fulfilled life, which he unpacks in detail: The Spiritual Bridge: Putting God and purpose first, before all else. The Internal Bridge: The necessity of working on yourself—mentally, physically, and emotionally—not as a selfish act, but as a prerequisite to serving others effectively. The Relationship Bridge: The choice to prioritize the people who matter most, understanding that deep connections, not accolades, are the true fruit of life. The Environment Bridge: Aligning your professional and financial life with your unique, God-given gifts to find joy and meaning in your work. The Legacy Bridge: Redefining legacy not as what you leave behind, but what you build every single day through your interactions and the impact you have on others. Josh also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the monumental effort and mission behind his upcoming book launch and live event at his Five Bridges Farm. He's bringing in world-class speakers, not for a typical "pitchfest," but for an immersive experience designed to genuinely change lives, even at a significant financial cost to himself. This episode is a profound reminder that true independence isn't found in financial success or public acclaim, but in the freedom that comes from building your life on a foundation of faith, family, and purpose. Celebrate the spirit of the 4th of July with a story that will challenge you, inspire you, and guide you toward discovering your own eternal impact.   IG: @joshkosnick Book: The Kairos Code: Discover Your Purpose, Tap into High Performance, and Become a Leader of Eternal Impact Address: www.joshkosnick.com  Bridge Builder Live: https://www.joshkosnick.com/bridgebuilderlive    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: Under [NEW] Construction Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this high-octane episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro sits down with Brandon Grazier, the battle-tested founder and visionary behind the explosive new beverage brand, A-Bomb Energy. This isn't just another energy drink story; it's a journey forged in the crucible of the US Army’s elite Special Operations medic course—a program with a higher washout rate than the Navy SEALs. Brandon shares his incredible story, from growing up in Germany to dedicating his life to the military. He reveals how the intense demands of his medical and tactical training pipeline became the unlikely birthplace for A-Bomb Energy. Faced with extreme mental and physical exhaustion, he began researching and using nootropics—powerful brain-boosting supplements—to gain a cognitive edge. Using the same meticulous approach he learned for studying medical journals, he developed a potent, scientifically-backed formula that paired pure, filler-free nootropics with caffeine for maximum effect. Discover the "A-Bomb difference" as Brandon breaks down the science behind his drink. He explains why his commitment to using correctly-dosed, high-quality ingredients like Alpha-GPC and L-Theanine creates a uniquely clean and powerful cognitive enhancement, setting his product apart from a market filled with under-dosed formulas. This episode is also a masterclass in community building. Brandon unpacks the brilliant guerrilla marketing tactics he used to build a loyal following, including creating a successful car documentary channel on YouTube to attract an audience before ever selling a can. He explains how he translated the human-to-human interaction skills he learned in Civil Affairs into a radical commitment to customer connection, fostering an incredibly passionate community of "A-bombadeers" who are now collaborating and supporting each other. Join Justin and Brandon for a deep dive into the relentless grind of entrepreneurship, the power of a mission-driven brand, and the story of how an elite soldier transformed a personal survival tool into one of the most exciting new products in the beverage industry. This is a must-listen for any entrepreneur who believes in quality, community, and the explosive power of a well-executed vision.   IG: @abombenergy   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this intense and unfiltered solo episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro puts the entrepreneurial mindset under the microscope, delivering a powerful wake-up call on the critical subjects of confidence, validation, and financial dependency. This is not a gentle chat; it's a direct and passionate challenge to every business owner feeling stuck, seeking approval, or blaming the world for their struggles. Drawing from his own hard-won experience and observations from coaching hundreds of entrepreneurs, Justin gets brutally honest about the psychological traps that hold business owners captive. He confronts the detrimental cycle of craving external validation—whether from social media, industry peers, or online reviews—and questions why successful entrepreneurs with loyal, paying customers still lack the confidence to believe in their own work. He argues that this endless and exhausting pursuit of approval from others is a direct path to burnout and financial distress. Justin lays down a hard truth: if your business has money problems, the issue isn't the economy or your staff—it's you. He calls on entrepreneurs to take radical responsibility for their decisions, break their unhealthy and dependent relationship with money, and stop the blame game. He sharply redefines what it means to be a true entrepreneur, distinguishing it from simply being a business person. For Justin, an entrepreneur is a leader who grows the world around them, creates opportunities for others, and builds a legacy of positive impact. This episode is a call to action. It’s for anyone ready to stop looking outward for approval and start building their confidence from within. It’s about taking ownership, finding your purpose, and creating a business that is not only profitable but is a true reflection of your strongest, most authentic self. Tune in for a dose of tough love that will inspire you to level up your mindset and your business.   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

Welcome to a deeply moving episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, where your host Justin Bizzarro explores the profound connection between entrepreneurship and a higher calling. This episode bridges the worlds of business and faith, illustrating how entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to create a lasting impact on communities across the globe. Justin is joined by a very special guest, Victor Odongo, whose incredible life story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of a divine purpose. Victor shares his journey from a humble childhood in Kenya—marked by poverty and the loss of his father, but rich in the unwavering faith of his single mother—to becoming a student of faith-based leadership in the United States. He recounts the stark cultural and spiritual contrasts he faced upon moving to Europe, where the emptiness of magnificent, yet vacant, churches in Sweden and the Netherlands solidified his calling. Listen as Victor describes the pivotal moments that led him to pursue a Master of Divinity in Leadership at Denver Seminary. It was a journey of quitting a comfortable job and taking a massive leap of faith to follow the call he received as a young boy from missionaries in his village. He and Justin discuss the critical role of sound theological education in a world where misinterpretations of scripture can lead to tragedy, and how true leadership is about service, empathy, and encouragement, as exemplified by Jesus. This conversation is a powerful exploration of how faith serves as an anchor and a guiding force, not just in ministry but in all aspects of leadership, including business. Victor shares his perspective on prayer as a vital, daily communication with God, a source of strength that fuels his mission to inspire, motivate, and uplift others. His goal is to plant churches and build communities, starting in Sweden, to bring hope and fellowship to a spiritually hungry world. This episode will challenge you to see the everyday miracles in your own life, to recognize the importance of taking risks to follow your purpose, and to understand the immense responsibility and opportunity that comes with being a leader. Prepare to be inspired by Victor Odongo's incredible story of perseverance and his unwavering commitment to living a life of purpose with God.   IG: @vickieodongo IG: @denverseminary Address: www.denverseminary.edu  Location: 6399 South Sante Fe Drive, Littleton, CO 80120   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this powerhouse episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro welcomes back the unstoppable Brandyn Powell, the man, the brand, and the legend behind California's iconic Oh My Burger. Get ready for a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and what it truly means to build a brand from the ground up, because Brandyn’s journey is one for the books. Brandyn rewinds the clock to his days at Sprint, where feeling undervalued ignited a fire in him to create something of his own. What started with legendary house parties where his burgers became the main event, quickly evolved into a brick-and-mortar reality. But the path to success was paved with immense personal and professional challenges. Brandyn opens up about the difficult transition to becoming the sole owner of the business following a divorce, a moment that forced him to pivot from his dreams of expansion to the critical work of solidifying his foundation. Instead of franchising, he made the strategic decision to invest in his brand, developing custom packaging and perfecting his flagship location. This episode is packed with actionable insights for any entrepreneur. Brandyn pulls back the curtain on his significant menu overhaul, a direct response to customer feedback about affordability in a tough economy. He reveals how he used a food cost calculator to introduce incredible value meals—like a $7 double cheeseburger made with fresh, never-frozen steak patties—without sacrificing an ounce of the quality his brand is known for. He also shares the story of bringing back a fan-favorite, fried Oreos, a powerful lesson in listening to your customers. The innovation doesn't stop there. Brandyn details the brilliant launch of Oh My Taco, a ghost kitchen concept run from his existing restaurant that utilizes the same ingredients to create a distinct, in-demand menu available for delivery. It’s a genius move to maximize revenue with minimal overhead. But the real secret sauce? Brandyn himself. He discusses the evolution of his personal brand, @OhMyBrandyn, and how he's leveraging it to connect with his audience on a deeper level. Through his new venture, Oh My Movie Productions, he's creating short films that tell a story, making customers want to support not just a burger joint, but the passionate, creative, and resilient person behind it. Brandyn’s story is a raw and honest look at the entrepreneurial grind. He proves that true success isn’t just about the food; it’s about grounding your business in core values, having the courage to pivot, and building a brand that is as authentic and resilient as you are. Tune in to hear how Brandyn turned trials into triumphs and continues to build his "Oh My" empire, one epic meal at a time.   Find and support Brandyn and his businesses: Location: 2142 W El Segundo Blvd, Gardena, CA 90249 Website: www.ohmyburger.com Instagram: @ohmyburger | @ohmybrandyn   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

Welcome to an exciting and flavorful episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show! Host Justin Bizzarro is joined by the passionate and inventive Luke Lenz, the founder of Papa Caps Foods. Luke takes us on his spicy journey, which began with a childhood love for hot foods sparked by his prankster aunt who would challenge him to spicy eating contests. This early inspiration ignited a passion that eventually led to the creation of his unique hot sauce company. Dive into the imaginative world of Papa Caps Foods as Luke reveals that his brand is more than just about hot sauce; it's an "experience company." Drawing inspiration from his fascination with alternate reality games, he infuses a sense of adventure and challenge into his brand. Discover the intricate stories and characters he's crafted for each of his sauces, like the "Sweet Reaper," born from a tale of a soul-stealing reaper, and his best-selling "Caribbean Lime," a happy accident that became a fan favorite. Luke’s creative process extends to developing sauces that are not only flavorful but also cater to various dietary needs, with a focus on creating both sweet and savory options. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the entrepreneurial grind. Luke shares his experiences starting under cottage food laws and navigating the complexities of licensing to sell across state lines. He emphasizes the incredible sense of community and mentorship within the hot sauce industry, crediting fellow creators from Gindo's Hot Sauce, Mikey V's Foods, and Angry Irishman for their guidance and support. He also opens up about the challenges of balancing a full-time job with his growing business, the risk of burnout, and the invaluable lessons learned from his business coach about working smarter, not just harder. Whether you're a die-hard chilihead, an aspiring food entrepreneur, or just someone who loves a great story, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to get a taste of the exciting and expanding world of craft hot sauces and learn about the creativity, perseverance, and community that fuel a brand like Papa Caps Foods.   IG: @papacapsfoods Address: www.papacapsfoods.com    Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.

In this captivating episode of the JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Show, host Justin Bizzarro delves into the intricate dynamics of food entrepreneurship. Join him as he explores the profound impact of emotional intelligence and the importance of crafting meaningful connections in the culinary world. Special guest Monica Mangiarulo shares her inspiring journey, highlighting the challenges and rewards of reigniting her food business passion. Discover the unique blend of cultures and flavors she brings to her cafe, Bell'Aroma and how she navigates the complexities of maintaining a positive and energetic vibe even in the face of adversity. This episode is a compelling exploration of the core values and legacy-building that drive entrepreneurs to create spaces filled with love, creativity, and resilience. Listen in to learn about the essence of GorillaBrave’s mission and how Monica tackles the evolving trends in the food industry.   IG: @bell.aromacafe Location: 711 N Carancahua St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401   Entrepreneur interested in being on the show: https://calendly.com/justin-bizzarro/podcast   Hosted By: Justin Ryan Bizzarro (IG: @justinbizzarro and LinkedIn: FOLLOW ME )   Who is Justin Ryan Bizzarro? – Justin Bizzarro is a serial food, restaurant, technology, media and marketing entrepreneur, who helped build a 24-year-old group of food and restaurant related businesses, he created with his father and business partners out of his family’s basement, in 1998. He is a highly desired business management, personal and athlete growth, free market, food diversity, and entrepreneurial leadership speaker. Justin’s expertise are in human growth, motivation, leadership and management development, health foods and beverages, global lean manufacturing facilities, vertically integrating businesses, food marketing and advertising, supply chain creation and management, direct to consumer fulfillment, transportation and distribution, personal brand building, restaurant development and construction, and entrepreneur acceleration. Justin received his BA in International Business and Management from Dickinson College, in 2002, and his MBA from University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, in 2014. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity in Leadership from Denver Seminary. His leadership and entrepreneur podcasts have positively impacted millions of people across the globe.   Our [ELITE] Food, Farming, Hospitality, Nutrition, and Beverage Entrepreneurs Community: www.gorillabrave.love  Blog Anyone?: GorillaBrave Blog Fellowship and Food: GorillaBrave Events & Summits Private [FREE and CONFIDENTIAL] Facebook Group: GorillaBrave Troop Group Facebook Business Page: The Gorilla Face Place On Instagram: GorillaBrave on Instagram The Apparel Store: GorillaBrave Drips Wanna Link Up: GorillaBrave on Linkedin GorillaBrave Group on Whoop: COMM-473D96   Free Podcast.  No Advertisements.  The stories of Food, Beverage, Farming, Hospitality, and Nutrition Entrepreneurs and how their failures led to the successes in their lives and in their business.  What does the future have in store for the food, beverage, and nutrition entrepreneur?   JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS Email: [email protected] Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.