Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast
We teach restaurants and pizzerias how to use social media to grow their business. With our Podcast-Social Media Courses- Mastermind-Live Shows and much more. Visit www.Smartpizzamarketing.com to see how we can help you. Interviews with pizza entrepreneurs and marketing experts.
Episodes
615: He Started a Pizza Shop With No Experience. Now He Has 45 Employees.
Dan opened Violent Stone in St. Petersburg without a background in pizza or restaurants. What started as a small idea is now a busy Philly-inspired pizza and cheesesteak shop with 45 employees, a packed kitchen, and another location on the way.We walk through the whole operation, talk dough, the layout, labor, margins, why they got rid of servers after 30 days, and what it really takes to grow wit
615: He Opened a Pizza Shop With Zero Experience. Now They Do 200+ Pizzas a Night
SPM PRO: https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com/pro/What does it take to build a pizza shop that does 200+ pizzas on a busy night when you've never worked in a restaurant?In this episode, we visit Pie Trap in Covina, California, where owner John started with zero restaurant experience and built a high-volume pizza business from the ground up. No family pizza shop. No industry background. Just a c
614: Inside One of San Francisco's Best Square Pizza Shops - Square Pie Guys
This week we're visiting Square Pie Guys in San Francisco.We walk through the restaurant, talk about how the business grew from pop-ups to three locations, why consistency matters more than a huge menu, and the systems that make expansion possible.We also get into:Growing from one shop to multiple locationsTraining and delegationBuilding a recognizable brandKitchen layout and workflowMenu stra
613: How to Get Customers Off DoorDash and Ordering Direct From Your Pizza Shop
What happens when you buy a struggling pizza shop in a great location?In this episode of How You Slice It, I sit down with Gus from Township Line Pizza outside Philadelphia. We talk about how he turned the business around by focusing on consistency, making better food, using local influencers the right way, and getting customers to order direct instead of relying on third-party delivery apps.Chees
612: He Was Doing $55K a Month... and Still Losing Money
SPM PRO: Most pizza shop owners think more sales will solve their problems. But after spending time inside this Miami pizza shop, it became clear that sales weren't the issue.In this episode, we break down what was really holding this business back, why relying too heavily on third-party apps can hurt your growth, and what I'd do differently if I were in his shoes.We also talk about:Why he
611: Why Growing Too Fast Almost Broke This Pizza Business and What He Learned From It
What does it really take to build a successful pizza business that lasts nearly two decades?In this episode, we tour one of Dallas' most unique pizza operations and sit down with owner Sammy to discuss the realities of restaurant ownership, leadership, growth, failure, culture, technology, and building a high-volume operation from scratch.Sammy shares how he opened his first location at 24 yea
610: Why Danny Boys Pizza Finally Cracked the Code on Running a Profitable Pizzeria
In this episode, we sit down with a passionate pizza shop owner who opens up about the brutal realities of the restaurant business, surviving COVID, scaling operations, managing employees, and finally building a restaurant that actually works.From losing money on delivery apps to learning how to structure teams, pricing, quality control, and leadership, this conversation is packed with real-world
609: Inside a 600-Pie-a-Day Pizza Shop: Systems, Standards, and Brutal Attention to Detail
Apply for SPM PRO: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/spmpro/What does it really take to run a high-volume pizza shop and scale it without losing your soul or your ownership?In this episode, we go behind the scenes of a thriving pizzeria where details matter, culture drives everything, and growth is intentional. From daily walkthroughs and quality control to building emotional connections through som
608: This Vegas Pizza Shop Quietly Built a $2M Business in a Neighborhood Plaza
In this episode, the owners of Rebellion Pizza break down how they built a thriving neighborhood pizza business in Las Vegas by focusing on quality, consistency, culture, and community. They share the realities of operating in a tiny footprint, surviving insane early growth, creating systems, hiring strong people, and expanding the right way.
607: Pizza Expo Worth It? Answering Your Questions
Apply to join SPM PRO: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/spmpro/
606: $19 Minimum Wage Is Crushing Restaurants. Here’s How This Pizza Owner Is Still Profitable
Join SPM PRO: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/spmpro/In this episode, Bruce sits down with Matt, a pizza shop owner who built a thriving business in the Seattle area and scaled it to over $1.3M in annual sales. They dive into real marketing strategies, leadership lessons, hiring challenges, and how COVID forced a complete shift in product, operations, and community positioning.Matt shares how he w
605: Why Great Pizza Isn’t Enough: The Marketing Struggles of a Pizza Shop Owner
Smartpizzamarketing.com/spmproA pizza shop owner shares what it’s really like trying to grow a pizzeria today. We talk about buying a pizza shop two weeks before COVID, rebuilding a damaged brand, and why marketing is harder than making great pizza.We also dive into social media, posting pizza content, email marketing, and the simple strategies pizza shop owners can use to get more customers.
604: Stop Making Skits and Start Selling Pizza: The Content Strategy That Actually Works
In this solo episode, Bruce breaks down the biggest marketing mistakes he’s seeing after dozens of onboarding calls with pizza operators across the country. If you’re struggling to grow, get traction, or compete with DoorDash and Uber Eats, this episode is your wake-up call.You are not just in the pizza business. You are in the attention business.
I Visited 75 Pizzerias in 12 Months and Discovered a Massive Problem
After visiting 75 pizza shops in person over the last 12 months, I noticed something surprising. It did not matter if the owner had one location or fifteen. They all felt like they were making decisions alone.In this episode, I talk about why running a pizza business can feel isolating, why even family partners often do not understand the pressure, and why I decided to bring back SPM Pro Mastermin
603: Helping The Humble Oven Scale: Marketing & Strategy Advice for a Pizzeria
In this episode, we sit down with Mason, owner of a unique pasta-forward pizzeria operating out of a compact 450 sq ft space inside a public market. Mason shares how his team combines Neapolitan-style pizza with house-made pasta, all while maintaining QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) speed and consistency. He also opens up about a major business rebrand and partnership fallout in the early stages. I
Why This LA Slice Shop Only Sells Squares in 1,000 SQ Foot Shop. (Video)
Step inside Old Gold, a square-slice Sicilian-style pizza shop quietly taking over Hollywood Blvd — without PR, hype, or a massive footprint. In just 1,000 square feet, they’ve built a cult following with crispy-edged slices, a throwback vibe, and smart business moves.In this episode, we talk with the owner about how Old Gold went from pandemic bread pop-ups to a neighborhood fixture, why not goin
602: If You're Banking on Portnoy, You're Already in Trouble
In this solo episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, Bruce shares two powerful topics every pizzeria owner needs to hear: the hidden dangers of chasing social media fame (looking at you, Portnoy) and when it’s actually time to shut down your restaurant. Plus, he recaps his experience at the LA Pizza Alliance—where dozens of shops united for a cause. Raw, real, and deeply practical for any pi
601: He Built a Thriving Pizza Pop-Up for $2K — Here's How You Can Too
Thinking of starting a pizza pop-up? Jeremy from Gabacool Provisions breaks down how he built a successful California-based pop-up pizza business with just over $2,000. We cover everything from startup costs, health permits, equipment, daily operations, and even surviving California's strict food laws.Whether you're a pizza fan, aspiring pop-up operator, or just curious what it's like
600: 7 Pizza Shops That Changed How I Think About the Business
🎉 Welcome to the 600th episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast! In this special edition, Bruce takes you behind the scenes of the most memorable pizzerias he visited in 2025. These aren’t just great pizza spots — they’re masterclasses in community, craft, and unique operations. Whether you're a pizza lover or business owner, you're going to walk away inspired.
599: Bruce Told Geoff the Truth About His Pizza Shop Plan — And He’s Still All In
Geoff is leaving the tech world behind to open a wood-fired pizza shop in Ellicott City, Maryland — and he’s putting everything on the line to make it work. In this brutally honest consultation, Bruce (Smart Pizza Marketing) challenges his assumptions, reviews his business plan, and digs deep into whether this dream is built to last. From rent, to oven choice, to carryout strategy — nothing is off
598: What’s Coming in 2026: Pizza Tours, Free Marketing Help & Why YouTube Is King
In this episode, Bruce reveals the exciting plans for 2026, including his monthly travel schedule to pizzerias across the U.S., the return of marketing call episodes, and a major push on YouTube. He also discusses why most pizza shop owners struggle with marketing — and what to do about it. If you're a pizzeria owner looking for inspiration, strategy, and accountability, this is your episode.
The Pizza Shop Blueprint: How to Make Money and Have a Life
Work with us: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/consulting/Thinking about opening a pizza shop in 2026? Bruce has been in the business for 25+ years, visited over 100 pizza shops in 2025, and interviewed 700+ people in the pizza world. In this video, he shares the exact blueprint he’d follow if he were opening a new shop today. From choosing your pizza style to avoiding delivery and building in publ
589: The #1 Reason Your Staff Doesn’t Listen (And How to Fix It Immediately)
Are you constantly repeating yourself to your team? Frustrated that no one seems to retain what you teach? In this episode, Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing breaks down the real reason why employees don’t follow through—and the mindset shift that will change everything for your pizza shop (or any business). Inspired by a conversation with Andy from Andy’s Pizza, this short but powerful episode is
588: Pizza Shop Search Update, Lessons from Andy’s Pizza & Why I Launched PizzaShopListings.com
In this solo episode, I share what I’ve learned after visiting over 10 pizza shops, why I walked away from two potential deals, how Andy’s Pizza is scaling without investors, and why I created PizzaShopListings.com — a new resource to buy and sell pizza shops. Plus, what I’m planning for 2026 and why simplicity is key in my next pizza business.https://www.PizzaShopListings.comhttps://www.youtube.c
588: How to Check the Health of Your Pizza Shop in 10 Minutes
Most pizza shops don’t fail because the pizza’s bad — they fail because the owner has no idea what’s really going on. In this episode, I’ll show you how to check the health of your pizza shop in under 10 minutes using just four numbers: sales, food cost, labor, and repeat customers. No fancy software. No spreadsheets. Just a simple weekly habit that’ll keep your shop profitable and your stress low
587: How to Grow by 50 Orders a Day: Menu, In-Store, and TikTok Strategy Explained
In this episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, Bruce tackles 10 powerful questions from listeners that every pizzeria owner should hear. From low-budget marketing advice to the launch of a new Pizza Shop Marketplace, Bruce shares practical, no-BS insights to help you grow your business. Whether you're trying to add 50 daily orders, stop relying on brokers, or finally make TikTok work fo
586: Answering Your Pizza Shop Questions
The Pizza Weekly: https://www.instagram.com/thepizzaweekly/
586: The Chaos Killing Your Sales: What I Saw Inside This Pizzeria
In this solo episode, Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing shares what he learned during a recent visit to a struggling Florida pizzeria. From lacking basic checklists to chaotic kitchens, Bruce uncovers the root problems and offers actionable strategies every pizza shop owner should hear before trying to grow. He also talks about exciting tools like Boostly, Stanislaus Tomatoes, and Meta Ray-Ban smar
585: How to Actually Grow Your Pizza Shop Using Text Marketing, SEO, and AI
Boostly: https://www.boostly.com/In this episode, I’m hanging with Shane from Boostly. We’re talkin’ real strategies for text marketing, SEO, and AI that actually help you get more customers in the door — without spending all day glued to your phone or computer.This isn’t some sponsor fluff. Yeah, Boostly sponsors the show, but I only work with companies I’d use myself. This episode is packed with
584: How to Run a Profitable Pizza Shop You Actually Love Working In
Are you overwhelmed running your pizzeria with a bloated menu and inconsistent results? In this episode of Smart Pizza Marketing, Bruce breaks down how simplicity and focus can lead to massive success. Learn from Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves, a pizza shop model that sells out daily, and actionable tips to streamline your business and enjoy it again.Shoutouts to our sponsors:🧀 Cheese Hog Mach
583: Don’t Let the Haters Win: How Pizza Shops Should Handle Online Trolls
In this solo episode, Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing shares an unfiltered take on dealing with online trolls, bad reviews, and the emotional toll of building a business in public. From one-star Yelp reviews to nasty YouTube comments, Bruce breaks down why most haters haven't built anything themselves—and how pizza shop owners (and all business owners) can use that knowledge to stay motivated
581: Why Most Pizza Shops Struggle with Profitability — And What the Profitable Ones All Do Differently
Sponsor: Cheese Hog Machine In this solo episode, Bruce breaks down powerful insights from a recent visit to Blue Square Pizza and reflects on social media strategy, profitability, and what it really takes to run a successful pizza shop in 2025. Whether you're a current shop owner or dreaming of opening one, this episode delivers the no-fluff reality of building a lean, profitable business.
580: The #1 Marketing Mistake Killing Pizza Shops in 2025 (And What to Do Instead)
Discover what’s working (and what’s not) in restaurant marketing for 2025 with Bruce Irving of Smart Pizza Marketing. In this exclusive interview with Donald Burns, Bruce reveals the state of marketing today, underrated tactics that still work, myths around platforms like Instagram, and why culture, not checklists, is the hidden edge in restaurants.Whether you’re opening your first shop or scaling
579: The HARDEST Lessons I Learned Running a Pizza Shop (And What I'd Do Differently)
Today's Sponsor: America's Best RestaurantsIn this solo episode, Bruce shares hard-earned lessons from over two decades in the pizza business. After stepping away from ownership to grow Smart Pizza Marketing, he’s now considering jumping back into the game—and he's bringing you along for the ride. Learn the top 10 rules he'd follow if opening a new shop today, plus insider tips on
578: The Hardest Lesson I Learned Owning a Pizza Shop (Don’t Repeat My Mistake)
Join Bruce on this solo episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing podcast where he dives deep into the realities of owning and running a pizza shop. From his personal regrets to powerful lessons learned from hundreds of interviews and site visits, this episode is a must-listen for any pizza shop owner serious about growth and sustainability. Thinking about opening a shop? Bruce is, too—and he might jus
577: They Sent 1 Text to 8,500 Customers… and Broke Their Oven!
In this episode of the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, Bruce sits down with Sam and JD from Town Hall Pizza. Hear the remarkable story of how two former pastors with no restaurant experience took over a 50-year-old pizzeria, transformed it with modern systems, and built a thriving business without delivery. Discover their text marketing blunder that led to record-breaking sales, how they built a lo
576: Underrated Tech & Killer Tips from the Restaurant Show You Missed
Just back from the 2024 National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, Bruce shares every must-know insight for pizza shop owners. From game-changing ovens to underrated tools and marketing mistakes, this Q&A-style episode is packed with value. If you missed the show, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Hear what’s trending, what’s worth investing in, and how to make expos like this truly wor
575: The Real Reason Your Pizzeria is Struggling (Hint: It’s Not the Pizza)
Most pizzerias don't fail because of bad pizza or a bad location — they fail because of what happens (or doesn’t happen) behind the scenes. In this no-fluff video, Bruce shares the real reasons pizza shops struggle, and what successful operators are doing differently. Whether you're just getting started or feel stuck in the daily grind, this video will show you exactly how to build systems, lead b
574: How This Pizza Chain Opened 29 Stores—Including One for Just $10K
Bruce hits the streets of Dallas to uncover how real pizzeria owners are surviving (and thriving) in 2025. From $10K store launches to no-walk-in operations and humbling failures, this episode is PACKED with real advice and behind-the-scenes strategy. Thinking of opening your own pizza shop? Start here.Use code Bruce25 for $25 off the National Restaurant Show: nationalrestaurantshow.comChapters:00
573: No One in the Pizza Business Has It All Figured Out – Here's Why That’s Okay
In this episode, Bruce shares a raw and honest reflection on 10 years of podcasting and what he’s learned from talking to pizza shop owners all over the country. Whether you're new to the business or have 20 years under your belt, this is the mindset advice you need to hear. Plus, a preview of the National Restaurant Association Show and some behind-the-scenes updates on Smart Pizza Marketing
572: How to Work with Influencers Without Wasting Money
New In this solo episode, Bruce shares raw insights on working with influencers in the pizza business world. He reflects on a shocking conversation about influencer rates ($4,500?!) and breaks down a smarter, performance-based model for partnerships. Plus, get updates on upcoming content from the Pizza Expo and find out why Bruce is seriously considering opening another pizza shop.Chapters:00:00 –
571: What You MUST Know Before Attending the National Restaurant Show
This episode is packed with insights from Lisa at the National Restaurant Show and Tom, the culinary director at Papa John’s. We break down how large restaurant chains like Papa John’s create family-friendly menus, innovate new products, and maintain consistency across thousands of locations. Plus, we talk about what you need to know before attending the National Restaurant Show this May in Chicag
570: 9 Brutal Lessons I Wish I Knew Before Opening My Pizza Shop
Join Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing in this raw, one-on-one episode where he shares the 9 biggest lessons he learned the hard way over 20 years in the pizza business. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow your pizzeria, these insights can save you thousands in mistakes, stress, and sleepless nights.💡 This isn’t theory—this is real advice from someone who’s lived it.🔔 Subscribe f
569: One Small Win a Day: The Strategy Every Restaurant Owner Needs
Owner Forum: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pizzashopownersforumIn this bite-sized podcast audio from Bruce at Smart Pizza Marketing, we dive deep into the frustrating feeling of slow progress as a pizzeria or restaurant owner. Whether you're overwhelmed by the day-to-day or wondering if you're getting anywhere at all, this episode is your pep talk and reminder that every little action is
568: This 3-Part Strategy Will Take Your Pizzeria from Surviving to Scaling
In this episode, Bruce breaks down the three key stages of pizzeria growth, from perfecting your product to building unstoppable systems and retaining top talent. Whether you're just starting or trying to get to the next level, this is your roadmap. Learn how tools like Meta glasses and ChatGPT can streamline training, and why retaining great employees is the real growth multiplier. Don't miss thi
567: Why Your Pizza Shop Marketing Is Failing (And How to Fix It Fast)
Feeling overwhelmed with social media for your restaurant or small business? In this quick but powerful episode, Bruce breaks down the biggest reason most pizza shops (and small businesses) struggle with marketing — and what you can do about it. Whether you're just getting started or need to reboot your strategy, this episode is packed with real talk, practical tips, and a clear roadmap to sta
565: Why I Returned to Pizza Expo After 6 Years (And What I Really Thought)
After skipping Pizza Expo since 2018, Bruce is back with a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of what went down at Pizza Expo 2025. From the Slice booth to the gear you actually need to see — and what you can skip — this is the only recap pizza shop owners need. Plus, tips for first-time attendees, session feedback, networking advice, and thoughts on the future of the pizza business.Chapters:00:00 –
SPM #564: Q&A w/ Bruce
In this episode, Bruce breaks down what it really takes to start and run a successful pizzeria. He tackles common questions from aspiring pizza shop owners, like whether it’s better to buy an existing spot or start fresh, how to nail down profit margins, and why a solid business plan matters. He also shares tips on perfecting your pizza at home, the risks and rewards of expanding or rebranding, an
SPM #563: Marketing Strategies for Independent Restaurants
Matt Plapp, CEO of America's Best Restaurants, shares his journey from growing up around restaurants to creating a marketing firm that helps independent restaurants thrive. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, attention, and a structured marketing strategy to engage customers and build loyalty. Matt discusses the challenges restaurant owners face and how leveraging technology can simp
SPM #562: The Worst Pizza Business Advice That Cost Me $100K+!
Sponsored by: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/boostlyThinking about opening a pizza shop? WATCH THIS FIRST! 🍕🚨I made some huge mistakes when I first opened my pizzeria—ones that cost me over $100,000 and nearly destroyed my passion for the business. Don't let that happen to you! In this video, I expose the worst pizza business advice out there and share what actually works to run a successful pizz
SPM #561: $50K+ a Month in a 400 Sq Ft Pizza Shop – The Secret to a Lean & Profitable Pizzeria!
Johnny had zero experience making dough, but that didn’t stop him from building a massively successful pizzeria in Canada. In this episode, he shares how he went from meal prep to pizza, how he keeps costs low, and why he believes a small shop is the key to big profits. If you’re thinking of starting your own pizza shop, this episode is a MUST-WATCH! 🍕💡💬 What’s your biggest struggle in running a p
SPM #560: Would I Open a Pizzeria Again? My Honest Answer!
Welcome back to the podcast! Today, it’s just me, and we’re talking all things pizza business. I just got back from Detroit, visited some amazing pizzerias, and I’ve been reflecting on whether I’d ever open another shop. Let’s break down what makes a great, profitable pizzeria in 2025.🎥 Watch my latest YouTube video on top pizza shops: https://youtu.be/_MqbAkXHoy4🎧 Subscribe to the "How You Slice
SPM #559: From Home Cooks to Restaurant Owners: A Pizza Journey w/ Lynn's Chicago Pizza
For more go to www.smartpizzamarketing.com
Summary
Lynn and Brandon share their inspiring journey from making pizza at home to launching their own restaurant in Chicago. They discuss the challenges they faced, the importance of community support, and the strategies they employed to build their brand and engage with customers. Their story highlights the resilience and adaptability required in the
SPM #558: Pizza & Marketing w/ Enrico from Uncle Ricos Pizza
YouTube Description for the Episode:
🎙️ Live from the Pizza Tomorrow Summit! 🍕
In this episode, Bruce chats with Enrico from Uncle Rico's Pizza in Fort Myers, Florida! Recorded live at the Pizza Tomorrow Summit in Orlando, we dive into the vibrant pizza scene, Enrico's journey in the business, and his first-ever competition.
🎯 Topics Covered:
The growth of the Florida pizza scene
Enrico’s uniqu
SPM #557: Andrew from Gianni's Pizza (7 Locations)
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Andrew from Gianni's Pizza
04:02 Managing Multiple Locations and Family Dynamics
10:07 Adapting Business Hours for Profitability
16:12 The Challenges of Delivery and Third-Party Services
20:30 Creating a Uni
SPM #556: 10 things that take zero talent but can make your pizzeria unstoppable
Here’s the truth: talent is overrated.It’s the small, consistent choices that make your pizzeria a success.Which one of these do you think has the biggest impact in your shop? Let me know.
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://t
SPM #555: How Tiny Habits Can Transform Your Pizzeria
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarke
SPM #554: Text Marketing Results - The Numbers Don't Lie
SPM #553: No one has it all figured out... .Let me explain.
Welcome to the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, your go-to resource for real talk and actionable advice on running a successful pizzeria. I’m Bruce, your host, and I’m excited to introduce a new, shorter format to deliver quick tips, strategies, and insights directly to you.
While my in-depth interviews have moved to the How You Slice It podcast with Slice (check it out and subscribe), this show is
SPM #552: Empowering Independent Pizzerias: The Slice App's Mission with Loren Paddleford
In this episode of Smart Pizza Marketing, Bruce chats with Loren Paddleford, Chief Revenue Officer of Slice, about the distinct challenges and opportunities independent pizzerias face in a competitive market.
Loren explains how Slice is dedicated to supporting pizzerias with tools like online ordering, in-store POS systems, and tailored marketing services, diverging from the consumer-focused model
SPM #551: What's I'm Working On for 2025
In this episode, Bruce Irving discusses the evolution of his podcast and the focus on providing actionable insights for pizzeria owners. He emphasizes the importance of negotiation, marketing tactics, and sharing personal experiences from the pizza industry. The podcast will feature shorter episodes aimed at delivering quick, practical tips to help pizzeria owners improve their businesses.
SPM #550: Building a Pizzeria from Scratch: Real Talk on Overcoming Construction Delays, Competition, and Marketing Struggles
In this episode, Bruce interviews Camilo, the owner of La Rosa Pizzeria. They dive into the challenges of opening and running a pizzeria, especially during the pandemic. Camilo shares his experiences in building two locations from scratch, the realities of restaurant construction, and how delivery has become a significant part of his business.
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing
SPM #549: Building Systems for Success: How Bill Hoon Grew His Pizza Shop from a Bar to Two Brick-and-Mortar Locations
In this episode, we catch up with Bill Hoon, who shares his incredible journey of growing his pizza business from a single night operation in a local bar to opening two successful brick-and-mortar locations in Northeast Ohio. Bill dives into the challenges he faced during the build-out process, the lessons learned along the way, and how he implemented efficient systems to scale his business.
MY
SPM #548: Detroit Style in Miami: Pies, Growth, and Marketing with Mamma Dora’s Pizzeria
Summary
In this episode, Bruce Irving interviews the team behind Amadoris Pizzeria, a Detroit style pizza restaurant in Miami, Florida. They discuss the journey of starting the pizzeria during the pandemic, the unique appeal of Detroit style pizza, and the challenges faced in the pizza business, particularly regarding cheese prices and seasonal fluctuations. The conversation also covers marketing
SPM #547: Detroit Style in the Sunshine State: Inside Vice City Pizza’s Success
In this podcast episode, Bruce Irving interviews Carlos from Vice City Pizza in Miami. They discuss how Vice City Pizza got started, the mistakes they made along the way, and the unique style of pizza they offer. Carlos shares his background in fine dining and how the pandemic influenced his decision to open a pizzeria.
Chapters
00:00 Starting a Pizza Business Out of Your House
04:09 The Importan
SPM #546: How Hickory Station Boosted Sales by 20% with Text Marketing – Secrets from 24 Years in the Pizza Business!
Jamie McMahon, owner of Hickory Station Pizzeria, shares his experience in the pizza business and how he has adapted to modern marketing strategies. He discusses the shift from traditional marketing methods to text marketing and the success he has seen in increasing sales.
Get on Slice: http://slicelife.com/smartpizza
Work this us: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/pro
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SPM #545: Unfiltered Advice for Pizza Owner: W/ Darius from Slice Street Pizza
In this episode, I chat with Darius Aram from Slice Street Pizza about the real challenges of running a pizzeria. We cover everything from managing delivery drivers to handling customer expectations and using third-party services. If you're a pizza operator looking for practical advice, this conversation is packed with insights to help your business thrive.
Like, comment, and subscribe for mo
SPM #544: The Pizza Industry in 2024 w/ Ilir from Slice
In this episode, Bruce welcomes back Ilir Sela, CEO of a leading platform dedicated to helping independent pizza shops thrive. Discover how Ilir and his team are revolutionizing the industry with innovative solutions for online ordering, point-of-sale systems, and discounted supplies. Get exclusive insights into the challenges and successes of modern pizza operations and learn how these game-chan
SPM #543: Revolutionizing Pizza: How Nona Street Pizza's Unique Concept is Winning Over Orlando
In this episode of the podcast, Bruce sits down with Andres Maldonado Fuertes, the innovative mind behind Nona Street Pizza. They delve into the journey of launching a unique pizza concept in Orlando, from building a custom food truck to creating a menu that blends Neapolitan and New York styles with inventive twists. Andres shares the challenges and triumphs of starting the business, the importan
SPN #542: The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing w/ Layla from Blue Highway Pizza
Layla Ruffino, owner of Blue Highway Pizza in Florida, shares her experience running two successful pizzerias. The original location, in a small town, has been thriving for 20 years, while the newer location in a growing area has seen rapid growth. Leila emphasizes the importance of taking care of her team, offering generous benefits and creating a positive work environment.
Chapters
00:00 Intr
SPM #541: Revamping Tradition: Giovanni Chez Discusses Expansion, Recipes, and Marketing at King Umberto's
Giovanni Chez, part owner and general manager of King Umberto's pizzeria, joins the podcast to discuss his experience in the pizza industry. He talks about the history of the restaurant, their expansion during COVID, and their plans for revamping their indoor dining room and expanding their bakery production.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:24 Expansion and Revamping
03:10 Perf
SPM #540: The Rise of Red Rocket Pizza Company During COVID-19
Chris Black shares his journey of starting Red Rocket Pizza Company during COVID-19. He transitioned from being a nightclub DJ to a pizza maker and began by making pizzas in his garage. He eventually upgraded to a larger brick oven and started inviting friends and acquaintances to try his pizzas.
Chapters
00:00 Starting a Pizza Business During COVID-19
02:13 Pop-Up Events and Donations
08:22 Fo
SPM #539: Pizza Champ STL: A Unique Pizza Joint in St. Louis
Pizza Champ STL is a pizza joint in St. Louis that specializes in big 18-inch, 72-hour fermented sourdough pizzas. They share a space with Side Project Brewing, a brewery, in a small 900 square foot building. The seating area is a covered patio, and they also have a drive-through window for pickup orders. The owner, Chris, pivoted to pizza during the COVID-19 pandemic and found success with his un
SPM #538: Building a Following and Leveraging Social Media in the Pizza Industry
Bruce Irving is a guest on Alex's podcast, Pie to Pie, where they discuss marketing strategies for pizzerias. They cover topics such as magazines, YouTube, Pizza Expo, and Dave Portnoy. Bruce emphasizes the importance of consistency in marketing and recommends focusing on one social media platform to start. He also suggests leveraging YouTube for long-term content and using TikTok for live str
SPM #537: How Two Friends Turned a Pop-Up Into New Orleans' Pizza Sensation
Mike Friedman, owner of Pizza Delicious in New Orleans, shares the journey of starting a pizzeria and the challenges of building a successful brick-and-mortar business. From pop-up beginnings to the development of a New York-style pizza recipe, Mike's story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the value of community support.
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Pizza Delicious: From Pop-Up
SPM #536: Kristian Founder of Ooni Pizza Ovens
In this conversation, Bruce interviews Christian from Ooni, a company that produces portable pizza ovens. They discuss how Ooni revolutionized the pizza-making industry by creating affordable and efficient ovens for home use. Christian shares his background and how his passion for making better pizza at home led to the development of Ooni ovens.
Chapters
00:00 The Uni Journey: Revolutionizing th
SPM #535: Is The National Restaurant Expo Worth It?
Bruce Irving shares his experience at the National Restaurant Expo in Chicago, discussing the pros and cons, the tech he found, and the pizzerias he visited. He also highlights the challenges faced by independent pizzeria owners at the expo and provides insights into various products and technologies showcased at the event.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring the National Restaurant Expo: Pros and Cons
04:
SPM #534: Pizza & YouTube w/ Charlie Anderson
Summary
In this conversation, Bruce Irving interviews Charlie Anderson, a YouTuber with a focus on making pizza at home. They discuss the challenges and rewards of creating content for YouTube, the impact of YouTube on discoverability, the role of sponsors and advertisers, the process of making pizza videos, and the potential of opening a pizzeria. Charlie shares insights into his journey as a cr
SPM #533: Delegating Tasks for Business Growth w/ Myke from Mykes Pizza
Myke Olsen, owner of Mike's Pizza in Mesa, Arizona, shares his experience running a wood-fired pizzeria inside a bar called Cider Core. He discusses his Neapolitan-inspired pizza style and the symbiotic relationship between his business and the bar. Myke emphasizes the importance of focusing on the financial side of the business and the benefits of delegating tasks.
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SPM #532: Managing Multiple Businesses w/ Andrew from Flower Child Pizza
Andrew Miller, owner of Flower Child Pizza, Merriman Social, and Third Coast Provisions in Milwaukee, discusses his journey in the restaurant industry and the development of his pizza business. He shares how they expanded their frozen pizza line and the challenges of shipping nationwide.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:03 Crafting a Unique Pizza Style
05:59 Choosing Milwaukee and t
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