PIE 2 PIE - A Pizza Maker’s Podcast

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌾 Use Code: PIE2PIE to Get 15% Off Cairnspring Mills Flour: https://bit.ly/CairnspringMills 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, we sit down with Rich Payne (@dough_and_behold), Chris Townsend(@doughballdisco), and Scott Deley(@scottspizzaproject), Ooni Ambasadors and pizza chefs who make incredibly delicious food and content for the Gram. They made the trip to Pizza Expo 2025 in Las Vegas from all the way across the pond in London, England. Chapters: 00:00 London's Emerging Pizza Scene 02:24 How the Ooni oven and Instagram Transformed Their Pizza Journey 09:18 Content Creation Secrets for Home Pizza Makers: Filming and Editing Tips from Professionals 14:10 Balancing Home Pizza Making with Full-Time Careers 23:23 From Backyard Pizza Hobbyist to Ooni Ambassador 37:40 Home Pizza Content Strategy: Finding Your Authentic Voice in Loud Pizza World 46:47 High Hydration Pizza Dough Adventures 1:16:51 Monetizing Home Pizza Content: Brand Partnerships and Setting Boundaries as a Pizza Creator 1:27:30 Home Pizza Equipment Deep-Dive: Portable Ovens vs. Commercial Setups for Serious Home Bakers 1:40:51 Pizza Technique Debate: Are High-Hydration Doughs Overrated for Home Pizza Makers? 1:50:58 UK Pizza Scene Pioneers: How Pizza Pilgrims Inspired a Generation 1:54:10 The "D**k Payne" Revelation: When a Pizza Maker's Name Takes an Unexpected Turn 1:55:22 British Beans and other Gifts: A Cultural Exchange Between Pizza Makers

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌾 Use Code: PIE2PIE to Get 15% Off Cairnspring Mills Flour: https://bit.ly/CairnspringMills 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, meet Justin and Andy, owners of Cowabunga Pizzeria and Cowabunga Plus in Hamilton, just outside Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Chapters: Chapters: 00:00:00 Canadian Dipping Sauce Worth Freezing - The Cold Open 00:03:00 Stanislaus Harvest Tour: Learning From the Best in the Business 00:07:15 How Cowabunga Launched in October 2020 00:09:35 From 15 to 250 Pizzas a Day: Scaling a Pizza Shop in Hamilton 00:10:25 Best Cheese Slice: How Winning Changed Everything 00:12:10 Managing Pizza Demand: The Challenges After Winning Awards 00:14:20 $16K-$18K Nights: Inside the Economics of Award-Winning Pizza 00:16:00 Time Slots vs. Wait Times: Revolutionizing Pizza Pickup 00:20:00 Kitchen Space vs. Dining Room: The Perfect Pizzeria Layout 00:26:15 Asian-Owned Pizzeria: Breaking Stereotypes in an Italian-Dominated Industry 00:31:05 Pizza Screens Controversy: How Cowabunga Won with Unconventional Methods 00:34:10 Vegas Pizza Expo: The Competition Experience 00:36:25 72-Hour Fermentation: The Secret to Cowabunga's Dough 00:37:15 Best of the Best: The Mystery Box Competition 00:48:30 The Famous 'Dipping Sauce': Cowabunga's Cult Favorite Condiment 00:56:00 Social Media Marketing: Building a Pizza Brand Through Content 01:11:55 Bangkok Expansion: Taking Canadian Pizza to Thailand 01:19:45 Building in Thailand vs. Canada: Why Asian Expansion Makes Sense 01:21:30 Overrated vs. Underrated: Honest Pizza Industry Talk 01:32:15 Pizza Master Ovens & Spiral Mixers: The Equipment That Makes a Difference 01:36:40 Competition Strategy: Why Pizza Contests Matter for Business 01:38:20 Building Community vs. Joining Cliques: The Future of Pizza Culture

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode of PIE 2 PIE we had the opportunity to reunite with brothers Kyle and Jacob, owners of Slice Godz Pizza in Hesperia, CA.

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode I talk to the GOAT Tony Gemignani of Pizza Rock, Slice House, Tony's Napoletana, Capo's to name a few. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Learning from Failure: Tony's Philosophy on Becoming Better Through Challenges 00:14:51 - The Pizza Acrobatics Origin Story: How a Breakup Led to World Championships 00:19:59 - Building a Pizza Brand: From The Tonight Show to International Recognition 00:27:10 - The Independent Pizza Operator's Struggle Against Major Chains 00:35:02 - Pizza Competition Insights: Learning From Wins and Losses 00:47:50 - Creating The Pizza Bible: Revolutionizing Pizza Education 00:59:02 - Building the World Pizza Champions Team: Community in the Pizza Industry 01:08:39 - Tony's Pizza School: Teaching the Real Restaurant Experience 01:18:21 - Multiple Pizza Concepts: From Tony's Pizza to Slice House 01:28:57 - Evolution of Pizza Styles: From Regional Rivalry to Style Renaissance 01:34:15 - Pizza Expo: Why It's the Ultimate Pizza Industry Experience 01:35:36 - Tony's Hot Takes on Pizza Trends 01:54:44 - The Importance of Industry Recognition: Getting on "Best Pizza" Lists 01:56:29 - The Art of Pizza Finishing: Post-Bake Techniques That Make Great Pizza

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode we talk to Max Blachman-Gentile of Jules Pizza in San Francisco, CA. Chapters: 00:00:00 -The new Restaurant Space inthe 1892 Building 00:02:53 - Electric vs. Gas Oven 00:05:11 - The Bread Component & Baker's Hours 00:06:59 - The Bagel Question: Dense vs. Airy 00:08:51 - California vs. East Coast Food Culture 00:11:29 - Tartine vs. Bub & Grandma's 00:13:18 - When Everyone Made Sourdough 00:15:14 - The Main Issue of Being a Business Owner 00:18:41 - The Big One's Coming: Earthquake Preparedness 00:21:55 - The Restaurant Build-Out Process 00:24:57 - Taking on Investors: Lessons Learned 00:26:38 - "There's Not a Good Training Program for People" 00:30:10 - Restaurant Industry Fairytales: Building to Sell 00:32:32 - When Money Doesn't Feel Real: Restaurant Construction 00:35:40 - The Hardest Part of Opening a Restaurant 00:38:07 - Kid NYC: Pizza Consulting Adventures 00:42:02 - The Juicy Slice: Pizza Terminology Evolution 00:48:53 - The Sourdough Starter Routine 00:54:52 - Bread and Beer: The Foundations of Civilization 01:00:11 - David Lynch's Impact on the Food World 01:03:34 - Why Tartine Row Failed: The Grove Without a Fountain 01:11:41 - "Pizza is Supposed to Be Fun" Philosophy 01:12:23 - Is Pizza Just an Open-Faced Sandwich? 01:16:22 - The Problem with Bready Pizza: Fermentation Theory 01:21:24 - Speaking Spanish in Restaurant Kitchens 01:24:26 - The Bay Area Pizza Scene Evolution 01:29:08 - Overrated/Underrated Game: Pizza Edition

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, a chat with Eric Ehler, owner of Outta Sight Pizza in San Francisco, CA. Chapters: 00:00 - San Francisco Pizza Scene: Defending the City's Legacy and Future 08:40 - Hype vs. Quality: Building a Successful Pizza Business 16:25 - The 20-Inch Philosophy: Going Big in the Pizza Game 25:30 - Personal Journey: From Iowa Tragedy to SF Pizza Success 33:00 - Urban Reality: Addressing San Francisco Misconceptions 42:00 - Balancing Passion: Skateboarding, Risk and Pizza Life 51:00 - Building the Business: Shop Design, Costs and Community Support 58:00 - Beyond Pizza: Sandwiches, Bread Program and Diversification 01:05:00 - Industry Opinions: The Overrated vs. Underrated Game 01:14:00 - Pizza Future: Technology, Tradition and Moving Forward

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this special After Dark edition of PIE 2 PIE I share a bottle of wine with Craig Murli, owner of June’s Pizza in Oakland, CA Chapters: 00:00 Intentional Restaurant Design & Branding 06:15 Managing Customer Expectations & Mental Health 14:00 Team Management & Communication 19:45 Restaurant Ownership Philosophy 27:05 The Junes Origin Story 33:20 Food Philosophy & Creative Choices 39:40 How to grow your restaurant & Personal Growth 47:00 The Financial Reality of Restaurants 56:40 Leadership Evolution & Team Building 1:04:00 Work-Life Balance & Family 1:09:45 Personal Growth & Mental Health 1:22:00 Money, Values & Fair Pay 1:32:30 Dealing with Change & Pivoting 1:42:00 Worry, Anxiety & Perspective 1:52:15 Online Criticism & Authenticity 2:04:00 Future Thinking & "We'll Figure It Out"

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode we are joined by Ben Roberts of Pizza Supreme Being located in Sacramento, CA Chapters: 00:00 - Intro with PSB's Pizza Journey 04:53 - "The Whole Company Started as a Bit" 07:08 - Spirit Halloween or Rainforest Cafe? 08:22 - What Makes a Shitty Bromate 10:10 - From Mobile Trailer to Brick-and-Mortar 13:53 - The Original Pizza Supreme Being Vision 16:16 - Sourdough Secrets and Feeding the Starter 18:27 - Making Your Own Bread: The Sandwich Secret 21:41 - Staying Straight Edge in the Restaurant Industry 26:44 - Pandemic Challenges and the Jabberwocky 28:13 - Running the Claw Machine and Daily Operations 30:31 - The Roof Work Crisis: Learning to Delegate 36:14 - "Is It Sick Being a Cool Guy?" 38:29 - Pizza Nostalgia: Alien Head Stickers and Round Table 42:35 - The Kings Cowbell and Playoff Promise 46:51 - Twisted Tea: The Top Shelf Beverage 49:20 - Baja Blast Soft Serve and Brand Personality 51:11 - The Disneyland Proposal Fight Story 54:21 - The Pizza Expo 2025 Fight Promotion 57:15 - Vandalism vs. Art: The LA Building Debate 01:03:03 - In-N-Out Inspiration and Menu Philosophy 01:06:18 - The Great Pizza Screen Debate 01:12:46 - Parenthood Changes Everything 01:17:43 - Growing Up with Five Siblings 01:19:02 - Overrated/Underrated Game Begins 01:21:53 - "I'm from Detroit. Don't Ever Say That Again." 01:23:07 - Ranch Dressing: The Universal Condiment 01:29:26 - Life Lessons from The Bluey Cricket Episode 01:36:24 - Yelp is OVERRATED 01:38:54 - Pizza Expo is Underrated

For more info on the fire recovery in Altadena visit: https://recovery.lacounty.gov/altadena/ This week, we’re taking a break from the Bay Area pods to sit down with Zak from Prime Pizza LA and Jamie from Pizza of Venice to discuss the impact of the Eaton fires— Jamie lost his pizzeria and Zak lost his home to the fire. While the flames may be out, the recovery process has only just begun. It’s important to remember that long after the news coverage fades and social media moves on, the cleanup and the healing continues. Disasters like these don’t come with a playbook, and as business owners, we’re often figuring things out as we go. This conversation gets heavy at times, but there were also plenty of laughs—because sometimes, that’s the only way to get through it. A huge thank you to Jamie and Zak for sharing their experience. The love and support in this industry are real, and when times get tough, we come together. Here’s hoping LA can cut through the red tape and help the Palisades and Altadena rebuild, stronger than before.

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage 🍕 Be in Business for yourself, not by yourself w/ SLICE : https://bit.ly/SLICENOW Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode we are joined by Alexis and Gerad, of Rose Pizzeria in Berkeley, CA. Chapters: 0:00:00 Intro - New York Times Pizza Feature: Overnight Fame at Rose Pizzeria 00:02:30 Berkeley Restaurant Menu Strategy: Finding the Perfect Balance 00:06:42 Restaurant Couples: Managing Marriage and Business Partnership 00:10:59 Small Restaurant Management: Running a Lean Operation 00:18:59 Pizza Restaurant Policies: Setting Boundaries for Quality 00:27:26 The Impact of National Press Coverage 00:35:31 Crisis Management: Handling Unexpected Challenges 00:45:54 Restaurant Growth: Building Sustainable Business 00:52:38 Restaurant Expansion Strategy: Adding a Coffee Shop Concept 01:01:10 Pizza Making Philosophy: Techniques and Restaurant Values 01:25:43 Pizza Industry Trends: OVER/UNDER

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode we are joined by Neal DeNardi, co-owner of Long Bridge Pizza in San Francisco, CA. Chapters: 00:00 - Sharing Pizza Knowledge & Industry Experience 02:17 - Starting with Service: Learning Hospitality from Tribute Pizza 12:50 - From Zero to Numbers: Getting Serious After 9 Years 23:44 - Pizza Education: Scott Wiener Tours to Pizza Hacker 35:51 - Opening Long Bridge: Two 26-Year-Olds with No Plan 38:03 - San Francisco Pizza Evolution: Wood-Fired to Electric Ovens 49:22 - Restaurant Labor Reality: Why 40 Hours Isn't Enough 55:31 - Post-COVID Restaurant Industry: Changed Consumer Habits 01:01:03 - Delivery Evolution: From In-House to Third Party Apps 01:08:43 - Building Brand Awareness: Social Media Strategy 01:13:22 - Community Over Competition: Building Pizza Culture 01:33:13 - OVER/UNDER: Pizza Industry Hot Takes

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🗳️ Better Guest Feedback w/ Ovation: https://bit.ly/ovationpizza 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, Derek Lau, owner of State Flour Pizza in Berkeley, California joins us. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Opening a Pizzeria: The Real First Year Struggles 00:14:24 - Restaurant Career Path: From Culinary School to Pizza Making 00:19:08 - New York Pizza Inspiration: Research and Development 00:22:25 - Restaurant Staff Management: Building a Strong Team Culture 00:27:56 - Choose a Restaurant Location: Neighborhood Analysis 00:32:15 - Transitioning from Chef to Owner 00:36:32 - Pizza Restaurant Pricing Strategy: Balancing Quality and Affordability 00:40:22 - Restaurant Profit Margins: Breaking Even in Year Three 00:45:05 - Pizza Menu Development: Specialty Items and Weekly Specials 00:50:15 - Restaurant Supply Chain: Managing Vendors and Costs 00:56:45 - OVER/UNDER: Pizza hot takes

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, we talk to Mike Chen of FlatIron Pepper Co. Chapters: 00:00:00 - From Finance to Flavor: The Origin Story of Flat Iron Pepper Co. 00:11:22 - Inside New Mexico's Chili Capital: Sourcing Premium Peppers 00:20:01 - Safety First: The Hazards of Commercial Pepper Production 00:22:52 - Bootstrapping Success: Growing Without Outside Capital 00:24:45 - Early Days: From Commercial Kitchen to Manufacturing 00:31:28 - Product Strategy: Why Flat Iron Focuses on Premium Restaurants 00:37:10 - Social Media Marketing vs Traditional Distribution 00:46:55 - Building an Authentic Brand in the Digital Age 00:57:59 - Premium Positioning: Why Flat Iron Turns Down Major Chains 01:04:44 - Rapid Fire: Over/Under on Industry Trends

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode, we talk to Josh Pritchett of Fat Nattys Sourdough Pizza Chapters: 02:00 What is a Fat Natty? 04:00 Los Angeles Pizza Brand Marketing: Building the Fat Natty Identity 06:00 Dave Matthews Band Concert Stories and Chicago Pizza Background 08:00 Pizza Business Operations: From Corporate Career to Pizza Making 11:42 Corporate Layoff to Pizza Success Story: The Pivotal Santa Monica Pier Event 16:00 Music Career and Marketing Degree: Journey Before Pizza 19:00 Sales Career Challenges and Corporate Burnout 23:00 Career Transition: Finding Happiness in Pizza Making 28:00 Pizza Catering Business Model: Events, Pricing, and Growth Strategy 35:00 Natural Pizza Making Process and Quality Control 39:00 Pizza Business Marketing: Instagram Strategy and Word of Mouth Growth 44:00 Pizza Pricing Strategy for Events and Catering 49:00 Family Support in Pizza Business: Work-Life Balance 54:00 Pizza Making Philosophy: Confidence vs Arrogance 59:00 Future of Fat Natty: Business Growth and Vision 01:04:00 Pizza Quality Discussion: Natural Ingredients and Process 01:10:00 Over/Under Pizza Industry Trends and Final Thoughts

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🗳️ Better Guest Feedback w/ Ovation: https://bit.ly/ovationpizza 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode we talk to Justin De Leon of Apollonia’s Pizzeria in Los Angeles. Chapters 00:00:00 - LA Pizza Evolution: From Underdog to Excellence 00:05:02 - The Early Years: 80-Hour Weeks and Learning Curves 00:08:44 - Photography and Pizza: A Visual Approach to Quality 00:11:24 - The Square Pizza Revolution 00:24:43 - Quality Over Expansion: The Small Shop Philosophy 00:30:36 - Cash, Credit, and Customer Service Innovation 00:44:14 - Learning the Craft: Classes, Community, and Growth 00:52:32 - Surviving and Thriving in Modern LA 00:58:06 - Over/Under: Industry Insights and Opinions

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode of PIE 2 PIE we are joined by Alan Rudoy and Travis Matoesian of El Gato Nego Pizza and Bahr Cafe in DTLA. Chapters: 00:00:00 Origins & Meeting 00:02:22 Early Experiences & Travel 00:04:02 El Gato Negro Pizza Journey 00:05:31 Bahr Cafe Plans 00:08:55 Kitchen & Operations Setup 00:27:49 Menu Deep Dive 00:43:32 Business Strategy 00:54:02 Partnership Dynamic 00:55:36 Rapid Fire Over/Under Segment

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🗳️ Better Guest Feedback w/ Ovation: https://bit.ly/ovationpizza 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons On this episode Anthony Falco, the international pizza consultant joins us. Key Ingredients Chapters: 00:00:00 - Pop-up Memories and Book Release 00:03:06 - The Roberta's Legacy 00:05:31 - Why Roberta's Changed Pizza Culture 00:08:18 - Why No Personal Pizzeria Yet? 00:15:17 - Pizza Styles and History Discussion 00:23:23 - Electric vs. Wood-Fired Ovens Debate 00:30:41 - The Art of Consistency 00:35:44 - Path to International Consulting 00:41:42 - Perfect Pizza Proportions 00:56:19 - Becoming a Pizza Consultant 01:01:07 - Family Life and Travel Balance 01:11:57 - Pizza Expo Stories 01:17:46 - Writing the Pizza Book 01:24:44 - The Restaurant Industry Reality 01:34:06 - Rapid Fire: Overrated/Underrated

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🌶️ Join The Pepper Flake Revolution: https://bit.ly/flatironpepper 🗳️ Better Guest Feedback w/ Ovation: https://bit.ly/ovationpizza 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons Frank Pinello is the ultimate archetype of a badass pizza guy. He’s got the accent, the heritage, the skills, and a natural coolness that only a few people are born with. I remember watching The Pizza Show religiously when it first aired. Frank’s authentic curiosity—despite being a CIA graduate and a successful pizzeria owner—made him stand out. Exploring different styles, and connecting with pizza shop owners because his genuine interest always came through. On this trip, his pie was one of my favorite slices, and sitting outside Best Pizza on those lawn chairs felt almost spiritual. But it’s not just about Frank. He’s helped me become a fan of everyone in the pizza world. Big or small, every one of us has a story worth sharing, and that’s what excites me most about doing these pods. I hope you enjoy spending a little time with Frank and I in the back of the best pizza shop in America: Best Pizza. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 13:18 - Keep It Simple: The Menu Philosophy 22:56 - Going Solo: Partnerships & Growth 34:15 - Making Perfect Pizza: Craft & Technique 43:29 - NYC Pizza Evolution: Past to Present 54:30 - Better Kitchen Culture: Breaking Traditions 58:28 - The Pizza Show: VICE Legacy 1:07:22 - Time Management: Running Multiple Shops 1:12:51 - Over/Under: Industry Hot Takes 1:15:40 - What's Next: New Shows & Projects

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons Join your host of PIE 2 PIE, Alex Koons as he slices through the biggest moments of 2024. In this year-end special, we're wrapping up 89 episodes of unfiltered pizza talk, candid conversations, industry insights, and unforgettable moments from badass pizza makers across the globe. Chapters: 00:00:03 - Introduction & Studio Update 00:01:15 - Best Sausage in The World: Maestro Sausage 00:01:52 - 2024 Overview & Global Reach 00:03:00 - Hidden Gems 00:09:01 - Memorable Moments 00:23:56 - Inspiring Stories 00:27:46 - Hottest Takes 00:35:21 - Best Non-Pizza Episodes 00:36:41 - Crossover Episodes Highlight 00:38:49 - Top Episodes Countdown 00:43:27 - Year-End Thank You & Future Plans

This Episode’s Sponsors→ 🎶 Maestro Sausage: https://bit.ly/maestro-sausage Get a NEW GOZNEY: https://us.gozney.com/?dt_id=1529737 Here's some FREE stuff → 🚀HOW TO STEAL A RECIPE https://www.subscribepage.com/howtostealarecipe 🍕 Thinking of Opening a Pizza Shop? Start here: https://howtoopenapizzashop.com/ My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexkoons Step into the world of artisan pizza making with Augie Russo, where dough isn't just ingredients - it's a spiritual experience. In this episode, we explore how a former film editor found his calling in pizza and created a uniquely creative pop-up pizza business in New York. Key Ingredients: • How Augie's signature chili peppers landed in Stephen Colbert's cookbook • The sacred art of pizza making: why he plays music for his dough • His unique pizza recipes and pop-up business approach • Secret tips for perfect pizza dough fermentation • The journey from editing political ads to crafting artisan pizzas • Why he's moving his pizza kitchen to a houseboat Pizza makers and food lovers alike will appreciate Augie's deep dive into dough development, creative toppings, and the philosophy that every pizza tells a story. From his 72-hour cold fermentation process to his thoughts on flour selection, this episode is packed with practical pizza-making wisdom and inspirational insights. Whether you're an aspiring pizza maker, running your own pizza pop-up, or simply love great food, Augie's journey shows how putting love into your craft yields something truly special. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction: Meeting Augie at Stanislaus 4:04 - The Colbert Connection: How Chilies Made It to the Cookbook 10:17 - The Philosophy of Pizza Making: Music, Energy & Dough 24:20 - Building a Pizza Business: From Pop-ups to Private Events 32:14 - The Technical Side: Flour Choice, Fermentation & Temperature 43:08 - Career Evolution: From Film Industry to Pizza Life 52:52 - Future Plans: Moving the Kitchen to a Houseboat 57:28 - Wedding Cakes to Pizza: Why He Left Fine Dining 1:06:15 - The Sacred Art of Breadmaking: God in the Dough 1:21:12 - Community Building: Horizontal Networking in Pizza 1:31:05 - Hot Takes: Thoughts on Industry Trends #pizza #pizzamaking