JUSTIN AND THE [FOOD] ENTREPRENEURS

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  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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: Info@thisturkeyhere.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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com 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: justin.bizzarro@gmail.com Instagram: @justinandthefoodentrepreneurs ( #foodentrepreneurs )   All music is scored by host or royalty free.