Jim Serpico: Bread For The People - Sourdough, Pizza & Life

In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico revisits his first podcast episode that featured Dan Richer, the chef and owner of the acclaimed pizza restaurant Razza and author of 'The Joy of Pizza.' They discuss the art and science of pizza making, including techniques such as dough fermentation, ingredient selection, and the importance of experimentation. Richer shares insights from his culinary journey, including his transformative experiences in Italy and his approach to entrepreneurship in opening Raza. The episode highlights the value of continual learning and passion in the culinary arts. Jim and Dan emphasize the role of taste tests and adapting recipes, focusing on using local ingredients. Throughout the dialogue, there is a mutual curiosity about the culinary craft, and Dan expresses a desire to visit Jim's operation for further collaboration.

SHOW NOTES

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:14 Revisiting the First Episode with Dan Ritcher
01:21 The Joy of Pizza: Insights and Techniques
03:33 Challenges and Adaptations in Bread Making
08:11 The Sensory Experience of Baking
08:55 Journey to Italy and Culinary Inspirations
20:03 From Employee to Entrepreneur
21:45 The Early Struggles and Success of Rata
23:01 Turning Point: Selling the First Restaurant
23:37 Accolades and Recognition
25:06 Building a Strong Team
28:51 The Science and Art of Dough
34:04 Home Pizza Baking Craze
40:17 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

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In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico talks with Kirk Mauriello, founder of Profit Cookers, about the concept of virtual kitchens. Kirk explains how Profit Cookers helps independent restaurant owners increase their delivery profits by utilizing a range of virtual restaurant brands. He details the beginnings of virtual kitchens around 2019, the importance of capital and correct pricing, and how Profit Cookers guarantees a 30% or more profit margin. The conversation covers various aspects of the virtual kitchen business model, the efficiency of using existing staff and equipment, and the challenges of marketing and menu optimization. This episode offers valuable insights for restaurant owners looking to optimize their operations and profitability through innovative virtual kitchen concepts.

00:00 Welcome to Bread for the People
00:06 Preparing for a Big Even
t01:04 The Concept of Virtual Kitchens
01:24 Interview with Kirk Moriello
02:00 How Virtual Kitchens Work
02:56 The Evolution of Virtual Kitchens
03:43 Challenges and Solutions
04:45 Implementing Virtual Brands
06:16 Maximizing Restaurant Profits
08:39 The Role of Technology
12:39 Expanding the Business
16:03 Financial Considerations
30:05 Challenges in the Restaurant Business
30:46 Importance of Correct Menu Pricing
31:58 Profit Cookers' Approach to Menu Pricing
32:49 Regional Pricing Differences
35:20 Operational Efficiency and Online Sales
38:32 Simplifying Online Ordering
40:45 Maximizing Restaurant Profitability
45:19 Success Stories and Market Insights
53:30 Summary and Conclusion

Contact Kirk Mauriello at 701-314-4849 or www.profitcookers.com

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In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico features an in-depth interview with Amy Emberling, managing partner at Zingerman's Bakehouse in Ann Arbor, MI. Amy discusses the origins, ethos, and community-focused business model of Zingerman's, which includes 11 different businesses within the Ann Arbor area. She elaborates on Zingerman's commitment to service excellence, open-book management, and community giving. They delve into various baking topics, including the complexities of working with spelt and rye, product development, and sourcing local ingredients. Amy also shares her personal journey from Harvard graduate to leading Zingerman's Bakehouse, offering insights into organizational design and work culture. The episode wraps up with practical advice for young people on career and life choices, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's job with their personal lifestyle and preferences.

SHOW NOTES:

00:00 Introduction and New Sponsor Announcement
00:07 Meet Farmer Ground Flour0
1:09 Welcome to Bread for the People
01:35 Interview with Amy Emberling from Zingerman's Bakehouse
04:09 The Zingerman's Community of Businesses
09:55 Amy's Journey and Influences
20:48 Jim's Baking Journey and Future Plans
22:54 Envisioning a Playful Future
23:35 Harvard Experience and Perceptions
26:58 Role in Organizational Design
29:00 Challenges and Success in Baking
31:29 Local Sourcing and Community Impact
32:30 Inspiration from France
35:49 Diving into Rye Bread
43:57 Technology and Innovation at Zingerman's

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In this episode of Bread for the People, host Jim Serpico interviews Frank Oliveri, the third-generation owner of Pat's King of Steaks, renowned for inventing the Philadelphia cheesesteak. Frank shares fascinating stories about the origins of the cheesesteak, his journey of balancing tradition with expansion, and his passion for culinary arts. The discussion also touches on building a food business, the Philadelphia food scene, and future endeavors.

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In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico celebrates nearing 100 episodes while reflecting on a recent trip to Denver with his wife and friends. As he shares anecdotes from their journey, he delves into the complexities and humor of group travel, including navigating different personalities, prank planning, and logistical challenges. Jim recounts visits to iconic sites like Red Rocks and Pikes Peak, discussing the personal growth and lessons learned from creating shared travel experiences. He also touches on broader themes like work-life balance, the importance of taking breaks, and sensitivity towards others' needs.

00:00 Welcome and Milestone Celebration
01:11 Vacation in Denver: Planning and Reflections
05:10 Traveling with Friends: Challenges and Insights
07:38 Family Dynamics on Vacation
12:43 The Colorado Springs Adventure
22:42 Denver Airbnb and Local Experiences
28:03 Food Adventures in Denver
29:03 Travel Etiquette and Personal Preferences
34:34 Bill Maher and Steve-O Debate
38:27 Red Rocks Concert Experience
38:56 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

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Jim Serpico speaks with Anthony Falco, author of the book Pizza Czar, chef, and full-service restaurant consultant focusing on pizza. He helps create world-class pizza brands from the ground up by counseling on custom equipment design, sourcing local ingredients, providing expertise on pizza ovens and tools, installation, ventilation, menu development, kitchen design, on-sight training, brand positioning, and more.

They talk about how growing up in a working-class family helped shape Anthony’s path, camaraderie in the kitchen, being attracted to a particular lifestyle, whether or not pizza is bread, mobile pizza making, and opening restaurants.

Visit Anthony’s consulting website at https:/www.piz.za.com/ and Instagram at @millennium_falco.

Follow Jim Serpico on Instagram at @jimserpico and @sidehustlebread.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jim-serpico-bread-for-the-people-sourdough-pizza-life--5704379/support.

Host Jim Serpico interviews pizza entrepreneur Siler Chapman, discussing Chapman's journey from traditional brick-and-mortar pizza shops to a successful mobile catering business, 'King of Fire.' Chapman shares insights about his pivot to mobile catering, the challenges and benefits of mobile vs. brick-and-mortar setups, and strategies for brand building. He also talks about his experiences in the competitive pizza scene, including winning world titles and the importance of continuous learning and adapting. The conversation touches on practical advice for managing a mobile pizza business, including starting small, finding the right locations, and scaling up effectively.

SHOW NOTES

00:20 Meet Siler Chapman
01:33 Siler's Pizza Journey
03:09 Transition to Mobile Catering
06:23 COVID-19 Adaptations
07:33 Challenges and Strategies
11:08 Starting Small and Scaling Up
16:30 Brick and Mortar Considerations
18:30 Lease Negotiations and Legal Tips
19:27 A Unique Opportunity in Clover, SC
20:05 Evaluating the Market Demand
20:48 Choosing the Right Pizza Style
22:31 Catering Challenges and Creativity
24:06 Weather Impact on Mobile and Brick-and-Mortar
25:56 Promoting and Managing Mobile Locations
27:41 Catering Packages and Pricing Strategies
34:30 Training and Retaining Staff
35:39 Pizza Acrobatics and Competitions
41:42 Final Thoughts and Community Support

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Jim Serpico interviews Angelo Competiello, also known as Mind Machine on Instagram. Angelo shares his experiences visiting Italy and observing the regional differences in Italian cuisine. He discusses his family's roots, his passion for traditional Italian foods, and his current venture of running a specialty shop in Suffern, New York. Topics include the authenticity of Italian American dishes, the nuances of using different meats and cheeses, and the influence of social media on culinary careers. Angelo also touches upon the value of maintaining traditional cooking practices.

Show Notes

00:35 Travel Stories and Childhood Memories
02:29 Discovering Italian Heritage
04:08 Guest Introduction: Angelo Competiello
06:18 Italian American Cuisine and Traditions
15:51 The Mortadella Craze
18:57 Alta Irpinia and Family Roots
21:01 Running a Specialty Shop and Pizza Business
22:33 The Evolution of a Salumeria
23:06 Balancing Business and Passion
23:50 Choosing the Right Location
25:04 Crafting a Unique Culinary Experience
29:17 The Impact of Food Network Appearances
32:27 Social Media and Its Role in the Food Industry
34:25 Exploring Traditional Bread Recipes
39:12 The Art of Wood-Fired Cooking
44:24 Becoming a Taste Ambassador
46:07 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Follow Angelo on Instagram at @mind_machine 

To get more information about the Unsliced Restaurant System, visit https://getunsliced.com or email [email protected]

Visit Jim Serpico on Instagram at @sidehustlebread

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jim-serpico-bread-for-the-people-sourdough-pizza-life--5704379/support.

Jim Serpico discusses the prevalence of embezzlement in the restaurant industry, sharing personal anecdotes and industry insights. He highlights various methods of embezzlement, including skimming and creating fraudulent disbursements. Serpico shares stories of individuals, like producer David Ozer and pizza maker Andrew Bellucci, who were involved in financial fraud. He underscores the importance of robust internal controls and vigilance to prevent such crimes. The episode encourages restaurant owners to share their experiences and reinforces the necessity of being proactive against embezzlement.

SHOW NOTES:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:29 Weekend Recap and Episode Introduction
00:43 Embezzlement in the Restaurant Industry
01:05 The David Ozer Story
07:01 Real-Life Embezzlement Cases
12:33 Understanding Embezzlement and Prevention
19:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To get more information about the Unsliced Restaurant System, visit https://getunsliced.com or email [email protected]

Visit Jim Serpico on Instagram at @sidehustlebread

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jim-serpico-bread-for-the-people-sourdough-pizza-life--5704379/support.

Jim Serpico, the host of 'Bread for the People' and owner of multiple food businesses, discusses the hurdles of managing bread and catering companies, focusing on inventory challenges. He interviews Joe Carlucci, the world record holder in pizza tossing and owner of Valentina's Pizzeria in Madison, Alabama. Joe recounts his journey from early struggles with debt and problematic partnerships to achieving success upon relocating to Alabama. He emphasizes the importance of quality, team culture, and treating employees like family, which were pivotal in his business turnaround. Joe's story underscores the significance of mentorship, reinvestment, and a personal connection with the team. Valentina's Pizzeria, named after his daughter, is a testament to his commitment and has garnered recognition in the pizza industry. The narrative ends with an invitation to connect with Joe in Alabama, reflecting his appreciation for mentors and the strength of his team-oriented approach.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:53 Challenges in Delegation
01:55 Interview with Joe Carlucci
02:55 The Science of Pizza Making
04:53 Meeting Tony Gemignani
07:33 Early Career Struggles
09:08 First Restaurant Failure
14:12 Rebuilding and Consulting
16:56 Moving to Alabama
21:48 Opening Famous Joe's
27:24 Catering and New Ventures
35:42 Starting the Pizza Business
35:59 Navigating Health Permits
36:40 Partnership Challenges
38:10 Personal Struggles and Motivation
41:24 COVID-19: A Turning Point
43:02 Building Valentina's Pizzeria
50:27 Overcoming Regulatory Hurdles
56:32 Creating a Positive Work Culture0
1:07:56 Reflecting on Success and Mentorship

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