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In this episode, Bruce breaks down the three key stages of pizzeria growth, from perfecting your product to building unstoppable systems and retaining top talent. Whether you're just starting or trying to get to the next level, this is your roadmap. Learn how tools like Meta glasses and ChatGPT can streamline training, and why retaining great employees is the real growth multiplier. Don't miss this no-fluff guide for serious pizza shop owners.
🔗 Sponsored by: Fiero Group — creators of the revolutionary brick-slat conveyor oven!
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & The Fiero Group’s Game-Changing Conveyor Oven00:45 – Why Perfecting Your Pizza Must Come First01:37 – The Importance of Systems: How to Scale Beyond Yourself02:16 – Documenting Everything: From Phones to Pizza Prep03:02 – Learning Styles: Video, Audio, Reading — Covering All Bases03:40 – Training with Meta Glasses + Locked YouTube Channels04:21 – Why Great People Are the Ultimate Growth Hack05:20 – The Best Pizzerias Aren’t Just Profitable — They’re Happy05:41 – Final Thoughts + Share Your Feedback
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Feeling overwhelmed with social media for your restaurant or small business? In this quick but powerful episode, Bruce breaks down the biggest reason most pizza shops (and small businesses) struggle with marketing — and what you can do about it. Whether you're just getting started or need to reboot your strategy, this episode is packed with real talk, practical tips, and a clear roadmap to stay consistent, build momentum, and actually grow your business using simple content strategies.
👇 CHAPTERS:0:00 – Intro: Quick Episode About Social Media Strategy
0:30 – Real Conversations with Struggling Business Owners
1:00 – Sponsored Message + Restaurant Show in Chicago
2:13 – The Harsh Truth: No Social Media, No Plan, No Customers
2:56 – The Power of Consistency Over Time
3:41 – Why One Viral Post Isn’t the Answer
4:30 – Easy Content Ideas You Can Start Today
4:57 – How to Schedule a Week of Content in One Hour
5:45 – Final Advice: Don’t Quit, Be Patient, Be Consistent🔗 Register for the National Restaurant Show: NationalRestaurantShow.com
Use Promo Code BRUCE25 to save $25 (Operators only)
📩 DM Bruce on Instagram if you're attending — let’s meet! -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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After skipping Pizza Expo since 2018, Bruce is back with a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of what went down at Pizza Expo 2025. From the Slice booth to the gear you actually need to see — and what you can skip — this is the only recap pizza shop owners need. Plus, tips for first-time attendees, session feedback, networking advice, and thoughts on the future of the pizza business.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Why I Went Back to Pizza Expo00:48 – Why I Stopped Going After 201801:42 – Shoutouts: Cheese Hog, Boos Lee, Mike’s Hot Honey02:45 – My Real Reason for Attending in 202503:33 – Thank You to Everyone Who Came Up to Me04:28 – What the Slice Booth Did Differently This Year05:12 – My Thoughts on the Expo Floor: Plan or Get Lost06:04 – Smart Attendee Strategies: What Operators Were Doing Right07:00 – First-Timer Mistakes and Missed Opportunities07:42 – Was There Anything New This Year? My Honest Take08:28 – Booth Energy: Why So Many Didn’t Belong09:21 – The Sessions Problem: Why I Skipped Them10:12 – YouTube > Classroom: A Better Way to Share Talks10:58 – Comparing Pizza Tomorrow Summit’s Format11:48 – Competition Area Shouldn’t Be Blocked Off12:28 – Best & Worst Days to Attend the Expo13:27 – Tips for Getting Deals on Thursday14:06 – Should This Be a Two-Day Event?14:37 – If You Hate the Strip, Stay Outside Vegas15:10 – Final Thoughts & Why the Networking Still Matters16:15 – Missed Something Cool? Let Me Know!
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
Buy and Ooni pizza oven
Pizza Merch
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
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In this episode, Bruce breaks down what it really takes to start and run a successful pizzeria. He tackles common questions from aspiring pizza shop owners, like whether it’s better to buy an existing spot or start fresh, how to nail down profit margins, and why a solid business plan matters. He also shares tips on perfecting your pizza at home, the risks and rewards of expanding or rebranding, and the best ways to use social media to get more customers through the door.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Sponsorships
01:23 Starting a Pizzeria: Buy vs. Build
04:40 Understanding Profit Margins and Delivery Options
06:22 Creating a Business Plan for a Pizzeria
08:11 Perfecting Pizza Recipes at Home
10:32 Opening New Locations vs. Rebranding Existing Ones
12:11 Preparing for Restaurant Ownership
13:58 Social Media Strategies for Pizzerias
Brought to you by:
https://mikeshothoney.com/
https://stanislaus.com/
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Matt Plapp, CEO of America's Best Restaurants, shares his journey from growing up around restaurants to creating a marketing firm that helps independent restaurants thrive. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, attention, and a structured marketing strategy to engage customers and build loyalty.
Matt discusses the challenges restaurant owners face and how leveraging technology can simplify marketing efforts. He advocates for creating themed marketing days to maintain consistency and engagement with customers. In this conversation, Matt Plapp discusses the intersection of technology and marketing in the restaurant industry, emphasizing the importance of leveraging social media and digital tools to engage customers
Check out Matt: https://mattplapp.com/
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Sponsored by: https://smartpizzamarketing.com/boostly
Thinking about opening a pizza shop? WATCH THIS FIRST! 🍕🚨
I made some huge mistakes when I first opened my pizzeria—ones that cost me over $100,000 and nearly destroyed my passion for the business. Don't let that happen to you! In this video, I expose the worst pizza business advice out there and share what actually works to run a successful pizzeria.
✅ Need help with your marketing? Comment "I need help" below, and I'll reach out!
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Johnny had zero experience making dough, but that didn’t stop him from building a massively successful pizzeria in Canada. In this episode, he shares how he went from meal prep to pizza, how he keeps costs low, and why he believes a small shop is the key to big profits.
If you’re thinking of starting your own pizza shop, this episode is a MUST-WATCH! 🍕💡
💬 What’s your biggest struggle in running a pizzeria? Drop a comment below!
📲 Follow Johnny:
📸 Instagram: @ElevatedPizzaCHWK
🌐 Website: https://www.elevatedpizza.ca/📢 Thinking of starting a pizza shop? Watch this next:
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Welcome back to the podcast! Today, it’s just me, and we’re talking all things pizza business. I just got back from Detroit, visited some amazing pizzerias, and I’ve been reflecting on whether I’d ever open another shop. Let’s break down what makes a great, profitable pizzeria in 2025.
🎥 Watch my latest YouTube video on top pizza shops: https://youtu.be/_MqbAkXHoy4
🎧 Subscribe to the "How You Slice It" Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5x9A9kUppkJhY1PatO2CrX?si=93ac8871498346b0
📩 Want to be featured? Message me:[email protected]
📌 CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Intro & Where I’ve Been Lately
00:39 – Upcoming Podcast Episodes
00:55 – Would I Open a Pizzeria Again?
02:01 – Key Factors for a Successful Pizza Shop
02:33 – Examples of Great Pizza Businesses
05:17 – The Trap of High-Volume Sales
06:17 – Why Small, Focused Menus Win
07:30 – The Future of This Podcast & YouTube Channel
09:27 – The Mission: Better Pizza Shops Everywhere
10:49 – Where I’m Traveling Next
11:52 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect -
For more go to www.smartpizzamarketing.com
Summary
Lynn and Brandon share their inspiring journey from making pizza at home to launching their own restaurant in Chicago. They discuss the challenges they faced, the importance of community support, and the strategies they employed to build their brand and engage with customers. Their story highlights the resilience and adaptability required in the food industry, as well as the significance of staying true to one's roots and vision.
Chapters
00:00 From Home Cooking to Business Venture
05:50 Overcoming Challenges and Securing a Lease
11:58 Building a Community and Brand Identity
20:19 Deep Dish Pizza: A Chicago Tradition
27:24 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
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YouTube Description for the Episode:
🎙️ Live from the Pizza Tomorrow Summit! 🍕
In this episode, Bruce chats with Enrico from Uncle Rico's Pizza in Fort Myers, Florida! Recorded live at the Pizza Tomorrow Summit in Orlando, we dive into the vibrant pizza scene, Enrico's journey in the business, and his first-ever competition.🎯 Topics Covered:
The growth of the Florida pizza scene Enrico’s unique approach to pizza (not your typical NY style!) Lessons from 26 years in the pizza industry The power of social media and word-of-mouth marketing Balancing work and life as a mom-and-pop pizza shop owner💡 Whether you're a pizza aficionado or a business owner, this episode has something for everyone.
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncle_ricos_pizza239/Website: https://www.unclericospizza239.com/
🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for more amazing pizza content, interviews, and business insights! Check out our channel for more behind-the-scenes footage and join the pizza conversation!
📧 Questions or want to be featured? Reach out to Bruce at [email protected] or DM on Instagram: Smart Pizza Marketing.
📢 Subscribe to "How You Slice It" Podcast on Spotify and Apple iTunes!
We’re here to help you build a better pizza business and a better life.🍕 Let’s keep the pizza love alive! See you in the comments.
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Join our newsletter for pizza operators:
Follow on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Smartpizzamarketing
Slice Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SlicePlatform
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Andrew from Gianni's Pizza
04:02 Managing Multiple Locations and Family Dynamics
10:07 Adapting Business Hours for Profitability
16:12 The Challenges of Delivery and Third-Party Services
20:30 Creating a Unique Dining Experience
26:02 The Evolution of Gianni's and Lupo Pizzeria
32:14 Marketing Strategies in the Digital Age
Buy and Ooni pizza oven
Pizza Merch
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
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Here’s the truth: talent is overrated.It’s the small, consistent choices that make your pizzeria a success.Which one of these do you think has the biggest impact in your shop? Let me know.
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
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MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
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Welcome to the Smart Pizza Marketing Podcast, your go-to resource for real talk and actionable advice on running a successful pizzeria. I’m Bruce, your host, and I’m excited to introduce a new, shorter format to deliver quick tips, strategies, and insights directly to you.
While my in-depth interviews have moved to the How You Slice It podcast with Slice (check it out and subscribe), this show is all about sharing the lessons I’ve learned from talking to hundreds of pizza entrepreneurs. From building a pop-up to managing multiple locations, I’ve seen it all—and I want to help you navigate the journey.
In these bite-sized episodes, we’ll focus on what’s working right now in marketing, operations, and growth. I’ll be pulling back the curtain on what I would’ve wanted to know when I was running my own shop, especially the mindset shifts that can make all the difference.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a little push, you’re not alone. We’re all figuring it out, step by step, and I’m here to remind you that progress is about taking consistent, small actions every day. Join our Pizza Shop Owners Forum on Facebook to connect with others in the industry, and let’s build a community that supports each other.
Got a question? Hit me up on Instagram @SmartPizzaMarketing or email me at [email protected]. Let’s get started and get you pumped to take your shop to the next level. And a big shoutout to our sponsor, Stanislaus Food Products, for supporting this journey.
Tune in, take notes, and let’s grow together!
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In this episode of Smart Pizza Marketing, Bruce chats with Loren Paddleford, Chief Revenue Officer of Slice, about the distinct challenges and opportunities independent pizzerias face in a competitive market.
Loren explains how Slice is dedicated to supporting pizzerias with tools like online ordering, in-store POS systems, and tailored marketing services, diverging from the consumer-focused models of UberEats and DoorDash. The episode underscores the importance of community engagement and storytelling, and highlights the educational resources Slice provides to help pizzeria owners thrive.
Bruce and Loren also discuss the cultural significance of pizza, the value of direct customer relationships, and their shared vision of empowering local pizzerias to compete with larger chains. Tune in to learn how Slice is fostering a supportive ecosystem for independent pizza shops to succeed and grow.
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In this episode, Bruce Irving discusses the evolution of his podcast and the focus on providing actionable insights for pizzeria owners. He emphasizes the importance of negotiation, marketing tactics, and sharing personal experiences from the pizza industry. The podcast will feature shorter episodes aimed at delivering quick, practical tips to help pizzeria owners improve their businesses.
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In this episode, Bruce interviews Camilo, the owner of La Rosa Pizzeria. They dive into the challenges of opening and running a pizzeria, especially during the pandemic. Camilo shares his experiences in building two locations from scratch, the realities of restaurant construction, and how delivery has become a significant part of his business.
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
Learn from us: https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com/mastermind
Work with us: https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com/work
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In this episode, we catch up with Bill Hoon, who shares his incredible journey of growing his pizza business from a single night operation in a local bar to opening two successful brick-and-mortar locations in Northeast Ohio. Bill dives into the challenges he faced during the build-out process, the lessons learned along the way, and how he implemented efficient systems to scale his business.
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction
2:18 - From Bar to Brick-and-Mortar
4:16 - The Build-Out Process
5:30 - Opening the Second Location
7:38 - Choosing the Right Equipment
10:07 - Quality vs. Quantity
11:02 - Implementing Systems and Training
14:01 - Addressing Employee Challenges
15:45 - Handling Customer Feedback and Complaints
18:32 - Lessons Learned from the First Location
20:53 - The Importance of Marketing and Community Engagement
24:57 - Developing Effective Employee Review Processes
28:58 - Managing Growth and Maintaining Standards
31:43 - How to Reach Out to Bill for Advice and Questions
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Summary
In this episode, Bruce Irving interviews the team behind Amadoris Pizzeria, a Detroit style pizza restaurant in Miami, Florida. They discuss the journey of starting the pizzeria during the pandemic, the unique appeal of Detroit style pizza, and the challenges faced in the pizza business, particularly regarding cheese prices and seasonal fluctuations. The conversation also covers marketing strategies, the role of social media and influencers, customer engagement through text and email marketing, and future expansion plans for the business.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Amadoris Pizzeria
02:26 The Journey of Starting a Pizzeria
05:50 The Unique Appeal of Detroit Style Pizza
09:11 Challenges in the Pizza Business
12:33 Social Media and Marketing Strategies
15:32 The Role of Influencers in Business Growth
20:01 Navigating Seasonal Challenges
23:58 The Importance of Text and Email Marketing
26:27 Customer Engagement and Loyalty Programs
30:07 Handling Customer Feedback and Reviews
35:47 Future Plans and Expansion Goals
MY OTHER SOCIALS:
🎙 My podcast Smart Pizza Marketing where I interview entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people -
🌍 My website / blog - https://www.smartpizzamarketing.com
🐦 Twitter - https://twitter.com/spmpod
📸 Instagram - https://instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing
📱 TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@smartpizzamarketing
👨💻 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smartpizzamarketing
🎥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/smartpizzamarketing
- Visa fler
