Episoder
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Most pizzerias don't fail because of bad pizza or a bad location — they fail because of what happens (or doesn’t happen) behind the scenes. In this no-fluff video, Bruce shares the real reasons pizza shops struggle, and what successful operators are doing differently.
Whether you're just getting started or feel stuck in the daily grind, this video will show you exactly how to build systems, lead better, and grow with clarity. Plus, Bruce gives a preview of what you’ll gain at the National Restaurant Show.
👥 For pizza shop owners, operators, and anyone dreaming of running their own spot — this is a must-watch.
🎟️ Join Bruce at the National Restaurant Show
🗓️ May 17–20 in Chicago
🎟️ Use code Bruce25 at NationalRestaurantShow.com for $25 off👇 Comment “HELP” if you're struggling and want personalized support.
🔗 SmartPizzaMarketing.com -
Bruce hits the streets of Dallas to uncover how real pizzeria owners are surviving (and thriving) in 2025. From $10K store launches to no-walk-in operations and humbling failures, this episode is PACKED with real advice and behind-the-scenes strategy. Thinking of opening your own pizza shop? Start here.
Use code Bruce25 for $25 off the National Restaurant Show: nationalrestaurantshow.com
Chapters:00:00 - Intro & Purpose of the Trip
00:38 - National Restaurant Show Preview (May 17–20)
02:16 - Overview of Dallas Pizza Tour
03:00 - Type 1 vs Type 2 Fun: The Pizza Shop Owner Mindset
04:29 - Why Bruce Is Thinking About Opening Again
05:07 - Going Tactical: Real Data from Real Shops
06:05 - ZaLat Pizza: 29 Locations, $10K Buildouts
08:14 - Jay’s Empire: Cane Rosso & Wood-Fired Insights
10:32 - Pizzeria Karina: Bread-Maker to Pizza Pro
12:52 - GapCo: Lessons from Expansion & Retraction
15:36 - Normalize One-Shop Success
17:17 - Upcoming Trips & Final Thoughts -
Manglende episoder?
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In this episode, Bruce shares a raw and honest reflection on 10 years of podcasting and what he’s learned from talking to pizza shop owners all over the country.
Whether you're new to the business or have 20 years under your belt, this is the mindset advice you need to hear. Plus, a preview of the National Restaurant Association Show and some behind-the-scenes updates on Smart Pizza Marketing and Pizza Insider.
👇 Chapters below — make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more pizza biz insights!
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & National Restaurant Show Invitation
Details on why you should join Bruce in Chicago this May.00:41 – What You’ll Get from Attending the Show
Latest tech, gear, networking, and trends for pizzeria operators.01:25 – 10 Years of Podcasting: How It Started
Bruce opens up about his early doubts and what kept him going.02:33 – No One Has It All Figured Out
A powerful realization about every pizza operator—no matter the level.03:14 – What Success Really Means in the Pizza Business
It’s not followers or praise. It’s something much simpler.04:00 – Dealing with Chaos in the Shop
A reminder that breakdowns, no-shows, and complaints are part of the game.04:45 – Taking Time to Appreciate How Far You’ve Come
Bruce’s personal struggle with appreciating his own progress.05:25 – Your Monday Motivation
A pep talk for operators feeling overwhelmed or underappreciated.06:19 – How Bruce Wants to Help You
From podcasts to videos—here’s where to find support and advice.07:07 – Behind the Scenes: Pizza Insider with Vincent Rotolo
What it was like filming in Vegas and why this episode stood out.08:08 – New Content Ideas: Visiting Pizzerias IRL
Bruce shares a new content idea and asks for your feedback.09:23 – Wrap-Up & How You Can Help Shape Future Episodes
Let Bruce know if these episodes help you—DMs are open on Instagram! -
New In this solo episode, Bruce shares raw insights on working with influencers in the pizza business world. He reflects on a shocking conversation about influencer rates ($4,500?!) and breaks down a smarter, performance-based model for partnerships. Plus, get updates on upcoming content from the Pizza Expo and find out why Bruce is seriously considering opening another pizza shop.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro + Pizza Expo Plans
00:29 – Sponsor Shoutout: Cheese Hog Machine
01:28 – Why Shredded Cheese > Pre-Shredded Cheese
02:12 – Hosting the "How You Slice It" Podcast
02:35 – The Influencer Dilemma: Are They Worth It?
03:34 – The $4,500 Influencer Offer
04:20 – The Real ROI of Influencer Marketing
05:11 – A Smarter Influencer Deal Structure
06:12 – The Hidden Labor of Content Creation
07:22 – Performance-Based Influencer Contracts
08:10 – Views Don’t Equal Customers
08:54 – Final Thoughts + Should I Open a Pizza Shop?episode -
This episode is packed with insights from Lisa at the National Restaurant Show and Tom, the culinary director at Papa John’s. We break down how large restaurant chains like Papa John’s create family-friendly menus, innovate new products, and maintain consistency across thousands of locations. Plus, we talk about what you need to know before attending the National Restaurant Show this May in Chicago.
Use promo code BRUCE25 for $25 off your ticket (expires May 9). Details and links are below!
👇 Chapters 👇
00:00 – Intro: Meet Lisa and Tom
00:25 – What Is the National Restaurant Show?
01:03 – Why Menu Consistency Is So Hard (and How Big Chains Do It)
02:15 – Tom's Secrets to Appealing to Multi-Generational Families
05:48 – How Papa John’s Innovates Products
09:32 – The Challenge of Scaling Menu Ideas Across Locations
13:40 – How Independent Restaurants Can Improve Consistency
18:02 – Planning Your Visit to the National Restaurant Show
22:20 – Tools and Apps That Help You Navigate the Show
27:45 – Final Tips for Restaurant Owners Attending the Show
32:05 – Wrap-Up & Promo Code Info🎟️ Get Tickets: National Restaurant Show
💸 $25 Off Code: BRUCE25 (Expires May 9 – Operators Only)
📱 Connect on Instagram: @smartpizzamarketing
📅 Dates: May 17–20, 2025
📍 Location: Chicago, IL -
Join Bruce from Smart Pizza Marketing in this raw, one-on-one episode where he shares the 9 biggest lessons he learned the hard way over 20 years in the pizza business. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow your pizzeria, these insights can save you thousands in mistakes, stress, and sleepless nights.
💡 This isn’t theory—this is real advice from someone who’s lived it.
🔔 Subscribe for more real talk on Youtube.
📸 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartpizzamarketing/
🍕 Sponsored by Mike’s Hot Honey: https://www.mikeshothoney.com📍Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction & Why This Episode Matters
01:08 - Shoutout to Mike’s Hot Honey & Branding Lessons
01:37 - The Mission Behind Smart Pizza Marketing
02:18 - Lesson #1: Keep the Menu Simple
03:17 - Lesson #2: Track Every Dollar Like a Maniac
04:43 - Lesson #3: Preventative Maintenance is Non-Negotiable
05:30 - Lesson #4: Pay to Keep Great People
06:23 - Lesson #5: Dominate TikTok & YouTube
07:20 - Lesson #6: Never Stop Improving Your Dough08:14 - Lesson #7: Remember Why You Started
09:14 - Lesson #8: Everything Feels Unscalable at First
10:08 - Lesson #9: Network Like Your Life Depends On It
12:39 - Why Ed Started the Podcast & Final Thoughts -
Owner Forum: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pizzashopownersforum
In this bite-sized podcast audio from Bruce at Smart Pizza Marketing, we dive deep into the frustrating feeling of slow progress as a pizzeria or restaurant owner. Whether you're overwhelmed by the day-to-day or wondering if you're getting anywhere at all, this episode is your pep talk and reminder that every little action is building momentum.
🚀 Bruce also talks about the upcoming National Restaurant Show in Chicago, how to get a discount, and why it's a must-attend for serious operators. Use code BRUCE25 for $25 off.
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro + Quick Note About the Audio Clip
00:33 – Why You Should Be at the National Restaurant Show (Promo Code Inside)
02:34 – Back to Business: Feeling Like Things Are Moving Too Slow
03:37 – Every Action Builds Momentum, Even If It Feels Slow
04:31 – Focus on the Positives, Not Just the Problems
05:36 – You Have 51 Weeks Left—Stop Trying to Fix It All at Once
06:08 – You’re Not Alone: We’re All Figuring This Out
06:37 – Join the Pizza Owner Community (Link in Description)
07:14 – Wrap Up + Stay Tuned for More -
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! -
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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