Behind the Counter with the Food Czar

Heidi Blum

Behind the Counter with the Food Czar explores the stories of people who create community through their work and passion. Each episode features conversations with restaurant owners, influencers, charity leaders, and others making an impact in their neighborhoods.From building businesses to giving back, guests share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community supporter, or just someone who loves hearing inspiring stories, this podcast offers meaningful conversations about connection, resilience, and the power of people coming together.

  1. Episode 71 - From Jersey to the Islands: The Sisters Behind Shaka Kitchen

    1D AGO

    Episode 71 - From Jersey to the Islands: The Sisters Behind Shaka Kitchen

    Send us Fan Mail This episode dives into the inspiring, sun-soaked story of Kiersten and Krista Gormeley, the sisters behind Shaka Kitchen in Hoboken and Morristown. Raised in Wyckoff, New Jersey, the Gormeley sisters didn’t follow a traditional path. School wasn’t where they thrived — but curiosity, grit, and a shared desire for something more always were. Kiersten, the older sister, felt an early pull toward the culinary world and an even stronger itch to get out of New Jersey. That restlessness led the sisters to Hawaii, where they lived for six transformative months. What they found there wasn’t just beautiful food — it was a simpler, cleaner way of life rooted in community, intention, and joy. The people, the vibe, and the flavors deeply shaped their palates and their perspective, sparking the idea to build something together. In 2016, with passion but zero restaurant experience, they opened the first Shaka Kitchen in Hoboken. They didn’t know the front end from the back end — and day one was such a wild success that they literally had to close for a few days just to regroup. Instead of backing down, they leaned in, learned fast, and powered through, creating something truly special. Shaka Kitchen became more than a restaurant — it became a movement, channeling the Hawaiian way of life that brought the sisters peace, clarity, and purpose. Along the way, Kiersten validated her culinary chops by becoming a Food Network Chopped Champion, while both sisters continued growing the brand with heart and authenticity. Now, as they enter a new chapter — building families while building their future — Kiersten and Krista know one thing for sure: they want to keep sharing the Shaka spirit and bringing that sense of joy, nourishment, and connection to more people, in whatever form comes next. This is a story about trusting your gut, betting on each other, and building a life — and a business — that actually feels good. Follow Shaka Kitchen @shakakitchen Recorded at Shaka Kitchen Morristown NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    59 min
  2. Episode 70 - More Than a Deli: Eric Taliercio on Culture, Family, and Legacy

    MAR 17

    Episode 70 - More Than a Deli: Eric Taliercio on Culture, Family, and Legacy

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Eric Taliercio—the heart behind Taliercio’s, the iconic Middletown, NJ deli turned tri-state and beyond food destination. Eric’s path wasn’t straightforward. Despite his father owning the deli since 1988, Eric grew up working everywhere except inside it. After college, he tried finance, only to find himself drained and unfulfilled. Everything shifted when he finally joined the family business. His father made him start from the bottom, working seven days a week to learn the craft—and Eric fell in love with it. Today, he’s transformed Taliercio’s into a social media powerhouse known for its massive, creative sandwiches and a team-first culture. Eric lives by “the we, not the I,” always shining the spotlight on the people who help make Taliercio’s what it is. Their online presence surged during COVID and hasn’t slowed since. But beyond the viral fame and booming business, what stands out most is Eric’s genuine character—and the deep, meaningful relationship he’s built with his father by working side-by-side. Eric is one of the kindest, most grounded people I’ve had the chance to sit down with, and after hearing his story, you’ll understand exactly why the future of Taliercio’s looks brighter than ever. Follow Taliercio's: @taliercios Recorded at Taliercios Middletown, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    52 min
  3. Episode 69 - Honoring Legacy and Chasing Dreams with Peter Falzo of Vinnie’s Pan Pizza

    MAR 3

    Episode 69 - Honoring Legacy and Chasing Dreams with Peter Falzo of Vinnie’s Pan Pizza

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Peter Falzo, the passionate owner of Vinnie’s Pan Pizza — a beloved pizza spot with locations in Millburn and Brielle, New Jersey. Peter’s story begins in the kitchen of his Uncle Vinnie’s legendary pizzeria, Cammarata’s in Livingston, where he learned not only how to craft the perfect pizza but also the values of hard work, family, and perseverance. Inspired by his uncle’s influence, Peter set out to honor his legacy through Vinnie’s ’s — a name that carries both heart and history. From launching small businesses at a young age to running his own restaurant, Peter’s in Millburn, Peter’s entrepreneurial spirit has always driven him forward. When life and business challenges — including the pandemic — forced him to pivot, he rediscovered what truly mattered: keeping things simple, staying authentic, and creating something meaningful. Today, Vinnie’s Pan Pizza has become a sensation, known for its signature crispy pan-style bar pies, caramelized cheese crust, and those irresistible shredded “roni” cups. And Peter’s not stopping there — with his second location in Brielle and an unstoppable inner drive, he’s proof that passion and perseverance are the key ingredients to lasting success. Join us as Peter shares how honoring the past can fuel your future, why simplicity often leads to greatness, and what it really takes to build a business rooted in family, flavor, and heart Follow Vinnie's Pan Pizza: @vinniespanpizza Recorded at Vinnie's Pan Pizza Brielle, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    51 min
  4. Episode 68 - The Unstoppable Spirit of Chef Josh Capon

    FEB 17

    Episode 68 - The Unstoppable Spirit of Chef Josh Capon

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Chef Josh Capon—an acclaimed chef, restaurateur, and the undeniable King of Hospitality. Known for his unstoppable energy, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering loyalty to his friends, family, staff, and customers, Josh is a force who elevates every room he walks into. Josh’s journey is a remarkable one—beginning as a dishwasher in a local diner and evolving into a celebrated figure in New York City’s fine dining scene. But his story doesn’t follow a straight line. When life left him feeling stuck, it also opened the door to a new chapter—one filled with renewed purpose, deeper gratitude, and an incredible partnership and support system that fuels his path forward. At the heart of everything Josh does is a belief that everyone should be treated like a VIP. Whether you’re a first-time guest, a longtime regular, or a member of his team, he believes everyone deserves the same level of respect, care, and attention. His signature motto—“Take care of the people who take care of you”—isn’t just a saying. It’s the code he lives by. In this conversation, we explore Josh’s boundless energy, his unstoppable future, and the authenticity that makes him one of the most genuine shining lights in the restaurant industry—and in the world. He stays rooted in the moment, grateful for the journey, and excited for what’s ahead. Filled with humor, insight, heart, and a deep love for hospitality, this episode dives into the passion and positivity that define who he is. Tune in and experience the spirit of Josh Capon. Follow Josh Capon: @chefcapon Recorded at Capon's Chophouse Hackensack, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    1h 13m
  5. Episode 67 - From Baking Dreams to Viral Babkas: The Rise of Jaxx Snax (Jacqueline Spiegel)

    FEB 3

    Episode 67 - From Baking Dreams to Viral Babkas: The Rise of Jaxx Snax (Jacqueline Spiegel)

    Send us Fan Mail This week, we sit down with Jacqueline Spiegel, better known as Jaxx Snax, whose story is as rich and layered as her famous babkas. Growing up on Long Island, Jacqueline wasn’t quite sure where life would take her. Her path meandered from exploring a career in health and nutrition to enrolling in culinary school, where she discovered her true calling — the delicate art of French pastry. Starting at the bottom in several bakeries, Jaqueline quickly learned the demanding pace of the pastry world. The long hours took a toll, both physically and mentally, and when the pandemic hit, she made the difficult choice to step back and return home. What began as baking for fun soon became something much bigger. She started selling her creations — babkas, cookies, rugelach, and more — and when she brought them online, her genuine spirit and talent captured the internet’s heart. Jacqueline’s old-school charm and sweet youth make her a rare and refreshing presence in the digital world. She’s a young woman with an old soul, whose warmth, creativity, and authenticity resonate deeply with her growing community. Now, Jaxx Snax is on the rise — building a brand that celebrates tradition, passion, and the joy of sharing something made with love. In this episode, we talk about her journey from uncertainty to confidence, from burnout to breakout, and how she’s turning her passion for baking into a life she truly loves. A story of heart, hustle, and a touch of sweetness — meet the inspiring baker behind Jaxx Snax Follow @jaxxsnax Recording Location New York City Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    48 min
  6. Episode 66 - From Punk Rock to Plate: The Art and Energy of Mike Barreto of Judy & Harry's

    JAN 20

    Episode 66 - From Punk Rock to Plate: The Art and Energy of Mike Barreto of Judy & Harry's

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Mike Barreto, Assistant General Manager of Judy & Harry’s in Asbury Park, NJ — a true creative force whose journey proves that passion and artistry can take many forms. Growing up in the punk rock scene, Mike always knew he belonged front and center — drawn to the energy, connection, and raw emotion of performing. After studying the arts and pursuing a career as a sculptor and high school art teacher, life took an unexpected turn when the pandemic hit. Needing to pivot, Mike joined Heirloom Kitchen, part of the Good Trouble Hospitality Group, with no prior restaurant experience. Starting from the ground up, he quickly fell in love with the world of hospitality — learning, growing, and advancing within the restaurant group. Through his dedication and creativity, Mike worked his way up to become Assistant General Manager at Judy & Harry’s, also part of the Good Trouble Hospitality Group and set to celebrate its one-year anniversary in early 2026. Known affectionately as the restaurant’s “ballaboosta” — a Yiddish term meaning the perfect host, the one who keeps everything and everyone running with warmth and heart — Mike’s energy radiates throughout the space. His positivity sets the tone for the entire team, creating an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is inspiring. Join us as Mike shares his story of transformation, creativity, and community — from punk rock dreams to hospitality magic. Follow Mike Barreto : @mike_barreto Follow Judy & Harrys: @judyandharrys Recorded at Judy & Harrys Asbury Park, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    56 min
  7. Episode 65 - The Deli Guy – Building Community, Family, and a Legacy at Park Wood Deli

    JAN 6

    Episode 65 - The Deli Guy – Building Community, Family, and a Legacy at Park Wood Deli

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I sit down with Roger Schnorrbusch, the owner of Park Wood Deli and the social media sensation known as “The Deli Guy.” Roger shares his inspiring journey — from growing up in New Jersey and delivering newspapers as a kid, to working in restaurants instead of going to college, and learning the business from the ground up.  With relentless drive, Roger took over his first deli in Wyckoff in his early 20s, where he quickly learned what it takes to run a business. That experience became the foundation for Park Wood Deli, a place that’s far more than just great food — it’s built on community, family, and heart.  Roger’s positivity, energy, and humility shine through everything he does. His mom still keeps the books, his staff feels like family, and his followers see a man who leads by example. He reminds us that with hard work, gratitude, and kindness, anything is possible. Tune in to hear how The Deli Guy built a business — and a legacy — one sandwich (and one smile) at a time.  Follow The Deli Guy : @parkwood.deli Recording Location: Park Wood Deli Midland Park, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    55 min
  8. Episode 64 - One Year of Bucky’s: Growth, Gratitude, and Legacy with Dom Calise

    12/23/2025

    Episode 64 - One Year of Bucky’s: Growth, Gratitude, and Legacy with Dom Calise

    Send us Fan Mail In this special episode, I sit down once again with Dom Calise, owner of Bucky’s in Chatham, NJ, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of his pizza shop. Dom shares what it felt like to open the doors to Bucky’s on October 31, 2024, and what it means to look back one year later at a thriving, tight-knit community built around great food and heart. We talk about the lessons he’s learned, the personal growth he’s experienced, and the pride that comes from turning a dream into something lasting. He reflects on having his grandmother come cook in the shop, the traditions he’s honoring, and the legacy he’s working to build. Dom also gives us a glimpse of what’s ahead — the plans, the passion, and the purpose that continue to drive him forward. When I first sat down with Dom a year ago, he was anxious and uncertain about the road ahead. Today, he’s calm, confident, and fully in his groove. Bucky’s now feels like it’s been part of Chatham — and truly, part of New Jersey — for far longer than a year. It’s become a local fixture with so much more ahead. This is a story of grit, growth, and gratitude — and a celebration of community, legacy, and the power of believing in your vision. Follow Bucky's Pizza: @buckysnjpizza Recording Location: Bucky's Pizza Chatham, NJ Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more. Got feedback or a question, I'd love to hear from you!

    39 min
See All (72)

5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Behind the Counter with the Food Czar explores the stories of people who create community through their work and passion. Each episode features conversations with restaurant owners, influencers, charity leaders, and others making an impact in their neighborhoods.From building businesses to giving back, guests share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community supporter, or just someone who loves hearing inspiring stories, this podcast offers meaningful conversations about connection, resilience, and the power of people coming together.

Information

You Might Also Like