Best Erik Crust Podcasts (2025)

1
75: Guard Hard 40:25

8d ago40:25

40:25

In the book this week, the President's new bodyguard learns that the first day really is always the hardest. Then, the boys rack up a few more soft reboots, Erik solves every problem from the past and the present and the future, and Matthew relives the Vesuvius eruption. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends…

1
74: Celebrity Big Sandwich 40:38

3M ago40:38

40:38

In the book this week, George Clooney (not that one) is ecstatic to learn that a restaurant's named a sandwich after him, for some reason. Then, Erik explains why he wants the families of the Boston Celtics to starve and die, and Matthew finds out that COIN broke up in real-time. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows tw…

1
From TV to Oven: Jim Serpico's Baking Adventure 17:23

3M ago17:23

17:23

In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' Jim Serpico shares his heartfelt speech delivered to the Long Island Chefs. He recounts his experiences, from setting up a 12-foot grazing table featuring various breads and Italian meats to lightening the mood with humor. Jim delves into his background, including his father's culinary influence and his tr…

1
AI Insights and Best Moments from Bread for the People 2024 16:26

5M ago16:26

16:26

In this special New Year's episode of Bread for the People, host Jim Serpico reflects on using AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to boost productivity and streamline tasks in his personal and professional life. Jim also offers a year-end recap of the most memorable moments and guests of 2024, including entrepreneurs like Siler Chapman (starti…

1
Maria Baradell is Bringing Bread Back 49:36

5M ago49:36

49:36

In this episode of Bread for the People, host Jim Serpico interviews Maria Baradell, founder of Leaf and Loaf, a Blog and sourdough bakery in Dallas, Texas. Maria shares her journey from starting as a cottage baker to teaching sourdough bakers how to launch and grow their home bakery. They delve into Maria's innovative two-pan baking method, her Ve…

1
Preserving Legacy, Embracing Innovation: Dennis Turcinovic at Delmonico's 39:20

5M ago39:20

39:20

The History and Future of Delmonico's: A Conversation with Dennis Turcinovic In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico interviews Dennis Turcinovic, a veteran restaurateur managing the historic Delmonico's in New York City. Dennis shares insights into the restaurant's rich legacy dating back to 1827, famous dishes like Baked Alask…

1
73: Kraken Con (w/ Rat) 38:23

7M ago38:23

38:23

The boys are joined by Rat, and in the book of the week, the Kraken is a liar and a thief. Then, the boys discuss One Piece, live action One Piece with puppets, and whether One Piece had a steampunk arc (it did). Plus, Matthew gets Huawei with it. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends (and sometimes a third!…

1
From Kneading to Leading: Dan Richer’s Path to Pizza Perfection 42:43

7M ago42:43

42:43

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 importa…

1
Virtual Kitchens Unleashed: Inside Kirk Mauriello's Profit Secrets 57:27

8M ago57:27

57:27

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…

1
72: Young Alan 33:14

8M ago33:14

33:14

In the book this week, a TV producer pitches her next smash hit: Young Alan. That’s gotta be a prequel show, right? Right?? Then, the boys get Huawei with it. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends trapped in a fictional library. With no hope of escape, they resolve to read the library's many books, which are…

1
Zingerman's Secrets: Amy Emberling's Artisan Baking Journey 48:44

8M ago48:44

48:44

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 Zingerma…

1
Cheesesteak Royalty: Frank Oliveri's Reign at Pat's 30:51

9M ago30:51

30:51

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 …

1
71: A Lost in Tarnation Spinoff Celebration 44:09

9M ago44:09

44:09

In the book this week, a retired gunslinger bumps into a time traveler who’s perpetuating some harmful stereotypes about the Wild West. Then, the boys discuss whether it’s too late for Michael Caine to come back from retirement and play Jeeves in Jeeves Returns, and Lost in Narration Manuel Miranda. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in …

1
Jim Serpico Unfiltered: Taking a Break From Your Food Business Is Important 39:39

9M ago39:39

39:39

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 challeng…

1
From Working-Class Roots to Pizza Czar: Anthony Falco on Crafting World-Class Pizzas - REPLAY 56:54

9M ago56:54

56:54

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 developm…

1
70: Love Factually 3 44:58

9M ago44:58

44:58

It's 70! In the book this week, Bulk Haulage realises he'll need to be more than just polite to ChatGPT if he wants the robots to spare him when they take over the world. Then, the boys discuss audio-described Love Island drownings, making America smaller again, Scottish independence, and the next pope: Erik! At the risk of breaking the fourth wall…

1
Siler Chapman: From Laundry Room to King of Fire 42:31

9M ago42:31

42:31

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 bui…

1
Bread, Fire, and Salumerie: Inside Angelo Competiello's Culinary World 46:38

9M ago46:38

46:38

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 inclu…

1
Bread Bandits: How Embezzlement Can Destroy Restaurants 20:01

10M ago20:01

20:01

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…

1
Grit and Dough: Inside Joe Carlucci’s Pizza Revolution 1:09:24

10M ago1:09:24

1:09:24

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 strug…

1
Christy Alia: The Secret Sauce Behind Women's Pizza Month and Real Clever Food 48:06

10M ago48:06

48:06

In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico welcomes Christy Alia from Real Clever Food. They discuss Alia's creation of Women's Pizza Month, which celebrates and highlights the contributions of women to the pizza industry, coinciding with Women's History Month. They also delve into the rising popularity of Detroit-style pizza, Alia…

1
Sweat, Smoke, & Success: Keith Lombardo's Catering Empire 36:10

10M ago36:10

36:10

In this episode of 'Bread for the People,' host Jim Serpico talks with Keith Lombardo, chef and owner of The Barbecue King and 1 3 Catering & Events. Jim shares his personal journey transitioning from farmers’ markets to food trucks and catering. Keith discusses the early realization of the viability of catering, overcoming challenges in pricing an…

1
From Strip Clubs to Café Dreams 26:15

11M ago26:15

26:15

In this episode of "Bread for the People," host Jim Serpico shares highlights from a successful catering event in the Hamptons and discusses the challenges of finding a new restaurant space. He humorously recounts a visit to a former strip club being considered for his new café. Jim delves into the concept of transactional relationships, reflecting…

1
Slice of Wisdom: Navigating the Pizza Industry with Chef Leo Spizzirri 1:15:09

11M ago1:15:09

1:15:09

In this Bread For the People episode, Chef Leo Spizzirri and host Jim Serpico delve into the pizza and catering industries, discussing continuous learning, fair compensation, and business education needs. They explore tomato varieties, equipment choices, and techniques for maintaining dough quality. The episode highlights the importance of collabor…

1
69: The One Without a Story - Chapter Two 11:21

11M ago11:21

11:21

One year on from his library sabbatical, Erik finally comes clean. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends trapped in a fictional library. With no hope of escape, they resolve to read the library's many books, which are actually just absurd comedy scripts written by Matthew. Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@losti…

1
Sandi Smith - Mixing Passion and Purpose with Sandi's Breads - REPLAY 42:11

11M ago42:11

42:11

Join host Jim Serpico in this delectable episode of Bread For the People. Meet Sandy Smith, co-founder of Sandi's Breads in Palmyra, PA. Discover their journey from a home kitchen to a bustling bakery. Hear Sandy's baking expertise and the heart behind Sandi's Breads, offering 40 delicious varieties today. Indulge in their heavenly pastries and sig…

1
Tom Stein's Recipe for Success: Navigating the Food Industry 55:20

11M ago55:20

55:20

In the latest "Bread For the People" episode, host Jim Serpico chats with special guest Tom Stein, owner of Tommy Tacos in Long Island, NY, about food industry entrepreneurship. They discuss challenges like rising costs and explore solutions such as kiosks for efficiency. Tom shares his journey from fine dining to fast food and emphasizes quality a…

1
68: Lost in Tarnation?! (w/ Bob Buel) 50:43

11M ago50:43

50:43

HE'S ALIVE! Bob Buel (99 Questions) returns to the library. In the book this week, the mayor of an Old West town has an intervention for the local gunslinger, who's challenged so many people to duels for the smallest infractions that almost everyone in the town is now dead. Then, the boys announce the death of Osama bin Laden, and discuss Bob's nex…

1
Doap and the Great Accelerator: Joshua Grange's Insights on Life's Harmonies 1:08:23

12M ago1:08:23

1:08:23

In this engaging episode, host Jim Serpico chats with Joshua Grange, the mastermind behind Doap - the innovative silicon scrubbing bar for bakers and dough makers. Joshua is also a seasoned professional guitar player who has shared stages with icons like K.D. Lang and Beck. Their dialogue delves into the profound influence of ear training on musica…

1
Unpacking the Art of Brand Building with Steve DeAngelis 53:34

12M ago53:34

53:34

On this week’s podcast, host Jim Serpico engages in a knowledge-packed conversation with Steve DeAngelis, a seasoned Co-Founder of MMP Creations, a media agency with a clear mission to assist brands in community building. In a world where everyone claims to be a 'Full Service Agency,' MMP stands out with its laser focus on delivering exceptional re…

1
From Pies to Profits: A Conversation with Pizza Master Mike Pitera 1:01:41

12M ago1:01:41

1:01:41

In this Bread For the People episode, host Jim Serpico chats with Mike Pitera, owner of Pizza a Modo Mio and Pizza A Modo Cafe in Charleston, SC. Mike, ranked among the top 10 cheese pizza makers globally by the International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas, joins Jim to discuss various aspects of the food industry, entrepreneurship, and business ownership…

1
67: Confirmation Bias at 20,000 Feet / Money Peanut 1:02:31

12M ago1:02:31

1:02:31

In a double-story season premiere, the boys read a book about budget flights, which are pretty much just regular flights except there's a little gremlin on the wing of the plane. Then, they read a book about a plucky passenger's plot to pilfer all the peanuts from the plane. Plus, in a game of 'Sabrina Carpenter Nonsense Outro or Not That', Matthew…

1
Branding and Problem-Solving with Erik Fabian of Sourhouse 54:24

1y ago54:24

54:24

In this episode of Bread For the People, host Jim Serpico speaks with Erik Fabian, the Co-Founder of Sourhouse. a company that helps people bake more sourdough bread by creating thoughtfully designed baking tools and inviting people to bake more often. Erik discusses developing a product to help home bakers improve the bulk-proofing stage of bread …

1
66: The Sinkhole City Season Four Finale - Vol. 2 49:38

1y ago49:38

49:38

In Volume 2, the boys read a book about a giant rat mafia mob boss mixup. And Jerry. Plus, in a rousing round of the Segments-inspired ‘Sabrina or Sabrinah’, Erik must guess which lyrics were written by Sabrina Carpenter, and which were written by Matthew. See you in season five! At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows tw…

1
65: The Sinkhole City Season Four Finale - Vol. 1 44:35

1y ago44:35

44:35

In Volume 1 of the season finale, the boys read a book about a COOL judge. He's not like other judges! Then, they discuss the importance of getting Jimmy Saville's name right, puppet club, and listening to TV through a wall through a cup. Stay tuned for Volume 2! At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends trapped…

1
64: A/B/...NO! (w/ StormVandal) 57:37

1y ago57:37

57:37

The boys are joined by StormVandal, and in her very own book, a [CENSORED] soon goes [CENSORED] when the [CENSORED] is actually [CENSORED]. Then, they discuss using milk to get people to buy more milk, Tambor alerts, slurs, The Mount of Monte Fisto, and jokes at Kate Middleton's expense that, at the time of the recording, weren't THAT insensitive. …

1
63: Bad Dog Down (w/ Lamb and Sav) 37:28

1y ago37:28

37:28

In the book this week, a TV dog whisperer has built his reputation on finding quick but long-lasting fixes to almost any dog behaviour problem... but it's usually getting them put down :( Then, the boys are joined by Lamb (@llambface) and Sav (@spavmanna) to discuss why you shouldn't recycle, and serial killers again. Plus, Lamb finally asks the qu…

1
62: Hawk Gotta Eat! 30:49

1+ y ago30:49

30:49

In the book this week, this hawk is feeling peckish. Then, the boys discuss the ungrateful pieces of shit on the Les Mis subreddit, reverse psychology affirmations, Baldur’s Gays, Chris Rock’s skull made out of rock, and Good Boy. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends trapped in a fictional library. With no …

1
61: The Former Mall Santa Support Group Troupe 45:16

1+ y ago45:16

45:16

In the book this week, two years on from the death of Santa Claus, a group of recovering mall Santas must finally learn to let go. Then, just for Christmas, the boys discuss Canadian serial killers and former wrestler Chris Benoit, before DMing Erik's favourite athlete. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narration follows two friends …

1
60: Lost Improv-ation #2 31:03

1+ y ago31:03

31:03

It's 60! Matthew finds 3 more books written by real, famous authors- or at least the first lines of them. Forced to make the stories up as they go along, the boys spout nonsense about not quite making the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, the University of Oxford, and letting a guy have his projects. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in Narratio…

1
59: Who the F**k Do You Think You Are? (w/ Devyn) 32:17

1+ y ago32:17

32:17

Devyn (TuddyTalk) makes his library debut to read a book about Felony Klein, who finds out the hard way that not every celebrity can have an interesting lineage. Then, the boys discuss the addictive properties of chocolate milk, family friendly turtle facts, and Erik's first beef in literally a year. At the risk of breaking the fourth wall, Lost in…

1
Bread and Television: A Producer's Perspective with Jim Serpico 23:20

1+ y ago23:20

23:20

On this episode of Bread For the People, host Jim Serpico takes a break from his usual interview format and shares a personal reflection on the end of the Screen Actors Guild strike. As a successful television producer who has worked on hit shows such as Rescue Me and Maron, Jim offers unique insight into the physical and mental demands of both the…

1
Mixing Tradition and Inspiration: Travis Gerjets's Bread-Making Adventure 47:20

1+ y ago47:20

47:20

Be captivated by the heartfelt journey of bread maker and founder of Prairie Sky Breads Travis Gerjets, in this week's episode of the Bread For the People Podcast. Join host Jim Serpico as he delves into Travis's inspiring story of how a unique soup kitchen experience in Liverpool sparked a passion for baking bread like his beloved grandmother. Tra…

1
Sandi Smith - Mixing Passion and Purpose with Sandi's Breads 42:11

1+ y ago42:11

42:11

Join host Jim Serpico as he unleashes his passion for all things bread in this delectable episode of Bread For the People. Get ready to be captivated by the story of Sandy Smith, the co-founder of Sandi's Breads based in Palmyra, PA. Sandy, along with her talented husband Tom, creates magic in their bakery, crafting European artisan breads and past…

1
Kelly Carlin - Avoiding Society's Culture Trap - REPLAY 50:44

1+ y ago50:44

50:44

Join Jim Serpico on a journey of self-reflection, laughter, and enlightenment as he sits down with the one and only Kelly Carlin. They'll explore the meaning of life (no, really), discuss ego and meditation, dive into the challenges of growing up in the shadow of one of the greatest comedians of all time - George Carlin, and even dish on getting la…

1
58: 4 Cast 2 Curious 32:02

1+ y ago32:02

32:02

In 4 Cast 2 Curious, a YouTube conspiracy theorist gets a rude awakening when he finds out that his latest theory- weather channels are just guessing the weather- is actually true. Then, the boys play back some highlights from their Good Boy watch-along, DM some celebrities, and post a good tweet about Charlie Day. At the risk of breaking the fourt…

1
Rebecca Firkser - Food Media Reimagined - REPLAY 49:13

1+ y ago49:13

49:13

Jim Serpico speaks with Rebecca Firkser, a Brooklyn-based writer, recipe developer, and food stylist. They talk about developing recipes for cookbooks and websites, being on set for a food photography shoot, Taylor Ham, the world of food media, and the job of a recipe tester. Follow Jim Serpico on Instagram at @jimserpico and @sidehustlebread. Foll…

1
Jeanette Candido of The Granola Plant: Food Trucks and Farmers Markets 50:16

1+ y ago50:16

50:16

Before Jim interviews Jeanette Candido, the founder of The Granola Plant, he gives you a status update on his mobile food trailer. Jim spoke with Jeanette, an artisan granola producer and distributor known for her Gluten-free, oil-free, and processed sugar-free products about selling at various Farmer's Markets around Long Island, New York. Jeanett…

1
Auntie Anne's: Beyond Pretzels - A Delicious Story of Family, Community, and Success 55:52

1+ y ago55:52

55:52

Auntie Anne's: Beyond Pretzels - A Delicious Story of Family, Community, and SuccessJoin me, Jim Serpico, on Bread For the People as I sit down with the legendary Auntie Anne's Pretzel founder, Anne Beiler, for an intimate and heartwarming interview. In this episode, we dive deep into Anne's fascinating journey from being a humble farmers market ve…

1
The Dough of the Wise: A Conversation with a Mafia-Linked Bakery Investor and a Comedy Genius 36:17

1+ y ago36:17

36:17

Join host Jim Serpico as he welcomes an infamous Mafioso introduced only as “Tony.” Tony is a successful entrepreneur and restaurateur who credits his own success due to his unique “management” style.. Jim expresses his surprise to be talking to Tony, stating that he had no idea the guest was still around. They have a casual conversation about Tony…

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Erik Crust Podcasts

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