Simone D'Antonio: From Michelin-Starred Kitchens to Mamma Mia, How a Chef Turned Italian Tradition into a Bold New Business

Simone D'Antonio: From Michelin-Starred Kitchens to Mamma Mia, How a Chef Turned Italian Tradition into a Bold New Business Guest: Simone D'Antonio, Co-Founder of Mamma Mia Host: Julie Riga In This Episode Growing up in a family of restaurateurs in Salerno, Italy, and choosing to work in his father's restaurant over university Training at Alma, the International School of Italian Cuisine, and learning how a professional kitchen really runs Why timing is everything in a kitchen, and how precision becomes a lifelong habit Why service is half of the dining experience, and how hospitality has changed over the years The career transition from chef to founder, and why Simone wanted a life beyond the restaurant world How Mamma Mia turns Italian cities into products: Capri, Torino, Roma, and Milano Building a brand as a founder, from order fulfillment to Instagram, Meta ads, and founder videos Embracing growth even when being on camera feels uncomfortable Memorable Quotes "the vision of the company is basically this crazy culinary tour of Italy" "you cannot please anyone, right?" Key Takeaways Timing is a leadership skill: preparation and precision allow a team to deliver together Your past is your foundation: your background can become the base of your next chapter Service shapes the experience: people remember how they were treated as much as what they received Growth requires discomfort: stepping into a new role is part of the journey Build with purpose and personality: a brand with a clear vision invites people in Fun Fact People from Salerno are known as Pisciaiuoli, which means fishermen, so Simone grew up eating seafood. His favorite dish is spaghetti with clams. Connect with Simone D'Antonio Website: www.saymammamia.com Connect with Julie Riga Stacklist: https://stacklist.app/julieriga Coaching: Learn more about leadership coaching and transformation Perfect For Entrepreneurs, founders, creatives, and anyone ready to turn their experience into something new Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts Share this episode with someone ready to take the next step in their journey #stayoncourse #entrepreneur #leadership #careertransition #founderjourney Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.