The Hot Slice

Author: Pizza Today

The Hot Slice brings you inspiring stories, strategies and lessons learned from successful pizzeria professionals and top experts. This podcast is hosted by the team at Pizza Today, the premier network for pizzeria professionals. Were bringing our award-winning interviewing and 37 years as a trusted pizza restaurant partner to the airwaves with real, in-depth conversations with pizzeria owners, champion pizza makers, industry pros and others to help make your business better.
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Language: en

Genres: Arts, Food

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301. Becoming a “Bucket List” Pizzeria with Bird Pizzeria’s Nkem & Kerrel Thompson
Episode 301
Wednesday, 11 March, 2026

Send a textEver wonder what it really takes to run a booming pizzeria without losing your mind?! Grab a slice and pull up a chair! This week on The Hot Slice with Pizza Today, we’re joined by Nkem and Kerrel Thompson, the visionary couple behind Bird Pizzeria in Charlotte, NC. Nkem and Kerrel have quickly become industry standouts for their commitment to craft, hospitality, and community—transforming Bird Pizzeria from a humble start into one of Charlotte’s most celebrated pizza destinations. Their creative approach and bold flavors have captured the attention of pizza enthusiasts and national media alike, making Bird Pizzeria a must-visit for both locals and travelers. As operators, they embody the passion and resilience it takes to stand out in today’s evolving food landscape, and their story is as inspiring as the pies they serve.We dive deep into the real, raw side of the pizza business, sharing the good, the bad, and the chaotic.Here's a taste of what we cover in this episode:Surviving the nonstop, breakneck speed of the make lineBringing authentic regional pizza to totally new marketsBalancing crazy lines and speed of service with top-tier qualityAre you ready to level up your pizza game? Hit play and let’s get into it!Check out Bird Pizzeria at https://www.birdpizzeria.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/birdpizzeria/