Joanne Migliori of Migliori’s Pizzeria

When did you decide to go into the business you are in?
My husband and I both have a longstanding love and appreciation for Italian heritage and food. We coupled that with wanting to have a place where my husband’s sister with special abilities, Jill Marie, could have a place to work and feel a sense of camaraderie and fulfillment. From there, Migliori’s Pizzeria was born.

How do you find your passion?
I have a background in consulting, and I’ve found that a key ingredient for finding passion in what you do is understanding why you are doing it. Your work should bring you gratification.  I ask myself, would I do it for free?  That’s how I know something truly inspires me.

Tell us about how you grew up and who shaped you into the woman you are today.
I grew up with parents who always put their children first. My brother, sister and I could pick up the phone and call them at any hour of the night, and they’d be by our side at a moment’s notice with no judgment. They taught me the importance of being there for others. I grew up seeing how happy it made them, and that always brings me the same happiness. And there’s something to be said for growing up in Philly and moving South — it provides a great duality and insight in how to handle everything firmly, yet with the certain grace you obtain if you come below the Mason-Dixon.

Give us some success tips for someone just starting out in your line of work.
Working in the food and beverage industry will definitely build a thick skin — however, there will still be times when that skin is punctured in some form. But know this: if you believe in what you’re selling and the atmosphere you’re creating, those obstacles are only small hills while climbing a mountain of success. Most importantly, surround yourself with people who know more than you.  They challenge you to be better and do better.