Key Takeaways
???? The honeymoon moment that changed everything
???? Building a cheese empire from a tiny Hyde Park shop
???? Failing forward: how one business misstep led to deeper growth
???? Kendall’s mental health advocacy journey
???? Singing the national anthem… and fighting the nerves
Meet the Guests – Kendall and John Antonelli
On their honeymoon, John told Kendall he wanted to leave his job as a CPA to “do something in cheese.” Two years later, in 2010, they opened the doors to Antonelli’s Cheese Shop in Austin, Texas. Since then, they’ve grown that dream into a nationally recognized business grounded in their mission: Do Good. Eat Good.
Today, the Antonelli’s operate a bustling retail shop and host tasting events at two Austin locations, offering guided experiences that celebrate artisan producers and build community. Their national Cheese Club ships monthly to cheese lovers across the country, sharing the stories and flavors of handcrafted cheeses. Known for their joyful hospitality and generous storytelling, Kendall and John continue to bring people together, one bite at a time.
Connect with Kendall, John, and the Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Show Notes
What does it take to turn a honeymoon dream into a beloved Austin institution? In this episode, we sit down with Kendall and John Antonelli, co-owners and founders of Antonelli’s Cheese, to explore their journey of building joy, one wheel of cheese at a time. From quitting stable careers to launching a purpose-driven business, the Antonellis share how risk, reinvention, and deep community roots have shaped their lives and legacy.
From risking it all to reshaping what it means to build a business with heart, the Antonelli’s talk openly about the highs, lows, and human stories behind their success. You’ll hear about the moments of doubt, the power of saying yes, and the honest truth about what it takes to run a values-based small business in a rapidly growing city. You’ll laugh, get hungry, and maybe even tear up a little as they share how they’ve kept their relationship strong and their business resilient, even when things didn’t go as planned.