
← I’m An Artist, Not A Salesman Podcast28 jul · 1 u 28 min
DJ Avision on Building a Music Career, Pizza Business, and Brand That Stands the Test of Time
<p>In this episode of <em><strong>I'm an Artist, Not a Salesman</strong></em>, host <strong>Luis Guzman</strong> sits down with <strong>Anthony Cardinale</strong>, better known as <strong>DJ Avision</strong>, for a conversation that goes far beyond music. While many people know Anthony as an internationally touring DJ and producer with a signature sound rooted in <em>90s house music</em>, there's another side to his story that deserves just as much attention. He's also a husband, father, entrepreneur, co-owner of <strong>The Bar</strong> in South Amboy, New Jersey, and co-founder of <strong>CJ Pizza</strong>, one of the area's fastest-growing wood-fired pizza brands.</p><p>What makes this conversation so interesting is how every part of Anthony's career connects together. The same creativity that fuels his music also shapes the restaurants, food concepts, branding, and customer experiences he builds. Whether he's producing a track, creating a menu, or designing a neighborhood gathering place, the goal is always the same: make people feel something.</p><p><strong>Luis</strong> and <strong>Anthony</strong> spend time talking about what it really takes to build multiple businesses while staying true to yourself. They discuss taking calculated risks, learning through failure, and making tough decisions during uncertain times. The pandemic forced Anthony and his longtime business partner to rethink everything they knew about business. What started as backyard pizza parties quickly turned into pop-up events, food trucks, and eventually a full restaurant that continues to grow.</p><p>The conversation also dives into <em>branding</em>, <em>hospitality</em>, and why details matter. Anthony explains why he refuses to cut corners on ingredients, customer experience, or the atmosphere people walk into. From sourcing premium products to creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable, every decision reflects the long-term vision instead of chasing quick wins.</p><p>Music fans will appreciate hearing about Anthony's journey as <strong>DJ Avision</strong>, from playing drums with his father and sneaking into clubs as a teenager to touring internationally and earning respect from some of the biggest names in electronic music. He shares how the sounds of New York house music shaped his production style and why staying authentic has always mattered more than following trends.</p><p>The discussion also highlights the influence of