Jeff Roberts – The Power of People, Passion, Personality… & Pizza

Jeff Roberts is a lifelong entrepreneur, and a guy who knows a thing or two about building brands, creating culture, bringing people together and doing good things for his community.

Jeff is a positive force and has been his entire life; just ask anyone from Newport Beach, California because while most every town has an elected mayor; if you’re lucky your town also has the real “mayor…” that person that is central to the community, well known, respected, and treasured. That’s Jeff.

Jeff hails from a family that was also central to their community. His dad was an early surf musician and the MC of every event in town. His family opened a wildly successful surf shop on Balboa Island, CA in the 80’s which Jeff was a key player in, for decades.

Jeff’s career took him from a hyper-local, family business to a long career as a worldwide retail executive in the surf industry at brands like Volcom and 5.11 tactical… and then back to hyper-local again. The arc of his path has been amazing to watch.

Today, Jeff is co-owner and full time operator of Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza Stores with (soon to be) 5 locations; an operation that is WAY more than pizza. They are award winning, community stewards that have been recognized for their passion and commitment to local fundraising and giving; because it is a cornerstone of their business and they are very good at it.

Jeff has built a career around great brands, great people, and a genuine passion for community. And today, what began as a mission to save an iconic neighborhood favorite has become a growing, award-winning restaurant brand, built around exceptional food, a strong employee culture and a commitment to giving back.

We dig into the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship, the power of culture, the importance of family, and how building a successful business can create opportunities to make a real difference in communities.

It’s a story about passion, purpose, people… and pizza; and building something that has real and lasting impact.