From addiction and prison to purpose and impact — this is a redemption story you won't forget.
In this episode, Curtis sits down with Joe Gallagher Jr., also known as Chef Giuseppe, a former Grammy-nominated musician turned faith-driven entrepreneur, author, and founder of Apastioli Specialty Foods — one of the fastest-growing food brands in the Southern U.S.
Joe's story begins in darkness: a traumatic accident, a spiral into addiction, broken relationships, attempted murder charges, and years lost behind bars. But through sobriety, faith, and a simple act of service — sharing a homemade sauce at a recovery meeting — Joe began to rebuild his life and reconnect with purpose.
Today, his business is expanding into major grocery chains, his book is inspiring lives, and his message is clear: "Even the most broken people can become powerful healers."
🧠 In This Episode, You'll Learn:
✅ How Joe went from prison to purpose ✅ The connection between redemption and entrepreneurship ✅ How sharing your story can heal others ✅ The power of faith, service, and second chances ✅ What Joe's journey teaches us about communication, identity, and resilience ✅ Why speaking your truth is the first step to becoming who you're meant to be
This is more than a food business story — it's a raw, honest, and empowering conversation about rebuilding from rock bottom, overcoming shame, and learning to lead with love.
🎯 Perfect for:
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Anyone navigating recovery, reinvention, or big personal change
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Global professionals learning to speak confidently and authentically
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Entrepreneurs, educators, and language learners looking for real inspiration
Whether you're learning English, launching a business, or trying to reclaim your voice, this episode will lift you up and remind you what's possible.
📘 BUY Joe's Book on Amazon:
From Bars to Jars: A Saucy Redemption Story 👉 Buy it here
🔗 Follow Joe Gallagher Jr. & Apastioli Specialty Foods:
🌐 Website: joegallagherjr.com 🌐 Apastioli Foods: apastioli.com 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/joegallagherjr
🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for business success? We currently have space for 5 professionals to join Teacher Curtis for 1-to-1 coaching. Book your trial session now and start speaking clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.
👉 Book your trial session here: https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
OR!!! Join the 90-Day English Challenge — now with 15% OFF using coupon code 90DAY15
🔗 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website: — https://realenglishconversations.com
NEW!!! Free English Lessons & Package discounts for PATREON Members -> https://www.patreon.com/c/realenglishconversationspodcast/membership
🎧 Podcast:
Apple Podcasts — https://bit.ly/REC_Apple
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📘 Facebook: Real English Conversations — https://bit.ly/REC_Facebook
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📺 YouTube: Real English Conversations Channel — https://bit.ly/REC_YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations 📸 Instagram: @realenglishconversations — https://bit.ly/REC_Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/ 💼 LinkedIn: Curtis Davies — https://bit.ly/REC_LinkedIn
