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-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.

The Antonellis 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.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

💍 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

Connect with the Antonellis:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallantonelli

Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendall.antonelli/

Personal Website: https://kendall-antonelli.com/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/antonelli-s-cheese-llc-dba-antonelli-s-cheese-shop

Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AntonellisCheese/

Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antonellischeese/

Company Website: https://www.antonellischeese.com/

Company YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCno5kPKFeZb9s-ox8B39h5g

Get in touch with Adam & Collective Advisors

Website: https://www.collectiveadvisors.com/

Request an appointment: https://www.collectiveadvisors.com/#contact

Call: 512-467-1923