In this episode of the Jon Schultz Podcast, Schultz sits down with Rob Giuliani, the visionary co-founder behind Playa Bowls. Giuliani’s story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, revealing how a small idea sparked on the Jersey Shore evolved into a nationwide brand with over 280 locations.
Schultz explores the foundational values Giuliani brought from his military background—like precision and perseverance—and how these have been key to Playa Bowls’ growth.
Giuliani opens up about the early days of Playa Bowls, sharing how he and his co-founder Abby Taylor turned a humble cart into a cult favorite despite the challenges and doubts from those around them.
Giuliani talks about the critical decisions that shaped the company’s trajectory, including the strategic move to franchise and the importance of building a robust, culture-driven team.
His emphasis on staying authentic in a rapidly changing industry makes this conversation genuinely insightful. He discusses the delicate balance between innovation and sticking to what you know best and how Playa Bowls has managed to keep its identity intact while scaling.
Giuliani also reflects on the invaluable lessons he’s learned from mentors and the importance of knowing when to ask for help—a trait he believes is often overlooked in the entrepreneurial world.
This is more than just a business story—it’s about perseverance, creativity, and staying true to your vision, no matter the obstacles. Join us for an inspiring conversation highlighting the grind behind what some might call “overnight success.”
