Podcast Summary: All Of It – "One Man's Mission to Slang Pies and Save Lives"

Introduction

In the February 20, 2025 episode of All Of It hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC, listeners are introduced to Mohammad Abdul Hadi, the founder and owner of Down North Pizza in North Philadelphia. This episode delves into Hadi's mission-driven approach to running a pizza restaurant that not only serves acclaimed pies but also plays a pivotal role in aiding formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society. The conversation offers deep insights into the intersection of culture, community, and culinary innovation.

The Story Behind Down North Pizza

Founding Motivations and Community Impact

Mohammad Abdul Hadi shares his personal connection to the carceral system, highlighting how growing up in Philadelphia exposed him to the challenges faced by those affected by incarceration. “Growing up in Philly, you're always exposed to the carceral system in some way, shape or form... So it definitely hits home on many different levels for myself and especially in the neighborhood which we reside in, which is Strawberry Mansion, which has the highest recidivism rate in Philadelphia” (02:09). This profound awareness inspired him to establish Down North Pizza in Strawberry Mansion, making it a haven for individuals seeking employment and support post-incarceration.

Hadi emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities without discrimination based on past convictions. “...building that environment conducive for them to grow within it's very, very important because as we know, environment is everything” (05:14). The restaurant serves as more than just a place to eat; it's a community hub fostering growth and stability, as evidenced by all employees remaining out of the prison system since joining.

Culinary Approach

Philadelphia Style vs. Detroit Style Pizza

When asked about the distinct style of pizza at Down North, Hadi clarifies the blend of influences that define their unique offerings. “Because Detroit style, they have a very specific Wisconsin Britis that they use to line the pans with to give it that exterior, like crust that you see on a Detroit out Detroit style pizza. The dough is a little bit more denser... we use a higher water content, so it's, you know, lighter, it's airier, a little fluffier” (09:16). This adaptation results in a Philadelphia style pizza that retains the square shape reminiscent of Detroit's but offers a lighter, fluffier dough texture.

Creative Toppings and Halal Commitment

Down North Pizza prides itself on inventive toppings that cater to diverse palates while maintaining traditional favorites. Hadi describes the “jerk lamb sausage pizza” as a standout creation: “It's like a savory and the sweet side. So it's one of those things that people just love” (10:36). Additionally, the restaurant adheres to Islamic dietary laws, ensuring all food is halal. “We wanted to also introduce individuals who never had beef products like the beef pepperoni... and, you know, just for us, you know, with the different proteins that we use, we definitely want to make sure that we use the highest quality of different ingredients” (12:17).

"We the Pizza: Slangin' Pies and Saving Lives" Cookbook

Structure and Content

Hadi discusses the thoughtful design of their cookbook, which integrates personal stories with culinary recipes to provide a comprehensive narrative. “There are these little stories on the pages at the top, and then on the bottom is a timeline of blacks in America” (06:41). This layout allows readers to navigate easily between enjoying recipes and understanding the historical and cultural context that inspired the business. The inclusion of a timeline serves to educate readers on the evolution of the carceral system and its impact on the community, enhancing the reader’s appreciation of Down North Pizza’s mission.

Personal Success Stories

Transformative Impact on Individuals

Hadi shares inspiring stories of individuals who have thrived through their involvement with Down North Pizza. One such example is Derek Cobb, who successfully navigated the parole system with the support of the restaurant: “He was able to consolidate that parole on both the federal and the state and also get off of federal parole two years early and also the state four years early” (16:00). Another notable story is that of Michael Carter, the executive chef, who obtained his driver’s license and passport, enabling him to embark on life-changing experiences like a safari in Kenya. These narratives highlight the profound personal transformations facilitated by the supportive environment at Down North Pizza.

Cultural Integration

Music and Identity

Music plays a significant role in the Down North Pizza experience. The restaurant features a curated playlist that includes songs by influential Philadelphia artists, many of which inspired the names of their pizzas. Hadi explains, “Because all of our pizzas are actually named after influential, famous Philadelphia songs from Artists that are from Philadelphia” (13:28). For example, the “Rock the Mic” pizza is named after a well-known hip-hop song by Philadelphia artist Beanie Sigel, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to celebrating local culture.

The cookbook leverages this connection by incorporating a QR code that links to the playlist, allowing diners to engage with the musical heritage that inspires their dining experience. “We have the traditional cheese pizza. We have a traditional pepperoni pizza... And the names have meanings behind the pizza” (14:04).

Conclusion

Mohammad Abdul Hadi’s Down North Pizza exemplifies how a business can intertwine culinary excellence with social impact. Through innovative Philadelphia-style pizzas, a commitment to halal practices, and a mission to support formerly incarcerated individuals, the restaurant fosters a thriving community. The accompanying cookbook, We the Pizza: Slangin' Pies and Saving Lives, further extends this mission by sharing recipes and stories that celebrate both food and cultural resilience. Hadi’s dedication underscores the transformative power of combining passion with purpose, making Down North Pizza a beacon of positive change in North Philadelphia.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (02:09): “Growing up in Philly, you're always exposed to the carceral system in some way, shape or form... So it definitely hits home on many different levels for myself and especially in the neighborhood which we reside in, which is Strawberry Mansion, which has the highest recidivism rate in Philadelphia.”

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (05:14): “It's homelessness and employment. Those are the two driving forces behind recidivism... building that environment conducive for them to grow within it's very, very important because as we know, environment is everything.”

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (09:16): “The dough is a little bit more denser... we use a higher water content, so it's, you know, lighter, it's airier, a little fluffier.”

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (10:36): “It's like a savory and the sweet side. So it's one of those things that people just love.”

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (12:17): “We wanted to also introduce individuals who never had beef products like the beef pepperoni... with the different proteins that we use, we definitely want to make sure that we use the highest quality of different ingredients.”

• Mohammad Abdul Hadi (14:04): “The names have meanings behind the pizza, because what's better, you know, than cheese pizza? It's no better love than actual just a plain cheese pizza.”

References

• 02:09 – Hadi discusses the impact of the carceral system in Philadelphia.
• 05:14 – Challenges of homelessness and employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.
• 09:16 – Differences between Philadelphia and Detroit-style pizza.
• 10:36 – Balancing traditional and creative pizza toppings.
• 12:17 – Commitment to halal food practices.
• 14:04 – Significance of pizza names inspired by Philadelphia songs.