This week on The St. Louis Podcast, we’re joined by Dan Abel Jr., the Chief Chocolate Officer of the beloved St. Louis institution, Bissinger’s. As one of the oldest chocolatiers in the U.S., Bissinger’s has been crafting mouth-watering confections for generations, and Dan takes us behind the scenes to share what it’s like to lead this iconic brand.

In this episode, Dan dives into the daily life of running a chocolate factory - and yes, we ask the big questions: Is it really like Willy Wonka? He gives us an inside look at working alongside his family, from his mom and dad to his siblings, and how they’ve created a business that has stood the test of time. With over 125 employees, Bissinger’s is not just about family - it’s about legacy, tradition, and maintaining the art of chocolate-making.

But it’s not just about what’s happening now - Dan reveals exciting plans for the future, including a major expansion that will turn their factory on The Hill into a must-visit destination. From a new cafe to a tourism center and event space, Bissinger’s is poised to offer a sweet experience like no other, putting St. Louis on the map as a chocolate lover’s paradise.

We also chat with Dan about the unique challenges of blending tradition with modern tastes, how they’re innovating with new flavors and products, and what it’s been like to steer a company through generations of growth. Whether you’re a fan of Bissinger’s or just curious about what it takes to run a successful, family-owned business, this episode is filled with insights, humor, and of course, chocolate! Don’t miss out on this deliciously informative conversation.

We would also like to give a special shoutout and express our gratitude to Mark Lee from Farmers Insurance St. Louis for being one of our valued sponsors.

Mark is an experienced insurance professional and dedicated agent who brings expertise and exceptional service to his clients. As a sponsor, Mark supports our podcast and helps us continue to provide valuable content to our listeners.

We appreciate his commitment to our show and his contribution to our mission of delivering engaging and informative episodes. If you're in need of insurance services, we highly recommend reaching out to Mark Lee at Farmers Insurance St. Louis.

With his expertise and personalized approach, he can assist you in finding the right coverage to meet your needs. We want to extend a big thank you to Mark Lee and Farmers Insurance St. Louis for their support.

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Chocolate Dreams with Dan Abel Jr. - The St. Louis Podcast: Episode #86

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