Strong Hearts to the Front w/ Joel Capolongo

Strong Hearts is a Vegan "fast casual" restaurant, founded in Syracuse in 2008. They opened a new spot in Buffalo in 2022.

Important to note, the restaurant serves "plant-based" foods, a popular term used in modern marketing, but it is very much a VEGAN restaurant. The distinction lies in the history, the activist upcoming and influence of Strong Hearts. Joel says on another podcast, the term already exists, and it is Vegan. 

Joel sustains the roots of his activist nature through Strong Hearts. We dove into stories of his hands on animal liberation experiences, including a 45 day adventure at sea, battling Japanese whale hunters and many other world travels for the cause. 

We talk a lot about business and the possibilities the DIY mindset can bring. Joel gives a lot of credit to DIY and particularly the Hardcore music scene for the development and growth of Strong Hearts. 

“Ho-ka hey! It is a good day to fight! It is a good day to die! Strong hearts, brave hearts, to the front! Weak hearts and cowards to the rear.” - Crazy Horse

Check out Strong Hearts:

@strongheartsbflo

295 Niagara St, Buffalo, NY 14201

@strongheartscafe 

315 Irving Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210