Eating at a Meeting
Eating at a Meeting explores a variety of topics on food and beverage (F&B) and how they impact individual experience and inclusion, sustainability, culture, community, health and wellness, laws and more. The mission of Eating at a Meeting is to share authentic stories that illustrate the financial, social, emotional, and mental impact food and beverage have on individuals, organizations, and the earth. I see it being threefold: ● Help individuals and organizations understand how F&B impacts employee, customer and guest experience, the planet and the bottom line. ● Help those growing, producing, preparing, and serving F&B understand the duty of care they hold in food safety and inclusion as well as the opportunity they have to create experiences that are safe and inclusive. ● Support those with dietary needs by gathering their insight on eating at a meeting with dietary needs, helping them better advocate for themselves and educating them on the processes found on the other side of the kitchen door.
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334: Food Safety at a Crossroads: What Event Planners Need to Know
11/18/2025
334: Food Safety at a Crossroads: What Event Planners Need to Know
To kick off Food Safety Awareness Month, I’ll be joined by Chef Keith Norman—ServSafe Instructor, Allergen Awareness Trainer, and Food Safety Manager/Assistant Executive Chef at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa—on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE. Keith lives and breathes safe dining, from the back-of-house kitchen line to the banquet floor where thousands of guests are served every day. And right now, food safety is in the headlines. 👉 The CDC has quietly scaled back its FoodNet program, slashing surveillance from 8 foodborne pathogens down to just 2—salmonella and E. coli. What does that mean for how outbreaks are detected and prevented? 👉 Reports suggest the FDA is considering outsourcing much of its routine food safety inspections to states. Could this compromise oversight—or is it an opportunity to rethink how inspections are done? 👉 California’s new allergen labeling law and updates to FDA Food Codes across the country are changing the way food handlers, restaurants, and yes—event venues—must approach menu planning and guest safety. For those of us planning events where food is front and center, these aren’t just policy changes. They affect how confident we can be that the meals we serve are safe, compliant, and inclusive. Chef Keith and I will break down what these developments mean for caterers, venues, and meeting professionals—and how you can protect your guests and your brand in a changing food safety landscape. Because every meal matters. And so does every regulation behind it.
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333: Why Foodservice Is the Missing Link for Inclusive Food & Beverage Brands
11/13/2025
333: Why Foodservice Is the Missing Link for Inclusive Food & Beverage Brands
Event menus don’t start in the kitchen—they start with what’s available in the marketplace. For smaller, emerging brands making allergen-friendly, plant-based, or health-focused products, breaking into retail shelves can be an uphill battle. But there’s another path—one that not only scales faster, but also brings those products directly into the spaces where we eat, gather, and connect: foodservice. This week on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, I’m talking with Mike Levinson, RD, founder of FS Octopus and a leader in helping better-for-you CPG brands grow in hospitality, universities, business & industry, convenience, and beyond. With 25+ years in foodservice sales and strategy, Mike knows how brands can position themselves so their products show up in cafeterias, hotels, and restaurants—and ultimately, on our event menus. Together, we’ll explore: 🍴 Why foodservice can be a faster growth channel than retail for emerging brands 🏨 How hotels, universities, and corporate dining can be launchpads for inclusive, dietary-friendly products 📈 What event planners should know about how those products make their way onto menus 💡 The role foodservice plays in shaping choice, safety, and inclusion for our guests If you’ve ever wondered why some brands show up in your event catering while others don’t, this conversation is for you.
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332: Food Donation Connection
11/11/2025
332: Food Donation Connection
𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙐.𝙎. 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 120 𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙥𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙤𝙤𝙙—while millions of people go hungry. What if more of that food could be redirected to feed people, not landfills? In this epsiode, Tracy talks with Jim Larson, Vice President of Development at Food Donation Connection (FDC), the global organization linking restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, and other food service providers with local charities to turn surplus food into meals for those in need. Since 1992, FDC has coordinated the donation of over 1 billion pounds of prepared food from partners like KFC, Red Lobster, Whole Foods, and countless local businesses. Their work supports nonprofits such as Meals on Wheels and campus programs like UCLA’s 580 Café—ensuring fresh, safe, quality food reaches people who need it most. Jim will share: ✅ How FDC’s model connects donors to nearby charities for regular, reliable pickups ✅ The food safety practices that protect every donation ✅ Inspiring examples—from bagels that would’ve been tossed to produce powering student markets ✅ Why food donations strengthen communities, reduce waste, and create dignity around receiving food Whether you plan events, run a kitchen, or simply care about where our surplus food goes, this conversation will change the way you think about “leftovers.” Because every meal matters—and no good food should go to waste.
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331: Planning Safe Travel for Guests w/ Food Allergies: What’s in the New Guide
11/06/2025
331: Planning Safe Travel for Guests w/ Food Allergies: What’s in the New Guide
Flying with food allergies can be stressful—and sometimes dangerous—if you don’t know what an airline will (or won’t) do to keep passengers safe. That’s why Allergic Living and No Nut Traveler, Inc teamed up to create the comprehensive 𝗔𝗶𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 & 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲—a first-of-its-kind resource packed with details on policies from pre-boarding to PA announcements, buffer zones, pet allergies, medical kits, and more. This week on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, I’m talking with Gwen Smith, founding editor of Allergic Living, and Lianne Mandelbaum, founder of No Nut Traveler, about how they built this guide and why it’s essential for travelers, parents, and planners alike. We’ll cover: 🧳 How they researched and verified allergy accommodations across dozens of airlines 🛫 Key differences between U.S./Canada carriers and international airlines 🚫 Why “can’t guarantee” policies matter and how to work around them 🤝 How event planners can use this resource to better support traveling guests with dietary needs 🛟 Tips every traveler should follow—from pre-boarding to in-flight safety Whether you’re planning your own trip, helping guests arrive safely to an event, or advocating for safer travel policies, this conversation will give you the knowledge and tools you need for allergy-aware travel.
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330: Why Food Policy Matters for Event Planners and our Food Service Partners
11/04/2025
330: Why Food Policy Matters for Event Planners and our Food Service Partners
I’m thrilled to welcome Marion Nestle for a special Tuesday episode of Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE! Marion is one of the most respected voices on food policy, nutrition, and food industry influence — and I’ve been following her work since 2009. Her insights continue to shape how so many of us think about what’s on the plate and why it matters. In this conversation, we’ll explore why food policy matters for event planners and our food service partners — and why understanding these broader influences is essential for anyone responsible for planning meals and menus at events. 👉 How do industry power structures impact what we serve? 👉 Why does consumer trust matter when designing food and beverage experiences? 👉 What responsibility do planners and food service professionals have in creating safe, sustainable, and ethical dining environments? If you’re involved in planning, designing, or serving food at events, this is a must-listen — Marion’s insights will inspire you to think far beyond taste and trends.
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329: The Leftover Problem: Why Perfectly Good Food Ends Up in the Bin
10/30/2025
329: The Leftover Problem: Why Perfectly Good Food Ends Up in the Bin
What does a moldy orange have to do with food and beverage at your next event? A lot, actually. This week on Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, I’m talking with Rachael Jackson—journalist, food-waste educator, and founder of the award-winning website EatOrToss.com—about how we can stop tossing perfectly edible food, and what that means for planning events that are not just delicious, but responsible. Rachael has helped millions of people rethink what goes in the trash, using humor, science, and common sense. She’s also helped restaurants and government agencies reimagine menus and policies to keep food out of landfills and on people’s plates—where it belongs. From too-big serving trays and buffet overkill to “just in case” stockpiles that never get eaten, we’re digging into: 🥗 The simple menu swaps that reduce waste (and costs) 🍰 Why those leftover desserts shouldn’t hit the dumpster ♻️ How service styles and portion sizes impact sustainability 🧾 Why transparency and storytelling matter for food choices 🥡 And why “encouraged leftovers” should be an industry standard If you’re a planner, caterer, venue, or chef trying to do food and beverage better—this is for you. Rachael’s approach makes the science of spoilage approachable, and the case for change undeniable. Whether it’s one guest or a gala, every bite should matter.
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328: US Food Regulations Pertaining to Food Allergies - An Update
10/28/2025
328: US Food Regulations Pertaining to Food Allergies - An Update
As evolving food allergy regulations sweep across the US, I dedicated this solo episode to giving you the latest updates on the legal landscape affecting safe dining experiences. This week, it’s just me, Tracy Stuckrath, but together we’re diving into the details behind newly proposed and enacted legislation from Pennsylvania, California, Illinois, and Texas, along with major changes in the 2022 FDA Food Code and proposed allergen labeling requirements for alcoholic beverages by the TTB. I break down what these changes mean for restaurants, catering professionals, and anyone who wants to ensure food-allergic guests are protected and included. You’ll hear candid tips on risk management, advocacy, and the power of positive, inclusive dining stories that build trust and community. Whether you’re an event pro or just determined to create safer, more inclusive food experiences, tune in to stay ahead on all things food allergy law and regulation.
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327: How Culinary Training Builds Confidence, Community, & Careers for Refugees
10/21/2025
327: How Culinary Training Builds Confidence, Community, & Careers for Refugees
Imagine using your food and beverage choices to not just nourish guests—but to help someone rebuild their life. Next week on the Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE, I’m sitting down with Kerry Brodie, founder and executive director of Emma's Torch, a nonprofit culinary training program that empowers refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking by providing paid culinary training, work experience, and job placement—all through the lens of dignity, sustainability, and inclusion. Emma’s Torch is about far more than cooking skills—it’s about building confidence, fostering community, and helping individuals navigate new lives and achieve financial independence. Since its founding, they’ve worked with over 600 students, generating more than $25 million in increased wages as graduates go on to become business owners, bakers, supervisors, and more. For planners and hospitality professionals, this conversation is a powerful reminder that every meal we serve at an event is a chance to make an impact—not just on guests’ plates, but in their lives. If you want your events to reflect purpose as well as taste, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
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326: Event Profs Share F&B Ordering Tips for Better Guest Experiences & Budgets
10/14/2025
326: Event Profs Share F&B Ordering Tips for Better Guest Experiences & Budgets
As event planners, we know that food and beverage is rarely just a line item—it’s an experience, a connector, and sometimes a challenge. In this week’s Eating at a Meeting LIVE, I’m gathered a group of event planners — Janet C. Hoppenstein, CMP, Shannon Ryan, CMP, and Julie Wong, CMP — for an open conversation about how they navigate ordering F&B for their events: what guides their decisions, what concessions or compromises they make, and how they think about the attendee experience when planning menus. We’ll talk about: ▶︎ How budget, inclusivity, sustainability, and logistics come into play ▶︎ What they wish venues and caterers understood better ▶︎ How attendee expectations are changing—and how planners are adapting Whether you’re a planner yourself or part of a catering or venue team, this conversation will offer insights that can help you deliver better, more thoughtful food and beverage at your next event. Join me and bring your own questions or stories to the chat!
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325: Gluten-free or Not? Why Transparency in Event Catering Matters
10/07/2025
325: Gluten-free or Not? Why Transparency in Event Catering Matters
When the Rice Isn’t the Issue: A Real Talk on Food Safety, Chef Pushback & Guest Trust This week, it’s just me—no guest, just the truth. At a recent event, I was told by a chef that rice—specifically Uncle Ben’s—was the reason a gluten-free option couldn’t be provided. But we’d already discussed that on our prep call. I had asked for gluten-free rice. We agreed. And then… the night of the event? Nothing was gluten-free. His response? “Just put ‘Uncle Ben’s’ on the sign. Some gluten-free people are fine with it.” And when I asked what I could eat, he said, “We won’t kill the meeting planner—we’ll make you something else.” Spoiler alert: Uncle Ben’s plain rice is gluten-free. So the issue wasn’t the rice. It was the lack of follow-through. It was the dismissive attitude. It was the failure to respect the safety of every guest. In this episode, I’m diving into: • Why food safety requires transparency—not assumptions • How “good enough” is not good enough • The responsibility of hotels and planners to deliver on dietary promises If you’ve ever been gaslit about a dietary request—or told to “just eat something else”—pull up a chair. You’re not alone. And this conversation needs to be had. See less
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324: When Venues Can Learn from a Gluten-free Bakery in a Shared Space
09/30/2025
324: When Venues Can Learn from a Gluten-free Bakery in a Shared Space
This week, I’m talking with Ashley Orr, the powerhouse baker behind Sweet Nothings Bakery and Cafe—a 100% gluten-free bakery operating out of a shared kitchen space. Yes, you read that right. Shared kitchen. Not a dedicated gluten-free facility. Sound familiar? For any planner who’s been told by a convention center or hotel that “we can’t do gluten-free,” Ashley’s story is proof that it can be done—with the right knowledge, systems, and commitment. Diagnosed with a gluten allergy in 2019, Ashley didn’t just change how she ate—she reimagined how to bake, launching her business to fill the flavor gap in gluten-free baked goods. Now baking alongside other (non-GF) businesses at Little Blue Bakehouse, she takes meticulous care to protect her products and her customers from cross-contact, and the results speak for themselves. In our conversation, we’ll explore: • How Ashley safely operates in a non-dedicated kitchen • The protocols that protect her gluten-free guests • What venues and planners can learn from her model • Why SOPs—not just suppliers—are key to safe dining Whether you're serving 10 people or 10,000, this is a must-watch for anyone who’s been told “we just can’t do that.” Ashley is doing it—and doing it well. Let’s talk about how.
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323: Voices of Change in Food Journalism: 5 Women Leading the Charge
09/23/2025
323: Voices of Change in Food Journalism: 5 Women Leading the Charge
What’s on the Menu? Voices of Change in Food Journalism Food writing is more than recipes—it shapes culture, policy, and the guest experience at every table. In this Eating at a Meeting LIVE episode, I’m sharing clips from two powerhouse conversations recorded at the inaugural Les Dames d’Escoffier M.F.K. Fisher Women in Food & Storytelling Symposium, where Eating at a Meeting served as Media Sponsor. First up: Toni Tipton-Martin and Ruth Reichl pull back the curtain on the evolution of food journalism—from the era when recipes were relegated to “women’s pages” to groundbreaking storytelling that made space for new voices. Hear how mentorship, risk-taking, and saying yes to what scares you can transform not only careers, but entire industries. Then Kat Craddock, Editor-in-Chief and CEO of SAVEUR magazine, moderates a powerful discussion with Marion Nestle and Grace Young. Together they reveal how food writing preserves culture, sparks advocacy, and even protects vulnerable communities—from exposing industry influence on public health to fighting for the survival of America’s Chinatowns. These women remind us that journalism isn’t just about documenting what’s on the plate—it’s about shaping how we understand food’s role in society. For event professionals, planners, and anyone feeding communities, their insights underscore why every menu choice and every story told at the dining table matters.
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322: Making Dining Safer by Law: Illinois Steps Up for Gluten-Free Guests
09/16/2025
322: Making Dining Safer by Law: Illinois Steps Up for Gluten-Free Guests
Imagine this: You're out to dinner with your staff. One of them has celiac disease. The server doesn’t know what gluten is. The kitchen isn’t sure either. That moment? It sparked real change in Illinois. In this episode of Eating at a Meeting LIVE, I’m talking with State Senator Sally Turner, the powerhouse behind Senate Bill 1288—a bill that could soon make Illinois one of the safest places to dine out if you live with celiac disease. It’s a big deal. This new law (awaiting the governor’s signature) would require ALL food handlers in the state to be trained on celiac disease, gluten-free protocols, and preventing cross-contact. Senator Turner shares how a personal connection turned into statewide action—and why this matters not just for restaurants, but for anyone planning events, catering menus, or feeding guests. Because safety shouldn't depend on luck. It should be built into the system. We’ll cover: ✅ Why the bill passed unanimously ✅ What it means for hotels, venues & caterers ✅ How this legislation could shape SOPs and training far beyond Illinois ✅ Why awareness isn’t enough without action Whether you're gluten-free, planning meals, or pushing for safer dining—this conversation is one you’ll want to be part of.
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Celiac Safety at Events: Legal and Culinary Standards for Gluten-Free Catering
09/09/2025
Celiac Safety at Events: Legal and Culinary Standards for Gluten-Free Catering
In this episode, Tracy is joined by Chef Murray Hall, Chef Martha Morgan, and disability rights attorney Laurel Francoeur to discuss an issue that should no longer be happening—venues refusing to provide safe meals for guests with celiac disease. An event planner recently posted that the kitchen at her event venue “doesn’t accommodate” celiac guests. Not a preference. Not a lifestyle. A medically necessary dietary need—and still being dismissed. She is asking the network of planners for suggestions to order about 10 celiac-friendly meals in a particular city. Chef Murray’s take? “Crazy that this is still happening. Most places have shifted to this being the norm, not the exception.” We’ll break down: ▶︎ Why “we don’t do that” is an unacceptable—and sometimes unlawful—response ▶︎ How kitchens can safely serve gluten-free meals when they choose to ▶︎ What planners can say to push back and advocate for their attendees ▶︎ Why inclusive dining should be the baseline, not the exception If you’ve ever had to scramble to feed your guests safely—or felt like you were the only one fighting for what’s right—this conversation is for you.
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320: Getting Gluten-Free Right: Why It’s a Responsibility for Events, Not a Preference
09/02/2025
320: Getting Gluten-Free Right: Why It’s a Responsibility for Events, Not a Preference
As May—and Food Allergy Awareness and Celiac Disease Awareness Month—wraps up, I’m delighted to bring you a truly impactful conversation with Claire Beach, Catering Director at Azura Events in London. Claire is a passionate advocate for inclusive and sustainable event planning, drawing deeply from her own lived experiences as a gluten-free, neurodivergent attendee. In this candid episode, we explore what it actually means to get gluten-free right at events—and why it's a true responsibility, not a mere preference, for everyone involved in our industry. Claire and I dive into how communication, education, and empathy are at the heart of providing safe, empowering, and waste-conscious dining experiences for all. Tune in to hear practical strategies her new UK task force is pursuing, plus creative ideas to ensure every guest feels truly welcomed and included. You’ll hear the real-life impact—physical, emotional, and professional—of getting it wrong and how we can all do better.
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319: Recipe First
08/26/2025
319: Recipe First
At the end of Food Allergy and Celiac Disease Awareness Month this May, I was thrilled to chat with Benji Koltai, co-founder and CEO of Galley. On this episode, Benji brings his personal journey with Crohn’s disease and gluten intolerance, pairing it with his tech expertise to revolutionize food safety from the inside out. We dive deep into what “recipe first, people always” truly means—exploring how a digital recipe system transforms food safety, allergen awareness, and food waste in kitchens from hotels to college dining. Benji shares how Galley empowers foodservice teams—reducing food waste, streamlining operations, and making dining safer for everyone with dietary needs. Listen in to discover powerful stories from clients, the real numbers behind food waste savings, and how a single source of culinary truth can change the guest experience and bottom line. Benji’s insights on technology, transparency, and compassion are game changers!
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318: How do you Build Community through Food
08/19/2025
318: How do you Build Community through Food
How do we truly build community through food? In this episode of Eating at a Meeting, I'm joined by two inspiring professionals—Jenny Ng, Event Planning Senior Manager at National Co-op Kosher, and Rachel, General Manager & Food and Beverage Director at a locally-focused hotel restaurant—to unpack this very question. Fresh from my presentation at MPI Minnesota, we dive into what it means to connect people using food and beverage, and how thoughtful sourcing, labeling, and inclusive practices translate into memorable, meaningful events. Jenny shares how her team champions dietary inclusivity and sustainability—think robust labeling, creative themed menus, and even mocktail alternatives, so every attendee feels seen and served. Rachel offers her perspective from the hotel and restaurant world, where managing without a banquet manager means she wears all the hats—and why knowledge, training, and local partnerships are critical to crafting a welcoming dining experience for all. Together, we discuss practical tips—from putting detailed menus on conference apps to advocating for your attendees’ dietary needs and pushing back on venues when needed. We reminisce about the power of themed events, the role of childhood hospitality lessons, and the joy of a well-made mocktail. Plus, you'll hear our wish lists for the future of catered food functions—more variety, more transparency, and more community at every table. Give it a listen—and let’s keep building community, one shared meal at a time.
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317: Why Food Allergy Safety Must Include Mental Health Awareness
08/12/2025
317: Why Food Allergy Safety Must Include Mental Health Awareness
In honor of both Food Allergy Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, I was thrilled to welcome Amanda Whitehouse, licensed psychologist, food allergy anxiety and trauma expert, host of the Don’t Feed the Fear podcast, and a devoted food allergy mom, to Eating at a Meeting. Amanda and I dove into the rarely-discussed intersection of food allergy safety and mental health. Too often, we focus on labeling foods and avoiding allergens at events, but what about managing the underlying fear, trauma, and anxiety that come with living (or parenting) with food allergies? Amanda opened up about the deep-seated worries food-allergic individuals carry to every buffet, the impact of recurrent trauma from allergic reactions, and the often overlooked mental toll of social and professional situations involving food. We unpacked the crucial need for “emotional safety” alongside physical safety, practical ways planners and foodservice professionals can alleviate anxiety, and why inclusive, empathetic communication truly matters. Amanda also shared grounding techniques, misconceptions about allergy anxiety, and how to build confidence navigating a sometimes isolating world. Tune in for powerful stories, expert insights, and actionable tips to create events where everyone feels seen, heard, and safe—both on their plate and in their hearts.
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316: Two Moms, Countless Events: Lessons on Food Safety & Hospitality
08/05/2025
316: Two Moms, Countless Events: Lessons on Food Safety & Hospitality
How does being a food allergy mom change how you plan an event menu? This week, I’m talking with two powerhouse planners—Colleen M. Earley, CMP, HMCC and Jessica Hiemenz-Woodbury, CMP, CMM, DES—who are blending personal experience with professional expertise to reshape how we think about food at events. Both are long-time event pros. Both are moms. Both know what it’s like to sit at a banquet table hoping the kitchen gets it right—because their children’s safety (and their own, in Jessica’s case) depends on it. Together, we talk about: • Planning with intention when food allergies are part of your family • Why checklists and contracts aren’t enough • What inclusive F&B really means from both sides of the table • How planners can lead change—even when they don’t control the kitchen Jessica brings her insight as a mom of two kids with multiple food allergies— dairy, eggs, sesame, pea protein, lentils, and all nuts—an event strategist, a vegan, and past PCMA New England president who’s led major conferences and embraced digital innovation. Colleen shares how her daughter’s nut allergy journey has inspired her legislative advocacy and shaped how she builds safer dining experiences at the events she plans for clients. Their stories are a must-hear for anyone in the hospitality and events world who wants to stop treating food as just a checkbox—and start making it a tool for belonging. Join us for a heartfelt, practical conversation that just might change how you see the next plated meal at your event. What steps have you taken to ensure your F&B is inclusive?
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315: Planning Safe Events with Food Allergies in Mind: A CMP’s Perspective
07/29/2025
315: Planning Safe Events with Food Allergies in Mind: A CMP’s Perspective
During Food Allergy Awareness Week this year, I was joined by veteran meeting planner P. Christine Poole, CMP—someone who knows firsthand how a single overlooked ingredient can turn a meal into a medical emergency. With more than 20 years of experience planning conferences for state, regional, and national associations, Christine has a sharp eye for logistics, hospitality, and detail. But after developing an adult-onset pine nut allergy, she’s experienced the other side of the table—where even clear communication with hotel staff doesn’t always protect guests. In this episode, Christine shares the emotional and physical toll of navigating food allergies at events she didn’t just attend—she helped plan. She’s had three separate incidents at hotels where pine nuts were served despite her documented allergy. One chef even assured her the dish was safe because he’d made it himself. It wasn’t. Together, we explore: • What these incidents reveal about breakdowns in communication between culinary teams and guests • Why F&B protocols must go beyond “just ask the chef” • What planners and venues must do to prevent allergic reactions—not just respond to them This isn’t just about pine nuts. It’s about responsibility, risk, and respect for the lives sitting at every table.
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314: Celebrating Celiac Awareness Month: Real Talk on Safe & Inclusive Gluten-Free Dining
07/22/2025
314: Celebrating Celiac Awareness Month: Real Talk on Safe & Inclusive Gluten-Free Dining
What does it really take to feel safe, heard, and included when you’re dining with celiac disease? In honor of Celiac Awareness Month, this episode of Eating at a Meeting brings real talk—and real solutions—to the table with two powerhouse advocates: Kayla King (@celiacwithkayla) and Gabby Hemond (@noglutengabby). Kayla is a certified nutrition coach, Restaurant Growth Lead at Fig, and founder of the MyMeal app. Diagnosed at 8, she’s spent over 17 years navigating celiac disease and is now helping others eat confidently through honest restaurant reviews, advocacy for stricter labeling, and tools for safer dining. Gabby hosts the Celiac Disease Foundation's Celiac Teen Talk, a virtual meet-up series for teens navigating the gluten-free lifestyle. Diagnosed in 2020, she’s built a vibrant community by sharing personal stories, travel tips, and practical advice to help others—especially young people—feel empowered and supported. Together, we’ll explore the realities of eating out with celiac, the emotional and social impact of dietary restrictions, and how to create food and beverage experiences that are truly inclusive. From tech tools and teen talk to restaurant risks and labeling myths, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone who wants to do gluten-free right. Whether planning menus, supporting a loved one, or living gluten-free yourself, this episode will leave you better informed and more inspired. Let’s celebrate Celiac Awareness Month by raising the bar for what gluten-free dining should be.
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313: Building Better Bars at Events: How to Elevate the Attendee Experience
07/15/2025
313: Building Better Bars at Events: How to Elevate the Attendee Experience
When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences behind the bar, few have done it better — or longer — than Rob Husted. With nearly three decades of experience in bartending, mixology, flair, and education, Rob is a force who's helped shape beverage programs and trends across the globe. Tracy had the chance to meet Rob at Catersource earlier this year, just as he was preparing to deliver his Batch Perfect: Elevating Events with Signature Cocktails & Mocktails session — a standing-room-only crowd that spoke volumes about his reputation and expertise. From founding BarWars LLC and Cocktail Network Live to staffing events through Cocktails4Hire, Rob's mission is simple: elevate the craft so bartenders — and their guests — have better, more memorable moments. This week, Rob and I are talking about what it means to create quality cocktails quickly without sacrificing entertainment, hospitality, or safety — a critical balancing act for any event planner working with F&B. We'll explore how training, performance, and drink development come together to enhance guest experience and what planners need to know when hiring bartenders for receptions, galas, and conferences. If you care about creating beverage moments that truly connect with your attendees (not just fill their glasses), this is a conversation you’ll want to listen. Cheers to raising the bar — see you there!
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312: Voices That Matter: Addie & Robyn Lao on Food Allergy Advocacy and the ADDE Act
07/08/2025
312: Voices That Matter: Addie & Robyn Lao on Food Allergy Advocacy and the ADDE Act
On this episode of Eating at a Meeting, I welcome Addie Lao, a courageous nine-year-old food allergy advocate, and her mom, Dr. Robin Lao, a pediatric nurse practitioner from Sacramento, California. Together, these two inspiring women are leading the charge for safer dining experiences in California with their coauthored California Senate Bill 68 — the Addie Act. We dove deep into their journey: from the transformative moment of Addie being able to eat safely at a Chinese restaurant because of clear allergen labeling, to the challenges and triumphs of advocating for legislation that would require all California restaurants to list the top nine allergens on their menus. Robin shared the legislative process, their advocacy in the state Capitol (including Addie testifying before senators — with her whole third-grade class cheering her on!), and the ripple effect this bill could have for millions of diners, families, and the food and beverage industry. You’ll hear the real impact of food allergies on daily life, the importance of inclusivity, support needed from restaurants and the community, and why food allergy diners are among the most loyal customers. Discover how this mother-daughter team is turning adversity into action, the steps restaurants and individuals can take to help, and why sharing your story truly matters. Join us in supporting the Addie Act at additellsall.com and be part of the movement for safer, more inclusive dining everywhere.
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311: Serving Tea with Intention: A Fresh Take on Event Beverage Planning
07/01/2025
311: Serving Tea with Intention: A Fresh Take on Event Beverage Planning
Tea is having a moment—and it's long overdue. In this week's episode of Eating at a Meeting, I’m joined by Amy March, executive chef and co-founder of The Steeping Room and Urban Tea House, to talk about why tea deserves a starring role on your event menu. With over two decades of experience in specialty tea, culinary arts, and holistic health, Amy brings the perfect blend of insight and inspiration for planners looking to serve more than just caffeine. We will explore how tea can create moments of calm, spark cultural connection, support wellness goals, and build community at the table. Amy shares real strategies for incorporating tea into events—from elegant stations and immersive tastings to seasonal pairings and signature mocktails—turning every pour into an opportunity for impact. And if you’ve ever questioned whether your F&B dollars could be better spent, this episode offers a deliciously purposeful alternative to that pricey pot of coffee. Let’s rethink the role of tea and use it to steep our events in intention, connection, and creativity.
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310: 5 Ways to Manage Event Food & Bev to Reduce Waste & Budget Effectively
06/24/2025
310: 5 Ways to Manage Event Food & Bev to Reduce Waste & Budget Effectively
I'm talking about managing food and beverage at events based on recent events I've attended and questions I've seen on social media or asked about at conferences. Join me to share your management tips. Want to create live streams like this?
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309: Safe, Sober, & Inclusive: How Zero-Proof Bev Are Changing the F&B Industry
06/17/2025
309: Safe, Sober, & Inclusive: How Zero-Proof Bev Are Changing the F&B Industry
What a month it’s been! As Women’s HERStory Month comes to a close, I couldn’t think of a better way to wrap it up than with a conversation that’s redefining inclusivity in food and beverage. Laura Silverman, founder of Zero Proof Nation and Booze Free in DC, is leading the charge in the non-alcoholic beverage movement, proving that choice and inclusion belong at every table. With 17+ years of sobriety, Laura’s journey is deeply personal. After struggling with binge drinking in college and getting sober at 24, she saw firsthand how limited and uninspiring the non-alcoholic beverage landscape was. So, she built the resource she wished existed—a global hub connecting people with alcohol-free options, community, and education. 💡 As a thought leader in the adult non-alcoholic beverage movement, Laura isn’t here to vilify alcohol—she’s here to empower choice. Whether you're taking a night off, redefining your relationship with drinking, or just looking for something beyond soda and seltzer, her work ensures safe, equitable, and innovative beverage options for all. 🔥 From launching a global map of NA-friendly establishments to judging the World Alcohol Free Awards, Laura has been instrumental in bringing non-alcoholic drinking culture to the forefront. She’s making sure everyone—whether sober, sober-curious, or simply exploring mindful alternatives—has a seat at the table. 🎙️ Join me LIVE for this final Women’s HERStory Month episode as we dive into: ✅ The rise of mindful drinking and its impact on the F&B industry ✅ How event planners can create more inclusive beverage experiences ✅ The power of community and education in reshaping drinking culture 📅 Let’s raise a zero-proof toast to all the incredible women making HERstory in food and beverage. You don’t want to miss this final conversation of the month! 🥂 🎙️
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308: Stirring the Pot for Good: How One Social Enterprise is Uplifting Refugees
06/10/2025
308: Stirring the Pot for Good: How One Social Enterprise is Uplifting Refugees
This Women’s HERStory Month, I’m celebrating trailblazing women who are reshaping the way we think about food, community, health, and inclusion on the Eating at a Meeting Podcast. This week, I’m introducing you to Jin-Ya Huang—a social entrepreneur, artist, and community leader using food to break down barriers and build bridges. A social practice artist turned “accidental entrepreneur,” Jin-Ya is the founder of Break Bread, Break Borders (B4) — a catering social enterprise empowering refugee women through food, storytelling, and economic opportunity. Inspired by her mother’s resilience and shaped by her family’s immigrant journey from Taiwan to Texas, Jin-Ya combines her experience in global branding with a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. Through B4, refugee women share their cultural recipes and personal stories, transforming community dinners into platforms for understanding and empowerment. Jin-Ya’s work has been featured by TIME Magazine, NPR, TEDx, and more — but what drives her most is her mission to remove barriers, uplift voices, and build bridges through food. In this episode, we’ll explore how she’s rewriting the narrative around refugees, redefining what it means to serve your community, and how she continues to honor her late mother’s legacy by creating space for others to thrive.
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307: From Food Apartheid to Food Empowerment: A Story of Change
06/03/2025
307: From Food Apartheid to Food Empowerment: A Story of Change
In celebration of Women’s HERStory Month, I’m honored to highlight Femeika Elliott, a powerhouse in food justice, maternal health, and community empowerment, on the Eating at a Meeting podcast. How do we reclaim access to fresh, nutritious food and create healthier futures for our communities? Femeika is on a mission to transform food justice, maternal health, and sustainability in Knoxville and beyond. As the founder of Meik Meals, the Lotus Program, and Rooted East Knoxville Collective, she is breaking down barriers to healthy eating, postpartum wellness, and land justice—one meal, one garden, and one conversation at a time. From launching over 130 raised garden beds across East Knoxville to championing Black maternal health statewide, Femeika’s work is reshaping the way we think about food and equity. Her initiatives don’t just nourish bodies; they empower communities to reclaim traditions of self-sustainability, wellness, and collective strength. With food apartheid and health disparities affecting countless lives, Femeika’s impact is a powerful reminder that access to nutritious food is a right, not a privilege. Her grassroots leadership is inspiring systemic change—proving that the future of food is local, just, and deeply rooted in community. “Femeika isn’t just providing meals—she’s planting seeds of empowerment, ensuring communities thrive for generations to come.” 🌟 Women’s HERStory Month on Eating at a Meeting 🌟 This Women’s HERStory Month, I’m celebrating trailblazing women who are reshaping the way we think about food, community, health, and inclusion on the Eating at a Meeting podcast. Follow along as I honor changemakers like Femeika and many others who are leaving a lasting impact.
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306: Bridging the Gap: Foster Care, Food Security, and Social Impact
05/27/2025
306: Bridging the Gap: Foster Care, Food Security, and Social Impact
Food has the power to nourish, heal, and connect—and this Women’s HERStory Month, I’m honored to celebrate Ally Smith, a woman making a profound impact at the intersection of food and foster care. As Development Director at Partnerships for Children, a private chef, and the creative force behind the “Gather With” cookbook project, Ally is redefining what it means to support vulnerable children and families through the power of food. Her journey has taken her from case management in the foster care system to a farm-to-table apprenticeship in Italy, where she deepened her understanding of sustainability and food as a tool for connection. Today, she channels that passion into teaching cooking classes for foster children, organizing chef-driven fundraisers, and crafting a cookbook featuring diverse voices in Austin’s food scene—all to ensure that every child has a seat at the table. In this LIVE episode of Eating at a Meeting Podcast, Ally and I will discuss how she’s using food to create community, empowerment, and healing for children in the foster system, the importance of food security, and why her work is a game-changer in making the food world more inclusive and impact-driven. 🔗 Tune in for this extra episode of Eating at a Meeting for Women's HERstory Month and join the conversation! 🎙️
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305: Secret Food Stories: Chef Asantewaa's Vision for Sustainable Dining
05/20/2025
305: Secret Food Stories: Chef Asantewaa's Vision for Sustainable Dining
This Women’s HERStory Month on the Eating at a Meeting Podcast, I’m shining a spotlight on incredible women who are reshaping how we think about food, sustainability, and culture. The third woman I want you to meet is Chef Asantewaa E. L., a culinary powerhouse and advocate for food sustainability in San Antonio. As the founder of Food Horizons and the Secret Food Stories initiative, Chef Asantewaa is bridging gaps between food, culture, and community as the founder of Food Horizons and the Secret Food Stories initiative. Her work is deeply rooted in the African philosophy of ubuntu, the idea that we are all interconnected—a belief she brings to life through events, advocacy, and storytelling. Through the Secret Food Stories Festival, she’s tackling food waste head-on with creative zero-waste recipes and community-driven discussions. Her advocacy stems from her South Sudanese upbringing, where food waste was never an option, and she now educates communities on making the most of their food. And beyond the kitchen, she’s also making waves in the art world, showcasing her talents at the San Antonio Ethnic Arts Society’s Women’s Exhibition. Chef Asantewaa’s work is more than just cooking—it’s about creating a movement where food is a tool for sustainability, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. Join me in celebrating her remarkable impact! 🔗 Tune in to hear her inspiring story! 🎙️
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