Featuring guest Questlove, Bill Gates discusses the future of food and plant-based alternatives. They delve into embracing plant-based food, the benefits of meat alternatives, and making cheese with alternative fats. They also talk about guilty pleasure snacks, their extensive record collection, and the amazing jazz orchestral work of Thad Jones and Mel Lewis. The conversation includes their thoughts on a rare signed record, the documentary 'Summer of Soul', and the story behind Questlove's nickname.
Plant-based options are the future, addressing animal cruelty and climate change.
Taste and perception are essential in encouraging traditional consumers to try plant-based alternatives.
Deep dives
The Rise of Plant-Based Foods
Amir Questlove Thompson discusses his journey into the plant-based food industry and the realization that plant-based options are the future. He shares how he discovered the Impossible Burger and its potential to change the food landscape. Questlove believes that alternative foods can not only address animal cruelty but also have a positive impact on climate change.
Bringing Plant-Based Foods to Reluctant Consumers
Amir Questlove Thompson shares his efforts to introduce plant-based foods to traditional consumers, particularly in his hometown of Philadelphia. He explains that taste and perception play a crucial role in encouraging people to try plant-based alternatives. Questlove's popular meatless cheesesteak has been successful in changing the perception that plant-based food is boring or flavorless.
The Intersection of Food, Art, and Culture
Amir Questlove Thompson discusses how food can be a social adhesive and an art form. He highlights the importance of food education and breaking the narrative around unhealthy, accessible options in certain communities. Thompson also reflects on his love for music and his recent projects, including the acclaimed documentary 'Summer of Soul,' which explores the impact of music and culture during the Harlem Cultural Festival.
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson is the ultimate multi-hyphenate: He’s a musician, filmmaker, author, entrepreneur, and more. The Grammy and Oscar winner is also a plant-based foods advocate, so when I had some questions about the future of food, I knew I had to sit down with him. We had a blast talking about why he made a meatless Philly cheesesteak, how we make healthy food accessible to more people, Questlove’s insane record collection, how we got our nicknames, and our Wordle strategies.