The Current

The transformative power of cheese and mongering

Dec 19, 2025
Michael Finnerty, a seasoned CBC Radio host and trained cheesemonger, shares his transformative journey from radio to cheese in his memoir, The Cheese Cure. He reveals how apprenticing in London's Borough Market reignited his passion and sense of community. Topics include the art and responsibility of cheesemongering, the unique personalities of different cheeses, and the joy of converting skeptics into cheese enthusiasts. Finnerty also highlights the craft of pairing and showcases exquisite Canadian cheeses, celebrating local production and craftsmanship.
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ANECDOTE

Leaving Radio For Cheese

  • Michael Finnerty left a high-profile morning radio job because he felt a slow "languishing" rather than outright burnout.
  • He took an unpaid sabbatical and trained as a cheesemonger in London to reclaim purpose and joy.
INSIGHT

Languishing Versus Burnout

  • Finnerty distinguishes languishing from burnout: functioning but feeling flat and colorless in life.
  • That realization prompted him to seek an activity that offered learning and restoration, not just escape.
ANECDOTE

Starting Fresh At Borough Market

  • While exploring Borough Market, Finnerty saw a cheesemonger stall, applied, and started at the bottom despite being in his 50s.
  • He embraced being taught by people in their 20s and relished learning a hands-on craft from scratch.
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