Let me tell you one thing you might not know: Food is the most important thing. It has shaped our history, societies, and whole journey as humanity. Take a couple of minutes to let that sink in. In this episode, Carolyn Steel, architect, speaker and author of the books Sitopia and Hungry City, takes us on her journey from architecture to food advocacy, sharing her vision of ‘Sitopia’—a world where food shapes the way we live, just as profoundly as it has shaped societies throughout history. Carolyn discusses how urban life often masks the true impact of our food choices, detaching us from the real costs of cheap food and sustainable production. She emphasizes the need for true cost accounting, tax, and land reforms to bring our food system back in balance. She argues that food can serve as a powerful lens for addressing larger societal questions, from health to environmental impact. The conversation delves into the disconnect between cities and food sources, exploring how food can reconnect communities and empower individuals. Carolyn shares how, through valuing food culture, educating communities, and supporting local food systems, we can begin to create a world where every meal helps shape a better future. This thought-provoking episode challenges us to see food as much more than sustenance—it’s a tool for reimagining urban life and building a resilient society.

We discussed:

The Fundamental Role of Food in Life
The Journey from Architecture to Food Studies
Food as a Lens to Understand Cities
The Evolution of Food Culture and Its Impact
Towards a Sustainable Food Future
Rethinking Food Systems and Society
The Role of Land and Farming in Sustainability
Empowering Communities Through Food
The Psychological Impact of Food Choices
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Practical Steps for Food Professionals

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😊 The Guest: ⁠Carolyn Steel

Look into her books: Hungry City and Sitopia

Julie Cates

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