Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg (by Food Tank)

In a compelling discussion, Bill McKibben, author and founder of Third Act, and Anna Lappé, Executive Director of the Global Alliance for the Future of Food, explore the critical connections between food systems and the fossil fuel industry. They highlight the urgent need for a shift to renewable energy to combat climate threats facing agriculture. The duo emphasizes storytelling's power in shaping narratives around energy use and advocates for grassroots movements to drive meaningful change in food policies for a sustainable future.

On “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg,” Dani speaks with Chef Valerie Chang, the Chef and Owner of Maty’s in Miami, Florida and the recipient of the 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef: South. They discuss what a sustainable career in the hospitality industry looks like, what it means to be a part of a culinary team that succeeds collectively, and why honesty and transparency matter both inside and out of the kitchen. While you’re listening, subscribe, rate, and review the show; it would mean the world to us to have your feedback. You can listen to “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg” wherever you consume your podcasts.

On “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg,” Dani speaks with Ken Cook, President and Co-Founder of Environmental Working Group. They talk about getting around the partisan politics that so often stymie progress, a roadmap to reduce contamination from forever chemicals, and why support for climate-smart farming must be preserved. While you’re listening, subscribe, rate, and review the show; it would mean the world to us to have your feedback. You can listen to “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg” wherever you consume your podcasts.

On “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg,” Dani speaks with farmer, memory keeper, and artist Nikiko Masumoto of Masumoto Family Farm. During the conversation, they discuss the philosophy of farming, grounded in inclusivity, that Masumoto inherited; the synergy that can emerge when working with family units on the farm; and why tenderness is fierce and should be seen as a strength, not a weakness. While you’re listening, subscribe, rate, and review the show; it would mean the world to us to have your feedback. You can listen to “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg” wherever you consume your podcasts.

In this engaging discussion, Ertharin Cousin, the Founder and CEO of Food Systems for the Future, emphasizes the infrastructure needed for agriculture communities. She highlights that meaningful change in food systems requires long-term investment, not just quick fixes. The conversation also touches on redefining food production for accessibility, sustainability, and equity. Cousin advocates for radical transparency in sourcing and integrating sustainability into corporate identities for a more resilient future in agriculture.

On “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg,” author and journalist Roger Thurow talks about his new book Against the Grain: How Farmers Around the Globe Are Transforming Agriculture to Nourish the World and Heal the Planet. During the conversation, they discuss the link between the environmental and hunger crises, how farmers around the world are turning to practices that heal the soil and restore biodiversity, and becoming comfortable with new relationships that will put the Earth back in balance. While you’re listening, subscribe, rate, and review the show; it would mean the world to us to have your feedback. You can listen to “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg” wherever you consume your podcasts.

In this discussion, Jason Bade, a Lecturer at Stanford Law School and Board Chair of the Alice Waters Institute, dives into the need for flexible expectations in our food systems. He critiques current financing methods and underscores how a strong first customer can pivot entire paradigms. Bade emphasizes the dynamic between sustainable and regenerative practices, advocating for local, seasonal choices. They celebrate food activism and community dining's role in driving change, showcasing innovative approaches in law and policy education that promote systems thinking.

Mark Kaplan, Co-founder of Wholechain, dives into the shocking realities of forced labor in the seafood industry. He discusses how blockchain technology can create transparency in supply chains, boosting worker wellbeing and food safety. Kaplan highlights the critical role of blue foods for nutrition and global food security, while also addressing the urgent need to tackle human rights abuses and promote sustainable fishing practices. The conversation uncovers the complexities of certifications and illustrates how ethical sourcing can transform the industry.

A recent luncheon on Capitol Hill highlighted critical issues like food access, food as medicine, and food waste prevention. Key speakers discussed the impact of federal nutrition programs and potential strategies for improving food equity. Collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders are making strides in tackling food insecurity. The conversations also emphasized the importance of local voices and grassroots movements in shaping food policy. Additionally, the health consequences of food insecurity, particularly in marginalized communities, were a focal point for potential solutions.

On “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg,” Dani speaks with Dr. Veronica Womack, the inaugural Executive Director of the Rural Studies Institute at Georgia College & State University and a Professor of Political Science and Public Administration. They discuss the reasons behind the underdevelopment of the Black Belt in the American South—and the resilience that has persisted in spite of it; the storytelling that is essential to amplifying people’s voices and connecting one another; and how Womack is working to use the resources of her institution to encourage rural development, support entrepreneurs from farmers to food businesses, and best meet the needs voiced by the community. While you’re listening, subscribe, rate, and review the show; it would mean the world to us to have your feedback. You can listen to “Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg” wherever you consume your podcasts.