Eating at a Meeting

Ali Cox, Founder & CEO of Noble West, brings her fifth-generation farming perspective to the conversation, highlighting the crucial role of storytelling in food sourcing. She emphasizes transparency and ethical practices, urging event planners to connect the farm to the table meaningfully. Key topics include reducing food waste, the impact of regenerative agriculture, and the value of ethical ingredient sourcing for creating memorable dining experiences. Ali's insights promise to reshape how we approach food at events, making meals more intentional and impactful.

In this engaging conversation, Carl Radke, known from Bravo TV's Summer House and Loverboy beverages, shares his expertise on inclusive event planning. He discusses the rising demand for non-alcoholic options, emphasizing their role in enhancing guest experiences and fostering genuine connections. The dialogue touches on the importance of cultural nuances, local flavors, and minimizing food waste. Tips include detailed communication with chefs and elevating events with creative touches, like allergen labeling and personalized treats. Perfect for those looking to innovate their food and beverage strategies!

At IMEX America 2024, Tracy hit the show floor and stopped random event pros—some she knew, some she didn’t—to ask: What’s your best tip for managing food and beverage at events? Their answers? Pure gold! From the importance of low-sodium options to creative uses of lighting and signage, the insights from these 15+ event professionals are packed with inspiration to take your events to the next level. In under 20 minutes, learn how understanding cultural differences, incorporating local flavors, minimizing food waste, and even printing personalized cookies can transform your F&B strategy. You'll also hear about: 🌟 Ensuring everyone—from guests to crew—is well-fed and appreciated. 🌟 The power of detailed communication with chefs and venues. 🌟 Elevating guest experiences with allergen labeling, nutritional transparency, and creative touches. This episode is a must-listen for event professionals who want to wow their attendees and make F&B an unforgettable part of their events. Whether you’re looking for practical advice or fresh ideas, you’ll find plenty to fuel your creativity (and your menu planning). Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you love the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts! 🌟

🚀 Join me as I take an elevator ride with Devon Pasha, an expert in event planning and inclusivity! 🎙️  Devon and I delve deep into the pivotal role of offering diverse food options at events rather than simply replacing items. We discuss how to craft inclusive menus that cater to everyone’s needs, from ensuring dietary restrictions are respectably met to enhancing customer experience and loyalty. 🥗🍰 Devon shares intriguing real-life stories, like a hotel that brilliantly accommodated guests with allergies, resulting in boosted satisfaction and occupancy rates. We also touch on the logistical and financial aspects of event planning, highlighting the necessity of early conversations with attendees and advocating for contracts that secure value for money. Get ready to explore profitable inclusivity, the art of negotiating in the food and beverage industry, and Devon's passion for creating welcoming environments at events. 🍽️💼 💡 Tune in to discover how inclusivity isn’t just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage in event planning. ❤️ #StaySafe #EatWell Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you love the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts! 🌟

This week, David Allison, founder of the Value Graphics Project and author, reveals how shared human values can revolutionize food and beverage choices at events. He explains how his research debunks traditional demographics, focusing instead on values like health and social status. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs and creating inclusive experiences. With innovative strategies like the 'belonging playbook,' David shows how understanding core motivations fosters genuine connections, ensuring events resonate deeply with attendees.

Tracy chats with renowned traveler and cultural connoisseur, Susheda Raval. 🌍 With a staggering 120 countries under her belt, Susheda brings a world of experience in sustainable and inclusive travel practices to the table. We delve into the heart of authentic travel, where Susheda shares her secrets for uncovering genuine local experiences—from savoring street food in Bangkok to exploring 200-year-old vineyards hosted by local families. 🍷🌮 Discover her passion for involving local communities in event planning to create richer, more meaningful experiences. Whether it’s incorporating authentic cuisines or fostering cross-cultural communication through food, Susheda’s insights are invaluable for anyone planning impactful events. Susheda also introduces us to her children’s book series, "Beato Goes to Japan," where her cat, Beato, explores different cultures, imparting crucial lessons on community and respect. 📚🐾 These books aim to expose young readers to global cultures, inspired by Susheda’s own travel experiences. Not to be missed are stories from her recent travels to Uganda, where she highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of local women and the innovative sustainability practices of eco-lodges.  ✨ Explore the beauty of connecting through food with Susheda Raval on "Eating at a Meeting." 🎤🍽️ Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you love the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts! 🌟

🍳 Join Tracy for a nourishing conversation with Chef Pete from Canyon Ranch, where they dive deep into the art of fueling wellness through culinary innovation. 🌿✨ Overseeing multiple locations, Chef Pete collaborates with dietitians to craft balanced, flavorful menus that defy common misconceptions about healthy eating. We explore diverse dietary needs for events, offering vegan options like Just Egg, tofu scrambles, and smoothie bars, while maintaining robust choices for all attendees. 🥑🍲 Chef Pete discusses the "farm to fuel" concept, emphasizing how what we eat powers our bodies, and shares insights on managing dietary restrictions like gluten-free and celiac needs. Discover tips for making meals visually appealing and tasty, the importance of clear allergen labeling, and strategies for sustainable, inclusive dining that supports overall wellness. 🌱💪 🍽️ Learn about the emotional connection between food and memories, strategies for organizing balanced buffets, and the surprising impact of chef versatility on guest satisfaction. Don't miss out! 🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you love the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts! 🌟

🌊 Step into a coastal adventure as I chat with Äna Shellem, the spirited force behind Shell'em Seafood Company in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. 🐚✨ From razor clams and oysters to her philosophy on sustainability and mental health, Äna’s approach to shellfish harvesting feels as refreshing as a sea breeze. On Eating at a Meeting, Äna dives into the vitality of rebuilding oyster shells for a sustainable future, shares her inspiring journey of healing through nature, and explains her dedication to bringing "safe food" to our tables. We wade through the unique challenges of wild harvesting, explore the importance of seasonality, and celebrate the special connections between chefs and diners. 🌱🔆 🍽️ Join us for a conversation that uncovers how Äna’s deep bond with the marshlands and her zero-waste practices are shaping a new wave of sustainable, locally-sourced seafood. Plus, discover her role in the upcoming Slow Fish conference and her top tips for event planners on sourcing local, sustainable seafood. 💖🌍 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you love the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts! 🌟

Join attorney Laurel Francoeur, a dedicated advocate for food allergy and disability rights, as she explores the vital legal protections provided by the ADA Amendments Act. Discover the complexities of accommodating food allergies in workplaces and public spaces. Laurel discusses the evolving definition of disability, the stigma faced by individuals, and the legal responsibilities of employers. She shares insights on navigating compliance challenges and personal anecdotes, highlighting the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments for all.

🥧 In this episode, Tracy introduces you to Valentina Ruffoni, the founder of Beyond the Event and the PIE network. 🍴✨ With a passion for transforming typical gatherings into memorable experiences, Valentina dives deep into the culinary delights that can boost connection and collaboration at events.  From the importance of offering nonalcoholic beverage options like mocktails and nonalcoholic beer in Spain to the challenges event planners face with inflexible caterers, we leave no stone unturned. Our discussion explores strategic ways to enhance attendee experiences by incorporating sensory elements and cultural touches. 🌟 Learn about Valentina’s efforts to make events more sustainable and inclusive, her vision of perfect food labeling, and the power of clear communication with catering teams. Indulge in a lighthearted chat about our favorite pies, and catch my anecdote about a gluten-free pie for a fundraiser. 🍏🍒 Connect with Valentina's journey towards event excellence and discover her top tips for creating engaging, delightful, and thoughtful event experiences. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on social media for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun, and if you’re loving the show, please rate and review on Apple Podcasts!  🌟 Thank you for joining us on this delicious journey where every meal matters! 🥂🍴