Episodes
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🍳 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! 🌟
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🌊 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! 🌟
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Episodes manquant?
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Join me for an eye-opening conversation with attorney Laurel Francoeur, a fierce advocate for food allergy and disability rights, as we dive into the real-world challenges of creating safe, inclusive environments for those with dietary needs. 💼✨
In this Eating at a Meeting episode, Laurel and I explore the importance of accommodating food allergies across workplaces and public spaces. We discuss how the ADA Amendments Act expands protections for individuals with food allergies, despite challenges like stigma, economic barriers, and some states’ claims of sovereign immunity to avoid compliance.
⚖️🌾 This insightful episode offers invaluable advice and perspectives for both individuals managing allergies and those responsible for creating inclusive environments—ensuring that every meal matters in building a more inclusive and aware society.
🍽️ 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! 🥂🍴
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🥧 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! 🥂🍴
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Amidst troubling reports of food recalls and safety violations, including salmonella in Quaker Oats products and a deadly listeria outbreak at a Boar's Head facility, this week’s episode of Eating at a Meeting dives into how consumers — and meeting professionals — can be empowered through safer food choices.
Join me as I discuss transparency and rigorous safety practices in the food industry with Colleen Kavanagh, CEO of ZEGO, about the pivotal role of rigorous food safety practices. Learn about the critical link between food safety and consumer empowerment, and how transparency not only ensures safety but also builds trust.
We'll explore how initiatives like ZEGO's Purity Verification System are setting benchmarks for industry-wide transparency, giving consumers the knowledge and power to make informed decisions. This conversation is crucial for anyone involved in food service, hospitality, or simply interested in the safety of the food they consume.
Discover the steps that can be taken to ensure that food products are not just consumable but also conducive to long-term health and well-being. Get insights into how demanding higher standards in food safety can lead to a healthier, more informed consumer base and a more accountable food industry. Don’t miss out on this enlightening episode that could change how you think about the food you eat and the brands you support.
#FoodSafetyAwarenessMonth #FoodSafety #HospitalitySafety #PublicHealth Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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On this week's episode of Eating at a Meeting, I'm excited to welcome two incredible experts, Disability Rights Attorney Mary Vargas, and Hospitality Attorney Joshua Grimes, for an in-depth discussion on the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts US Inc. and Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant wrongful death lawsuit involving food allergies.
Before it heads to court, we will unpack the case from all angles—guest safety, meeting planner responsibility, hotel and restaurant liability, and even the landlord's accountability. What lessons can we learn from this tragic case? How will it shape the future of food allergy management in the hospitality and events industry? These are crucial questions that we'll delve into deeply.
Tune in as we explore what needs to change to ensure safer and more inclusive dining experiences for everyone—because the safety and well-being of every guest should always come first. Be sure to tune in, share your thoughts, and join the conversation!
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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After a whirlwind summer of meetings and events, Tracy brings you the latest, most crucial food news every meeting professional needs to know. Titled "Ripped from the Headlines: Food News You Can't Ignore for Your Next Event," dives into recent stories that are shaking up the industry, with a particular focus on safety and liability.
One headline-grabbing case discussed is the wrongful death lawsuit involving a doctor who tragically died from an allergic reaction at Raglan Road in Disney Springs. Tracy unpacks the global implications of this case, including Disney's controversial legal arguments and how it underscores the importance of allergy safety at events.
She explores the critical aspects of liability in event contracts, effective communication of dietary restrictions, and the evolving landscape of food allergy regulations.
From a shocking incident in the UK that exposed flaws in staff training to the impact of climate change on commodity crops and the importance of sustainable catering practices—this episode is packed with essential insights.
Join Tracy as she connects these stories back to your role as an event planner, offering actionable tips and expertise to ensure your events are not only memorable but also safe and compliant. Tune in and learn how to navigate the complexities of managing food and beverages at your next event! Join the Eating at a Meeting Community
Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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Join me for the next episode of Eating at a Meeting as I sit down with Alethia Erwin, a board member of The People’s Kitchen, to explore how food is more than just a meal—it's a force for empowerment, transformation, and healing.
Alethia's roots in the food service industry stretch back to 1988, with a rich career spanning restaurant management, catering, and event planning. She was the General Manager of the critically acclaimed Geechee Girl Rice Cafe in Philadelphia and now helps lead The People’s Kitchen of Philadelphia, an incredible initiative that provides free, nutritious meals while fostering community connections through gardening and education.
From organizing events to inspiring change through food, Alethia is a powerhouse. Together, we’ll dive into how The People’s Kitchen emerged during the pandemic, its impact on food sovereignty, and how grassroots solutions are feeding bodies and souls alike.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of community, culture, and, of course, food. Tune in on Wednesday! Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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In today's Eating at a Meeting episode, I'll dive into the latest food and beverage headlines that are making waves. From allergen safety to loneliness, I’m breaking down what these stories mean for your next event. Join me as I connect the dots between the news and your food and beverage strategy. You won’t want to miss it!
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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For this week’s Eating at a Meeting podcast episode, I’m coming to you live from the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association convention in Tampa. It’s at a special time — 2:30 PM — since I will be on stage presenting at noon.
I’m thrilled to be joined by two incredible guests who know exactly how to make a healthcare booth stand out in the crowd — Hailey Rosenstein, Owner and CEO, and Amy Simonides, Account Executive and National Sales Leader at Crêpes à Latte. Hailey and Amy will share their secrets for using the power of food to create booth experiences that don’t just attract attendees—they build trust and leave a lasting impression.
We’ll discuss how they’ve mastered crafting on-brand food and beverage experiences that increase dwell time and foster genuine connections with healthcare professionals. They’ll also dive into their approach to strategic planning, seamless execution, and commitment to sustainability.
Whether you’re here at the convention or listening from wherever you are, this episode will be packed with insights and strategies to help you turn taste into trust and make your booth the one everyone’s talking about.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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Each July, I focus on the spirit of July and the celebrations of freedom and independence. I am inspired to discuss the importance of these themes in the context of food and events on this episode of the Eating at a Meeting Podcast. 🌍🍽️
In this episode, I discuss how we can ensure freedom and independence for event attendees, particularly those with dietary restrictions and disabilities. Through real-life examples, I highlight the critical role of education, from event planning teams to kitchen staff, in creating inclusive and safe dining experiences. I share significant event practices like labeling allergens clearly on menus, the importance of communication between kitchen teams, and the necessity of comprehensive dietary planning.
Discover practical recommendations to enhance attendee participation at events, prevent cross-contamination, and ensure that everyone, regardless of their dietary needs, can feel comfortable and included.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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With the growing prevalence of diverse dietary needs and preferences, designing event menus that satisfy everyone can be challenging. Join our seasoned experts as they share strategies to craft inclusive, flavorful meals that accommodate a wide range of dietary restrictions and delight every palate.
Webinar attendees will gain:
• An understanding of common dietary restrictions and how to cater to them elegantly.
• Creative ideas for offering variety while maintaining cohesion in your menu.
• Tips for effectively communicating menu options and collecting guest preferences.
• Cost-effective strategies to create an impressive dining experience within your budget.
This webinar was a Northstar Meetings Group webinar recorded in July 2024. It was sponsored by The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah.
You can watch the webinar https://www.northstarmeetingsgroup.com/Events-Calendar/Crafting-Crowd-Pleasing-Event-Menus Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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At a PCMA EduCon in Detroit, I ran into my friend Zoe Moore, CEO and Strategic Disruptor at Grow with Zomo. When I saw her, she said, "We have lots to discuss."
As a passionate advocate for EDI in hospitality, events, and tourism, Zoe brings a wealth of experience and a powerful voice to the table. However, she is learning that there is still much work to do when it comes to the dining table. "You have been in my head when trying to plan inclusive menus for the events I've been working on," she said.
Join Zoe and me this week on Eating at a Meeting LIVE as we discuss essential topics shaping the future of inclusive event food and beverage experiences:
🍽️ The disconnect between front-of-house and back-of-house staff and the crucial need for training and communication regarding ingredients, food restrictions, preferences, and proper labeling.
📋 Where is inclusion considered in the food and beverage BEO process?
🤔 Whose owns responsibility for creating an inclusive dining experience — sales, operations, kitchen, front-of-house, eaters?
I'm excited to talk with Zoe and get her perspective on how event professionals on both sides of the kitchen door can operationalize EDI.
In the spirit of July's focus on independence and freedom in dining experiences, I'm thrilled to discuss these critical issues with Zoe and gain her perspective on how event professionals on both sides of the kitchen door can operationalize EDI. Let's spark change together and make every meal matter!
✨ Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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After months of not seeing each other, I'm excited to have had just spent four days together at PCMA EduCon and to now sit down with my good friend and former neighbor, Tess Vismale, to reconnect and talk about event food and beverage.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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🎙️ I'm thrilled to sit down with Aric Ferrell, Vice President of Operations for Aramark's Destinations group. We'll discuss Aramark’s commitment to managing unique destinations — parks, day attractions, conference and convention centers — integrating safety, sustainability, and inclusivity into every food and beverage experience.
Aric will share insights on Aramark's approach to environmental stewardship, including strategies to source local, seasonal, and products and their innovative efforts to minimize waste and conserve resources.
🏞️ He’ll explain what safe, sustainable, and inclusive dining experiences mean to him: keeping guests informed to make healthy, educated diet decisions and addressing challenges like cross-contamination, using personal experiences on what that means.
📅 Tune in to get a glimpse of Aramark’s headquarters and how they are shaping the future of hospitality with every meal and operation. Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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This week on Eating at a Meeting LIVE, I’m excited to introduce you to Chef William Pfeiffer, whose pioneering culinary practices with Flik Hospitality at the IBM Learning Center in Armonk, NY, showcases a remarkable commitment to sustainability and hospitality. Chef Pfeiffer’s initiatives include a fascinating integration of beekeeping and a synergistic partnership with a local chicken farm, defining a full-circle sustainability model.
In this episode, we will explore Chef Pfeiffer’s sustainability efforts, which emphasize bee conservation and highlight his innovative farm-to-table approach. His collaboration with a nearby chicken farm exemplifies his comprehensive vision: all kitchen scraps and waste are repurposed as feed for the chickens, which in turn supply fresh, high-quality eggs to his kitchen. This process not only minimizes waste but also ensures the quality of his culinary creations by using the freshest possible ingredients.
Additionally, we’ll discuss his beliefs around hospitality, which for him goes far beyond mere food service. His approach involves creating unique and memorable experiences where every detail is considered—from how ingredients are sourced to how guests engage with their food. This holistic view of hospitality aims to create lasting impressions by making guests feel genuinely valued and connected to the entire food journey, sparking intrigue and curiosity in his innovative farm-to-table approach.
Join us to learn about Chef Pfeiffer’s innovative methods and his unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Discover how he seamlessly blends his roles as a chef and a beekeeper with his passion for crafting unique dining experiences that respect nature and the consumer. Tune in and be inspired by Chef Pfeiffer’s journey, which not only pushes the boundaries of traditional culinary roles but also redefines what it means to be a chef in today’s environmentally-conscious world, positively impacting our planet.
P.S. He recently won the IACC Innovation Award for his Beekeeping and sustainability practices.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community
Connect with Tracy at [email protected] -
🎉🍽️ Join me LIVE on "Eating at a Meeting" as we wrap up Celiac Disease Awareness Month with a powerful episode titled "The Critical Need for Clarity in Feeding Guests with Celiac Disease." I’m thrilled to welcome Erica Dermer from Celiac and the Beast for this insightful discussion! 🎉🌾
👩🍳 Dive deep with Erica, a prominent voice in the gluten-free community, as she shares her journey navigating the complexities of celiac disease. Her blend of humor and expertise highlights the ongoing challenges of dietary restrictions at events.
🚫🌾 We'll explore the psycho-social impacts and the often overlooked dangers of cross-contamination and lack of options. Erica's experiences bring light to these issues, like her recent conference dilemmas where she was faced with inadequate meal options. After seeing her plight posted online, I immediately reached out to a friend with connections at the convention center to ensure that Erica received suitable meals beyond the typical hard-boiled egg or slice of cantaloupe.
🎤 Erica's advocacy goes beyond her personal needs. She humorously captures the frustration many feel when she exclaims, "But daddy, I WANT A CROISSANT 🥐REAL BAD," underscoring the demand for more appetizing and varied gluten-free options at conferences and conventions.
👥 Known for her honest product reviews and pushing for transparency in the gluten-free market, Erica's insights are crucial for anyone involved in food service or event planning.
📅 Tune in for a conversation that promises to educate and empower. Whether you're well-acquainted with celiac disease, eager to learn, or involved in ensuring safe food service, this episode is essential viewing!
👉 Don’t miss this engaging discussion filled with real stories and actionable insights. Follow us and Celiac and the Beast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates. Set your reminders now to join us in making every event accommodating and enjoyable for every guest. See you there! 🌟
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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For my final Eating at a Meeting LIVE episode during Food Allergy Awareness Week, I'm diving into the critical world of food allergies advocacy, research, and education with Sung Poblete, RN, PhD—CEO of FARE. 🍽️ 🚫
🎙️I am thrilled to sit down with Sung, a distinguished nurse, educator, and healthcare management visionary. Sung brings a wealth of knowledge and personal connection to the forefront of food allergy research and treatment.
💬 We'll Explore:
𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Sung shares her personal experiences with food allergies, offering a unique perspective on living with and managing these challenges. Cutting-Edge Data: Stay updated with the latest statistics that are shaping the landscape of food allergies today.
𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Discover promising new treatments on the horizon and their impact on those affected.
𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀: We demystify common misconceptions and provide expert insights into food allergies as a chronic disease, not just a dietary preference.
𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: Learn about the tireless efforts in advocacy that aim to improve the lives of those with food allergies, ensuring safer environments and inclusive policies.
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗜𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Food allergies affect millions worldwide, and understanding them is essential for creating safe, inclusive, and sustainable environments.
This episode will educate and inspire action, aligning with FARE’s mission to enhance individuals' quality of life and health through transformative research, education, and advocacy.
This episode will illuminate food allergies as a significant public health issue, advocating for recognition and proper management. It will also educate listeners on the seriousness of food allergies and highlight FARE's pivotal role in the field.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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🎙️ This Food Allergy Awareness Week, I'm thrilled to feature Ben Parris, Executive Head Chef at De Vere Horsley Estate and a private chef for HNWI, on our next episode: "From Planning to Plate: Ensuring Allergy-Safe and Delicious Meals."
👨🍳 I met Ben at the IACC America's Knowledge Exchange last month. And, I want YOU to meet Ben, a seasoned food traveler, cookbook collector, and an all-around food fanatic whose approach to culinary arts blends passion with precision. As he leads his team at the stunning De Vere Horsley Estate, Ben is pioneering a culture centered around meticulous training and a steadfast focus on food allergies and intolerances.
🔥 On the show, Ben will share how his team’s commitment to sustainable practices and inclusive menus caters to a growing range of dietary needs, from veganism to flexitarian diets. Discover the innovative ways Ben's kitchen manages allergens and learn about their new food safety system, LOGIT, which enhances transparency and safety through technology.
📅 Join us LIVE this Wednesday during Food Allergy Awareness Week as Ben will share the essentials of creating food experiences that are safe, sustainable, and inclusive. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, someone with food allergies, or a professional in the industry, this episode will equip you with the insights to elevate your culinary endeavors.
🌿 Engage with us as we explore the evolving landscape of sustainable food practices and how they intertwine with the global goals of good health, quality education, responsible consumption, and climate action.
Mark your calendar—culinary inspiration is on the menu this Wednesday! 🍽️e fest Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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🌸 As we address the crucial topic of food allergen safety, I am thrilled to welcome Ryan Gembala, an expert attorney specializing in the legal liabilities concerning food allergens in the hospitality and food service industry. 🛡️🔍 Ryan's vast experience in food safety law and his keen understanding of both proactive and reactive measures make him a vital voice in this critical conversation.
On this episode of the Eating at a Meeting Podcast, we dive deep into the proactive duty to warn consumers about potential allergens, highlight the significance of comprehensive training for food service staff, and explore best practices for defending legal cases involving allergens. Ryan shares legal insights through impactful case studies like Crawford vs. Marriott and the JJ Alpine case, illustrating the importance of clear allergen communication and the legal ramifications when institutions fail to meet these standards.
🌿✨ Learn about the importance of preserving documentation, having emergency medical devices like epinephrine on site, and implementing multiple redundant safety measures to protect both customers and businesses. From the challenges of updating antiquated hotel systems to the practical steps for ensuring front and back-of-house staff effectively communicate, this episode provides a roadmap for safer dining environments.
🥂 Discover the proactive strategies that can prevent legal issues, the crucial role of team-wide allergen awareness, and why turning away customers with food allergies is not the solution. Ryan’s practical advice, coupled with real-world examples and actionable steps, will empower food service professionals to create safer, more inclusive dining experiences.
Join the Eating at a Meeting Community Connect with Tracy at [email protected]
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