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Changing Plates

Changing Plates
Author: Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer
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© 2025 Changing Plates
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Hi! We’re Allison Pigatto and Bianca Mercouffer, two nutrition experts and food enthusiasts on a mission to transform the conversation around food. Tired of the negativity and fear-mongering, we created Changing Plates -- a forward-thinking podcast spotlighting fresh perspectives and impactful work.
Each episode features leaders, innovators and disruptors shaping the future of food. Together, we discuss challenges facing our global food system and transformative solutions paving the way forward.
Ready to discover the brighter side of food? Tune in for bi-weekly episodes!
16 Episodes
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In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Dr. Eva Monterrosa, co-founder of the Food Culture Alliance, for a conversation on why culture is such a powerful force in shaping what we eat. Eva shares the story behind launching the Alliance in 2023 and explains how food culture can shift demand toward healthier, more sustainable foods. We discuss the NIBS framework (Narratives, Identity, Beliefs, and Culinary Systems) and explore the food cultural topics being explored at the Food Cultu...
In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Ella Marshall and Sami Simreen - two innovators shaping the future of food. Sami is the co-founder of KiCo Kitchen, a sustainable and inclusive co-working kitchen, while Ella works at Nali Consulting, where they focus on the intersection of food systems and innovation, helping early-stage businesses move from idea to impact. Together, they explore what “food innovation” really means beyond the buzzword and share insights for start-ups findin...
In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Liz Shaw MS RDN CPT, a nutrition communicator, science translator and storyteller, for a conversation on how credible food messaging can cut through the wellness noise. Drawing on her experience across media, brand work and writing, Liz shares how the way we talk about food influences daily choices, what it takes to build trust with a skeptical audience, and how to navigate the rapid spread of misinformation online. We also explore how...
In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Barbara Bray MBE - a registered nutritionist, food safety expert, and PhD researcher at Queen’s University Belfast - for a conversation on what it means to eat well as we age. Barbara shares insights from her research on the dietary habits of older adults in the UK and explains why the gap between what we do eat and what we should eat as we grow older has never been more urgent. We unpack the difference between age span and health span, chal...
In this episode of Changing Plates, Heidi Kessler, Deputy Director of the Global Child Nutrition Foundation (GCNF), joins us to discuss how school meal programs are transforming health, education, and local economies around the world. Heidi shares insights from GCNF’s Global Survey of School Meal Programs©, highlights the impact of home-grown school feeding, and explores how these programs support gender equity and community resilience. We also touch on Japan’s Shokuiku model of food educatio...
In this episode of Changing Plates, we explore how employee wellbeing is transforming workplaces - and why it's essential for both health and business. Our guest, Macy Chow, a registered dietitian and employee wellbeing expert, shares her journey into dietetics and discusses the growing impact of nutrition at work. From cultural insights in Hong Kong to global best practices, Macy unpacks how companies can implement effective workplace wellness programs, boost employee engagement, and drive ...
In this episode of Changing Plates, Ro Huntriss, a registered dietitian and Chief Nutrition Officer at Simple App, shares her insights on the role of health tech in transforming weight management. From wearable devices to breakthrough medications, Ro dives into the science behind sustainable weight loss and how health tech is supporting individuals in their wellness journey. We also discuss the future of weight management, the growing influence of tech in healthcare and how we can ensure tech...
Why is communication key to advancing nutrition? In this season finale of Changing Plates, we speak with Christina Xenaki, a registered dietitian with experience spanning marketing, medical affairs and communications for major food brands about the transformative power of storytelling. From bridging the gap between innovation and public perception to emphasizing the growing importance of medical nutrition, Christina shares compelling stories and practical strategies for driving meaningful ch...
Could your next prescription be a trip to the produce aisle? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Megan Gow, Senior Research Fellow at the George Institute, to unpack the concept of Food is Medicine. From addressing chronic disease to ensuring access to nutritious food after acute events, Dr. Gow shares her research and explores the diverse strategies behind this innovative approach. Discover how these interventions are reshaping the future of healthcare. Have questions, comments or stories ...
Have you noticed the explosion of eco-labels and environmental claims on products in the grocery store? With 456 types of eco-labels used across 200 countries, knowing which labels truly reflect sustainable practices—and which may be little more than marketing—is more challenging than ever. In this episode, Ásta Ágústsdóttir delves into the difficulties consumers face in deciphering these labels and explores why, despite their intentions, eco-labels may fall short of shaping consumer be...
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a hot topic, fueling both confusion and concern. But without a clear, universal definition or dietary guidelines on "ultra-processed," navigating what’s on our plates can be confusing for both consumers and health professionals. In this episode, we’re joined by Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a registered dietitian and author of the book How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed. Nichola shares a balanced, realistic approach to incorporating UPFs into our diets. Tune in as we disc...
In today’s food industry, innovation is key to overcoming global challenges and creating sustainable solutions. In this episode, we dive into the role of food technology in shaping a brighter future. Lia Carlucci, Managing Director of Food Campus Berlin, shares insights into some of the most exciting advancements from food tech companies, along with her work on climate-driven initiatives. Discover how these innovations are helping to revolutionize the way we approach food and the environment....
Can genetics determine the best diet for you? From caffeine sensitivity to protein metabolism, personalized nutrition is reshaping how we approach food choices. Yet, many individuals and health professionals are unsure how to effectively apply genetic testing results to improve our diets. In this episode, Leta Pilic, founder of Optimyse Nutrition, breaks down how genetic testing can enhance nutrition counseling, offering a tailored approach that can inspire behavior change. Whether you're a p...
Have you found yourself tangled in the web of diet culture? As the landscape of food and nutrition advice grows more crowded, many people feel anxious over their food choices. Meanwhile, society’s relentless focus on weight loss has fueled disordered eating and strained our relationship with food. In this episode, we sit down with Maeve Hanan, a registered dietitian and founder of Dietetically Speaking, to explore the principles of intuitive eating. Maeve shares insights on how to break away ...
Did you know that celiac disease can present with over 200 symptoms? For those affected, navigating the challenges of this autoimmune condition can be overwhelming. In this episode, Chris Rich (CEO & Executive Director of the National Celiac Association) sheds light on the realities of living with celiac disease, from the complexities of diagnosis to the hurdles of maintaining a gluten-free diet – the only current treatment option. Chris also discusses the impactful work of the National C...
Welcome to Changing Plates, the podcast that explores how food is shaping a better world! We’re Allison and Bianca, two nutrition experts and food lovers, fed up with the negative stories surrounding food. So, we created Changing Plates to focus on the innovations and ideas transforming the way we eat and think about food. In each episode, we bring you conversations with leaders, innovators and disruptors who are tackling global food challenges with fresh solutions. If you're passionate about...