Chef Sense

Send us a text Listen as Matt Rubiner recounts nearly two decades in the cheese business, evolving from the early days at a Boston cheese shop to his own store's growth, including the opening of a café to handle seasonal market challenges. His dedication to old-world cheese care methods and high-quality grocery offerings shines through, painting a vivid picture of Rubiner's Cheese Mongers' unique identity. The episode also uncovers the meticulous process behind aging a special Gruyère cheese ...

06-05

01:02:01

Send us a text As we wrap up this flavorful exchange, dive into the nitty-gritty of running a small yet vibrant restaurant, from the complexities of seating arrangements to the refreshing stories of vacations that rejuvenate the soul. Chef Ray and Chef Sarita, not just partners in life but also in the kitchen, give us an intimate look at how they keep their love and menu fresh, stirring in a blend of creativity and shared culinary aspirations. It's a tale of passion, grit, and the art of cook...

05-08

40:42

Send us a textThis episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for farmers and food enthusiasts alike, brimming with insights on the multifaceted support available to bolster the local meat industry. From the nitty-gritty of technical assistance, financial support in the form of low-interest loans and microgrants, to the meticulous coordination within the value chain, we delve into the transformative work being orchestrated by Berkshire Agricultural Ventures. The Livestock Working Group emerges as ...

05-01

35:23

Send us a text Embark on a gastronomic voyage with Ariane Daguin, the force behind D'Artagnan, as she recounts her mission to redefine the American palate with a touch of Gascon finesse. Ariane's tale is more than a story of culinary prowess; it's a testament to her undying commitment to the art of meat and poultry, from her Gascon roots to the tables of America's finest establishments. As she narrates the challenges of scaling an ethical business, we're reminded of the sheer resilience requi...

04-24

33:40

Send us a text Imagine finding your life's calling in the idyllic landscapes of Italy, surrounded by the finest food and wine. This was the reality for Jamie and Madison, the heart and soul behind Dancing Greens Farm, who joined us to share their journey from studying food systems to creating a community-centered vegetable oasis. Their tale is not only about farming but also about cultivating joy through their farm-to-table shindigs that spotlight the freshest, locally grown produce. The duo ...

04-17

47:38

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of terroir-driven whiskey as we traverse the verdant paths of Hill Rock Estate Distillers with our gracious hosts Jeffrey Baker, whose fervor for sustainable farming and meticulous spirit crafting will leave you deeply inspired. Their tales are not just of barley and rye but of a lifelong voyage culminating in a symphony of Solera-aged bourbons, double cask rye, and American single malts that speak volumes of their field-to-glass philosophy. As we share our s...

04-10

25:22

Send us a textEmbark on a pastoral adventure with Kim, Kelly, and Deb of Justamere Tree Farm as they trade their government badges for the rustic charm of farm life. Their story isn't just about tapping maple trees; it's a symphony of passion and craftsmanship that drives their entrepreneurial spirit. Witness their journey from wildlife conservationists to artisanal syrup producers, navigating the unpredictable tides of climate change that have them boiling sap as early as January. They open ...

04-03

30:48

Send us a text When resilience meets the culinary arts, magic happens in the kitchen and beyond. That's exactly the case with our incredible guest Olivia Wade, whose story of triumph is as rich and complex as her flavors. Together, we reminisce about the zest and harmony that comes from a synergistic kitchen team, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences we've crafted for diners. Olivia opens up about her early leadership roles and the grueling health battles that came her way. With a spir...

03-27

42:00

Send us a text Gather 'round the chef's table as we cook up savory stories and dishes with the one and only Chef Laura Lipoufski, and give a warm kitchen welcome to Chef Jason Williams. Our conversation simmers with the essence of hospitality, focusing on the collaborative heart that beats within the walls of every successful eatery. We talk shop about leading with inclusivity and the holistic approach that flavors our leadership, seasoning our teams with trust and mutual respect. Embra...

03-20

39:31

Send us a text We sit down with the extraordinary Linh Aven, a chef who's seamlessly blending the realms of science and culinary arts. Our latest episode is more than just a conversation; it's a journey through Linh's transition from the world of molecular medicine to the forefront of the culinary industry. We reminisce about times spent restaurant consulting and how Linh's bold leap into sustainable farming is reshaping our relationship with food. As we wander through the enchanting world o...

03-06

44:10

Send us a text After spending time with the lively and eccentric Tavin Dillard, I discovered a world of delightful surprises and heartwarming stories, brought to life by the talented Joel Berry. Join me on this episode of Chef Sense as we explore Tavin's life as a small-town entrepreneur and how he keeps his lawn care business thriving through creative endeavors like personalized video greetings. We also dive into his love for the local burger joint, the Burger Shed, and their secret me...

02-28

28:18

Send us a text Navigating the high-stakes environment of the culinary world, we often forget to look beyond the sizzle of the skillet to the wellbeing of those who wield it. On the latest episode of Chef Sense, we're joined by Jasmin from CHOW, who illuminates the stark reality of mental health in the food and beverage industry. From the shadow of depression to the struggle against addiction, we discuss the urgency of peer support and the pivotal role of tailored resources for our kin behind ...

02-21

46:31

Send us a text As the smoky scent of the open flame lingers in the air, Chef James Gop of Heirloom Fire takes us on a tantalizing tour through his life, revealing how a childhood steeped in rich food traditions and an artistic bent shaped his culinary philosophy. With a reverence for seasonal ingredients sparked at Guido's Fresh Marketplace, James shares how he weaves his artistic past into a dining experience that's as much a visual feast as it is a treat for the taste buds. Pull up a chair ...

02-14

42:03

Send us a text Embark on a thought-provoking journey with Dr. Marion Nestle, a trailblazer in the intersection of nutrition, health, and food politics, who joins us on Chef Sense to share her profound insights and personal evolution. Witness the transformation of a molecular biology educator into a dynamic nutrition crusader, driven by a stark realization of the parallels between tobacco marketing, and the food industry's strategies. Marion Nestle takes us through her illustrious career, incl...

Send us a text As the scent of a perfectly aged cheese can transport you to the lush pastures of Vermont, our conversation with Sam Rheaume of Jasper Hill Farm will take you on a journey through the farms inner workings. The Kehler brothers' vision of preserving the rural economy through world-class cheese-making is not just a story of passion, but also one of revival and innovation. We uncover the alchemy of grass-fed milk as it transforms into the likes of Whitney, Alpha Tolman, Harb...