In this episode of the Lead with Heart Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Catherine De Orio, executive director of the Foundation for Culinary Arts, Emmy Award-winning TV host, and culinary changemaker, who is transforming the way youth find their voice and future through food.

From courtroom to kitchen, Catherine’s journey is one of purpose, pivoting, and passionate leadership. Together, we explore how culinary arts can be a powerful vehicle for vocational training, mentorship, and confidence-building, especially for under-resourced youth.

In this episode:

• [02:43 ] From litigator to culinary leader: Catherine’s career pivot
• [05:21 ] The Foundation for Culinary Arts and the Yes Chef Culinary Camp
• [08:34 ] The value of networking
• [10:32 ] Career opportunities in the culinary world
• [14:12 ] Nonprofit leadership lessons
• [18:02 ] The barriers young chefs face
• [22:12 ] Listening to youth feedback to evolve programming
• [26:53 ] Personal branding and authenticity in the culinary world
• [29:03 ] Seizing imperfect opportunities

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE

LinkedIn: Catherine De Orio

Instagram: @catdeorio & @yeschefcamp

Website: https://foundationforculinaryarts.org/ 

Send Haley a suggestion or request via text HERE!

My book, Sow, Grow, Lead is live on Amazon! It shares my journey of starting a nonprofit in Malawi and offers practical strategies for nonprofit leaders to create real impact.

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CONNECT WITH HALEY
Haley is a CFRE, Stress Management Coach, and EmC trainer. Founder of The Savvy Fundraiser, she brings experience in human services, homelessness, and youth nonprofits. She specializes in EmC, leadership, board development, and fundraising, empowering nonprofit leaders to build thriving organizations.
Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser
LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFRE
Website: thesavvyfundraiser.com

Produced by Ideablossoms