Send us a textJoin us for an engaging session with Mike Molloy, the mastermind behind some of the most innovative plant-based creations at Lowe's Hotel, Universal Orlando. Imagine a vegan tuna crafted from liquid nitrogen-treated watermelon, crusted with sesame seeds and spices—it's a culinary adventure that challenges the norms of contemporary dining. As we catch up with Mike, we reminisce about the early days of our Walk-In Talk journey and celebrate the creative processes that shape our mo...

Send us a textChef Amy Sins shares her inspiring journey from a rogue do-gooder to a pivotal figure in disaster relief, using her culinary skills to make a difference when it truly counts. You'll learn how chefs can become vital assets in crisis situations, transforming chaos into communities of support and nourishment. With heartwarming stories about innovative solutions and community empowerment, Amy's adventures remind us of the power individuals have when they harness their unique skills ...

Send us a textEver wondered how a crab rangoon could meet a stuffed shell with vodka sauce? Chef Carl Riding, co-owner of Crab Island Seafood Company, has some answers. Join us on a taste adventure where Carl shares his kitchen secrets and the fascinating journey from wielding a chef's knife to conquering the trade show circuit. His inventive culinary creations, like the jalapeño popper stuffed tenderloin with bourbon blackberry sauce, will have you salivating. Patrick Kelly from the Produce ...

Send us a textJoin us on the Walk-In Talk Podcast for an exciting culinary journey as we welcome the culinary genius, Chef Nick Barrington, who shares insights from his illustrious career and the prestigious US Culinary Open. Discover how food can provide comfort and joy during challenging times, as we reflect on the impact of Hurricanes Milton and Helene in the Southeast. Our co-host Jeff returns from New Hampshire with a delightful culinary experience, showcasing a unique ravioli dish inspi...

Send us a textEver felt the surreal helplessness of watching your dreams wash away? Michael and Heidi Butler, owners of The Helm Restaurant, give us a poignant glimpse into their world as they watched their beloved establishment fill with ocean water from afar, thanks to hurricanes Helene and Milton. Their story sets the stage for a broader discussion on the profound impacts these natural disasters have had on businesses and communities across Florida and the southern United States. Through t...

Send us a textWhat happens when nature’s fury meets human resilience? Our latest episode takes you to the heart of a catastrophe that has shaken Appalachia, especially western North Carolina, where Hurricane Helene's wrath left a trail of devastation. Chef Pooch Rivera joins us from the ground zero of disaster relief, sharing his pivotal role in nourishing the spirits of first responders with fresh meals. As we explore the emotional and physical demands of this crisis, we promise you'll walk ...

Send us a textWhat if the flavors of your past could transport you back to cherished moments with loved ones? Join us this week on the Walk-In Talk Podcast as we sit down with Chef Johnathan Rodriguez, an extraordinary culinary artist specializing in Puerto Rican and Italian cuisine. Chef Johnathan tantalizes us with his innovative dishes, like a unique twist on mofongo featuring fried yuca, jerk oxtail, and pork cracklings, dressed in a black garlic demi. His triplet sandwich, a symphony of ...

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what makes street food so captivating? Join us as Carl Fiadini takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane, savoring the iconic "dirty water" hot dogs of New York City with his Uncle Anthony. Our culinary journey continues with a visit from Jeffrey Schlissel, who introduces a tantalizing New England-inspired menu featuring Kuni Kuni pork, apple cider donuts, and a unique chili made with hot hatch chilies and bourbon bacon. We also celebrate an exciting milesto...

Send us a textWhat if you could transform everyday dishes into culinary masterpieces with just a splash of hot sauce? Join us on this flavorful journey as we catch up with co-host Putra Vera and delve into our latest food adventures, family moments, and creative projects. This episode features a mouthwatering chorizo and crab dip sandwich, perfectly balanced with creamy avocado, and a simple yet flavorful ceviche enhanced by Brandon Clark's Florida hot sauce. With stunning food photography by...

Send us a textCan repurposing leftover food truly transform a community? Join us on this captivating episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast as we spotlight the extraordinary food4vols initiative, led by the passionate and inventive Tyler White. With 25 years of culinary expertise, Tyler has taken a simple idea—repurposing high-quality leftover food—and turned it into a lifesaving mission against food insecurity at the University of Tennessee. From Crescent City Meats' eclectic sausage offerings ...

Send us a textEver wondered how an elite chef balances culinary excellence with mental health advocacy? Join us on the Walk-In Talk Podcast as we sit down with Chef Shane Schaibly from a nationwide breakfast concept to uncover the secrets behind his innovative dishes. This episode kicks off with an exciting news about Metro Shelving’s, Kitchen Storage Makeover contest and smoothly transitions into a deeper discussion on the importance of mental health in the culinary industry. We also ex...

Send us a textCan a food truck park truly become a community hub without charging vendors for parking? Tune in to our latest episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast as we chat with David Chan, the mastermind behind Brandon Food Truck Park. We explore his innovative approach to fostering a vibrant culinary scene and delve into his strategies for attracting foot traffic and keeping truck owners happy. Get ready to hear about the diverse range of foods available, from tantalizing tacos to succulent ...

Send us a textImagine elevating your culinary skills by learning from the very best—Chef Susanne Grier shares her wisdom, passion, and resiliences in this heartening episode. Discover the secrets behind working with farm-fresh ingredients as we spotlight dishes like marinated and smoked goat meat from Happy Tails Farm. Hear about the intricate flavors of fondant potatoes and miso-rubbed pistachio-dusted cauliflower, and the challenge of crafting a sumptuous whipped goat cheese with lemon marm...

Send us a textEver wondered how to transform a humble grilled cheese sandwich into a culinary masterpiece? Join me, Carl Fiadini, and Walk-In Talk Culinary Contributor, Amy Drew Thompson, as we embark on a flavorful journey to elevate this classic comfort food. We’ll guide you through a sumptuous spread of gourmet grilled cheese creations, from the unique blend of mascarpone with sun-dried tomatoes and a trio of cheeses to a French onion soup-inspired sandwich filled with caramelized onions a...

Send us a Text Message.How did a viral budget challenge during COVID-19 skyrocket Cassie Sharp to social media stardom and lead to the creation of her very own cookbook? Join us on the Walk-In Talk Podcast as we sit down with this culinary dynamo to explore her incredible journey, from experimenting with non-authentic Italian dishes to mastering the art of food photography. With Jeff providing invaluable mentorship, you'll hear about summer recipes like a zesty watermelon gazpacho, a delectab...

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how culinary arts can transform lives? This episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast features Chef Bryan Jacobs, the visionary behind Tampa Bay's Liberty Smokehouse and the charitable organization Vets2Success. Bryan shares his monumental journey from military service to culinary excellence, revealing how he turned personal struggles into a mission of hope for veterans. His inspiring story of resilience and passion underscores the incredible impact of culinary ...

Send us a Text Message.Get ready for an exhilarating culinary adventure with us on the Walk Talk Podcast! We embark on a wild ride, starting with our shoutout to Pastry Chef Nickey Boyd and a thrilling tornado tour in Kansas and Oklahoma alongside top chefs like Richard Anderson, Billy Zeko, and Alex Hoax. Our special guest, Chef Zakari Davila, a French Culinary Institute graduate, shares his inventive approach from New York’s food scene to Tampa. Brace yourself for some unforgettable re...

Send us a Text Message.From dishwasher to corporate executive pastry chef and finalist on the Food Network's Spring Baking Challenge, Nickey Boyd's journey is a tale of grit, resilience, and exceptional talent. This week, Nickey joins us to share her inspiring story, recounting her rise through the culinary ranks and the challenges she overcame as a Jamaican-American woman in a male-dominated industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strategic approach to mastering her craft will leave you mot...

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes in a bustling fine-dining restaurant? Join us on Walk-In Talk Podcast as we bring you a fascinating conversation with Krista Lepore, a seasoned front-of-house professional from New York's elite dining scene. From the fiery interactions between chefs and servers to the critical importance of respect and communication, Krista shares her candid insights and personal stories that shine a light on the unique challenges and ...

Send us a Text Message.Could culinary schools be the answer to the ever-growing demand for skilled talent in today's food industry? Join us on this episode of Walk-In Talk as we chat with Chef Kirk Bachman, President and Provost of Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, to uncover the crucial role culinary education plays in shaping the next generation of chefs. We also revisit last week's inspiring conversation with Chef Thom Favorin from Crab Island Seafood Company, and don't miss our e...

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how the disciplined life of an airborne infantryman could translate into culinary success? Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Chef Thom Favorin, a former paramedic and firefighter who overcame extraordinary health challenges to become a thriving food entrepreneur. You'll hear about his transition from military life to founding Crab Island Seafood Company with Chef Carl Riding, navigating the highs and lows of starting a family-owned business. ...

Send us a Text Message.Experience an inspiring culinary adventure with Tampa's very own Chef Rosana Rivera, as she takes us through her remarkable journey from corporate sales to owning renowned restaurants. Discover how her Puerto Rican heritage and passion for cooking led her to a successful appearance on national TV with Bobby Flay, and how this life-changing experience propelled her career. We also reveal some unique Father's Day grilling ideas, including a mouth-watering smoked chicken d...

Send us a Text Message.Hey Food Fam, Carl Fiadini here with another exciting episode of Walk-In Talk Podcast that's set to challenge everything you thought you knew about the food industry. We just got back from Chicago's NRA show, a melting pot of innovative vendors and our very own Memorial Day menu marvels. Sizzle your senses with stories of our adventures and a sneak peek into a special menu that's all smoke, citrus, and a brulee avocado twist – it's culinary creativity unleashed!Unravel ...

Send us a Text Message.Savor the flavors of innovation and tradition as we whisk you away on a culinary journey where the future of food trends meets the age-old craft of cheese-making. Last week's gastronomic adventures had us reminiscing about Jefferson's flavorful excursion to Boston, the ingenuity of Chef Keith Sarasin duck à l'orange egg roll, and Chef Johnathan Rodriguez's foray into Supermarket Steakout. We're not just teasing your taste buds; we're preparing them for the big reveal of...