Join Maureen and local food systems leader Dave Sokoll, Executive Director of the Forest City Food Collective, for an inspiring conversation on how local food can transform schools, families, and entire communities.

In this episode, we explore:

• The evolution of farm-to-school programs
• The real lives and challenges of small and mid-sized farmers
• How food banks bring dignity through fresh, local produce
• Why education is key to helping families use whole foods
• How school nutrition professionals can make a lasting impact

Dave shares stories from the field, insights on procurement, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to build a food system that works for everyone.

Maureen Pisanick chats with Jan Diamond of the American Dairy Association Mideast about why dairy continues to be a cornerstone of school meals, especially with new sugar regulations on the horizon. From smoothie kits and lactose-free milk pilots to breakfast ice cream and creative vegetable add-ins, this episode delivers practical inspiration for fueling students and strengthening breakfast participation.

What you’ll learn:• Why dairy remains nutrient-dense and kid-approved• How smoothies reduce waste and increase access• Scalable dairy-forward recipes for tight budgets• Lactose-free solutions for diverse communities• Grants and equipment available to schools• Nutrition messaging that boosts community understanding

Perfect for school nutrition leaders seeking fresh ideas to energize menus and support wellness.

In this special NutriSmart SNAX Podcast episode recorded live at the OSBA Capital Conference, host Maureen Pisanick speaks with Phil Herman and Tom Speaks of The Impact Group to explore Appreciology, staff retention, and how the school cafeteria truly serves as the heart of culture.

👂 What you'll learn in this episode:

● What Appreciology is and how it improves team morale

● A simple 45-day gratitude challenge that rewires the brain

● Why appreciation is key to staff retention in schools

● The role of school nutrition teams as culture leaders

● Why we shouldn’t judge each other’s choices (yes, even Kit Kats 🍫)

🧡 “Hungry kids can’t learn. The kitchen can be the heartbeat of the school. When staff feel appreciated, they don’t just serve meals - they create moments and memories.”

📘 Mentioned in this episode

● Appreciology (Impact Group) - https://igpr.com

● Pisanick Partners Nutrition Cookbook - https://www.pisanickpartners.com/cookbook