How does a Master of Fine Arts shape a career in cheese? Jen Lopez, Director, Strategic Accounts and Product Innovation at Forever Cheese, joins us to discuss her unique journey. She explains her philosophy of "milk as a medium," revealing how her creative background fuels product innovation and strategic growth.

We explore her pivotal transition from Whole Foods to importer, how she balances tradition with innovation for iconic cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, and why storytelling is essential in the specialty food world. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about art, business, and the future of cheese.

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We are so grateful to have had the incredible Chef Lana Lagomarsini on this month's episode of What's Cooking!

We take a deep dive into her remarkable journey—from her time in the kitchens of Daniel and Momofuku to founding her own venture, Lana Cooks. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from Top Chef: Destination Canada and explains how she developed her unique culinary voice, which she describes as "soul food through a fine-dining lens."

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How does Misfits Market turn ‘imperfect’ food into a sustainable grocery revolution? Morgan Drummond, Senior Director of Private Label, reveals how the company’s Odds & Ends line rescues surplus ingredients, partners with ethical suppliers, and makes eco-conscious eating affordable. From her Whole Foods roots to industry awards, learn what drives this leader in the fight against food waste.

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Misfits Market Website

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How does a values-driven food distributor navigate today’s complex supply chains while staying true to its organic roots?

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Shinn, Purchasing Manager at Azure Standard, to uncover the behind-the-scenes strategies of sourcing ethical, high-quality food at scale. From vetting suppliers with rigorous standards to adapting to global disruptions, Christina shares how Azure serves its unique clientele and what trends are shaping the future of organic distribution.

Website: https://www.azurestandard.com/

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Meet Katy Strouk, co-owner of LA's beloved Monsieur Marcel. We chat French flair, California cool, and building a food empire. Bon appétit!

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Ever wondered what it takes to turn a beloved Quebec snack brand into a global sensation? In this episode, we’re sitting down with Julie Therrien—Sales Director for Western Canada & Export at Groupe Leclerc and VP of the Food Executives Club of Vancouver—who’s been driving the company’s success for over 25 years. From secret recipes to international expansion, she’s got the inside scoop on how Biscuit Leclerc became a household name far beyond Quebec’s borders.

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Groupe Leclerc website

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How do you turn a homemade smoothie idea into a thriving wellness brand? In this candid conversation, we sit down with Dominic Dubé, the visionary founder behind Evive Nutrition, the company that reinvented the smoothie with its iconic frozen cubes. From early struggles to scale production to building a brand that stands for transparency, convenience, and joy, Dominic shares the real story behind Evive’s rise.

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This month, we sit down with Lainie De La Oz, Hard Goods Licensing Manager at MLB Players Inc., to trace her career path, from her early days at CLPG Wildbrain to her current role shaping the future of baseball merchandise. Get ready for an inside look at the sports licensing industry, career pivots, and what it really means to build a brand around athletes.

LinkedIn : linkedin.com/in/lainiedelaoz

Instagram: @Lainierd

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