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Pub. DateTitleDuration
21 Mar 2022[Special] Highlighting CareersNow! Mentorship Sessions| Ep 4100:47:07

On this special edition of the FoodGrads Podcast the podcast is taking a look at highlights from mentorship sessions with a partnership with CareersNow!  Food and Beverage Ontario has launched the CareersNow! program looking to bring awareness, to assist people in exploring a variety of careers in Ontario's food and beverage processing industry.

Over the past year with CareersNow! we have hosted 12 mentorship sessions where students or new graduates while actually really anyone could attend virtual career advice sessions with leading professionals to learn more about the exciting career pathways in the industries and get their questions asked a lot.

In this episode hear highlights from: 

  • Alvin Alexander, Maintenance Mechanic at FGF brands
  • Morolayo Mould at Kerry
  • Gireesh Raina Food Inspector at the Ontario Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs
  • Swarna Ariyakumar Senior Packaging Engineer at Mars Canada.

Show Notes 

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-41/

08 Sep 2020Ep.01 - Supporting Students & Graduates Start their Career in the Food & Beverage Industry with FoodGrads Founder Nicole Gallace00:31:27

FoodGrads is an interactive platform for the Food & Beverage Industry focused on closing the gap between students/recent graduates, educators and employers in food service & food processing. Our mission is to support the next generation of food industry professionals. Our broader priority is to attract forward-thinking, socially conscious people to pursue a career in food. An exclusive community of 'food' minded professionals who collaborate and aspire to a healthier world.

Nicole Gallace is a friend, a mentor and a co-worker who I have had the pleasure to have known for years. She is also the creator of this awesome platform which has given me the opportunity to share how great the food and beverage industries are.

This is episode 1 of the FoodGrads Podcast the podcast which takes you on a fascinating journey in to the hearts and minds of the amazing people who work in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. From Food Scientists to Farmers, Chefs to the Plant, QA Technicians to Dietitians, R&D to Sales, no matter what your passion–there’s something for everyone in Food–we’ll help you find it!

We share insights from professionals at all stages in their careers. Find out what they do, why they do it and how they change the world one day at a time. Featuring weekly episodes every Monday with your host Veronica Hislop this podcast will showcase careers and opportunities you didn't even know existed!

In this episode, we dive into learning about the exciting world of FoodGrads. We explore what FoodGrads is, how it came about, why the food industry is a great place to work and the campus ambassador program.

We hope you enjoy the first episode!

19 Jul 2023Defining and cultivating innovation and creativity with Michelle Brisebois, Senior Marketing Strategist and Founder of Textrix Consulting Ltd. | Ep 7300:49:25

We are covering finding a career that matches your passions, cultivating innovation, navigating your career in an age of change and the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN).

Our guest today is Michelle Brisebois, Senior Marketing Strategist and Founder of Textrix Consulting Ltd. Textrix has start-ups define marketing strategy, mid size companies boost their SEO through engaging and optimized content plans, and have conducted research and discovery on digital transformation trends used by large, international software companies.

Michelle has launched products, brands and campaigns across a wide array of packaged goods and service industries. She is also a published writer and part-time Marketing Professor at Niagara College. Overall, she is a lover of technology, restaurants, retail and people.

Sponsors

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner the Niagara College. Niagara College is the leading innovator in Learning Enterprises, with on-campus businesses in beer, wine, distilling and greenhouse where you can hone your business and entrepreneurship skills. You can get involved in the operations of these businesses as part of your learning journey. Niagara College is one of Canada's top Research Colleges, with a strong food and beverage research program. You might just get involved in our research programs to innovate and accelerate with industry partners on your learning journey.


TIMESTAMPS

[2:32] Who Michelle Brisebois is and what Textrix Consulting Ltd is

[5:49] What drew Michelle to marketing

[14:17] What is the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN)

[19:48] Michelle's definition of innovation

[22:39] How students get better at innovating 

[27:39] The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

[31:10] Michelle's take on artificial intelligence and how it will affect jobs in the food space 

[37:34] Being open to new experiences and career roles

FIND MICHELLE ONLINE:

Michelle Brisebois
SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-73/
15 Mar 2023Insights into Academic Food Science Research with Abigail Thiel (Ph.D.), Postdoctoral Researcher at Wageningen University and Science Communicator | Ep 6400:52:30

On this episode, we interview Abbey Thiel (Ph.D.) Postdoctoral Researcherat Wageningen University and Science Communicator. Join us as we discuss what a post-doctorate research does, what it is like doing a food science PhD and why she decided to start Abbey the Food Scientist.

Show Notes
 

 

15 Jun 2022A first-hand perspective of what it's like working in food safety in the meat industry with with Vasudha Sabharwal, Food Safety Professional | Ep 4500:46:10

On episode 45 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Vasudha Sabharwal, a food safety professional working in the meat industry. Vasudha is an individual with a rich career in working the meat industry and other sectors of the industry. She also has a Master’s Degree in Bioresource Engineering for Integrated Food and Bioprocessing at McGill University.

In this episode Vasudha really spent the time walking Veronica through her career journey talking about each role along the way and what it entails. She talked about what she did in the role and what it felt like working as part of a team. Veronica picked her brain about the different skills are needed in the industry and how she was able to specifically develop them. She also broke down what working in a meat industrial plant is really like and cleared up so misconceptions someone might have. Through out the episode Vaushuda shared a lot of wisdom that students should really take. You can tell that it is coming comes from experiences, career growth and even mistakes Vasuhdha herself has made.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-45/(opens in a new tab)
30 Nov 2020Ep 12-From science degree to marketing with Sarah Condruk, Marketing Coordinator at Give and Go Prepared Foods00:46:36

Welcome to episode 12 of the FoodGrads podcast, the podcast where we explore careers in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. On this week's podcast I interview Sarah Condruk a Marketing Coordinator at Give and Go Prepared Foods. Give and Go Foods is a Canadian manufacturer of premium frozen, thaw and sell baked goods. Give & Go produces a wide range of dessert and sweet baked goods that are sold to leading retailers and foodservice operators across the world.


In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of food industry marketing. Sarah teaches me about her role at Give and Go Foods, their extensive range of bakery goodies and what the structure of her department looks like. We also talk about finding a job after graduation in a sector outside of your degree, in Sarah's case, it was going from a science degree to the marketing department. Finally, we chat about her transition between school and a full-time job and how switching to a structured Monday to Friday job is a challenge in itself.

Sarah was a really easy person to chat with and it just made the interview fly by. I love Sarah's story because it goes to show that in the food industry you can start in a science degree but end up in a different field. It also shows the importance of trying new things and talking to others because it is better to try something new than stick with something you know you don't

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-12-from-science-degree-to-marketing-with-sarah-condruk-marketing-coordinator-at-give-and-go-prepared-foods/

05 Jun 2024Kickstarting your food safety career with Tania, Co-Founder and Director of Assured Food Safety Consulting | Ep. 8900:57:10

On today’s episode, we discuss food safety consulting, essential skills for food safety professionals, and how volunteering can help you network.

Tania is the Co-Founder and Director of Assured Food Safety Consulting. She is here to offer guidance on navigating the world of food safety careers. Tania has a Master's degree in food science and is a proud Centennial College Biotechnology alumni. She has worked in food safety within the government and the food industry. Tania is passionate about giving back to the student community and helping companies improve their food safety.

Timestamps

(0:00) Introduction
(2:53) Tanya's career journey
(5:39) How Tanya found out about food safety consulting
(10:34) How food safety consulting works
(14:51) Skills needed by a food safety consultant
(13:05) Food safety regulations and consulting options
(24:51) Improving communication skills in school and beyond
(29:30) Overcoming language barriers
(31:20) Mentorship and why Tanya started to
(42:18) Skills students are lacking in the workplace

Links

 

WHEN YOU'RE READY

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

 

CONNECT

🐦 Connect on Twitter

📸 Connect on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

 

SPONSORS

Canadian Food Innovation Network: CFIN's Food Innovation Career Hub is a one-stop shop for food professionals, students, and employers. This community is home to anyone interested in a career in food tech or actively seeking talented employees for their food business. The Food Innovator Career Hub lets you search job openings, access original content, and connect with a growing community of food professionals and mentors.

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

09 Nov 2020Ep 09- Improving Quality and Efficiency in the Cannabis Industry with Aylene Peter, QA/RA Liasion at Canopy Growth Corporation00:42:24

Welcome to episode 9 of the FoodGrads podcast. This week on the podcast I have my first ever podcast guest who works in the Cannabis space- Aylene Peter the QA/RA liaison at the Canopy Growth Corporation. Canopy Growth Corporation, is a cannabis company based in Smiths Falls, Ontario. They have a huge brand portfolio with products that include both recreational and medicinal marijuana products.

In this episode, Aylene teaches me about the Cannabis industry and the quality side behind these products and how Canopy Growth ensures that these products are safe when getting to consumers. We also talk about her mentors, the challenges she faced when trying to find a job, her love for auditing and how great the people in the Cannabis space are.

Aylene is just a such a warm person that has shown me that even if you don't know what you want to do out of high school or even college that that's okay. If you keep showing up, connect with people, stay positive and most of all having confidence in yourself things will eventually fall into place. This conversation has really shown me that the Cannabis sector is an exciting place work and maybe individuals interested in a career in the food and beverage industries should also consider a job in the cannabis sector as well. There is a lot to be learned.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-ep-09--improving-quality-and-efficiency-in-the-cannabis-industry-with-aylene-peter-qa-ra-liasion-at-canopy-growth-corporation/

 

04 Jul 2024Leading Collaboration in Food Nutrition Science Research with Matthew Teegarden, Ph.D. | Ep. 9100:51:02

On today’s episode we are talking about what a senior researcher does, the difficulties of collaboration in research and figuring out what you enjoy.

Matthew Teesgarden Ph.D., Senior Researcher and his role is providing strategic leadership for all scientific operations and communications in the Ohio States Foods for Health research initiative. FFH is focused on helping researchers work collaboratively to discover new ways in which food can enhance health. Matt completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Food Science at The Ohio State.

Sponsorship

  • Canadian Food Innovation Network: CFIN’s Food Innovation Career Hub is a a one-stop-shop for food professionals, students, and employers. This community is home to anyone who is interested in a career in foodtech or is actively seeking talented employees for their food business. The Food Innovator Career Hub lets you search job openings, access original content, and connect with a growing community of food professionals and mentors.

Timestamps

 (0:00) Introduction

(2:22) Matt's career journey 

(6:48) Matt explains what a senior researcher does 

(12:08) Ohio State's Food for Health Initiative 

(22:24) Sponsor: Canadian Food Inovation Network

(23:00) How Matt learns about different disciplines 

(27:30) Attending talks as a student 

(31:10) Why Matt loves science communication

(43:56) How to figure out if you enjoy graduate science 

(47:16) Matt's experience with IFT

Links

Ohio State Foods for Health Research Initiative

The Lancet Study on Diet and Health

Matt Teagarden on LinkedIn

Tasting Columbus

IFT Food Disruptors Podcast

IFT Career Center

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/matthew-teesgarden/

30 Sep 2024Environmental Operations Coordinator at Susgrainable - Joseph Lyons (#99)00:49:47
03 Apr 2024Communicating Canadian food sector innovation and growth with Jamil Karim, Director of Communications at the Canadian Food Innovation Network | Ep. 8700:56:30

On today’s episode we are talking about the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN), CFIN's career resource library, Jamil's career story and cool innovation happening in Canada.

Our guest today is Jamil Karim, Director of Communications for CFIN. CFIN helps to fund transformative foodtech projects, stimulate collaboration, and foster a growing community of food and beverage professionals. They connect the Canadian food and beverage ecosystem to new ideas, opportunities, and technologies to increase collaboration and position Canada as a global leader in food innovation.

Jamil Karim combines more than a decade of marketing and communications experience with a passion for helping people and companies tell their stories. He also has extensive experience working with industry, where he’s led media and community relations strategies for some of the country’s fastest growing tech companies. Additionally, Jamil is deeply committed to having a positive impact on his community.

Sponsorship

This podcast episode is sponsored by the Canadian Food Innovation. Check out CFIN’s Career Hub  code to learn more about CFIN's free membership, our Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country. 

Timestamps

[0:00] Introduction

[1:43] Jamil’s career path in communications and public relations up until CFIN

[6:57] Skills required in communication roles

[14:26] About CFIN

[23:15] Food tech innovation and collaboration in Canada

[26:36] Green-tech definition

[28:37] CFIN’s career hub

[34:45] Jamil’s research process

[38:05] Canadian innovation trends

[41:27] Challenges of implementing innovation

[44:35] CFIN funded startups

[48:58] Advice for students looking to innovate

Links

Jamil Karim LinkedIn

CFIN’s Career Hub

CFIN’s YODL

Relocalized

Food Cycle Science

Jamil Karim’s Email

Find Jamil Karim Online

Show Notes

Website: FoodGrads.com/Jamil-Karim/

 

 

21 Feb 2022Ep 37- What skills does a Millwright need to be successful? with Robert Cunliffe, Maintenance Manager/Millwright at Flamaglo Foods Limited00:42:13

On episode 37 of the FoodGrads podcast we interviewed Robert Cunliffe, Maintenance Manager/Millwright at Flamaglo Foods Limited.

On this episode Robert and Veronica talked about: 

  • What it's like being both a Maintenance Manager and Millwright Mechanic
  • Why he decided to get into this career path.
  • What he does daily and the overall work environment at a manufacturing plant.
  • What it is like getting a new piece of equipment from a mechanics point of view and how they actually learn to use such intricate pieces of equipment
  • What Robert thinks the future of being a millwright looks like
  • The skills he thinks are important for the job 
  • His experience going for an electrical certification.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-37/
07 Dec 2022Why it's important to get out of your comfort zone to shape your own life with Erica Rankin, Founder and CEO of Bro Dough | Ep 5900:46:36
On episode 59 of the FoodGrads Podcast, we interviewed Erica Rankin, Founder and CEO of Bro Dough. 
 
On this episode, Erica and Veronica talked about:
 
🎤 How Brodough started from her time as a bodybuilder
🎤 What it is like being an introvert in the small business space
🎤 How she re-coops during her crazy entrepreneurial journey
🎤 What it is like being in a single person business
🎤 Why Erica loves the food space 
 
👇 Check out the full episode below 👇
 
https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-59
20 Mar 2024Spilling the tea with William (Billy) Dietz, Co-Founder and Consultant at BDH Consultants and Author | Ep. 8800:54:04

On today’s episode we are talking about buliding a career journey into the tea industry, the differences about blended and single orgin teas, fostering a sense of continuous learning and problem-solving techniques which are pivotal for his consulting pursuits in the tea industry and advice for those looking to go into the tea industry. 

Our guest today is William (Billy) Dietz, author or the book Spill the Tea. Billy has been in love with the tea industry since he first discovered the health benefits of tea back in high school. Billy has over 15 years of career knowledge. Which has amassed from his time as a tea blogger, a tea entrepreneurship, working in product development at DavidsTEA to currently being an independent tea consultant.

Sponsors

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.


Timestamps

Coming soon! 

Links

Coming soon! 

Find Billy Dietz Online

Show Notes

Website: FoodGrads.com/billy-dietz/

 

03 Jan 2024What does a product developer do in the wine and spirits sector do? with Esther Onguta, Ph.D., Product Development Specialist at The Absolut Company/Pernod Ricard | Ep. 8200:51:03
05 Oct 2020Ep.05-Creating opportunities through action with Sashana Chatoo-Edwards, Quality Assurance Technician at Waterloo Brewing00:45:16

On episode 5 of the FoodGrads Podcast, I interview Sashana Chattoo-Edwards, a Quality Assurance Technician at Waterloo Brewing Company. Waterloo Brewing Company is Ontario’s first craft brewer opening in 1984 and today it is Ontario's largest craft brewery.

In this episode Sashana and I talk about her job as a QA tech and the analytical tests that shes does on a daily basis. I learn about what she loves about her job and how Centennial College set her up for success in her career. We also talk about how her love for food stems from her time on her family farm in Jamaica and her attendance at both an agricultural high school and college.

I have known Sashana for a few years now and her positive and outgoing attitude is one that lights up the room. For work ethic and ability to search out opportunities is amazing. We round out this episode talking about how Sashana became a FoodGrads campus ambassador and what opportunities came through it mainly through her connections with Nicole and blogging on the website.

I also wanted to mention we have a special guest on the show in the background. Sashana's new born son is in the background so if you can hear some giggling it is him. The podcasts youngest fan!

Anyways, I hope you enjoy the show!

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-5-creating-opprotunities-through-action-with-sashana-chatoo-edwards-quality-assurance-technician-at-waterloo-brewing/

04 Apr 2022Leadership in food safety and using curiosity to guide your career journey with Tina Gettis, IIT/IFSH Manager, Business Development & Communication at the Institute for Food Safety and Health | Ep 4200:52:16

On episode 42 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Tina Gettis, Business Development & Communication Manger for the Institute of  Food Safety and Health. IFSH is a one-of-a-kind applied food science research consortium comprised of the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the food industry. In collaboration with the FDA, they provide stakeholders with the opportunity to develop and exchange knowledge, experience, and expertise in the areas of food safety, food defense, food processing, and nutrition.

In this episode Tina talked to Veronica about her role at IFSH and the career steps she has taken in order to get there. As we walked through Tina's career journey she gave us the low down on an array of food safety related jobs like auditing, quality assurance and supply chain QC. Tina also talked to Veronica about why she decided to go back to school and get her master's degree and why it actually benefited her with the timing after already working in the industry.

Two of the major themes that were brought up in this episode was curiosity and leadership. Tina talked to me about how curiosity has helped drive her career progression and what exactly is "leadership." People like to throw that word around but Tina really explained what qualities a leader exemplifies and that looks likes in the context of food safety.  Finally, Tina gave her advice on what students should be doing if they want to get into food safety.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-42/

10 Aug 2022What does a recruiter do and the future of FoodGrads with Nicole Gallace, Talent Solutions Manager at FoodGrads/ De Lacy Executive Recruitment North America | Ep 5000:48:47

On episode 50 Veronica interviews Nicole Gallace, Talent Solutions Manager at FoodGrads/De Lacy Recruitment North America. FoodGrads is there to support students and new graduates looking to start their careers in the food and beverage industry.

In this episode Nicole and Veronica talked about:

🎙 What does a recruiter do
🎙 Catching up with the changes FoodGrads has underwent since the start of the podcast
🎙 How Nicole became a recruiter
🎙 How to deal with recruiters
🎙 FoodGrads connection with CareersInFood family
🎙 The future of FoodGrads

Show Notes
https://foodgrads.com/podcast-ep-50

16 Nov 2020Ep 10- Pivoting into a career of dairy-free yogurt with Amelia Laplante, R&D Food Scientist at Yoso00:40:28

On this week’s episode I interviews Amelia Laplante a Research and Development Scientist at Yoso. A family run business creating dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan yogurts and spreads in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. They are also the creators of Canada’s first oat yogurt- which is a pretty exciting!

On this episode Amelia tells me about how fun her role is an R&D scientist at plant-based company and the sustainability benefits which come from consuming these products. A lot of this episode is focused on talking about Amelia’s strategic career pivots and how through her positive attitude to networking both in school and even with her own co-workers she was able create new opportunities. Not only does it help you build connections but in the food industry it can give you a better picture of the whole food supply chain.

Amelia is a remarkable person who believes that it is important to have goals but also to stay flexible with them because you never know what is waiting around the corner. Don’t be afraid to shoot someone a message- you never know where it will take you.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-10-pivoting-into-a-career-of-dairy-free-yogurts-with-amelia-laplante-rd-food-scientist-at-yoso/
22 Sep 2024Scientist II, Innovation at McCormick FONA - AJ Taylor, Ph.D. | Ep. 9600:48:54
07 Jun 2023Exploring a unique career path for an engineering graduate with Tanner Behrend, Manager of Funding and Expansion at Edgecom Energy | Ep 7000:57:55

In this episode we are covering the importance of energy consumption in the food sector, unique career paths for engineering graduates and working as part of a team. But we'll also go deeper on how to attend tradeshows as a student. 

Tanner Behrand, Manager of Funding and Expansion at Edgecom Energy.  Edgecom energy provides energy solutions for businesses in Canada. They help provide the data to help businesses understand their consumption and effects on the grid as well provide solutions that are all built into one portal. Tanner is passionate about environmnetal consciousness, becoming multifaceted in terms of his skill and raising the standard and quality of life worldwide.  


TIMESTAMPS

[2:08] What Edgecom Energy and Tanner’s role as a manager of funding and expansion

[3:30] Why industries don’t already have access to this information

[5:26] Organization’s that Edgecom Energy have helped and how

[15:06] How Tanner got into this role despite being an engineer by trade

[18:54] Why Tanner decided to become start off as a policy analyst

[23:45] How can food product developers think about the energy perspective in product development

[28:21] Becoming an expert in a field

[31:11] Skills Tanner picked up from transitioning between undergraduate and graduate degree 


FIND TANNER ONLINE:

Tanner Behrend

 

SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-70/
27 Sep 2024Associate Professor & Course director for Food Process Engineering at the University of Nottingham - Seamus Higgins (#98)00:55:19

Seamus Higgins is the Associate Professor & Course Director for Food Process Engineering at the University of Nottingham. With years of food industry experience, he combines his passion for a more sustainable world and novel manufacturing techniques with a new generation of process engineers at the University of Nottingham and supporting institutions. 

Seamus began his career as an electrical engineer in the food industry and has worked with leading international food companies including Tongaat Hewlett, Nestle, and Premier Foods. He has held lead project and senior management roles in factory development, food process engineering, and new product development, and has also consulted for global food and UK companies as well as entrepreneur development and new company start-ups.

🔍 Episode Highlights:

  • Understanding the concept of food

  • Evolution of the food system

  • Adapting to change management

  • Exploring the role of a food engineer

Show Notes

Seamus's  / LinkedIn / Research Gate 

 

TIMESTAMPS

(0:00) Introduction

(1:40) What is the food?

(4:50) Seamus’s food job

(9:30) What is a food engineer

(13:20) How Seamus got into engineering

(19:00) Evolution of the food system

(26:05) How food technologies have changed

(30:00) Learning how to manage change

(40:21)  What is exciting Seamus about the industry

(51:40) Seamus’s new book

 

COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

 

CONNECT

🐦 Connect on Twitter

📸 Connect on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

 

SPONSORS

Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country. 

 

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

26 Apr 2023How a Food Science PhD Prepares You for a Career in Consulting with Bryan Quoc Le (Ph.D) Food Scientist, Food Industry Consultant and Author | Ep 6600:55:27

On this episode, we interview Bryan Quoc Le (Ph.D) Food Scientist, Food Industry Consultant and Author. Join us as we discuss what Bryan does as a consultant, completing a PhD and how he approaches experimental design.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-66

 

14 Mar 2022Why following your passion,working hard and asking questions is the path to success with Chloe Hoang, Product Developer Assistant at Give and Go Foods|Ep 4000:42:20

On episode 40 of the FoodGrads podcast we interviewed Chloe Hoang Product Developer Assistant at Give and Go Foods. Give and Go Foods is a Canadian manufacturer of premium frozen, thaw and sell baked goods. Give & Go produces a wide range of dessert and sweet baked goods that are sold to leading retailers and food service operators across the world.

Chloe and Veronica talked about what it is like working at Give and Go Foods and how her love for baking led her down this path. Chloe talked about why it is important to ask questions in both school and in your career and why she choose Niagara College for her degree in Canada. Also, Chloe talked to us about her transition from college to the work force and how she managed to stay positive during the time she was applying for jobs by learning from each new experience. Chloe has this burning passion for product development that really shines through in this episode so if you need a pick me to remind yourself why you love the food industry then make sure to give this episode a listen.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-40

29 Jun 2021Ep 24- Breaking down the wine making process with Katrina Pukitis Winery Laboratory Technician at Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery00:44:33

Welcome to episode 24 of the FoodGrads podcast  on this episode I interviewed Katrina Pukitis, Winery Laboratory Technician with Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate. Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery produces a wide variety of wines which include Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and so so much more more.

On this episode Katrina and I talked covered a lot of topics which include learning more about Jackson-Triggs and their line of products. Katrina gave me the low down on the general process of wine making and threw in a little bit of science for me to understand how grapes turn into wine. We also dived into career journey learning about her path and how she got to where she is today, what she does for her job and some of skills developing today.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-24/
09 Sep 2023The Power of Story-Telling when Creating a Circular Economy with Rebecca Bradley, Chief Marketing Officer at Terra Bioindustries | Ep 7600:59:41

Rebecca Bradley is the Chief Marketing Officer at Terra Bioindustries . Terra Bioindustries is a Canada based start-up helping to create a more circular economy with existing supply chain. They make highly sustainable products for the food, fermentation and chemical waste industries all while lowering food waste!

Rebecca graduated from the University of Guelph in their Biology/Biological Science program with minor biotechnology and a specialization in plant science. She went on to obtain a master’s degree from the University of Guelph in Biotechnology. She is a a creative mind in the scientific community looking to showcase the value of scientific innovations in new and growing industry.

On this episode we are talking about the up-cycling of Brewer’s Spent Grains, the importance of story-telling when showcasing scientific innovations and what it’s it like working at a start-up.


Sponsors 

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.


This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner the University of Guelph. U of G offers more than 80 undergrad programs, more than 100 graduate and post-doctoral study programs, co-op education in a wide variety of disciplines, support for international students, continuing education for lifelong learners, diploma programs and access to a unique form of higher education at the University of Guelph-Humber. We'll help you make the choices - we'll help you explore the possibilities. Our community is tailored for students, and that difference is noticeable from the first moment you get in touch.

Timestamps 

[1:48] Rebecca and Veronica talk about Canada’s wildfire situation

[4:17] What Terra Bio Industries is and Rebecca’s role there

[10:34] How Terra Bio Industries has helped other organizations with their food waste

[11:39] What Brewer’s Spent Grains are

[15:58] How Terra Bio Industries began

[20:21] Scaling up products from bench scale to commercial scale

[23:22] Different kinds of Brewers Spent Grains

[25:02] How Rebecca ended up in a marketing position after her science degree

[30:15] The human aspect when story-telling and conveying this messaging for start-ups

[39:07] What it is like working in a start-up

[43:17] Benefits of working at a start-up

[47:14] What collaboration looks like for a start-up

[49:30] The first steps that someone can take to present themselves in a way that brings value

[54:53] What’s next for Terra Bioindustries/ Where you can find Rebecca

Links

Terra Bioindustries

Rebecca Bradley LinkedIn

University of Guelph

Shownotes 

Website:https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-76/

 

 

 

18 Jan 2021Ep 15 -The power of travel to transform your career with Ridhima Phukan, Associate Product Developer at Danone North America00:50:29

On episode 15 of the FoodGrads podcast, Veronica interview's Ridhima Phukan, an Associate Product Developer at Danone.⁠ ⁠In this episode we learn about:⁠

  •  Ridhima's role as a product developer on ready to drink products specifically coffee and coffee creamers
  • Ridhima's experiences travelling during her undergraduate career
  • How to communicate with people of all different backgrounds
  • How important it is to treat people with kindness and care  ⁠

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-15-the-power-of-travel-to-transform-your-career-with-ridhima-phukan-associate-product-developer-at-danone/

 

15 Feb 2023From Master's Degree to Career, Navigating the Food Safety Industry and Entrepreneurship with Marcus Washington, Business Development Manager at SGS and Co-Founder of Just4Bars | Ep 6200:54:42

On this episode we are joined with Marcus Washington, Business Development Manager at SGS and Co-Founder of Just4BarsMarcus shares his experience transitioning from a food safety master's degree to his full-time job at SGS. He also talks about his entrepenurial journey founding Just4Bars. We'll also discuss the challenges he faced along the way, the skills he's currently working on, and advice for students looking to break into the food safety industry. 

Show Notes
 
22 Feb 2023Navigating Career Uncertainties with Authenticity and Open Mindedness with Jared Kligerman, President of The Think Tank | Ep 6300:57:09

On this episode, we interview Jared Kligerman, President of The Think Tank, a full-service communications agency supporting the food industry. Join us as we discuss The Think Tank, Toronto's small food buisness scene and advice for students on how to network authentically.

Show Notes
 
 
18 Oct 2021Ep 29- Why you need a solution based mindset when growing asparagus with Marc Wall VP of Sales at Sandy Shore Farms Ltd.00:27:35

On episode 29 of the FoodGrads podcast Veronica interviewed Marc Wall, VP of Sales and Co-owner of Sandy Shore Farms Limited, Canada's largest grower and shipper of fresh asparagus. 

In this episode we talked about:

  • The history of Sandy Shore Farms
  • How his family immigrated to Canada
  • What Marc does as a VP sales
  • Why he decided to come back to the family farm despite going out of province for university.
  • The story of growing asparagus farm to fork

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-29/
19 Sep 2023Becoming a Master of All Trades and Finding Solutions with Neha Mehta, Food Safety Quality Assurance Compliance Coordinator/Supervisor at Maple Leaf Foods Inc. | Ep 7700:51:50

On today’s episode we are talking about growing a career in food safety,what a day in the life of a FSQA Coordinator/Supervisor looks like and skills recommended to do well in food safety.

Our guest today is Neha Mehta, Food Safety Quality Assurance Compliance Coordinator/Supervisor at Maple Leaf Foods. Maple Leaf Foods is leading consumer protein company, making high-quality, innovative products under national brands including Maple Leaf, Scheiders and Lightlife.

Neha Mehta graduated from Centennial College and after graduation she has worked both as a QA technician and Quality Assurance Supervisor. Through out her career Neha has learned to be a master of all traders and find solutions whenever an obstacle is encountered. She is now passing on those teachings through her passion of growing and developing fresh graduates into strong quality professionals.

Sponsors 

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.


This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner by Centennial College. Over the past 50 year's, Centennial College has transformed itself from a local community college to a worldly institution, with a presence in countries like China, India, South Korea and Brazil. No matter who you are, or where you're from, your journey to success can start at Centennial College.

Timestamps 

[0:40] Neha introduction
[1:53] Why Neha decided to go into food safety
[3:07] Some of the things that Neha did to grow her career in food safety
[5:15] Certifications that food safety companies look for and how to obtain them
[8:07] Skills that have been essential to Neha moving up in food safety
[11:57] Different approaches to addressing food safety concerns
[15:10] Different work cultures in different food processing facilities
[16:26] What Neha does as a compliance coordinator
[22:52] How Neha has picked up learned the technical knowledge required for her job
[25:44]Skills which have essential for Neha’s career. What skills she would recommend for students who are thinking or going into food safety
[31:00] Automation in food safety
[36:04] LinkedIn for food safety
[37:15] Principles that guide Neha
Links 

Neha's LinkedIn

Maple Leaf Foods

NSF Training
LinkedIn Training Six Sigma

 Centennial College

Find Neha Online 

Neha Mehta
Maple Leaf Foods
Show Notes 
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-77/
25 Jan 2023From Farm to Table: How a Communications Communicator Bridges the Gap in the Food Industry with Sandra Ulewicz, Communications Coordinator at the Ontario Produce Marketing Agency | Ep 6100:46:01

On this episode we are joined with Sandra Ulewicz, Communications Coordinator at the Ontario Produce Marketing Agency. Together we discuss what a communication coordinator does, misconceptions associated with Ontario produce industry, networking tips and a whole lot more!

28 Feb 2022Ep 38- From manufacturing engineer to Sr. Manager of Supply Chain Quality - a unique career path with Jill Kersten, Senior Corporate Manager of Supply Chain Quality at Morton Salt, Inc.00:43:03

On episode 38 of the FoodGrads we interviewed Jill Kersten, Supplier and Customer Quality Manager at Morton Salt Inc. The Morton Salt company produces pantry salts for the kitchen, water softening salt for the home, ice melt solutions for the winter, and various other solutions to make consumers lives better.

On this episode Jill and Veronica talked about quality in the supply system and how she helps to ensure that Morton salt continues to produce high quality salt. Jill told us about her unique pathway going starting with an engineering degree. Before diving into that though Jill talked to Veronica about how salt is manufactured and what they look for in a high quality salt. As well, the different aspects of the supply chain and how manufactures work with suppliers to ensure that consumers stay safe at all parts of the chain. If you are interested to learn more about continuous improvement in manufacturing or what Lean Six Sigma then you don’t want to miss this interview!

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-38

17 Aug 2022What does a HACCP Coordinator do and the skills needed to excel at it with Esther Ijiwade, HACCP Coordinator at SOFINA Foods Inc | Ep 5100:40:59

On episode 51 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Esther Ijiwade, HACCP Coordinator at Sofina Foods. Sofina Foods is a Canadian company dedicated to providing great-tasting, high-quality food products for consumers. Their offerings include pork, beef, fish, turkey and chicken products with the brand offerings like Cuddy, Lilydale, Janes, Mastro, Gletcher’s and Vienna.

In this episode Esther and Veronica talked about:

🎙 What at Esther does as a HACCP Coordinator
🎙 The habits she does to succeed at her role
🎙 Her transition from graduate degree to work foce
🎙 Where Esther's passion for the meat industry comes from

🎙 Her advice for those looking to go into the meat indsutry

 

Show Notes
https://foodgrads.com/podcast-ep-51

12 Jul 2023Taking Your Food Product Development Career to the Next Level with Sheila Jones PMP - Business Consultant, Coach and Owner of Whicked Results | Ep 7200:57:38

In today's episode, we are covering building a career in product development, building a leadership mindset, working with other departments and working in upper management positions. But we'll also go deeper on how to become a better food scientist.

Our guest today is Sheila Jones PMP - Business Consultant, Coach and Owner of Whicked Results. Their focus is on growing business and people using a deep knowledge of innovation, manufacturing, quality systems, and sales.  Sheila started her career as a chef and eventually transitioned into becoming a food scientist. She has worked for big names like Nestle’, Campbell's Soup, Walmart, and Savencia Fromage and Dairy. At Walmart she developed strategies to grow their business, resolve global supply chain problems, reduce operational challenges, and drove billions in profits.

Sponsors 

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.


This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner George Brown College. The George Brown College Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts is set in downtown Toronto - the largest, most vibrant hospitality city in Canada, and located just steps away from the city's top restaurants, bars, hotels and event venues. You'll be trained by professors who work in the industry; they will teach you the essential skills required to succeed and help you build a network of industry professionals. Gain real-world experience in our fully functioning restaurant, The Chefs' House, where you will have the chance to interact with customers in real life work situations.


TIMESTAMPS

[2:32] What Sheila Jones does 

[5:57] Key roles Sheila has done in here career including chef and product developer 

[11:14] What made Sheila want to move up in leadership roles

[14:24] How to develop and identify the skills you need in leadership roles 

[20:57] What new product developers should do to move up the ranks 

[27:24] Learning the roles that other people do around a company

[37:56] How to present yourself when you love a product and believe it should move forward 

[50:40] If Sheila ever had to reel in her curiosity because it would be to her detriment

[53:03] Advice Sheila would give to students and new graduates looking to be successful in their careers

FIND SHEILA  ONLINE:

Sheila Jones
SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-72/
24 Aug 2022Exploring Ontario's Meat & Poultry industry with Laurie Nicol, CareersNow! Meat & Poultry Sector Lead | Ep 5200:45:31

On episode 52 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Laurie Nicol, CareersNow! Meat & Poultry Sector Lead. CareersNOW! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s workforce development initiative for Ontario’s vibrant and growing food and beverage manufacturing industry.

On this episode Laurie and Veronica talked about:

  • The CareersNow! iniative
  • Ontario's Meat & Poultry Sector
  • How Laurie got into the industry
  • Why the industry is a good place to work
  • General views on the industry as a whole including the idea of craftsmanship and loving what you do

Now enough with that introduction - let’s get on with the show.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-52

09 Nov 2022Turning a side project into a full-time food industry data analyst career with Evonne Chan - Food, Grocery & Nutrition Data Analyst at Pinto | Ep 5600:50:56

On episode 56 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Evonne Chan, Food, Grocery & Nutrition Data Analyst at Pinto.

On this episode Evonne and Veronica talked about:

🎤 How got Evonne became a data analyst

🎤 What a data analyst does

🎤 Her self-directed project helped her find a job after graduation

🎤 Skills she is currently trying to improve on write now

🎤 Data communication

🎤 Advice for those thinking about going into data analyst

🎤 Where she finds all the cool products she tries

👇 Check out the full episode below 👇

http://ow.ly/o9Z650Likja

08 Mar 2021Ep 17- How to problem solve with quality assurance with Fatema Bastawala QA/ HACCP Coordinator at Toppits00:43:51

On episode 17 of the FoodGrads Podcast, I interviewed Fatema Bastawala, a Quality Assurance and HACCP Specialist at Toppits Foods. Toppits Foods is an importer and supplier of frozen foods to the Canadian foodservice, retail and manufacturing industries, specializing in seafood.

In this episode Fatema and I talked about:

  • Her career journey starting with her co-op program at Centennial College
  • What she did at the CFIA
  • How she got her full time position from bakery event
  • Insights as to what it is like working in Quality Assurance
  • How she approaches problems when they arise in the plant.
  • Food safety and quality standards in a fish industry context.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-17-how-to-problem-solve-with-quality-assurance-with-fatema-bastawala-qa-haccp-coordinator-at-toppits/

 

19 Oct 2020Ep 06- Breaking into the confectionery industry with Elizabeth Hagerman, Food Scientist at The Warrell Corporation00:48:55

On episode 6 of the FoodGrads Podcast, I interview Elizabeth Hagerman, a Food Scientist at the Warrell Corporation. The Warrell Corporation is one of the top contract candy- manufacturing companies in North America which focuses on chocolate panning, fire roasting, brittle, nut clusters and better-for-you snacks.

In this episode Elizabeth and I talk about her "sweet" job at the Warrell Corporation and what it means to be a "middle-man" company. Elizabeth than goes on to talk about why she loves her job and the challenges she has faced through working on caramel related projects.

Elizabeth also discusses with me her current endeavor of working towards a master's degree in global food law and how they idea came to be. I will say it is such a cool degree which is so applicable in today's global food chain. We also talk about PMCA - the professional manufacturing confectioners association and how we were both part of the student outreach program. If you haven't heard of PMCA than check them out it is they are amazing association doing so much for the industry.

Overall, Elizabeth is such as cool person. You can tell she is well suited for being a food scientist because of her can do attitude. She is willing to take on new challenges because she knows it will allow her to grow as a person. You'll really be able to tell that in this episode and think that her story is one that we could all learn from.

With that I hope you enjoy the show!

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth began her career at Warrell Creations in 2017 when she was brought on board by the research and development department as a food technologist. Within a few short months, they knew they had a new outlook on one of their beloved core processes. Exploring new and innovative food products and processes is one of Liz’s main passions. She earned her bachelor’s degree in food science and technology from Oregon State University and received a minor in chemistry along the way. Her experience in the food industry includes everything from food service to interning with Kroger to working as an R&D lab technician — all before finding Warrell Creations. Liz’s focus here at Warrell Creations involves improving and developing products for one of their exemplary core processes — caramel!

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-6-breaking-into-the-confectionery-industry-with-elizabeth-hagerman-food-scientist-at-the-warrell-corporation/

 

11 Jul 2022Team development in food safety and quality with with Tanguy Etoga,Msc, 6σ BB, CEO & Founder at NORMEX inc. | Ep 48.00:43:53

Welcome to episode 48 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Tanguy Etoga, CEO & Founder at NORMEX inc. Normex Inc is a food safety software company that will make the expected bridge to overcome the problem of limited resources and help companies automate their Quality, Food Safety and Health & Safety tasks and operations. Today, several companies in North America have adopted NORMEX to maintain their food safety systems.

On episode Tanguy talked to us more about Normex Inc and how it came to be. Tanguy walked Veronica through his career journey and shared his story of where his passion for Operational Efficiency, Quality & Food Safety comes from. We spent a lot of time talking about leadership and what it looks like in food safety - leading by example, building trust, actively listening and figuring out how you can provide value. Tanguy is a great story teller giving first insights how he led working in a first role as quality assurance manager. If you are interested in a career in quality assurance and thinking about one day becoming a manager then you need to listen to this episode.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-48

21 Jun 2023Embracing challenges when working towards your dream career with Liana Yee, Junior Product Specialist at Export Packers Company Limited | Ep 7100:48:32

We are covering what does a product developer do, advice for students looking to go into product development and paying mind to allergens when to creating products but we'll also go deeper on how to embrace challenges to help you grow. 

Liana Yee is a Junior Product Specialist at Export Packers Company Limited. Export Packers is an international importer, exporter and distributor of food commodities. They operate five key business segments: International Trading, Domestic Food Service, Retail, Asian and Fresh Seafood. You may know them for their retail product lines of Diamond Harvest and Ocean Jewel. Liana is a graduate of the University of Guelph Food Science program and has had roles in Quality Control and Quality Assurance. She is passionate about raising around food allergens and supporting students. 


TIMESTAMPS

[2:05] University of Guelph Spill the Beans Event
[3:45] What Liana does at Export Packers as a product developer
[8:49] Where Liana gets her inspiration when developing new products 
[10:41] How Liana got to where she is today 
[20:29] Times that Liana has used her background from QA in her product development
[21:59] What Liana enjoys about her current job
[28:10] Why Liana enjoys about thinking about allergies when developing products
[35:06] Challenges that Liana is currently experiencing with her work 
[43:15] Advice Liana would give to students that want a career similar to hers

FIND LIANA  ONLINE:

Liana Yee
SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-71/
31 Jan 2024Unwrapping the world of food packaging with Karen Aranha, Innovation & Commercialization Project Manager at The Hershey Company | Ep. 8500:54:56

On today's episode, we discuss the fields of packaging and project management, lessons learned in managing teams, and the importance of staying curious.

Our guest is Karen Aranha, Innovation & Commercialization Project Manager at The Hershey Company. Karen graduated with a Bachelors's Degree from the University of Mumbai in Packaging and Printing Technology. After gaining some experience in the field she obtained a Master's Degree in Packaging Science from Rochester Institute of Technology. After graduating, she worked for the Packaging Corporation of America as a packaging engineer, developing and executing merchandising displays and corrugated packaging. Her responsibilities included creating and implementing temporary displays and corrugated packaging for Hershey's. Although she now works in project management for the food industry, she remains passionate about packaging and considers herself a "packaging geek."

Sponsors

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.


Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction
[4:12] Karen's career journey
[9:46] Speaking about a packaging engineering degree
[15:20] Differences between cardboard and corrugated material
[21:11] Why Karen switched to project management
[26:45] Designing and Coordinating Packaging
[31:00] How Karen manages projects
[36:58] Hershey’s sweet and salty division
[39:31] Learning how to manage people
[45:11] Advice for students and graduates
[50:12] Outro

Links

Comin soon! 

Show Notes

Website: http://FoodGrads.com/karen-aranha/

21 Jun 2024Find your "why" in your career with Surria Fadel, Co-Founder of Cedar Valley | Ep. 9000:51:58
03 Aug 2022Providing comprehensive and holistic coaching for transformational change in food safety and quality with Tia Glave, Food Safety, Quality, & Regulatory Consultant and Co-founder of Catalyst, LLC. | Ep. 4900:50:35

On episode 49 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Tia Glave, Food Safety, Quality, & Regulatory Consultant and Co-founder Catalyst, LLC.

Catalyst LLC was created in 2021 by Tia Glave and Jill Stuber. Catalyst is a comprehensive and holistic coaching program for creating transformational change within people and organizations toward the ultimate food safety and quality culture.

In this episode Tia talked to us about:

🟠 How she got into food safety with a chemical engineering degree

🟠 What is a sustainable food safety culture

🟠 Catalyst LLC and their unique approach to food safety

🟠 Her strong passion for championing black talent in food safety

🟠 Systems thinking and proven methods in food safety

🟠 How food safety can be fun

👇 Link below: 👇

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-49

27 Jun 2022Building your resume with university clubs and competitions with Valerie Ivanova, R&D Nutrition Label Developer and Coordinator at Ventura Foods | Ep. 4700:40:52

On episode 47 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Valerie Ivanova, R&D Nutrition Label Developer and Coordinator at Ventura Foods. Ventura Foods is a leading national manufacturer and marketer of branded and custom made shortenings, oils, dressings, sauces, margarines, culinary bases and pancoatings for the foodservice and retail industries.

In this episode Valerie told us more about her role at Ventra foods and how she approaches creating a nutritional label for a completed food product. What’s interesting about Valerie’s career journey so far was that she actually graduated at the time the COVID-19 was just emerging in Canada of March 2020.

Valerie was busy throughout her undergraduate degree at McGill university graduating with a double major and voluterring with student society so Veronica dug more into that decision of why she made that decision and how it helped her in the long run. We also had fun talking about her participation in the Snacks for Kids IFT competition and the really cool snack her team designed. Stay tuned if you want some insights into that process.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-47

26 Jul 2021Ep 25- Combining science and business for innovation in food with Luna Guiot, Brewing Quality Assurance Analyst with Labatt Breweries of Canada00:44:37

On episode 25 I interviewed Luna Guiot, Brewing Quality Assurance Analyst with Labatt Breweries of Canada. Labatt's is one of Canada's leading brewers and has a portfolio of more than 60 beers with nine breweries across Canada. Their brands include Budwiser, Stella Artois and Alexander Keith's.

On this episode Luna gave me the run down on what she does as a Quality Analysis and the taste properties which are important in a high quality beer. Interestingly, Luna did not intend to go into the food industry when she started at university. She actually went to school for Biology with a specialization in molecular and genetics. It wasn't until her internship at a dairy company that she got interested in food and decided to make the transition. Luna explains why in the episode and how her curiosities in business as well has led her to deciding to get two master's degree in business management.

I think this is a great episode for you biologists out there because Luna made some really good points on why people in biology are important to the future food industry. Luna was a pleasure to talk to and you can just hear the enthusiasm in her voice that she is excited about innovation in the food space. I can't wait to see what comes next in her career path!

Show Notes:

https://foodgrads.com/podcast-ep-25

30 Nov 2022Transforming how food and agricultural companies harvest data for a better future with Pedro Medina, E.E.- Founder & Chief Data Farmer at Haystack Data Solutions | Ep 5800:49:32

This week on the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Pedro Medina, E.E.- Founder & Chief Data Farmer at Haystack Data Solutions

On this episode Pedro and Veronica talked about:

🎤 Haystack and what they aredoing to help food producers, processors and distibutors

🎤 Pedro's career journey

🎤 What is "data" and how it is used in the food industry

🎤 Why he believes the food industry is slow to adopt digital technologies

🎤 Non-coding softwares

👇 Check out the full episode below 👇

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-58

09 Aug 2021Ep 26- Embracing food for nutrition, nourishment and fun with with Jennifer Shrubsole, Clinical Dietitian & Foodie for NaturallyNu00:49:51

On episode 26 of the FoodGrads I interviewed Jennifer Shrubsole, Jennifer is a dietitian-nutritionist who has worked with clients at hospitals from the greater Vancouver area and Calgary. Her extensive experience in dealing with patients with gastric or pancreatic cancer, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Jennifer also writes for NaturallyNu her personal blog where she shares healthy recipes and stories about her gluten-free living. In 2015 Jenni was diagnosed with Celiac disease, a hereditary autoimmune condition where your small bowel is damaged by gluten. On the blog, she shares her love for eating whole foods, mostly plant-based and world travels.

In this episode Jennifer and I talked about:

  • What she does as a hospital dietitian and what inspired her to become one
  • Different medical conditions and why what you eat in the hospital is so important.
  • Her food philosophy and signs to know if your diet is working for you
  • NaturallyNu and the community she has built on there

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-26/
25 Sep 2024Market Development and Sustainability Manager at Grain Farmers of Ontario - Dana Dickerson | Ep. 9700:51:11
24 Apr 2024Empowering food professionals for global food system transformation with Kaan Demiryürek, R&D Director for Sustainable Packaging at PepsiCo | Ep 8800:45:55

On today’s episde we are talking about the Kaan's career journey, his book "Food for Thought" and philosophy.

About Kaan Demiryürek

Kaan Demiryürek is the Research and Development Director for Sustainable Packaging at PepsiCo. Pepsico products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo's food portfolio includes products such as Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream.

 Kaan has over two decades of career experience working at PepsiCo in food science, engineering and R&D spanning multiple geographies. Kaan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Food Engineering from the Middle East Technical University and His first role at Pepsico was as an R&D intern in Turkey. Since then he has worked in various business units in Europe (Turkey, Balkans, and East Europe) and North America across different foods categories. Before his current role in sustainable packaging Kaan led the R&D team for Potato Chips for North America.

Links 

Timestamps

(0:00) Introduction

(1:52)  Kaan introduces himself and career history

(5:36) Difference between food engineering and science

(7:00) Why Kaan transitioned to sustainable packaging

(12:52) Discussion about "Food for Thought" Book

(20:00) Philosophy and R&D

(25:13) Sponsor: CareersNow!

(30:17) Importance of curiosity

(34:55) Prioritization in work

(42:00) Advice for inspiring food professionals

(45:39) Outro

 

MORE COOL STUFF

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

CONNECT

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📸 Connect on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

SPONSORS

CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

 

11 Apr 2022Finding career success in food quality/safety as an international graduate student after graduation with Ariful Islam- Food Safety Professional | Ep 4300:37:57
On episode 43 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Ariful Islam, a food safety professional who is currently working for the Federal Government of Canada.

In this episode walked Ariful walked us through his career journey coming from Bangladesh to Canada and why he decided to get two master's degrees rather than a PhD and the skills he picked up during that time. Ariful shared with us his difficulties finding a job after graduation but talked about how networking was so important in his job search and how he used LinkedIn.

Ariful gave some really tangible advice that students or really anybody should be doing throughout their career. Finally, Ariful talked about what it is like working in a food manufacturing facility and the jobs he has performed throughout his career.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-43

10 May 2023Behind the Scenes of Cheesemaking with Janice Groenheide, Cheesemaker and Owner of WalkaboutFarm | Ep 6800:38:00

On this episode, we interview Janice Groenheide, Cheesemaker and Owner of WalkaboutFarm. Join us as we discuss cheesemaking, what a cheesemaker does and misconceptions about the profession. 

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-68/ 
14 Feb 2022Ep 36- Making corporate level food safety programs accessible to everyone with Jennifer Crandall, Owner/Founder/CEO of Safe Food En Route, LLC00:48:56

On episode 36 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Jennifer Crandall, Owner/Founder/CEO of Safe Food En Route LLC providing a vast array of services which include Foreign Suppliers Verification Programs services and food safety consulting. Their team's goal is making corporate level food safety programs accessible to everyone!

On this episode Jennifer talked to us about"

  • All things food safety
  • What exactly a food safety consultancy does
  • Why consultancies can be an integral part to many small and medium size businesses in their food safety plans.
  • Her career journey particularly her time working in corporate food safety and the ways it is different than working in a food manufacturing facility.
  • The importance of planning in your careers
  • The daily habits that Jennifer takes to manage her consultancy and how she has dealt with push-back.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-36/
08 Dec 2020Ep 13- Understanding the value of brokers,distributors and consultants for food start-ups with Bernard Verkaaik, Founder/Operating Manager of the Greater Goods00:41:07

On this week's podcast we interview Bernard Verkaaik, the Founder and Operating Manager of the Greater Goods, a food industry consultancy based in Toronto,Ontario.

In this episode we talk about:

  • The Greater Goods 
  • How supermarkets working in terms of "listing a product",
  • What the difference is between a broker and distributor
  • Things exciting Bernard about the food industry right now
  • Futurepeneurs program

Bernard is an expert at his craft. You can tell that he is excited about the food industry and playing a role in shaping what is to come. Not mention you can just tell he loves his job and seeing others to succeed in their buisnesses. If you are unsure about the inner working of a grocery store and want to understand what happens after you develop a product than this is the episode for you. And with that onto the show

ShowNotes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-13--understanding-the-value-of-brokersdistributors-and-consultants-for-food-start-ups-with-bernard-verkaaik-founder-operating-manager-of-the-greater-goods/
12 Apr 2021Ep 20- Understanding the role of policy in building communities with Danielle Collins Economic Development Policy Analyst at Ontario Federation of Agriculture00:47:55

On episode 20 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Danielle Collins, Economic Development Policy Analyst at Ontario Federation of Agriculture.⁠

In this episode, Danielle and Veronica talked about: ⁠

  • Her career journey⁠ from Neuroscience to Economic Development⁠
  • What is a policy and it's importance to communities ⁠
  • How being a TA is a really rewarding experience⁠
  • The FeedingYourFuture campaign ⁠
  • How OFA is helping individuals get jobs ⁠
  • Dispelling myths in that agrifood jobs are only in the middle of nowhere ⁠

    Show Notes
https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-20-understanding-the-role-of-policy-in-building-communities/





07 Feb 2022Ep 35- Understanding what a Millwright Mechanic does and how you become one with Taylor Carr, Millwright Apprentice at Karma Candy Inc.00:24:06

On episode 35 of the FoodGrads podcast we interviewed Taylor Carr, Millwright Apprentice at Karma Candy Inc.

Karma Candy is the largest producer of candy canes in Canada. They provide a range of hard candy in candy canes, stick and lollipops, as well as a wide range of chocolate technologies including shell, solid, drop, hollow and enrobed confectionery.

On this episode Taylor and Veronica talked about:

  • Her journey to becoming a fully licensed Millwright Mechanic
  • What she does at Karma Candy and the fun treats that they make there.
  • The journey to become a millwright mechanic
  • Taylor's advice for student's applying for jobs

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-35/

14 Sep 2022Sharing a passion for food science by making it fun and accessible with Brittany Towers Lewis, Senior Manager of Product Development at Vital Proteins and theblackfoodscientist | Ep 5400:44:11

On episode 54 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Brittany Towers Lewis, Senior Manager of Product Development at Vital Proteins and theblackfoodscientist.

On this episode Brittany and Veronica talked about:

🎤 How Brittany got into the field of food science

🎤 Some of the things she does as senior product developer

🎤 Why she started sharing food science information as theblackfoodscientist

🎤 Important habits/rituals in her day

🎤 Hew experiences working on Gatorade products

🎤Why she decided to become a certified culinary scientist

👇 Check out the full episode below 👇

http://ow.ly/31Me50KGl5c

#culinaryscience #foodscience #foodpodcast #foodsciencepodcast #productdevelopment

25 Jul 2024Shaping Food Safety Policy with Jennifer McEntire, Ph.D., Founder of Food Safety Strategy | Ep. 9300:46:15

Jennifer McEntire, Ph.D., founder of Food Safety Strategy and former Chief Food Safety & Regulatory Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association. She is a food microbiologist by background and has worked in the Washington, DC, area for over 20 years, bringing the scientific perspective to food safety leadership positions within the grocery manufacturers association. She held previous food safety leadership positions with the Grocery Manufacturers Association and the Institute of Food Technologists, where she led the FDA FSMA traceability pilots.

🔍 Episode Highlights:

  • Jennifer's food safety career journey
  • Skills that are important for food safety professionals
  • Safety concerns regarding produce
  • Technology's role in the future of food safety

Show Notes

Jennifers's  / WebsiteLinkedIn

TIMESTAMPS

(0:00)  Introduction

(1:30)  Jennifer introduces herself

(5:20)  Jobs in food safety policy

(10:44)  Science and government policy

(14:10)  How to practice communicating science

(16:25)  Understanding people’s points of view

(20:13)  Food produce food safety

(24:31)  Food safety of sprouts 

(28:15)  Technology’s role on food safety for the future

(33:00)   How to learn about data science

(37:22)   Soft skills needed by food safety professionals

(44:34)   Outro

 

COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

 

CONNECT

🐦 Connect on Twitter

📸 Connect on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

 

SPONSORS

CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.

 

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

29 Mar 2021Ep 19- How to innovate and find your passion with Michelle Lang, Food Scientist00:43:10

On episode 19 of the FoodGrads Podcast I interviewed Michelle Lang, Food Scientist and soon to be graduate of Niagara College's Culinary Innovation and Food Science, Product Development program. Not to mention a serial innovator who has ran a few of her own businesses.


In this episode, Michelle and I talked about:

  • Her career journey
  • Her experience at Niagara College both as a student and teaching assistant during the pandemic
  • How being a TA is a really rewarding experience
  • How COVID has really changed the understandings of food safety
  • Michelle's past projects and her hobby farm

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-19-diving-into-the-exciting-world-of-plant-based-restaurants-with-trish-paterson-ceo-of-copper-branch-foods/

31 Jan 2022Ep 34- What does a project manager do with Morgan Genge, Innovation Project Manager at Arterra Wines00:43:59
On episode 34 of the FoodGrads podcast we interviewed Morgan Genge, Innovation Project Manager at Arterra Wines. Arterra Wines dates back to 1874 and since then has become Canada's leading producer and marketer and globally recognized Canadian and imported wines. They have grown and evolved to owning and distributing over 100 wine brands which include Jackson-Triggs, Ruffino, Kim Crawford and Sawmill Creek. On this episode Morgan and Veronica talked about:
  • Arterra Wines 
  • Morgan's path to becoming a project manager
  • What exactly does a project manger do?
  • How Morgan doesn't get overwhelmed with things
  • Morgan's co-op experience and why she believes it is so important
Show Notes https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-34
17 Jul 2024Solving R&D problems with Davis Jaeger, R&D Leader, Culinary Expert and Food Scientist | Ep. 9200:56:36

Davis Jaeger is a R&D Leader, Culinary Expert and Food Scientist. He has had a winding career path up until this point. Davis began working in the hospitality industry at the young age of 14, starting as a busboy. However, his career took a turn when he transitioned to the kitchen after one of the chefs resigned and another chef invited him to join the kitchen staff. That's how he ended up in the culinary science program at Clemson University. Since then, his passion for food science has only grown, and he has not regretted his decision for a moment.

🔍 Episode Highlights:

▪ Challenges and failures Davis faced along the way

▪ The necessity of gaining manufacturing plant experience

▪ The difficulties of collaboration in research

▪ The skill of communicating technical details to non-technical stakeholders

▪ Asking good questions to get a problem solved

Show Notes

Davis's  / Instagram / LinkedIn

TIMESTAMPS

(0:00) - Introduction

(2:30) - Davis's career journey

(16:50) - Switching between R&D expertise (meat to confectionery)

(24:15) - Imporance of manufacturing plant experience 

(34:39) - How to ask questions in the workplace

(36:56) - How to demonstrate you can solve problems in an interview

(40:14) - Davis talks about his failures and challenges in the workplace 

(52:20)  Skills important to individuals looking to go into R&D

(55:40)  Outro

 

WHEN YOU'RE READY

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

 

CONNECT

🐦 Connect on Twitter

📸 Connect on Instagram

💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

 

SPONSORS

CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.

 

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

 

01 Nov 2022Food industry best job interview tips! with Jobseeker Coach Jason Wilson's for CareersNOW! | Special00:33:11

On this special episode of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Jobseeker Coach Jason Wilson for CareersNow!

On this episode Jason and Veronica talked about:

🎤 What to wear to a job interview

🎤 How to answer the question "tell us about yourself"

🎤 What do you look for in a first job

🎤 Why the food industry is recession proof

👇 Check out the full episode below 👇

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-special

07 Mar 2022Transforming Canada's plant based protein sector through innovation and collaboration with with Sai Kranthi Vanga, Ph.D, Project Specialist at Protein Industries Canada | Ep 3900:49:27
On episode 39 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Sai Kranthi Vanga Ph.D, Project Specialist for Plant Protein Technology at Protein Industries Canada. PIC is an industry-led, not-for-profit organization with a created to position Canada as a global source of high-quality plant protein and plant-based co-products. The goal of the Supercluster is to challenge Canadian businesses to collaborate with other businesses, and post-secondary and research institutions to create projects that have the potential to transform the food processing sector in Canada, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-39/

27 Oct 2023Beyond the Fear: Embracing Change and Perserverance with Mitch Jacobson P.Eng., CEO of Reviita Energy Tea00:55:40

In today’s episode, we discuss entrepreneurship, sharing your story on social media and perseverance. 


Our guest today is Mitch Jacobson, Mitch Jacobsen, CEO of Rviita Energy Tea. Rviita Energy Tea is a clean pick-me-up drink made with caffeine from tea, organic honey, and vitamins, packed in a low carbon footprint, recyclable beverage pouches. Rviita is now a company centered around inspiring others and helping people become healthier and more productive. Rviita is a Calgary-based company that distributes energy teas in over 1000 stores across Canada, rapidly expanding in Canada and the USA.


Mitch graduated from the University of Calgary with a degree in Petroleum Engineering. He got a job right out of school as a Water Strategist and Water Sustainability Engineer for an oil and gas company but during that time he witnessed a close friend have a heart attack which was attributed to unhealthy energy drinks - Mitch believed there had to be a better product which supplied energy and was also made of healthy ingredients.


Mitch used his experience in sports combined with a lot of trial and error in the lab to create a low sugar energy tea made to give you a little energy when you need it most, without the crash and unhealthy ingredients.

TIMESTAMPS 

[2:36] Mitch introduces Rviita tea and himself 

[5:59] Why Mitch and team decided release a mango flavour

[6:44] Mitch sharing his career story

[10:58] Caffeine and the CFIA drink recalls 

[13:11] Things entrepreneurs should focus on

[15:43] How do you get your product on supermarket shelves 

[17:38] Building up your sales skills 

[21:34] How small interactions make a big difference in someones day

[22:50] Why Mitch has been so open with his journey on LinkedIn

[29:33] Mitch's opinion on hiring individuals with a social media presence 

[32:30] How has the transition been employing individuals 

[35:19] What does career growth look like at Reviita 

[39:56] Books and movies Veronica and Mitch have enjoyed 

[45:57] Mitch's definition of success

[50:33] Mitch's advice for students listening 

[51:44] Where you can find Mitch

Links

Reviita Tea

Mitch Jacobson LinkedIn

Karly Jacobson LinkedIn

Robert Wigg

CFIA Caffeine Drink Recall

Andy Frisella

Erica Rankin

The Millionaire Fastlane

Relentless by Tim Grover

The Alchemist

Entrepreneur Roller Coaster by Darren Hardy

Shawshank Redemption

FIND MITCH ONLINE:

Mitch Jacobson

Reviita Tea

SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-79/
16 May 2022Obtaining career fulfillment by building food safety/quality systems with Aaron Aboud, Quality Assurance Manager at Trophy Foods Inc |Ep 4400:55:00
On episode 44 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Aaron Aboud, Quality Assurance Manager at Trophy Foods Inc. and a member of the Board of Directors for Ontario Food Protection Association (OFPA). Trophy Foods Canada’s leading supplier of high-quality edible nuts, dried fruit and confectionery products In this episode Aaron talked to us about his role at Trophy Foods and how ended up in a career of food safety despite first going to school for Illustration from Sheridan college. We also talked about food safety programs and how organizations deal with risk.  

Aaron also talked to us all about the OFPA and their mission to represent industry, government and academia by bringing professionals together in a forum to promote, educate and communicate innovation in food safety.

As well, Aaron talked to me a little more about the tone of the food safety community and the real goal no matter who you are working for is ensuring consumer safety. But more importantly how the OFPA is supporting students looking to go into food safety through their student membership program which offers networking events, student competitions and volunteer opportunities. Finally, we talked about the food safety community and what it is like to be a part of.

Show Notes

 

17 Jan 2024A deep dive into food inspections and graduate studies with Mariia Melnichuk, Food Processing Specialist Inspector at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency | Ep. 8400:46:12

On today’s episode we are talking about the ins and outs of food inspections, the art of communication in the workplace and balancing work a master’s program. Our guest today is Mariia Melnychuk, Food Processing Specialist Inspector at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and MSc. student for Food Safety & Quality Assurance at University of Guelph. The CFIA is a key science-based federal regulator of food, animals and plants. The CFIA is committed to enhancing the safety of food produced and sold in, or imported into, Canada, contributing to the health of animals and protecting the plant resource base.

Mariia graduated from Niagara College with an advanced diploma & Associate’s Degree in Food Science and Technology and since then has held multiple food safety positions. Her current master’s research is looking at consumers perceptions of cultured meat. 

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction
[1:02] Mariia's Journey to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
[8:40] Important skills for a food processing inspector 
[15:21] Stories that have stuck out to Mariia 
[18:54] Exploring Maria's UofG Master's Program
[24:20] Mariia's thesis on perceptions in cell based meats 
[25:45] Choosing the Right Research Topic
[26:43] Difficulties of conducting surveys 
[27:06] Current State of Cell-Based Meats in Canada
[30:29] The Role of Supervisors in Research
[38:23] Why Mariia decided to get a master's degree 
[40:29] Advice for Students and Closing Remarks

Links

Mariia Melnychuk LinkedIn

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

University of Guelph's Food Safety and Quality Assurance program

Information about the different roles CFIA inspectors carry out

Find Mariia Melnychuk

Mariia Melnychuk LinkedIn

Show Notes

Website: https://foodgrads.com/2024/01/17/mariia-melnychuk/

30 Aug 2023Building your Dietitian Toolbox by Trying New Things with Jasmine Kwok, RD, Registered Dietitian | Ep 7500:54:05

In today’s episode we are learning about what a dietician is, the different areas that they can work in, the difficulties of finding a role in your field after graduation and food philosophies.

Our guest today is Jasmine Kwok, RD. Jasmine is a registered dietitian who is enthusiastic about regulatory affairs and nutrition promotion in retail grocery. She has completed her mandatory Dietetic Internship at hospitals, and Long Term Care Centres. Since then, she has worked at sports medicine rehabilitation clinics, long term care centres, home care are retail. She is passionate about about educating consumers on how to buy nutritious foods and ensuring food products are safe and accurate.

This podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.

TIMESTAMPS

[1:59] Jasmine and Veronica talking about the wildfires in Canada 

[2:45] Jasmine’s self introduction and talk about her role as a registered dietitian

[3:34] Why Jasmine decided to switch from Ryerson’s Food Studies program to McGill

[5:07] The different internships that Jasmine did during school and what it was like to be an in-store dietician 

[8:47] The different kinds of dieticians 

[10:56] How dieticians take into consideration family members when making meal plans 

[12:24] How dieticians learn about different diet types 

[16:15] Why Jasmine wanted to become a dietician 

[17:18] Food philosophies that Jasmine has 

[20:34] Skills and talents that Jasmine believes are essential for a dietitian 

[22:39] How Jasmine ended up selling insurance after she graduated

[27:16] Suggestions on how students can learn to market themselves or obtain business skills before they graduate 

[28:06] Trade groups and associations relevant to the space of dieticians 

[35:26] Something that has surprised Jasmine about being a dietician 

[39:00] Misinformation that Jasmine wants to dispel 

[44:09] Skills or topics that Jasmine is currently looking to learn/improve 

[44:55] What is regulatory affairs 

[49:19] What Jasmine loves about her job as a dietician 

[50:09] Advice that Jasmine would give to students looking to become a dietician 

[50:39] Where people can find Jasmine


FIND JASMINE ONLINE:

Jasmine Kwok, RD
SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-75/

 

23 Nov 2020Ep 11: How to market yourself for a job as a student/graduate with Dr.Amy Proulx Professor and Academic Program Coordinator of Culinary Innovation and Food Technology at Niagara College00:54:50

Welcome to episode 11 of the FoodGrads podcast. The podcast where we explore the fascinating career paths of professionals in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. I'm your host Veronica Hislop a molecular science graduate student and career partner with FoodGrads. I am super excited to share this week's podcast because I am talking with Dr.Amy Proux the Academic Program Coordinator of Culinary Innovation and Food Technology at Niagara College.

I am a huge fan of Amy and everything that shes does so I was excited to sit down with her for an hour and listen to her story. She is a wonderful person who cares so much about the industry and students that she teaches. She is one of those super networkers that seem to appear in almost every industry conversation because people love her so much.

In this episode we learn about Amy's career path from undergraduate degree and PhD and how she "made" her own job position during the 2008 Recession period in Canada something that somewhat mirrors what we are going through right now. Using that as inspiration I thought this was a great chance to ask Amy about what students can do to get a job. Finally we talk about networking and all the wonderful opportunities which can come from joining associations like CIFST if you are student.

Students this a must listen episode because Amy gives so much tangible advice that you can use at every stage of your career.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-11-how-to-market-yourself-for-a-job-as-a-student-graduate-with-dr-amy-proulx-professor-and-academic-program-coordinator-of-culinary-innovation-and-food-technology-at-niagara-college/

23 Aug 2021Ep 27- Changing the future of food safety with education with Anthony Pius Bassey, Ph.D. Student at the National Center of Meat Quality and Safety Control00:50:19

On episode 27 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Anthony Bassey. Anthony Bassey is a Ph.D. research student at the National Center of Meat Quality and Safety Control, College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University where he studies meat microbiology.

In this episode Anthony and Veronica talked about:

  • The graduate school experience
  • What it is like being a researcher
  • How to do research and get published in a research journal
  • What is a "good" journal to get published in
  • His research in meat microbiology and the cold-storage process.
  • Anthony's passion for food safety, where it comes from and where he wants to take to take it.

Show Notes

14 Dec 2022Why you don't have to rush into a career if you are unsure with Lisa Cove, Founder, Packaging & Food Safety Consultant of Co-Motion Packaging Solutions | Ep 6000:50:07

On episode 60 of the FoodGrads Podcast, we interviewed Lisa Cove, Founder, Packaging & Food Safety Consultant of Co-Motion Packaging Solutions.

On this episode Lisa and Veronica talked about:

🎤 Co-Motion Packag
ing Solutions
🎤 How Lisa got into the packaging industry despite having a degree in Criminology from Wilfrid Laurier University
🎤 Why you don't have to rush into a career if you are unsure
🎤 What is considered sustainable packaging
🎤 The process of becoming a Certified Packaging Professional 

🎤Food brands that Lisa would like to promote


👇 Check out the full episode below 👇

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-60/

 

31 Aug 2022Shaking up the cheese snacking space with regenerative farming with Francisco Pergola, Co-Founder & CEO at Cheddies | Ep 5300:43:37

On episode 53 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Francisco Pergola, Co-Founder & CEO at Cheddies. Cheddies are a high protein, low sugar cracker made with no artificial ingredients or preservatives that are light, crispy, cheesy ,made wit real cheddar cheese and of course delicous!

On this episode Francisco and Veronica talked about:

  • Francisco's journey as he and his brother Tomas created Cheedies
  • Why Cheddies is moving into the regenerative farming space
  • Using the United States first certified regenerative organic cheddar
  • Funny stories along their entrepenurial journey's
  • Francisco's authentic appoach to buisness

Now enough with that introduction - let’s get on with the show.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-53

02 Nov 2020Ep 08- Job searching and interviewing in the age of Covid with Nicole Gallace and Dr.Darin Detwiler00:31:56

Welcome to episode 8 of the FoodGrads podcast. The podcast where we explore careers in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. I'm your host Veronica Hislop a molecular science graduate student and career partner with FoodGrads.

This week's episode is a special one because I am sharing a conversation from Nicole and Dr. Darin Detwiler, LP.D., M.A.Ed., the Assistant Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs at Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies on interviewing and applying for jobs in the age of COVID. This episode was originally published on the FoodGrads Youtube channel but I thought the conversation was so insightful that I had to share it here.

Don't worry we will be back with our regular programing next week. But maybe if this is something that is popular enough we can do more episodes like these. If that is something you enjoy then reach out to me at my email veronica@foodgrads.com

Now onto the show

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-08-job-searching-and-interviewing-in-the-age-of-covid-with-nicole-gallace-and-dr-darin-detwiler/

11 Jan 2021Ep 14 - Breaking into the food industry without a food science degree with Veronica Hislop, Molecular Science Graduate Student at Ryerson University00:52:34

On episode 14 of the FoodGrads podcast, Veronica is interviewed by Anjali Patel aboout her university experience.⁠ ⁠In this episode we learn about:⁠

  •  Veronica's journey into the food industry⁠
  •  What is like being a graduate student in a non-food science program⁠
  •  Veronica's research on emulsions ⁠
  •  School options in high school for students interested in food science ⁠

In this episode Anjali sat down with to ask me questions about my journey in the food industry from high school to now and why I decided to go graduate school after working in a year in the industry. We also dive into more about my program and why I am not in a food degree program despite my involvement with it.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-14-breaking-into-the-food-industry-without-a-food-science-degree-with-veronica-hislop-molecular-science-graduate-student-at-ryerson-university/

15 Mar 2021Ep 18- Diving into the exciting world of plant-based restaurants with Trish Paterson, CEO of Copper Branch00:48:07

On episode 18 of the FoodGrads Podcast I interviewed Trish Paterson the CEO of Copper Branch. Copper Branch is a 100% Plant-Based Quick-Serve restaurant chain with a mission to empower, energize, and make people feel their best. Established in Montreal, Canada they have locations across Canada and recently have expanded to Nashville and Europe.

On this week's episode Trish and I talked about:

  • Copper Branch  and its philosophy on food
  • How the company sources 100% plant-based and sustainable ingredients
  • How Trish started in this industry as a franchise owner after working in a corporate setting
  • What exactly a CEO and franchise owner does for their job
  • What young people should do if they want to move up the ranks in this industry

Show Notes:

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-18-diving-into-the-exciting-world-of-plant-based-restaurants-with-trish-paterson-ceo-of-copper-branch-foods/

 

14 Jun 2021Ep 23- Balancing management with culinary skills with George Brown's Honours Bachelor of Commerce Program (Culinary Management) with Chefs Warren Ford and Riley Bennett00:43:38

On episode 23 of the FoodGrads Podcast I interviewed Chefs Warren Ford and Riley Bennett professors and course coordinators at George Brown College in Toronto, Ontario. Today they are here to introduce the college's unique Honors Bachelor of Commerce (Culinary Management) which combines foundational culinary skills with operational skills like accounting, finance, operations and food theory.

Show Notes

foodgrads-podcast-ep-23

26 Oct 2020Ep 07- Training the next generation of food safety professionals with Victor Muliyil, the Founder of the Risk Optimization Resource Centre00:51:30

Welcome to episode 7 of the FoodGrads Podcast, this week I interview Victor Muliyil the Technical Director of the Risk Optimization Resource Centre. This centre is a technical group of highly qualified and experienced industry professionals in the food/feed/cannabis and pharmaceutical sectors. This centre offers multi-media, adult learning format, tool kit based training, risk assessment, auditor training and consultancy using leading-edge risk assessment 5 pillar approach to create proven results. Though we will break down what that means in this episode.

In addition, on this episode, Victor and I will discuss how the risk optimization centre came to be and how it stemmed from him noticing that food auditors today are becoming a little bit lax and how a new approach is needed to train the next generation of food safety leaders.

A lot of this episode is spent talking about the new training that will be offered on the FoodGrads platform and how students can use this training to accelerate their careers right out of school. Opening new careers paths, better chances at getting hired and most importantly learning how become better food safety professionals through new approach to food safety.


I am excited to share this episode because Victor is known as the "trainer of trainers" of food safety. You can tell he cares deeply about food safety and believes the way to change the food industry is by starting with the next generations. As young people, we can bring immense value if we allow ourselves to be open-minded and train ourselves with the right tools.

With that I hope you enjoy the show!

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-07--training-the-next-generation-of-food-safety-professionals-with-victor-muliyil-the-founder-of-the-risk-optimization-resource-centre/
16 Nov 2022Building communities and fighting climate change with urban agriculture with Ran Goel, CEO of Fresh City Farms | Ep 5700:40:32
This week on the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Ran Goel, CEO of Fresh City Farms.
 
On this episode Ran and Veronica talked about:
 
🎤 How Ran started Fresh City Farms in 2011 after leaving his job as a Wall Street Lawyer
🎤 What he does as a CEO
🎤 Why he believes that home delivery is the way to help fight climate change
🎤 Urban agriculture
🎤 His approach to change
 
👇 Check out the full episode below 👇
 
http://ow.ly/A7VA50LBIgM
 
02 Oct 2024Serving up 100 episodes: Our Story of Growth and Inspiration with Sydney Mohr and Nicole Gallace (#100)01:14:20
22 Mar 2023Building a Career in Food Manufacturing: Lessons in Creating Your Own Path with Doug Alexander, Vice President of Sustainability and Government Relations at Belmont Meats | Ep 6500:53:48

On this episode, we interview Doug Alexander, Vice President of Sustainability and Government Relations at Belmont Meats. Join us as we discuss Doug's career transitions, managing failures in a role and advice for those pursuing a career in the manufacturing side of the food industry. 

Show Notes
 

 

17 May 2021Ep 21- Why directors need to see the big picture with Danielle Szostak the Director of Product Development at Give and Go Prepared Foods00:40:47

On episode 21 of the FoodGrads Podcast I interviewed Danielle Szostak the Director of Product Development at Give and Go Prepared Foods Give, Canadian manufacturer of premium frozen, thaw and sell baked goods.

In this episode, Danielle and I talked about:

  • What a Director of Product Devlopment does at Give and Go Foods
  • The benefits of an MBA
  • Give and Go Food Product Lines
  • What Danielle finds the funnest and most interesting days
  • For students interested in the bakery industry what should they be doing to stand out?
  • What happens if marketing and R&D have a disagreement

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-21-why-directors-need-to-see-the-big-picture-with-danielle-szostak-the-director-of-product-development-at-give-and-go-prepared-foods/

31 May 2021Ep 22- Getting the dish on the NEW George Brown Honours Bachelor of Food Studies program with Professors Lori Stahlbrand and Caitlin Scott00:43:57

Welcome to episode 22 of the FoodGrads Podcast on this week’s podcast, I interviewed Professors Lori Stahlbrand and Caitlin Scott of George Brown College in Toronto, Ontario. They are here to introduce the college's NEW Honours Bachelor of Food Studies degree which combines culinary arts and a comprehensive food studies curriculum.

It is the first of its kind in Canada and is meant to bring a new focus on justice and equity, sustainability and health, and a new awareness of how these societal issues can be analyzed and resolved.

In this episode Lori, Caitlin and I talked about:

  •  A broad description of the program
  • How this degree is unique compared to others
  • What the pandemic taught us about the food system
  • What students they are looking for
  • The application process
  • Where their passion for food comes from

There is still time to apply to the program for a September 2021 start.  So if you are interested check out the links to this episode to find out more information.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-22-getting-the-dish-on-the-new-george-brown-honours-bachelor-of-food-studies-program-with-professors-lori-stahlbrand-and-caitlin-scott

 

25 Sep 2020Ep 4- The Power of Informational Interviews and Co-op Programs with Sonya Turvey, R&D Packaging Project Lead at PepsiCo00:49:14

On episode 4 of the FoodGrads Podcast, I interview Sonya Turvey, the Research and Development Packaging Project Lead at PepsiCo. PepsiCo, as you all must be familiar with, is a global business which have some big-name brands likes Quaker, Tropicana, Gatorade, Frito-Lay and Pepsi-Cola, just to name a few.

Sonya has just a cool job because she works specifically in the Packaging Development for the FritoLay division. In this episode, we learn about Sonya's role in the company and what exactly a job as a packaging project lead does. There is a lot that goes into designing packaging for a product. So I am sure that you will learn a lot as I did.

Sonya and I also spend a lot of time talking about her career journey and how her co-op experience was while doing her Biochemistry degree. Sonya strongly advocates for doing co-op during school and how it changed her life and gave her direction.

Another big focus of the episode is talking about informational interviews and networking. Sonya gives some tips on how to land your first job out of school and how how to get hired for co-op positions.

There is a lot of really good lessons you can take out of this episode if you are still in school.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-4:-the-power-of-informational-interviews-and-co-op-programs-with-sonya-turvey,-r&d-packaging-project-lead-at-pepsico/
02 Aug 2023What’s it like being a food auditor and participating in a food audit with Gordon Hayburn, Vice President of Food Safety and Quality at Trophy Foods Inc. | Ep 7400:54:57

We are covering what's it like to be a food auditor, what it's like being a part of a food audit, how audits are helpful to organizations and the different types. But more importantly, we are talking about building a career in food safety, obtaining training, and how to stand out amongst the crowd when you are going to an interview. 

Our guest today is Gordon Hayburn, Vice President of Food Safety and Quality at Trophy Foods Inc. Trophy Foods is a Canadian owned and operated producer of edible nuts, confectionary and bulk foods. Gordon has over 30 years of experience in food manufacturing, food safety, and auditing in both the private and public sector. In addition to being apart of the food technologist program, he also has two master's degrees, a master's in food, safety and control and an LLM in food law. Gordon has done so much more than that. However soon after the release of this podcast episode Gordon will be embarking on a new journey of food safety consultant.

TIMESTAMPS

[4:06] Gordon’s current role as VP of Food Safety at Trophy Foods and
[5:21] Key roles that Gordon has taken on in his career journey
[11:21] What are audits and the different forms in food processing/manufacturing
[16:38] Standards in food auditing and where they come from and the different food safety bodies
[26:52] How to create a path in food safety after you graduate
[34:13] Finding certifications in food safety and what employers would look for
[43:43] What to do at food safety conferences
[47:59] GFSI Food Safety Initiative

Links

Gordon’s LinkedIn

Trophy Foods Inc.

University of Wales

Tata. Global Beverages

SAI Global

BRCGS Standards

SQFI

Ontario Food Protections Association

Institute of Food Science and Technology

GFSI Public Safety Initiative


FIND GORDON ONLINE:

Gordon Hayburn
SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-74/
21 Nov 2021Ep 31- Disrupting the banana industry through fairtrade and social impact with Kim Chackal, Director of Sales & Marketing at Equifruit, Inc.00:44:16

On episode 31 we interviewed Kim Chackal, Director of Sales & Marketing at Equifruit. Equifruit is (Un)officially the most “extra” Fairtrade-certified banana brand out there. They are Fairtrade fruit importer and marketer that makes social impact as appetizing as pop culture.

In this episode Kim and Veronica talked about:

  • Equifruit 's story  and how they came to.
  • What exactly fairtrade is
  • Why conventional banana's really shouldn't be the price that they are.
  • Purchasing fairtrade banana's won't  break your bank
  • Equifruit's unique approach to marketing How selling produce is different is than processed goods
  • Kim's career and what she does
  • SheEO and how they are supporting women-led ventures.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-31

31 May 2023Differences between Academia and Industry and transferring your graduate skills with Sripad Josei, Ph.D. Operations Manager at Arda Inc. | Ep 6900:53:51

Graduating with a PhD can sometimes put you in a difficult position when trying to find a job when you graduate. You are highly educated but may not have the work expierence that employers are looking for. Sripad has made it to the other side and understands how both sides of the coin work. In this episode, Sripad talks about his PhD journey, what he does at Arda Inc. and the differences between academia and industry.

Sripad Josei, PhD. is an Operations Manager at Ardra Inc. Arda Inc is harnessing the power of engineering biology to solve pressing problems in the sustainable supply of natural ingredients. They use designer biochemical pathways to produce high-value ingredients for cosmetics, beverage and pharmaceuticals industries using renewable sugars.

TIMESTAMPS

[2:31] Sripad introduces himself and what he does at Arda Inc. 

[3:55] What precision fermentation is

[8:07] Sripad's Ph.D. Dissertation and what it focused on

[10:36] Sripad's experience with the Ivy Business School in Western Ontario 

[14:02] The benefits of cold emailing 

[18:19] Why your Ph.D. is more like "work" rather then "school"

[22:16] Skills you learn in your Ph.D. that are transferable to the workplace 

[37:22] Should take an entry-level role out of your Ph.D. 

[44:00] Differences in managing your time in academia vs industry

[48:17] Sripad's advice for new graduates of graduate programs


FIND SRIPAD ONLINE:

Sripad Josei

 

SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-69/
22 Nov 2023Harnessing the power of AI, sensors and engineering to reduce food waste and improve food safety with Harjeet Bajaj, President and CEO of Savourmetrics | Ep 8100:50:41

On today’s episode we are talking about innovation and artificial intelligence in the food industry, making an impact in the world and unique paths that you can take with an engineering degree. 

Our guest today is Harjeet Bajaj, President & CEO at Savormetrics. Savormetrics provides AI driven sensor devices to food and agriculture companies. Our devices perform real time, in situ QA/QC. Their predictive quality metrics allow organizations to reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction.

Harjeet Bajaj has over 14 years of work experience in various leadership and consultancy roles. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering & Management and a Master’s Degree in Engineering, both from McMaster University. Harjeet is recognized internationally as an AI expert, having won numerous awards for developing commercially viable solutions. Harjeet’s background includes developing Artificial Intelligence driven solutions for the medical and health care industries. Today he has sights sets on ag & food sector and innovated into the future.

TIMESTAMPS

Coming soon!

LINKS

FIND ONLINE:

SHOWNOTES
Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-81/
20 Jun 2022Empowering farmers in a changing world with Melissa Norem, Enterprise Director of Origination at Scoular | Ep. 4600:42:43

On episode 46 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Melissa Norem, Enterprise Director of Origination at Scoular. The Scoular company is an employee-owned $6B agribusiness leading the way since 1892. They buy, sell, store, handle and process grain and ingredients by leveraging their global networks and expertise in international trade and transportation.

In this episode Melissa talked to us about her career journey as 20-year veteran in the agricultural industry with roles which have include trading, supply-chain management and business development.  We learned more about about Scoular and how they are supporting farmers and communities with their focused approach on relationships and innovative supply chain solutions.

Melissa allowed Veronica to pick her brain on some on what skills are important in her role particularly communication. They also divided into the topic about getting into the agricultural industry even if you have no background in the field. Finally, Melissa also taught me about grain production and what it looks like getting from seed to plate. 

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-46

07 Aug 2024Navigating a career in food product development with Michael Sharp, Director of Research and Analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group | Ep. 9400:52:48

Michael Sharp is the director of research and analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group. The Heartland Food Products Group is a global leader in making low-calorie sweeteners and liquid water enhancers. It is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, and makes Splenda Sweeteners.

 Michael has over 13 years of experience in research and development, leading new products from concept to commercialization. He graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor's degree in food science and a master's degree from Ohio State University.

🔍 Episode Highlights:
 • What a Research and Development Director does
• The different kinds of R&D roles
• Michael’s career journey
• Advice for product development research interviews

Show Notes

Michael's  / LinkedIn

TIMESTAMPS

(0:00) Introduction
(1:33) Michael's introduction
(11:15) Why Michael decided to get a master's degree
(12:50) Differences between product development and R&D
(16:45) Michael's research process
(22:20) Where Michael learned about data analytics
(24:10) Basic tools of data analysis
(26:40) Difference between small and large labs
(29:20) Sponsor: CFIN
(30:10) Transitioning from work to school
(31:50) How to identify your skills
(33:45) Michael's extra-curriculars during school
(37:00) Technologies that are interesting to Michael
(42:25) Advice for students looking to go into R&D

 

COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT

📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks)

📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)

 

CONNECT

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💼 Connect on LinkedIn

🎵 Connect on TikTok

📹 Subscribe on YouTube

 

SPONSORS

Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country. 

 

SAY THANKS

💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

15 Feb 2021Ep 16- Building a food industry career by putting yourself out there with Karen Cardona, Founder & Owner at True Leaves Consulting00:40:29

On episode 16 of the FoodGrads Podcast, I interviewed Karen Cardona Founder and Owner of True Leaves Consulting. True Leaves Consulting is a consulting agency with the goal of helping bring food and beverage products to the masses. Whether it's finding reliable suppliers, crafting the perfect recipe or developing compliant product labels. True Leaves Consulting is there to help.

In this episode Karen and I talked about:

  • Her career journey starting with her co-op program at Fanshaw college
  • Karen's experiences working at Kraft Heinz, Nestle and the vegan cheese company Nuts for Cheese.
  • What a food consultant does
  • The Food Venture Program
  • Karen's passion for empowering women and women of visible minorities.
  • How important it is to put yourself out there. It's only by doing that new doors start to open.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-16-the-power-of-putting-yourself-out-there-with-karen-cardona-founder-owner-at-true-leaves-consulting/
21 Sep 2020Ep .03 - From Master's degree to Manager of Operations & Quality with Clear Ocean Seafood Ltd.'s Manager of Operations & Quality Sean Xia00:42:19

Sean Xia is Clear Ocean Seafood Ltd.'s Manager of Operations and Quality. Clear Ocean Seafood, established in Vancouver, BC, Canada, is an importer, wholesaler and custom packer of premium quality frozen seafood products. Clear Ocean's primary product lines are frozen sea scallops, bay scallops, scallops on the half shell and have a range of products which include bacon-wrapped, something we talk about in the show.

In this episode, we learn about Sean's career journey from master's degree to manager and more about Clear Ocean Seafood. We dive into the world of scallops and learn about the journey they take from growing in the ocean to when they reach the supermarket shelves. Also, we le learn about what Sean's learned during his journey going from his maser's degree to a full-time position industry position.

You can tell that Sean deeply loves his job and the people he works with. He has a strong understanding of the whole system of manufacturing and how creating a food product is truly a team effort. Sean gives a lot of useful advice for students that you can tell comes from his own journey. I really enjoyed learning about how he believes the industry can make you grow as a person because it helps you build confidence by talking with others.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-03:-from-master's-degree-to-manager-of-operations-&-quality-with-clear-ocean-seafood-ltd-'s-manager-of-operations-&-quality-sean-xia/
10 Jan 2024Growing food entrepreneurship in Canada with Mike McNeil, Vice President of Operations at Venturepark Labs | Ep. 8300:50:58

On today’s episode we are talking about entrepenurship, Canada’s food landscape and how Venture Parks is helping to support small start-ups. 

Mike McNeil is vice president of operations at Venturepark Labs. Venturepark Labs is a non-profit supporting early-stage entrepreneurs in the food & wellness categories. It was initially founded in 2015 as District Ventures Accelerator and District Ventures Kitchen by Canadian business icon Arlene Dickinson. In May 2021, this initiative became Venturepark Labs—a proud community within Venturepark—Canada’s only business growth ecosystem.

Mike began his career as an advisor to Canada's Minister of Finance, the Honourable Jim Flaherty, but soon discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. As the first hire at Venturepark Labs, Mike established the accelerator program as one of Canada's leading programs for entrepreneurs. To date, the program has supported over 130 entrepreneurs and contributed over $1B in economic output. In 2023, Mike was named one of the Best Executives in Canada by The Globe and Mail.

In 2023, the Globe and Mail recognized Mike as one of the Best Executives in Canada.

Sponsors

This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.

Timestamps

Coming soon! 

Links

Coming soon!

Find Mike Online

Mike McNeil

Show Notes

Website: http://FoodGrads.com/mike-mcneil/

13 Dec 2021Ep 33- Transforming your career though conversation and curiosity with Somayeh Salemi, Buisness Development Specialist at Klever Equipped Inc.00:41:44

On episode 33 of the FoodGrads podcast  Veronica interviewed Somayeh Salemi, Buisness Development Specialist at Klever Equipped Inc. Klever Equipped Inc. is a distributer of cutting edge equipment who specialize in products security, sales and services of smokehouses, fermenting, chilling, drying and clean room equipment.

In this episode Somayeh and Veronica talked about:

  • Her role at Klever Equipped as a buisness development specialist
  • The story of she transitioned from science to sales because of her love for talking with people.
  • The process of getting a new piece of equipment into a manufacturing plant from start to finish
Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-33

29 Nov 2021Ep 32- Taking your food safety career global with Nasir Hameed, Sr. Corporate Director of Global Quality & Food Safety Systems at Acadian Seaplants00:59:07

On episode 32 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Nasir Hameed, Sr. Corporate of Director- Global Quality & Food Safety Systems at Acadian Seaplants. Acadian Seaplants is a family-owned business and is a fully-integrated, biotechnology manufacturer of premium agricultural products for animals and plants, cultivated sea-vegetables and functional ingredients derived from select species of marine plants. 
 
 In this episode Nasir and Veronica talked about:

  • Aall things food safety and his world travels taking on positions from Pakistan, India, Dubai Canada and many more.
  • Acadian Seaplants and the different ways that seaweed is being used
  • Upper management positions in food safety.
  • Advice about what you should be doing as your progress through your career

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-32/

18 Oct 2023Embracing Servant Leadership in Food Processing with Gavin Johnston, Plant Manager at Veg Pro International Inc. and Owner of Redpath Strategies | Ep 7800:53:09
20 Sep 2021Ep 28- Sharing the exciting journey on how to become a flavorist with Rachel Odolski, Flavorist in Training at the Prinova Group00:46:35

On episode 28 of the FoodGrads Podcast Veronica interviewed Rachel Odolski, a flavourist in Training at the Prinova Group. Prinova is a leading supplier of ingredients and premix manufacturing for the food, beverage and nutrition industries.

In this episode Rachel and Veronica talked about:

  • How Rachel got into flavours when she went to school for nursing
  • The Prinova USA group
  • The tools used to create flavour
  • The certification process to become a flavorist and what it means
  • What is the process to make a flavour
  • How she found an internship in the food industry
  • Flavour compounds

Show Notes

03 May 2023Building Leadership and Community within Food Safety with Melody Ge, FSQA Director at StarKist Co. and Founder of the Women in Food Safety Group | Ep 6700:53:17

On this episode, we interview Melody Ge, FSQA Director at StarKist Co. and Founder of the Women in Food Safety Group. Join us as we discuss what Melody's career journey, her approach to food safety and learn more about the Women in Food Safety Group.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-67

15 Nov 2021Ep 30- Tackling Canada's Food Waste Problem with Lori Nikkel00:36:32

On episode 30 of the FoodGrads, we interviewed Lori Nikkel, the Chief Executive Officer of Second Harvest, Canada's largest food rescue charity. They recover fresh, unsold food to protect the environment and provide immediate hunger relief. 

In this episode Lori and Veronica spoke about:

  • Lori's role at Second Harvest
  • All the amazing things that they do from rescuing food to developing training
  • How they are a data-driven company
  • Misconceptions about working at a charity and learned more about why her job as a CEO is to actually work Second Harvest out business.

Show Notes

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-30/
https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-30/
08 Nov 2023What do millwrights in the food manufacturing industry do with Nole Coutrouzas, VP & Business Representative for UBC Millwright Local 1916 | Ep 8000:53:26
14 Sep 2020Ep.02 Building a future-forward tourism industry workforce with Joe Baker, OTEC's Systems Leadership and Integrated Strategy Advisor00:40:52

On episode 2 of the FoodGrads podcast we have Joe Baker, OTEC's Systems Leadership and Integrated Strategy Advisor. OTEC (Ontario Tourism Education Corporation) is an Ontario-based collaborative, not-for-profit organization that is a leader in workforce innovation and skills development solutions.

In this episode, we learn about what OTEC is and the role they are playing in helping Canadians navigate through the uncertain future of the restaurant industry during COVID specifically through OTEC's tourism and hospitality emergency rapid response initiative.

Joe and I also talk about COVID's evolving role in changing the landscape of the restaurant and hospitality industry and how through these difficult times comes the chance for positive change to create a more inclusive, resilient work workforce.

I am happy to have had the chance to speak with Joe Baker. Joe is an eloquent speaker and you can tell he is really passionate about what he does. I left this conversation feeling more hopeful about the future despite the uncertainty of things. As Joe explains it in this episode there are things you can do right now which can help you on your career journey. The first step is to take a step back, breath and reflect.

So enjoy the show!

Show Notes:

https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-02-building-a-future-forward-tourism-industry-workforce-with-joe-baker,-otec's-systems-leadership-and-integrated-strategy-advisor

 

 

04 Sep 2024Innovations in Food Safety: Cold Plasma Science with Brendan Niemira,PhD, Lead Scientist at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service | Ep. 9500:57:53

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