Table 86

Meiko Temple is a self-taught home cook and the vibrant personality behind the food blog Meiko And The Dish, where she shares fresh and soulful recipes inspired by her upbringing. In addition to being at the helm of her own blog, Meiko is also a very successful freelance creative director and consultant who is skilled at helping brands bring their ideas to their life. She is passionate about uplifting and creating spaces for historically underrepresented food creatives and the organizer behind the wildly popular Black History Month Virtual Potluck and Juneteenth Virtual Cookout. In this episode, Meiko shares why she left her job in Corporate America to pursue blogging full time and the skills she's been able to cultivate as a result of taking that leap. In the Table Topic, Meiko offers some insight into the transferable skills she's developed as a result of food blogging and how they have contributed to her professional success in other areas. Learn more about Meiko Temple and Meiko and the Dish below: Website: meikoandthedish.com Instagram: @meikoandthedish Twitter: @meikoandthedish Facebook: @meikoandthedish SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT Myself, Meiko and some other very talented Black culinary creators have joined forces to create Eat the Culture. The purpose of Eat the Culture is to create community-centered spaces that nurture, support & amplify Black culinary creators. To kick-off this entity, we have created our first "Eat the Culture Video Challenge" including a video course that will teach you how to make crave able tasty style videos. If you're a Black culinary creator who's interested in joining our challenge or who wants access to our free course visit EatTheCulture.com today to learn more and to sign up.

Tracey Johnson is a full-time historian and part-time home cook. She turned her obsession with Trader Joe's into the successful Instagram page Tracey Joe's which features delicious, easy-to-make recipes using Trader Joe's ingredients. In this episode, Tracey shares how a research trip to the National Archives in New York inspired her to start her Instagram account, her creative process for developing recipes with products found at Trader Joe's and her forthcoming cookbook: Cooking with Five Ingredients from Trader Joe's. In the Table Topic, I ask for Tracey's recommendations for creating meals from some of my favorite Trader Joe's products. Learn more about Tracey, follow the Tracey Joe's Instagram account, and preorder her cookbook below: Website: traceyjoes.com Instagram: @traceyjoes Preorder the 5 Ingredient Meals from Tracey Joe's Cookbook here! Instagram Accounts recommended by Tracey Joe's in this episode: @joesbeforebros @blackgirlsintraderjoes Trader Joe's products mentioned in this episode: Furikake Seasoning Soy Chorizo Jalapeno Hot Sauce Pork Belly Chicken Gyoza Potstickers Thai Curry Simmer Sauce (Red or Green) "Everything but the Elote" Seasoning Soffrito Seasoning Pork Carnitas

From podcaster to blogger to author, Sarita Cheaves is a wine media producer with a passion for food and wine. A DC native, she is known for discovering great wines and unique wine pairings and has a WSET (Wine Spirits Education Trust) certification. Sarita's latest launch is a wine activity book titled to be adored by wine enthusiasts and those seeking knowledge about Blacks in wine. In this episode Sarita shares how a trip to Napa Valley propelled her interest in wine. She also shares how the podcast she produces The Swirl Suite helped her to center Black women in the wine industry, and how through blogging and writing she has been able to think outside of the box to educate consumers and make wine more accessible to everyone. In the Table Topic, I lead a fun "unconventional wine pairing" exercise where Sarita offers her recommendations for pairing wine with some of your favorite corner store snacks! Learn more about Sarita Cheaves, listen to The Swirl Suite podcast, and read her blog Vine Me Up below: Website: vinemeupdc.com Podcast: swirlsuite.com Facebook: /vinemeup Instagram: @vinemeup Twitter: @vinemeup TikTok: @vinemeupdc Below are the wine and snack pairings that were mentioned by Sarita. Snickers and Chardonnay (Oaked) Ice Cream Sandwiches and California Zinfandel Hot Fries or Flaming Hot Cheetos and Tokaji or Tokay Funyun Rings and Chardonnay (Oaked or Unoaked) Cherry Popsicle and Rosé (Pinot Noir) Chico Sticks and Red Blend (Portuguese) Popcorn and Cava or Champagne Also mentioned by Sarita Cheaves in this episode: Black Ankle Vineyards Purchase Vine Me Up Activity Book

Anela Malik is the food and lifestyle influencer at the helm of Feed the Malik. She is a writer, cat lover, and traveler who shares truly tasty treats and experiences with an eye towards thoughtful, intentional consumption. Through her platform she shares diverse food stories, simple recipes and sourdough methods, travel inspiration, and more. In this episode, Anela shares how her love of travel, trying new cuisine and her career as a diplomat influenced the creation of Feed the Malik. She also describes the experiences that led her to pursue content creation as a full time career, challenges she's encountered as a content creator of color, and the resources she has used to sustain this entrepreneurial endeavor. In the Table Topic, Anela provides us with invaluable insight on how we can best support Black content creators and businesses. Learn more about Anela Malik and Feed the Malik below. You can also support her via her Patreon: patreon.com/feedthemalik Website: feedthemalik.com Instagram: @feedthemalik Twitter: @feed_the_malik TikTok @feedthemalik

When it comes to creating stellar social media and blogging content, quality and consistency should always be top of mind. In this Table Topic, we revisit Episode 20 where food and lifestyle blogger Dominek Tubbs of Dom N' the City gives us the tips and tools she uses to work smarter, to gather inspiration, and to automate her social media and blog content. Learn more about Dominek Tubbs and Dom N' The City below: Website: domnthecity.com Instagram: @domnthecity Twitter: @domnthecity Facebook: /domnthecity Pinterest: /domnthecity LinkedIn: /dominektubbs Social media tools and apps recommended by Dominek Tubbs in this episode: Planoly Canva Squarespace Hootsuite Later Lightroom Pinterest Unfold

Kae Lani Palmisano is the Emmy Award-winning host of WHYY's Check, Please! Philly, a television show that explores dining throughout the Philadelphia region as well as the host and writer of WHYY's Delishtory, a digital series on the history of food. She is also the host of a podcast called Amuse-Bouche which explores the food industry's big ideas and shares them in small bites. In this episode, Kae Lani dives into how her blogging and journalism career helped prepare her to take on roles as the Food and Travel Editor of USA Today and aided her in becoming an award-winning television show host. We also discuss her experiences as a woman of color navigating the media industry, and her passion for writing stories and giving exposure to underrepresented business owners and professionals in the food industry. In the Table Topic, Kae Lani gives us her tips for strengthening your presence and getting more comfortable in front of a camera. Learn more about Kae Lani Palmisano below: Personal Instagram: @kaelanisays Personal Twitter: @kaelanisays Amuse Bouche Podcast Website: amusebouche.substack.com Amuse Bouche Podcast Instagram: @amusebouchepod Amuse Bouche Podcast Twitter: @amusebouchepod

Demond Mullen (also known as DJ) is the owner of SWEEETHEAT Sauces and Rubs. Based in Willow Grove, PA, SWEEETHEAT Sauces and Rubs are sold at many local retailers in the Philadelphia area including Di Bruno Brothers, Weaver's Way, Kimberton Whole Foods and many more. He describes his products as all natural with multiple layers of flavor that start off sweet and end with a mild flavorful touch of heat. In this episode, DJ shares how SWEEETHEAT Sauces and Rubs were born out of his catering business, Streetside BBQ, and how he increased his product distribution by focusing on more localized growth strategies. In the table topic, DJ gives us his tips on how to get your products into local retailers. Learn more about Demond and SWEEETHEAT Sauces and Rubs below: Website: sweeetheat.com Instagram: @sweeetheat_ssb Facebook: /sweeetheat Twitter: @sweeetheat_ssb

Did you know that there are more than one hundred Black-owned spirits brands? If you're interested in imbibing in a few (but don't know where to start), then this is the episode for you. In this this table topic mini-episode, we revisit Episode 17: Building a Black-Owned Wine and Spirits Brand, where I was joined by Sean McCloud, the founder and owner of A Taste of the Culture. A Taste of the Culture is the first membership community and monthly subscription service dedicated exclusively to Black-owned wine & spirits. Listen in as Sean give us his top picks for Black-owned spirits brands that you can support today and what makes them so special! You can also grab his full list of recommendations below. Learn more about Sean McCloud and A Taste of the Culture below. Website: atasteoftheculture.com Instagram: @atasteoftheculture Facebook: /atasteoftheculture Twitter: @atasteofthecul1 Black-owned Spirits Brands recommended by Sean McCloud in this episode: Gin HH Bespoke Gin by Harlem Habberdashery Ingenious Gin (Also veteran-owned) Vodka Black Leaf Vodka As Legacy Vodka Quiet Storm Vodka (Passionfruit) PLUSH Vodka (Plum) Bourbon / Whiskey Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey Brough Brothers Bourbon Fresh Bourbon Guidance Whiskey Bull Young Bourbon Majesty Georgia Bourbon Whiskey River Basin Hand-Finished Rye Whiskey Exclave Rye Whiskey Rum Twelv 31 (Rum and Vodka) House of Angostura Rum Liqueur, Cordials, and Mixers LS Cream Liqueur Perfectly Cordial Hella Cocktail Company Avec Jalapeño and Blood Orange Mixer

Chef Cleophus "Ophus" Hethington is a talented chef from Miami who has been featured in Cuisine Noir, Atlanta Magazine, Eater, and the Miami Herald. Beginning his career in the U.S. Navy, Chef Ophus has a passion for traveling, and specifically how the African diaspora has historically and continues to impact the cuisine and spices of the world. He was able to turn this passion for travel and history into multiple businesses including his pop-up dinner series "Ebi Chop Bar" as well as a boutique spice company, Triangular Traded Spices. He notes that Triangular Traded Spices was created to "honor the diversity of the African diaspora and its communities through its thoughtfully sourced, small-batch, organic, and unabashedly bold handcrafted spice blends." In this episode, Chef Ophus shares the experiences that led him to pursue a career as a chef, and how travel helped to expand his horizons. In the Table Topic, he provides an overview of each of his Triangular Traded Spices, the history behind one of his favorites, and how he uses these spices across various dishes. Learn more about Chef Ophus and Triangular Traded Spices below: Personal Instagram: @chefophus Business Instagram: @ttspices Website: ttspices.com

In this Table Topic Mini-Episode, we head back to our Season 2 Premiere (Episode 13), when special event curator and culinary enthusiast Adeola Sokunbi gave us insight on planning and executing top notch events. Adeola has combined her personal love for food and professional expertise in connecting people to create Yolaskitchen. Yolaskitchen started as an intimate monthly supper club in 2016, and now the brand is expanding into consumer goods. Listen in as Adeola shares her tips for curating exceptional and unique dining experiences that will wow your guests. Tips she's gathered not only from planning dinner parties for Yolaskitchen, but also from working for some of the world's largest and most iconic brands like Coca-Cola and the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games. Learn more about Adeola and Yolaskitchen below. Website: yolaskitchen.com Instagram: @yolaskitchen

Marta Rivera Diaz is a formally trained chef with more than 25 years of cooking and baking experience. She created her blog Sense & Edibility to encourage advanced and novice cooks, alike, to explore and succeed at executing culinary fundamentals and techniques never before explained to them. Marta melds her multicultural background and extensive travel history into creative recipes that inspire others. She is the proud wife of a retired U.S. Army soldier and the proud mother of 15-year-old twins and currently lives in San Antonio, Texas. In this episode, Marta shares how her path into a culinary career was greatly influenced by her Puerto Rican and Black heritage, military upbringing, and formal education. She also gives us her advice on bringing your full authentic self to your blog, and how to best combat the imposter syndrome many of us experience as we build our brands. In the table topic, Marta shares a special dish that represents her multicultural background and gives us some history on each of the ingredients. Learn more about Marta and Sense & Edibility below: Instagram: @senseandedibility Facebook: /Senseandedibility Twitter: @ediblesense LinkedIn: Marta A. Rivera Diaz Recipes mentioned by Marta in this episode: Merlot-Braised Beef Short-Ribs Bacalaitos (Puerto Rican Salted Codfish) Cheesy Grits with Garlic

It's National Food Truck Week (June 20th - June 27th)! For our first Table Topic Mini-Episode, we're celebrating with Ariel D. Smith, the founder of The Food Truck Scholar and host of its podcast! Her platform seeks to amplify Black voices in the food truck industry, educate current and aspiring food truckers, and inspire those in and beyond the food truck and entrepreneurship fields. In this Table Topic, Ariel gives us her top Black-owned food truck picks across a number of fun categories. If you're interested in hearing more, catch the full episode here: A History of Black-Owned Food Trucks with Ariel D. Smith of The Food Truck Scholar, and be sure to follow Ariel at the links below: Website: TheFoodTruckScholar.com Instagram: @thefoodtruckscholar YouTube: The Food Truck Scholar Twitter: @FoodTruckSchola Facebook: The Food Truck Scholar Page Clubhouse: @FoodTruckSchola Black-owned Food Trucks mentioned in this episode: Aw Shucks - Birmingham, AL The Beignet Bar - Nashville, TN The Guac Box - West Lafayette, IN R & R Extreme Wings - Indianapolis, IN Lip Smacking' Creations Food Medic - Nashville, TN Pop Goes the Waffle - St. Petersburg, FL

From styling A-List celebrities on Fifth Avenue to working under the tutelage of famous chefs like Marcus Samuelson and JJ Johnson, Chef Rasheeda Purdie boasts an impressive resume full of vibrant experiences, all of which she has poured into her ramen business, Ramen by Rā. Launched during the global pandemic, Ramen by Rā offers exclusive “dine-in” ramen experiences for guests to indulge in the comfort of their own homes. In this episode, Rasheeda shares how and why she decided to explore becoming a professional, and how her curiosity, creativity, and commitment to lifelong learning aided her in making that leap. She also shares how her business, Ramen by Rā was birthed through deep appreciation, education, and passion for ramen and its origins in Asia. In the table topic, she gives her tips for making healthy and versatile ramen dishes at home. If you're in the New York area and would like an opportunity to support her - Rāsheeda is currently doing a special Juneteenth Roots + Ramen experience! You can also learn more about Rāsheeda, follow her cooking adventures and stay up-to-date on her upcoming experiences below: Website: ramenbyra.com Instagram: @ramenbyra E-mail: ra@ramenbyra.com People and products mentioned in this episode by Rāsheeda Purdie: Chef Marcus Samuelsson ( Red Rooster / New York) Chef Melba Wilson (Melba's / New York) Chef JJ Johnson (FIELDTRIP / New York) National Cherry Blossom Festival (Washington, DC) Sun Noodle Ramen

Your host, Dr. Geo Banks-Weston, is here to introduce a new addition to the Table 86 podcast schedule: "Table Topic" Mini-Episodes!!! The best part is that these bite-sized episodes will be 10 minutes or less and packed with tons of valuable information! As you may know, at the end of each episode our guests lead a segment called "Table Topic" where they get the opportunity to impart some knowledge, give some quick tips, or share their expertise with our listeners. With this segment being one that the listeners have found the most value in, moving forward they will be repurposed as "mini-episodes" released on a bi-weekly basis! Tune in as I bring back some of my favorite topics, including how to pitch yourself to brands as a content creator, tools you can leverage to automate your social media, amazing black-owned wine and spirits brands you can support and much much more! He also gives you a sneak peek at some of the amazing Black bloggers, chefs, and entrepreneurs coming to the table in the second half of Season 2. Tune in to learn more and as always, please feel free to show your love by subscribing and rating the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming services. You can also stay up-to-date with Table 86 podcast and my blog at the links below: Website - geostablephl.com // table86podcast.com Instagram - @geostable // @table86podcast Twitter - @geostablephl

Margo Gabriel is a freelance writer and cookbook editor from Boston, MA. Her writing has been published in Boston Art Review, Cuisine Noir, Edible Boston, Fodor’s, Popsugar, the New York Times and Solstice Literary Magazine. Earlier this year, Margo fulfilled a long-term goal of moving abroad to Lisbon, Portugal where she is currently enrolled in a graduate program. In this episode, Margo gives us insight into how she was able to build her career as a freelance writer focusing on food and culture. She also shares how she made her dream of moving to Portugal a reality. In the table topic, Margo provides her perspective on Black food culture in Portugal and recommends some of her favorite restaurants and dishes. Learn more about Margo Gabriel and read some of her pieces below: Website: margoscreativelife.com Instagram: @margotscreativelife Facebook: /margoscreativelife LinkedIn: Margo Gabriel Articles written by Margo Gabriel mentioned in this episode: A Dish With Joy In Every Bite: Griot and Pikliz - Butcher Box Find and Keep New Friends During a Pandemic - New York Times Hernâni Miguel Creates a Place for Culture, Music and Food at Lisbon’s Tabernáculo - Cuisine Noir

Dominek “Dom” Tubbs is a food and lifestyle blogger based in Harlem. Through her blog, Dom N’ the City as well as through social media, she has become known as the go-to guide for eating your way through New York City. She is passionate about highlighting businesses from marginalized communities and loves sharing quick and easy recipes for at home. When she isn't indulging in the flavors of the city or creating content for her site, Dom works for an innovative tech startup company in an operations management role. In this episode, Dom shares her tips and tools for working smarter and striking balance as a content creator who also has a successful full-time career and as her and I dive deep on the ways in which we stay committed to buying black. Learn more about Dominek Tubbs and Dom N’ The City below: Website: domnthecity.com Instagram: @domnthecity Twitter: @domnthecity Facebook: /domnthecity Pinterest: /domnthecity LinkedIn: /dominektubbs Black-owned Products mentioned in this episode: Black Bread Co. Boss Blend Coffee The Spice Suite Social media tools and apps recommended by Dominek Tubbs in this episode: Planoly Canva Squarespace Hootsuite Later

Have you ever thought about self-publishing a cocktail book or cookbook but don't know where to begin? Well, today's guest is here to help! Martina Jackson is a professional photographer, food blogger, and founder of Drea & Co. - a lifestyle platform. She recently added the title of self-published author to her resume with her first cocktail book: After Hours. Martina’s joy for life is at the forefront of her work and woven throughout every cocktail recipe and project that she touches. Whether it’s home styling tips or food and beverage adventures, Martina seeks to face every day with a light heart and a dash of luxury. In this episode, Martina shares her journey in self-publishing and how this passion project helped her evolve and cultivate new skills as a creative and entrepreneur. In the Table Topic, Martina gives her considerations and tips for embarking on your own self-publishing journey. Learn more about Martina Jackson, Drea & Co., and purchase her phenomenal cocktail book below: Website: dreaandcompany.com For Purchase: After Hours Cocktail Book Instagram: @martina.drea | @dreaandcohome Facebook: /martina.dreaandco | /dreaandcohome Mentioned by Martina Jackson in this episode: Tanisha Pinex (Photographer) Cliff Canon (Photographer) BLK and Bold Specialty Beverages

KJ Kearney is the founder, creator, and viral social media influencer behind Black Food Fridays. Black Food Fridays is a call-to-action centered around the economic empowerment of Black-owned businesses. Black Food Fridays encourages everyone to support a Black-owned food and/or beverage business every Friday. In this episode, KJ shares how Black Food Fridays grew from a simple way concept to support black-owned food businesses into a social media sensation and platform that educates the masses on Black food history and uplifts the importance of economic empowerment in the Black community. He also gives his advice on staying true to yourself and your purpose while creating results-driven social media content. Before he goes, KJ drops some knowledge by sharing one of his favorite black food facts. Learn more about KJ Kearney, and Black Food Fridays below: Website: BlackFoodFridays.com Instagram: @blackfoodfridays Tik Tok: @blackfoodfridays Facebook: /BlackFoodFridays Clubhouse: Blackfoodfridays Twitter: @blkfoodfridays Mentioned by KJ Kearney in this episode: Black Food Fridays brings Black history to TikTok - TODAY Show Article Bertha's Kitchen in North Charleston - James Beard Award-Winning Restaurant Anela Malik of Feed the Malik Dominek Tubbs of Dom n' the City

Sean McCloud is the founder and owner of A Taste of the Culture, the first membership community dedicated exclusively to Black-owned wine & spirits. Members of this private member community receive a monthly subscription box that includes a black-owned wine or spirit, a black-owned mixer, recipes & suggested serves as well as a home bar accessory. Through this community, Sean strives to elevate black-owned brands and at the same time make them more accessible. In this episode, Sean discusses how the memory of his grandfather and a career in the spirits industry helped him to actualize A Taste of the Culture as an entrepreneurial endeavor. He also shares why he chose a subscription-based business model to reach and educate the masses on Black-owned wine and spirits. Before he goes he provides us his top picks for Black-owned wine and spirits (a list you can grab below). Learn more about Sean McCloud and A Taste of the Culture below. Website: atasteoftheculture.com Instagram: @atasteoftheculture Facebook: /atasteoftheculture Twitter: @atasteofthecul1 Black-owned Wine and Spirits Brands recommended by Sean McCloud in this episode: Gin HH Bespoke Gin by Harlem Habberdashery Ingenious Gin (Also veteran-owned) Vodka Black Leaf Vodka As Legacy Vodka Quiet Storm Vodka (Passionfruit) PLUSH Vodka (Plum) Bourbon / Whiskey Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey Brough Brothers Bourbon Fresh Bourbon Guidance Whiskey Bull Young Bourbon Majesty Georgia Bourbon Whiskey River Basin Hand-Finished Rye Whiskey Exclave Rye Whiskey Rum Twelv 31 (Rum and Vodka) House of Angostura Rum Liqueur, Cordials, and Mixers LS Cream Liqueur (included in A Taste of the Culture February Box) Perfectly Cordial (Included in A Taste of the Culture February Box) Hella Cocktail Company Avec Jalapeño and Blood Orange Mixer

Chef Jezabel Careaga is the owner of Jezebel's Cafe and Bakery located in West Philadelphia. Although her roots lie in Palpalá which is located in Northwest Argentina, her restaurant has made a notable stamp on the Philly food scene winning a Best of Philly Award in 2019. In this episode, Jezabel discusses how sharing the cuisine of her childhood has helped center the unique and intimate experience she offers at her restaurant. She also highlights how her grandmother's love and memory inspired the "If my grandma were to cook for you" Chef Series. In the table topic, Jezabel teaches us how to make one of her favorite Argentinian comfort foods made simply from carrot greens and eggs. Learn more about Chef Jezabel Careaga and Jezabel’s Cafe below. Jezabel's Cafe and Bakery Website Jezabel’s Cafe is located at 206-208 S 45th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104. Jezabel's Cafe and Bakery Instagram Jezabel Careaga Professional Website

Ariel D. Smith is the founder of The Food Truck Scholar and host of its podcast. The platform seeks to amplify voices in the food truck industry, educate current and aspiring food truckers, and inspire those in and beyond the food truck and entrepreneurship fields. Ariel is also a Ph.D. student at Purdue researching specifically African American participation in the food truck industry. In this episode, Ariel gives us insight into her journey as a journalist and researcher of Black food truck history. She shares her perspectives on Black food truck culture past, present, and future, and how this culture has been ingrained into the fabric of American cities and small towns. In this episode's Table Topic, Ariel gives us her top Black-owned food truck picks across a number of fun categories. Learn more about Ariel and The Food Truck Scholar below. Website: TheFoodTruckScholar.com Instagram: @thefoodtruckscholar YouTube: The Food Truck Scholar Twitter: @FoodTruckSchola Facebook: The Food Truck Scholar Page Clubhouse: @FoodTruckSchola Resources mentioned in this episode: "The Great Taco Truck War" by Rebecca Winters Keegan - Time Magazine Black, Hispanic entrepreneurs discriminated against when seeking small business loans by J.D. Harrison - The Washington Post Food Trucks mentioned in the Table Topic: Aw Shucks - Birmingham, AL The Beignet Bar - Nashville, TN The Guac Box - West Lafayette, IN R & R Extreme Wings - Indianapolis, IN Lip Smacking' Creations Food Medic - Nashville, TN Pop Goes the Waffle - St. Petersburg, FL

Jazzmine Woodard is a young professional and content creator with Houston, TX roots and Nigerian heritage. In 2015, Jazzmine started her blog Dash of Jazz platform for her to share recipes with the goal of helping busy women balance what matters and live on their own terms. In this episode, Jazzmine shares her beginnings as a food blogger and how she has evolved her wide array of content to include lifestyle, travel, and home design. She also offers insight into skills and strategies that have aided in her success as a content creator who photographs, writes, and manages her platforms all on her own. Before she leaves, Jazzmine gives us her tips for self-photography that will help enhance your brand and resonate with your audience. Learn more about Jazzmine and Dash of Jazz below. Website: dashofjazz.com Instagram: @dashofjazzblog Twitter: @dashofjazzblog Pinterest: /dashofjazzblog LinkedIn: Jazzmine Woodard

Adeola Sokunbi is a special event curator and culinary enthusiast based in Atlanta, GA. After working for some of the world’s largest and most iconic brands like Coca-Cola and the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games, she decided to combine her personal love for food and professional expertise in connecting people to create Yolaskitchen. Yolaskitchen started as an intimate monthly dinner supper club in 2016, and the Yolaskitchen brand now looks to a future in entering the consumer goods market with a unique product line of sauces. Additionally, in 2020 Adeola completed her Masters in the Study of Law at the University of Georgia in order to more effectively offer her consulting services to other entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry. In this episode, Adeola shares how her wide array of culinary experiences have been paramount to the formation and continued growth of the Yolaskitchen brand. She also shares how her legal education has helped her to expand into culinary consulting. In the "Table Topic", Adeola shares her tips for curating exceptional and unique dining experiences that will wow your guests. Learn more about Adeola and Yolaskitchen below. Website: yolaskitchen.com Instagram: @yolaskitchen Adeola will also be participating in a private tasting experience with the Shular Institute (mentioned in this episode). Get more information about the event "MOTHERLAND" here.

Ahead of Season 2 launching in February 2021, your host, Geo Darwin checks in to reflect on the first season of the Table 86 Podcast. In this special bonus episode, He highlights some personal achievements, accomplishments from Season 1 guests and provides you a little preview of what you can expect from Season 2.  Be sure to review and subscribe and follow me for updates! Website - table86podcast.com Instagram - @geostable // @table86podcast Twitter - @geostablephl

Barry Johnson is a professional bartender, certified mixologist, and craft cocktail blogger based in Philadelphia. In 2019, Barry launched his business, Bartender Barry, where he offers private bartending services as well as creates and delivers boutique educational experiences for the cocktail enthusiast. In addition, Barry competed in the 2020 Black Restaurant Week Cocktail Competition and is a contributor for the largest digital media company for the beverage industry, VinePair. In this episode, Barry discusses his journey in building his brand as a bartender at the helm of a spirits based business. He also discusses passion for driving diverse representation in the beverage industry, highlights the inspiration behind the delicious cocktails on his blog, and how he is laying the groundwork to reach his personal goal of owning his own distillery. In the Table Topic, Barry shares an extra-special cocktail recipe and provides some helpful tips for the budding home bartender. Learn more about Barry and his business via his website at bartenderbarry.com, or follow him on Instagram @bartender_barry. You can also check out the recipes he mentions in this episode below. In the Beginning Cocktail The Ungodly Hour Cocktail

Whether photography, recipe development, or writing, creatives in the food industry tend to vary in their area of expertise. That’s why it is so exciting when I come across one who excels at three! Shanika Graham-White is a talented food blogger, photographer, and recipe developer, who has been featured in Food 52, the Feed Feed, Buzzfeed, and many more. She joins the podcast to discuss the inspiration behind her blog, Orchids and Sweet Tea, and to provide her tips on cooking some delicious gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan recipes. Recipes you can find in abundance on her blog. Before she leaves, we have some fun, as she would create gluten-free and dairy-free versions of some of my favorite foods. Learn more about Shanika, try out some of her recipes at her blog: orchidsandsweettea.com You view her amazing photography by following her on Instagram at (@orchidsnsweettea_ ).

It will come as no surprise that equitable representation is a large issue across the food and beverage industry. And with recent events bringing this problem to the forefront, creatives of colors are demanding that companies address these disparities. That’s why it was so necessary to be joined by an international brand strategist and blogging expert, Jasmine Lukuku. In 2016, Jasmine founded The Black Food Bloggers Club, an online platform for black food bloggers to share resources, be connected to opportunities, and to network in a safe space. In this episode, we discuss her passion for uplifting other black creatives and how she has created initiatives that drive representation and combat the default whiteness in the food and beverage industry. Before she leaves, Jasmine shares her expert tips on how to pitch yourself to brands and companies you are looking to work with. Learn more about Jasmine and her by following her on Instagram (@jasminelukuku) and Twitter (@jasminelukuku). To learn more about The Black Food Bloggers Club and discover new black food bloggers you can follow their Instagram feed @blackfoodbloggers . You can also learn more about joining The Black Food Blogger club, and check out the directory at Black Food Bloggers Directory.

With a career as a sales representative in the beverage industry, Vincent got his initial exposure to the complexities of wine through work-related training courses. This quickly turned into a passion, as he became the resident “Wine Guy” for his family and friends.In 2016, Vince started his business Elevate Your Tastes, as a platform to share his wine knowledge more broadly. Since then this has evolved from a space where he casually shared wine reviews and recommendations to thought-provoking curated wine tasting experiences in your home and online.In this episode, we discuss what influenced his love for wine and how he cultivates this passion in others through Elevate Your Tastes. He also highlights one of his newest collaborations Fellas, Food, and Wine, a virtual tasting experience with other black men in the wine industry. Vince leaves us his tips for making trying new wines a less intimidating process and highlights some fantastic black-owned wine brands to get you started on your wine tasting journey.Learn more about Vince and Elevate Your Tastes at elevateyourtastes.com or by following him on Instagram and Twitter at @elevateyourtastes .SPECIAL NOTE:Here are the Black-owned wine brands Vince mentions in the episode, please support:Red WineAndre Mack's O.P.P. (Other People’s Pinot)White WineDr. Chris Wachira - Wachira Wines ChardonnaySparkling WineWachira Wines California SparklingMarvina Robinson - Stuyvesant Brut ChampagneRoséKenneth & Carissa Stephens - Pur Noire Euphoria

At the table today is New Orleans based food blogger, photographer, and recipe developer, Ben Goodly. Listen in as Ben and I talk about new takes on classic recipes influenced by his upbringing in Alabama, the differences between Creole and Cajun cuisine, and some of his upcoming projects. Ben also serves up some of his favorite spots to dine in New Orleans. As a bonus, Ben offers his tips on making a great roux!Learn more about Ben and check out his recipes on his blog foodislovemadeedible.com or by following him on Instagram and Twitter at @mrgoodlycooks.You can also find some of the blog recipes Ben mentioned in this episode at the links below:How to Cook a RouxGumbo with Leftover Thanksgiving TurkeySmothered Okra with Chicken and Smoked Sausage

In the wake of the stay-at-home orders, we are finding ourselves in unprecedented times. I, for one, have experienced heightened anxiety, and have fallen into some not so healthy routines. The hardest part is finding a way to cycle out of those behaviors. This episode is a part of that self-discovery.In this special episode of Table 86, I welcome my friend, fellow blogger and registered dietitian Marsha (aka Summer) Hoffmann to share some insight on how we can be more mindful and create healthier habits during these uncertain times.Based in New York City, Marsha has worked as a registered dietitian for the past five years. Through her online platforms Salut Nutrition and Do You Salut, she covers a wide range of topics from healthy living and mindfulness to some epic guides to ignite your world travels. Listen in as we discuss ways to channel your anxious energy and take a deep dive into what it means to be kind to yourself during this time. Marsha also shares some fun, tasty, and HEALTHY alternatives to a list of my favorite quarantine food and snacks.Learn more about Marsha her consultative work, travels, and recipes by following her on Instagram at @doyousalut or on her websites doyousalut.com and salutnutrition.com .

At the table today is the charming Chef Lee Bentick. A personal chef living in Baltimore who is pioneering the Vegan Caribbean movement. In this episode, we discuss her roots in St. Vincent, tips and techniques to elevate your vegan cooking game, and explore her desire to expand the world’s knowledge of Southern Caribbean cuisine through her exquisitely curated events.Learn more about Chef Lee, her beautiful dishes and her posh events by following her on Instagram at @platedbyleshe or on her website leshestyle.com

In this extra special episode, I'm joined by two of my favorite foodies and dear friends, Sherrod of Slice and Torte and Quin of Butter be Ready, to discuss our favorite food-focused Instagram accounts and bloggers in a number of categories ranging from recipe development and photography to cocktails and food styling.Sherrod is a half of the dynamic duo at the helm of the blog Slice and Torte . A jack of all trades with a podcast, instagram account, and YouTube channel, Sherrod showcases an impressive collection of savory recipes and culinary videos that will make your mouth water.Quin of Butter be Ready is a fantastic self-taught chef and baker whose blog has been featured by Essence Magazine as a Black Female Blogger to follow. A woman of many talents, not only does Quin uses her blog to share a wide array of food recipes and gorgeous food photography, she also uses her social media presence to feed fearlessly tackle issues facing communities of color, LGBTQ individuals, and women.Learn more about Sherrod (and his gifted sidekick Danielle) by subscribing to their blog and podcaast at sliceandtorte.com , or by following them on instagram at @sliceandtorte. You can also follow Quin’s cooking adventures on butterbeready.com or on instagram at @butterbeready.

Aaron also discusses the articles that have made him most proud. One of which is the article The surprising history served with a plate of Biscuits and Gravy featured in The Washington Post where he got to interview his grandmother (among others) on the history of Biscuits and Gravy.

BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages is a black-owned premium coffee and tea company with Rod Johnson and Pernell Cezar at the helm. In this episode, we speak with Rod, who offers insight into their products, how they are differentiators in the market, and their intentional focused on investing in the community.Learn more about BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages at blkandbold.com/ or on instagram at @blkandbold.During the episode, Rod also mentions a key organization they support through their company The Boys and Girls Club of America . Learn more about this wonderful organization at https://www.bgca.org/ .

Arley Arrington is a self-taught baker and social justice warrior based in Richmond, VA. In this episode, we dive deep into how she has used her phenomenal baking skills and her platform to generate awareness and to fundraise for key issues such as immigration, reproductive rights, equality and much more.Get in touch with Arley and view some of her fantastic work on instagram at @arleyscakes.

In our inaugural episode, we sit down withfood historian and entrepreneur Deah Berry Mitchell. to unpack the Dallas / Fort Worth food scene, the inspiration behind her Soul of DFW: Black History and Soul Food Bus Tour, and the process for developing her book Cornbread and Collard Greens: How West African Cuisine and Slavery Influenced Soul Food.Learn more about Deah Mitchell, the Soul of DFW bus tour, and her book at:Website: deahmitchell.comSoul of DFW Bus Tour Website: soulofdfw.comSocial Media: @whatdedesays on Instragram

Take a seat at Table 86 - a podcast centered on creatives of color transforming the landscape of the food and beverage industry. Feed your soul and your mind as we celebrate their stories. Exploring how they are being necessary disruptors in an industry where they’ve historically been, well…86’d.