Stick A Fork In It: Recent Episodes
stickafork
What is #StickAForkInIt? a show about the groundbreaking work being done in Tampa Bay and the influencers that elevate this top market to one of the most innovative and compassionate places to live, work and play. A 10-county region where hunger is addressed in a meaningful way, our neighbors are advocated for daily and our community’s most inspiring leaders align to lift our neighbors to a space of health and capability.
Hosted by just a few of the dynamic team at Feeding Tampa Bay, we invite you to listen in and find out how you can join the movement and please follow us for updates on our work or leave us a message on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube all @FeedingTampaBay. Talk at you soon!
Soldiers often learn to suffer in silence, which is why it's so important that they have advocates like retired Col. DJ Reyes. His work with Veteran Treatment Courts in Florida have helped numerous service members turn their lives around and reconnect with their families and purpose. On today's episode, we learn what it's like to spend 35 years touring the world on active duty, and why so many of our military personnel find themselves struggling when they return home from a life of constant conflict.
Visit the websites DJ mentions on the episode to learn more about him and the mentor program he organizes below:
www.cuspisvir.org
www.hillsboroughcountymentors.org
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to learn about other ways we support our service members!
According to today's guest, Hillsborough County has more teacher vacancies than any other county in the state. And as President of the Hillsborough Classroom Teacher's Association, Rob Kriete knows what he's what he's talking about. That's why he's encouraging everyone to visit voteyesforstudents.org to learn about the referendum that will be on general election ballots this November. This millage referendum (Hillsborough Referendum #2, at the bottom of the ballot) will provide more funds for teachers, bus drivers, custodians, and other workers who support our children, to ensure they're getting the best education possible. Tune in to learn more about the needs of our community's children, and how you can support them!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to learn more ways to get involved.
BayCare doesn't just specialize in providing care for your body, they understand the importance of taking care of your mind, as well. Dr. Christina Canody joins us today to talk about dealing with some of the suffering Floridians have experienced after being hit with two consecutive hurricanes, and also to introduce us to the On Our Sleeves initiative. As a Pediatrician, Dr. Canody has seen how many children struggle with mental health, and is hopeful that BayCare Kids can help. Visit BayCareKidsOnOurSleeves.org to learn more!
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to learn about more partners and initiatives like this one.
If we want life to improve for ourselves and our neighbors, we'll need to get involved in the conversations that can change that for us. And one of the many ways that we can do that is through voting. Our own advocacy champion, Lorena Hardwick, joins us again today to explain some easy ways you can learn about and lean into the voting process in the coming months. Don't rely on social media or word of mouth to inform you, because there are simple websites that can help you understand what's on your ballot, and early voting locations so that you don't have to take off work or wait in long lines!
To learn more about advocacy and getting involved in conversations about community change, follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platforms.
Can you believe there are already over 150 episodes of this show!? Give all we've seen and done in that time, and all the people we've met and talked to, we wanted to mark the occasion by revisiting the goal of the show, and the people working to accomplish it. Shannon Oliviero is the PR Officer of Feeding Tampa Bay, and Ev Malcolm is the Content Manager -- and together they've been telling the stories of our neighbors, partners, and teammates for almost 5 years! Tune in to learn about these two wonderful creatives, how the show has helped spread the mission of Feeding Tampa Bay, and where we hope to take it in the future.
P.S. The book Ev referred to on the show is called Lost Connections, by Johann Hari
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media for more powerful storytelling and opportunities to get involved in the fight against hunger!
Yuengling may have opened its famous Tampa brewery back in 1999, but did you know they are the oldest family owned brewery in the US dating back to 1829? Today, the sixth generation of four sisters are running the operation. Tune in to learn more from Debbie Yuengling as she shares their 'all family' culture and what it's like to grow into such a fun and inventive industry. Don't miss out on the concerts taking place on September 5th and 7th -- visit www.yuenglingcenter.com to learn more and get your tickets today.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see what other great community partners we're teaming up with, and how you can get involved in ending hunger, too!
There are currently only two "community" schools in Hillsborough County, so as the Resource Teacher at Brandon High, Lauren Leto had to blaze a few trails to support her students. And one of the first things she found when she began talking to families in the community was that their most basic needs weren't being met. Before the conversation could start about raising the school's grade or overall test scores, students and families needed access to consistent, healthy meals, and to feel like they could count on someone to listen to and care for them. On today's episode we talk with Mrs. Leto and one of her student helpers, Pierre, about the impact these resources have had on their school's community, and how something as simple as a food pantry can change lives for the better.
Learn more about our Feeding Minds program by following @FeedingTampaBay on social media today!
In Phil Lee's own words, Florida Blue is a "health solutions company" -- not just an insurance provider. On today's episode he explains what it means to focus on preventive healthcare, rather than trying to address issues once they've already started, and how having access to healthy food is such a key component in that endeavor. In the past four years alone, Florida Blue has provided over 180 million meals to residents across the state. And they plan to continue that mission through close partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, and building infrastructure that can better connect people with the food they need not just to survive, but to thrive.
See more of the magic made possible through our partnerships by following @FeedingTampaBay on social media, and visiting our website to get involved firsthand!
For YEARS our caring friends over at ABC Action News have been helping us raise awareness about the struggles, needs, successes and humanity of our neighbors around Tampa Bay. And on today's episode we have two of the crew's grade-A journalists, Sean Daly and Jillian Ramos, joining us to talk about our upcoming Pack the Pantries campaign, as well as the effect that media has in creating a better community. Tune in for laughs and learning, and check out our past episode featuring Sean Daly at the link right here!
Also follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platform to see how you can easily get involved in the fight against hunger in our region and beyond.
If you've watched Feeding Tampa Bay's Epic Chef competition in the past, you know just how exciting it is to see the best culinary artists in the region face off head-to-head! This year is no different, except that Rachel Bennett, Executive Chef of The Stovall House, will be joining our CEO Thomas Mantz in hosting the live event. Tune in to today's episode to learn about Chef Bennett's history with the event, her history in the kitchen, and what you should prepare for starting later this month!
Thanks to our partners at MOR-TV, you can watch this year's competition live on YouTube (@MORTampa), Facebook (@MORTampa), and on their website, www.mor-tv.com -- and be sure to follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media for more info!
You may be thinking that with our new community center on Causeway Blvd. Feeding Tampa Bay is all set! But the work is just beginning, friends. Now that we have more capacity to feed our neighbors, we have even more room for help from kind souls like you! Our colleagues Derek Ultican and Jason Prado join us on today's episode to explain how you can help us press on toward ending hunger in Tampa Bay, whether you have time, talent, or treasure to contribute to the cause.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see all the opportunities we offer for getting involved with your community, and visit our website to donate or volunteer
As our mission has grown, the way it's represented has to grow, too. And we're so thankful to have had the experts at ChappellRoberts by our side for over 10 years, to help with that. We have their Senior Director of Brand Strategy, Katy Parsons, on the show today, to share what it's been like engaging with our community in creative and meaningful ways for so many years. Tune in to see how marketing goes so far beyond just colors and jingles, into breaking down barriers of understanding and possibility for the people who experience it.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platform, to see how you can experience the possibilities for yourself!
Many of us know how scary it is to leave high school and try to find your place in the big, wide world. So the mission of Workforce Development Partners is to connect those graduating students with real people who can offer them real opportunities, and support them in their transition to adulthood. Yvonne Fry joins us on today's episode to talk about where and why this mission began, and how it's grown to support dozens of schools in our region. If you have a grade school student looking at home, visit workforcedevelopmentpartner.com to see what kinds of connections might be possible to ensure their future is a bright one!
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to catch more opportunities offered by our network of brilliant, caring community partners.
Our annual cereal collection event is here! Every year our partners at 10 Tampa Bay help us collect TONS of cereal so that kids in our community can have breakfast every day, even when they're on summer break from school. Kathryn Bursch has been helping us coordinate this massive effort for a long time, and joins us today to share what she's seen of the community pitching in to help one another. And there's still time for you to get involved! Cereal for Summer runs through the end of May, and you can donate or learn more by visiting cerealforsummer.com.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see just how much cereal we've collected this year, and all the other ways we're activating our community to make Tampa Bay a better place!
There's no singular path to accomplishing our goals in life, and on today's episode our president & CEO, Thomas Mantz, shares the secret sauce behind his successes at Feeding Tampa Bay. The main ingredient? Help from others who care. Not only does everyone need a hand-up to get where they want to go in life, but we all need to help each other if we hope to live in a community that's both stable and thriving. And with the grand opening of our enormous new facility just a few weeks away, we're excited to give everyone a taste of what we can accomplish, together.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to stay in the loop about our new facility and services in the coming weeks!
If you've spent enough time around Feeding Tampa Bay then you already know that food IS medicine! And the TampaWell project, created by our partners at Tampa General Hospital, is using that medicine to improve the health of our neighbors through a bright and sunny community garden. On today's episode we talk to Jenise Carr, the Food Pharmacy & Community Garden Manager at TampaWell, and learn all about the ways organic gardening helps us live longer while building community at the same time. AND she shares how those of us who aren't huge veggie fans can spice up our recipes to enjoy the nourishment our bodies need!
Be sure to visit the TampaWell website to learn more about their health app and volunteer opportunities. And check out the Sapphire Award we recently received from Florida Blue for our FoodRX program!
Find more healthy, fun recipes follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media.
Awareness of and involvement with the community around you is the most important part of advocacy work, according to Lorena Hardwick, our own Chief External Affairs Officer. It can be easy to get swept up in the frustrations we face in our lives, without knowing what we can do about them or how we can do it. But that's Lorena's specialty -- she stays on top of the important local and political developments that affect the lives of our neighbors, and acts to be their voice ensuring that families and children have what they need to thrive. Tune in to learn how you can directly effect change in your community, as well.
Contact Lorena with questions you have about advocacy, at LHardwick@FeedingTampaBay.org
And follow @FeedingTampaBay to see how we're effecting change on a daily basis, and all the ways you can get involved in the fight to improve lives all around the region!
Former Senator Janet Cruz still remembers how her grandparents' clothes smelled of cigars when they returned home from Ybor City's historic cigar factories. She recalls a childhood where neighbors shared cultural nuances and best of all delicious food! Growing up in Tampa helped create the passion that drives her to ensure that children and families throughout Tampa Bay have the resources they need to live happy and supported lives. Join us as we discuss Tampa's rich history, the struggles of growing up in poverty and the resilience of never giving in, an important conversation we can all learn a little something from.
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see history in the making, as we work to end hunger in the Tampa Bay area!
Joining us again on today's episode is mental health expert, Natasha Pierre, to help us honor Women's History Month by talking about how women can make the present a historic time. We touch on the importance of mentoring, how role-modeling starts at home, and how to have compassion for the people who might misunderstand you out in the world. This episode is chock full of other powerful insights as well, so tune in to celebrate how badass women truly are year round!
Check out Natasha's previous episode with us here
Find the book Natasha mentioned here
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see what the women in our world are doing to end hunger each and every day.
Twenty years cycling between home-life struggles and military combat zones has taught Dr. Damon everything he needs to know about the importance of personal and interpersonal healing. After battling with PTSD and suicidal thoughts himself, his life purpose was revealed to him in the form of improving life for the men and women who sacrificed to keep their loved ones safe. On today's episode he takes us on a journey from juvenile jail cells to having his name honored in the Pentagon, and teaches us about all the physical, mental, and spiritual ways his organization (SOF Missions) is healing veterans in Florida and beyond.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay to learn more about our incredible partners, and the ways you can get involved in the fight to improve life for every one of our neighbors around the country.
There is no better way to support our struggling neighbors than understanding what their struggles consist of, and how they can be helped. That is why Kareem Spratling is the perfect chairman for the board of Feeding Tampa Bay, and why we want to introduce you to him on today's episode!
In his youth, Kareem lived the experience of food insecurity firsthand. And as his life journey led him to positions of prestige, he never stopped pouring his time and effort into helping others find stability and dignity, too. Listen to learn about his journey from the projects to becoming a public finance attorney, and why he thinks success stories are so important during Black History Month and beyond.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see our own success stories, and how you can get involved to help us create more of them!
Dr. Sharma has returned (previous episode link here) and is helping us kick off the New Year with a better understanding of Integrative Medicine! She shares her individualized approach to each patient’s over all well-being and a few incredible success stories that reflect positive, healthy outcomes that have changed lives. We discuss the lifelong affects of "food trauma" and how it’s up to us to make a difference along with updates on our partnership with Tampa General Hospital and the innovative health programs available, that just begin with good nutrition.For more information on Nutrition Education visit our website. Follow @FeedingTampaBay to learn more about the work we're doing to improve health in Tampa Bay, and the phenomenal partners working right alongside us.
Did you know that Feeding Tampa Bay has programs for volunteers of all ages? On today's episode we talk about the Student Ambassador program, and meet two of the local college students using their knowledge and their voices to help fight food insecurity! Meet Gina and Adam, and learn how college students in Tampa Bay can get involved with their community, helping neighbors and making friends along the way. Then head over to FeedingTampaBay.org and learn about our other youth programs, Catalyst and Changemakers!
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see more of the fun, fulfilling activities you and your family can participate in throughout the coming year.
Your favorite yearly episode is here! Meet the inspirational human beings who act as the heart, the arms, the legs, and the soul of our mighty little organization. We talk passion and purpose with Roanna, Jack, Omar, Robert, and Jocelyn on today's episode! It truly takes a village to do the work we do, and we hope you'll join us in building it!
Learn more about our team and our programs on social media @FeedingTampaBay -- and visit our website, FeedingTampaBay.org, to see how you can get involved in the fight to end hunger.
Your favorite yearly episode is here! Meet the inspirational human beings who act as the heart, the arms, the legs, and the soul of our mighty little organization. We talk passion and purpose with Sarah, Chris, Lorena, and Scott on today's episode, and have FIVE MORE team members for you to meet next time! It truly takes a village to do the work we do, and we hope you'll join us in building it!
Learn more about our team and our programs on social media @FeedingTampaBay -- and visit our website, FeedingTampaBay.org, to see how you can get involved in the fight to end hunger.
The ChappellRoberts marketing agency is the creative force behind so many of Feeding Tampa Bay's bright, inspiring campaigns each year. And on today's episode, we'd like to introduce you to their Chief Creative Officer, Matt Boswell. We talk about what it's like trying to keep a creative spirit alive in a world that doesn't always know how to nurture that kind of person, and how ChappellRoberts dreams up marketing projects like or current "Big Things Are Happening" campaign. Visit https://feedingtampabay.org/bigthings to experience our interactive art exhibition, travelling the Tampa Bay region to connect with the community and help them experience our mission first-hand!
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see where our "Big Citrus" is going to be, and how you can support us by doing things like buying a specialty coffee drink from our partners at Blind Tiger!
Tampa Bay Bucs Linebacker Markees Watts says he is blessed to have always had support along his journey to the NFL. And he knows how much of a difference it makes to have people believe in you. That's why he was so intent on finding ways to support the community of Feeding Tampa Bay when he arrived here from Lancaster, SC. Listen to learn how Markees went from playing 8th grade football to being one of the tiny percentage of players who actually make it to the big leagues, and how complicated that process actually is when you aren't drafted right out of college.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay to learn more about the programs we collaborate on with partners like the Bucs, and how you can get involved in ending hunger in our community as well!
We're all aware that life can be difficult for an active duty soldier, but extreme difficulties can also pile up in different ways for retired veterans. Many of them struggle to reintegrate into normal, everyday life, and may not have enough money to cover food and housing costs. And that's not even mentioning the challenges they face from physical or mental trauma they've endured. On today's episode we hear from Dr. Chad Radwan, a veteran-care researcher from the James A. Haley Veteran's Hospital, and his friend David Caras, a veteran who leads support groups and other programs to help men just like him lead healthy lives.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay to learn how we work with community partners to support veterans in and around Tampa, and how you can get involved to do the same.
One surprising fact that has become clear in all our decades of food banking is this: food alone can't end hunger. That's why our colleagues like Matt and Kaity work so tirelessly to develop and improve programs that provide people with access to more than a just a meal. Tune in to learn how our work provides neighbors in need with healthcare, shelter, and financial self-sufficiency -- and how absolute human gems like Kaity find their way to working alongside us on our mission!
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see our programs in action, and learn how you can get involved in providing our neighbors with what they really need to thrive.
Our President and CEO, Thomas Mantz, is running in the Chicago Marathon on Sunday 10/8! He personally runs for better health, but this time he is running to better the health of others. And running right alongside him will be his daughter, Jessica -- who joins us on today's show to talk about her love of running and the training she and Thomas have been doing over the years.
You can join them in helping to create memories around the table for families served by both Feeding Tampa Bay and the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Go to https://donate.feedingtampabay.org/campaign/run-thomas-run/c522249 for more information, and thank you for supporting our mission to end hunger and build stability throughout our communities.
You can also view the awesome fun-spirational video we recorded with Thomas about his training for the marathon on our YouTube! And see more of our creations and work in the community by following @FeedingTampaBay on social media.
Access to healthy food helps to prevent so many long-term medical issues, that's why BayCare works so closely with Feeding Tampa Bay to ensure that our neighbors can get that much-needed access. Whether they're funding school pantries, sending medical patients home with bags of food, or staffing an on-site clinic at the FTB warehouse, BayCare is in it for the long haul when it comes to ending hunger. Tune in to hear from Lisa Bell, BayCare's Director of Community Benefit -- as well as our show's own former host, Matt Spence! He and Lisa have been brainstorming together for years, and are excited to talk about the programs that have sprouted from all those conversations.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media to learn more about our many programs, and how you can get involved in the fight against hunger.
Growing up, many of us don't learn all of the ins and outs of what truly goes into a healthy diet. Then when money is tight and stress is high, it can be even more difficult to think about nutrition on a daily basis. That is why the Nutrition Education team was formed at Feeding Tampa Bay -- to ensure our neighbors are getting the healthy food, and the nutritional information they need when they visit our programs. On today's episode Kelley Brickfield and Samantha Wholley explain how their team works, and provide insight into some common misunderstandings about food and nutritional health.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platform for more healthy eating info, and even some in-house recipes based on food we regularly receive at our warehouse!
At Feeding Tampa Bay, we create opportunities for neighbors of all ages to get involved in helping their community. We even have specific volunteer groups composed of kids, teens, and young adults, to help them engage and learn at their level -- and that's the focus of today's show. You'll get to meet two of our Community Engagement team members, who create a fun and feel-good experience for the folks helping us end hunger. And they'll set the stage for the stars of today's show: The Cole family. This loving bunch of giving hearts have restructured their very lives so that they can be more intentional about their impact on the world. And they encouraged a whole army of volunteers from their children's school, Corbett Elementary, to do the same!
Tune in to learn more about the variously aged affinity groups of Feeding Tampa Bay, and follow us on your favorite social media @FeedingTampaBay to see what kind of things you can do to get involved!
Last week we had a tasty conversation with Chef Marty Blitz of the famous Tampa restaurant, Mise en Place. And the multi-course meal wouldn't be complete without introducing you to Mise en Place's co-founder, Maryann Ferenc! Maryann has spent decades developing a recipe for success in the restaurant industry, and has shared in the journey of so many excellent chefs who have passed through her kitchens. Tune in to hear how she grew up in kitchens herself, and the importance of including the Mise en Place philosophy in every part of your life! Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media, and watch our Epic Chef LIVE on YouTube, Monday nights at 6:30pm until August 7th!
The legendary Mise en Place has been a leader in innovative dining for over 30 years in Tampa Bay. Meet the restaurant's Executive Chef, Marty Blitz, the creative driving force behind that reputation alongside his business partner, Maryann Ferenc. With Chef Marty’s decades of culinary experience, he has mentored a multitude of celebrated culinary artists in addition to loyally lending his expertise to support hunger relief organizations like Feeding Tampa Bay. Epic Chef Showdown's coveted trophy for is named The Marty Blitz Award honoring his years of dedication to his craft and influence. Listen in to hear how his journey through kitchens around the country and a garage in Pinellas county brought him to where he is today. You too can experience the 8th Annual Epic Chef Showdown LIVE at feedingtampabay.org/epicchef Mondays through August 7th.
In case you missed it last year, we're re-sharing the episode with FTB Director of Disaster Relief Jim Carpenter! Want to know what weather channels to watch when a storm is brewing? Want to know how you can restock your fridge after a long power outage? Tune in and listen to Weatherman Jim. Remember, Feeding Tampa Bay is here for you in blue skies, and gray.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay for updates about or disaster relief pantries this hurricane season, and stay safe, wherever you are.
Hurricane season is fast approaching here in Florida, and disaster relief is an important part of the food banking world. On today's episode we welcome back Robin Safley, Executive Director of Feeding Florida, to explain how food bank networks became a crucial part of the first responder teams in the U.S. But hurricanes aren't the only disasters we face every year -- check back in for our next few episodes to learn how our sister food banks in other parts of the nation help people survive through floods, fires, and more. Together, we can weather anything.
Learn how you can help in blue skies and gray, by visiting FeedingTampaBay.org and following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
When addiction takes over the steering wheel of your life, you're bound to crash and hurt the people around you. On today's episode, our friend Joel Sittloh shares how he is recovering from decades of drug and alcohol abuse, finding refuge and recovery in community support and service to others who are struggling. As Joel says, he lives his recovery out loud to help those who are who are suffering on the inside. Tune in to meet this incredible human being, and hear the message he has for people who have been in his position, and the people who love them.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to learn how you can personally get involved with our mission of ending hunger.
The people who dedicate their lives to helping others possess a strength that can be difficult to imagine. And few people embody that strength more than Yvette Carter, director of the pantry at Open Arms Ministry in Clearwater, FL. Having survived domestic abuse, homelessness, prison, and cancer, Yvette provides hope and support to her community every single day in the forms of food and honest listening. Tune in to hear about her turbulent journey through life, and how her mission of bringing people peace and comfort keeps her alive.
Learn more about Feeding Tampa Bay and how you can help end hunger in our region by visiting FeedingTampaBay.org.
Few people understand the power of food better than professional chefs. That's part of the reason Chef Ferrell Alvarez, who partly owns some of the most celebrated eateries in Tampa, has directly supported the mission of Feeding Tampa Bay for years. This year he's lending his expertise to our annual Fork Fight gala event, coordinating top culinary artists from around Tampa Bay to create multi-course meals for our 500 guests. Tune in to learn about Chef Ferrell's journey from "young punk" to winner of a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award!
Tampa Bay there are still a few tickets available!
Secure your seats now by reaching out to csibbick@feedingtampabay.org!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on social media to see a recap of this year's Fork Fight event, so that you can plan to get tickets and join us next year!
Many of us don't actually know how to check in on our own mental health. Many more don't realize how much of an effect mental health has on every part of our lives. We're fortunate to have experts like Natasha Pierre to coach us through the confusion and struggle of understanding our minds — what they need, how to care for them, and the fact that we're rarely alone in these difficulties. Tune in to learn how a talented girl from the Virgin Islands was shaped by huge successes and unimaginable losses, to become an advocate for every human being who struggles like she does. (Due to a camera error this week's episode doesn't have video but we plan to have Natasha on the show again in the future!)
Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to see clips from our other podcast episodes, as well as encouraging updates about our mission to end hunger!
It takes an incredible emotional strength (and sometimes an incredible partnership) to turn personal tragedy into hope for others -- but that is exactly what Mike & Kathy Fooshee have been doing for years. After meeting online over 20 years ago, their blended family has weathered unbelievable challenges, and made a mission of sharing their story with others to spare them from suffering through the same experiences. They do all of this with a hug and a smile for everyone they meet, and we're so grateful that they spend two days every week volunteering with us at Trinity Cafe.
Listen to their story on your favorite podcast app, or watch the episode on YouTube! Our channel there, and on all social media, is @FeedingTampaBay.
For nearly 30 years Sweetwater Organic Community Farm has educated Tampa residents about easy farming techniques, by inviting them to plant and harvest crops alongside their neighbors. Everyone from kindergarteners to senior citizens are welcome to come and learn how to care for plants and animals from the community that has kept the farm thriving all this time. On today's episode we talk with Chris Kenrick, the farm's Director, and learn why it's so important that more people become farmers, even if that just means growing a few plants in their own backyards. Knowing where your food comes from, and feeling pride in having grown it yourself is important, but even more important is the connection it fosters between yourself, nature, and the community around you.
Our episodes are also fully video recorded now! Watch Chris, Shannon, and Ev share laughs and learning on YouTube by visiting youtube.com/feedingtampabay -- and look out for more inspiring content on social media by searching @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite platform.
What happens when a father of 7 breaks his back on the job, and is unable to continue working, while the cost of rent and groceries rises all over the country? He leans on the support of community, family, and maybe even a furry new friend who can pull him out of the depths of despair. Meet David Brown, one of the brave, big-hearted guests who has visited the partner pantries of Feeding Tampa Bay. On today's episode he shares the story of how he unexpectedly found himself out of work, the journey that put him on through places he never thought he'd be in, and the inspiring people he met along the way.
This is also our first FULLY VISUAL episode! Watch David, Shannon, and Ev share laughs and learning on YouTube by visiting youtube.com/feedingtampabay -- and look out for more inspiring content on social media by searching @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite platform.
How do you plan for the most ambitious social project ever undertaken in Tampa Bay? With the help of experienced, dedicated people like Todd Wickner, who's managed successful restaurants and arenas across the United States. As a member of the Board of Directors of Feeding Tampa Bay, Todd has helped guide us through all of our trials, successes, and growth over the past 10 years, and he joins us on the show today to talk about the most exciting step forward that we're currently taking -- the construction of a brand new headquarters off of Causeway Boulevard.
Tune in to learn how Todd grew from helping out in his father's luncheonette, to easily feeding thousands of people in packed sports stadiums. And to learn more about our mission of ending hunger in Tampa Bay by 2025, visit our website, FeedingTampaBay.org, and follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
As a widow and mother, Barb is back to work at 71 and still struggling to make ends meet. She has been a lifetime caregiver and loyal volunteer, making asking for help extremely difficult and emotional. In a time where choices were being made between transportation, food and medicine, having food available was an unexpected relief.
To learn more visit FeedingTampaBay.org or to find a food bank near you, feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
With so many sources of news available on TV and online, it's difficult to know what to trust. We invite the Emmy-award-winning duo Michael Paluska and Reed Moeller from ABC Action News to pull back the curtain a bit on journalism, and share with you what it's like to brainstorm, write, and record the stories that inform you about your world. Tune in to learn about twin-tuition, the art of videography, and why it's important to invite your wife to dinner with Harrison Ford.
You can also see Michael and Reed's story about the heroes fighting child hunger, and find past episode of our show at feedingtampabay.org/stickaforkinit!
For more fun, insightful stories about our work -- follow us on your favorite social media @FeedingTampaBay!
We're fortunate to have had the support of Tampa's Mayor, Jane Castor, through thick and thin in recent years. She stood by us during the pandemic, providing Feeding Tampa Bay the attention and resources we needed to ensure nobody went hungry while businesses were closing. And now she's helping guide us through the process of expanding our capability, as we begin construction on a new facility offering more programs and more food out the door. Tune in to hear about her journey from athlete to police officer and finally to mayor of an entire city. And learn how the importance of family and community aided her along the way.
And as ever, follow us on your preferred social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay, to see what other guests we've had on the show, and what exciting developments are on their way in the future.
There was so much more to discuss with our recent guest, Katie Fitzgerald, that we just had to have her back on the show. Last time we talked about the ways that food banks are evolving to address root causes of hunger -- but on today's episode we discuss how that evolution is made possible, and how it's already making regions around Feeding America food banks truly hunger-free. To learn what it really means to be hunger-free, check out another recent episode where our Chief Programs Officer, Matt Spence, breaks it down in simple terms!
You can save our episodes for later listening on any of your favorite podcast platforms, and you can see teasers for each one by following our social media accounts @FeedingTampaBay.
After spending years teaching students directly, Addison Davis finds himself in charge of all the school's in one of the nation's largest counties. How does someone in that position ensure that children are getting what they need to be well-adjusted, successful adults? By working tirelessly to get teachers and parents what they need, and remembering that every child has a story. Tune in to learn how Addison has pushed to improve schools in Hillsborough county in recent years, and what he hopes we can come together to accomplish for the future caretakers of our society.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platform to learn about the other partners we work with to make Tampa a healthier, happier place!
Hunger-free means everybody who needs food knows where they can go to get some, as our Chief Programs Officer, Matt Spence, recently explained on our show. And on today's episode we introduce you to the folks who have helped us develop a plan to make Tampa Bay hunger-free. Over the course of the past year the Monitor Institute, and their Managing Director, Joanna Burleson, has helped Feeding Tampa Bay figure out how we can do what we do even better. Together we brainstormed outside the box, talked with members of the community, and pored over research to give ourselves the best edge we can get in the fight against food insecurity. Tune in to learn what it takes to create a plan like this, and what we think we can do now that it's nearly complete.
And stay up-to-date on all the other work we're doing in the community, as well as ways you can get involved, by following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
Continuing from yesterday's episode of this year's Humans of the Food Bank, we bring you 5 more of our incredible colleagues sharing their personal journeys! Tune in to meet the compassionate souls that work every day to end hunger in Tampa Bay and beyond, and if you missed the first 3 guests, be sure to check out Part 1 of this year's series.
Catch all the teasers and highlights from this and other FTB creations by following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
Everyone's favorite annual episode is here! We love to wrap up each year with an episode that helps you get to know our staff, who they are, what they do, and why they do it. These phenomenal human beings feed thousands of families all over West Central Florida, and they pour their heart into our mission every single day. Tune in to hear from three of our colleagues who have never been on the show before, and learn how they came to be part of the Feeding Tampa Bay Family. Then, tune in again tomorrow, December 22nd, to hear from four more hunger heroes!
And follow us on your preferred social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay to see the work these incredible folks do in action!
Our beloved show host, Matt Spence, returns to share what he's been up to for the past few months -- which entails everything from Ninja Warrior training to mapping out the end to hunger in Tampa Bay. He and other members of FTB have been assembling expert research and firsthand community member experiences into a strategic plan, which will help us ensure that everyone who needs food in our region will know where to find it. Tune in to learn how we're improving our programs to put more food in schools, improve the physical health of families, and help people establish their own financial stability.
And be sure to follow FTB on your favorite social media platform for more insights and updates @FeedingTampaBay!
Katie Fitzgerald never intended to work in food banking, but along the storied path to her current position, she learned just how many doorways access to food can open for people across the country. Feeding America is a network of more than 200 partner food banks that cover every county in the United States, and Feeding Tampa Bay is just one part of that massive effort. Our own CEO, Thomas Mantz, joins us on this episode to discuss with Katie how the work that we do creates opportunities for people to change their future, by connecting them with resources beyond just food. Tune in to learn how we hope to provide a voice to the people who are struggling, and who know what they need better than anyone else.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platforms to learn how you can stand with us in the fight against hunger, providing hope to people in your own community and beyond.
Billions of pounds of perfectly edible food goes to waste every year in the United States alone. As one of the largest food recyclers in the country, Feeding Tampa Bay is proud to partner with caring individuals like Cammie Chatterton, who uses her role and knowledge as a food broker to make sure that waste is reduced as much as possible. Tune in to learn what a food broker does, and how she became a part of our mission to end hunger in our community.
And follow us on your favorite social media platform @FeedingTampaBay to learn how YOU can become part of the mission, too!
We know that our pets are family, and their health and happiness is as important to us as our own. That's why we partner up every year with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay to provide free shots for dogs, and free food for families. Having a few less things to worry about builds up the capacity our community members have to deal with struggles that come their way, and we've seen how just a little extra help can dramatically change a life. Tune in to hear from Sherry Silk, CEO of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, on how their organization has grown to help more of our furry friends, and the families that love them.
And find us on your favorite social media platform @FeedingTampaBay, to learn about more events like the free shot clinic coming up on Saturday, Nov. 5th -- from 9am-12pm at the Gardenville Park & Recreation Center in Gibsonton!
How do we bring stability to our community and even our Florida neighbors? Our Director of Facilities and Disaster Response, Jim Carpenter, joins us at the table once again to share details on how our network prepares and provides relief during a storm, specifically Hurricane Ian. Followed by Rule #7 suggestions from ABC Action News Denis Phillips! You can listen to his full episode (Weather Geeking with Denis Phillips of ABC Action News) on your favorite podcast platform, as well.
Follow us on your favorite social media platforms to stay updated on all the ways we help our community in times of need, and to learn how you can get involved in the fight against hunger, too.
What does the study of Anthropology have to do with fighting hunger? Well, more than you'd think! Not only does studying human nature tell us tons about how people cope with hunger, it can also tell us how to combat it. On today's episode we sit with our longtime academic associate, Dr. David Himmelgreen, to talk about the ways that people all over the world are alike, and how we learn better ways every day to help them.
Wait for it... This is our first podcast episode with a visual follow up, where you can join Thomas and Shannon on an adventure into the worlds of our guests and the community we serve. Tune in for, Stick A Fork In It TV -- brought to you regularly on our YouTube channel. This first one will launch next Wednesday, September 28th. So be sure to follow us there for updates!
And to see all the other ways we're working to fight hunger, follow us on your favorite social media @FeedingTampaBay.
As a former reporter with ABC Action News, Don Germaise made the decision not to really retire but instead to "hunker down" into a life dedicated to community service. In the Tampa Bay non-profit world, he is the definition of "Take Action". And that is the mantra during September, which is recognized every year as Hunger Action Month, when people all over the country come together to help each other get the resources they need to fill bellies and create a better future. You can take action year round, but tune in to learn more about the ways you can get involved this September, and hear some of Don's amazing tales of volunteering around the world!
Follow us on your favorite social media platforms to learn how you can take part in Hunger Action Month, or just take action in your community in general!
Tampa General Hospital believes, like we do, that food is medicine. But they also know that exercise and education are medicine, too, and they're committed to helping our neighbors access all of those things. Through their upcoming grassroots project, TampaWell, they will provide Tampa residents with a community garden and food pantry, as well as guidance on ways to practice "enjoyable movement" and mental health wellness tips. On today's episode we're joined by Kim Christine and Dr. Tanuja Sharma of Tampa General Hospital, and they offer a wealth of insights into ways that men, women, children, and seniors can take simple steps to improve their health on a daily basis. Tune in and see how you might benefit from a little integrated medicine yourself!
And follow us on your favorite social media sites @FeedingTampaBay for more information about TampaWell, and other ways that we're partnering with our peers to make Tampa living healthier and easier for everyone!
No doubt you probably have some Vigo & Alessi food products in your own pantry right now. Well they're celebrating 75 years of being based in Tampa by teaming up with ABC Action News and Feeding Tampa Bay, to help Pack the Pantries of school children and their families in our community! Tune in to learn about Vigo's history from one of the family members that helps bring you some of your favorite Italian food products, and also how you can help with our Pack the Pantries campaign this year. Young kiddos need food to grow and learn, and we're grateful to have partners like these standing beside us to make sure that happens!
Learn more about Feeding Tampa Bay, our partners, and how you can get involved in the fight against hunger by visiting FeedingTampaBay.org. Or by following us on your favorite social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay!
2022 marks the SEVENTH year of our much-loved Epic Chef competition, where the top chefs in Tampa Bay face off in a contest of culinary creativity. Guests watch in person or online, enjoying delicious gourmet cuisine and crafted cocktails at the Epicurean Hotel, and on today's episode our guest is the hotel's General Manager, Shawn Routten! Tune in for a quick convo where we learn about the history of the event, the future of the hotel's expansion in SoHo, and some fun facts about Shawn himself. And be sure to tune in for the final night of Epic Chef -- Monday, August 1st starting at 6:45pm! Visit the Feeding Tampa Bay YouTube channel to watch LIVE, and subscribe for notifications about this and future events.
And as always, follow us on your other favorite social media @FeedingTampaBay, to learn how you can get involved with our mission of ending hunger in West Central Florida and beyond!
Trinity Cafe promises to feed all who need food, rain or shine, pandemic or peace, 365 days a year. And the meals are so much more than just basic sustenance. That's thanks in large part to our Executive Chef, Daniel Graves, who has worked everywhere from smalltime local kitchens to massive casino chains over the past 32 years. On this episode Chef Daniel explains what drew him to Trinity Cafe after decades of managing premiere kitchens around the country, and how he and his committed team are able to turn food donations into gourmet meals on a daily basis for our neighbors in need.
Want to see some of his expertise in action? Check out our upcoming Epic Chef event, where guests can sample the amazing charcuterie boards he's assembled, and watch some of the best chefs in Tampa Bay face off over the course of three nights! And follow us on all social media @FeedingTampaBay for more updates.
Becoming a parent for the first time is scary, and the mountains of information we're expected to consume in preparation can be overwhelming. That's why Jake Edling, father of seven and acclaimed dad-expert, wrote "The New Daddy Experience" -- a succinct and grounded guide through the first few months of parenthood. Though it is primarily geared toward new fathers, new mothers can also benefit from the tips, tricks, and truths contained in the intentionally brief collection of pages. On this episode of Stick a Fork in It, Jake explains how he transitioned from life as a company man to life as a dedicated father and teacher, and how he learned to navigate the unpredictable path of parenthood. Find his brand new book for Kindle on Amazon!
And be sure to check out our recent Father's Day special episode, featuring some of the dads who work at our food bank. Whether you're having your first child or your seventh, there's so much that can be learned when we share our wisdoms with one another.
Follow us on all social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay for other info and insights to help support your family!
On this special Father's Day edition of Stick a Fork in It, we welcome a few of the food bank's new and long-time fathers to share stories of the work, play, and growth that goes into raising their little ones. Matt hosts our co-workers Pete, Khalil, and Lemuel, who have sons and daughters ranging from toddlers to teens and beyond, and a truckload of funny and meaningful stories that naturally come with the territory of parenthood. Tune in to learn how they manage their work-life balance, create loving connections with their family, and learn from their own childhood experiences to be the best fathers they can be. To all the dads out there we say, Happy Father's Day!
Follow us on all our social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay for more fun insights into our world and the amazing staff that helps us lift up our community every single day!
We all love our furry friends, and the last thing we want is to see them going hungry when we fall on hard times. That's why PetSmart Charities decided to team up with Feeding America, to make sure that pet owners didn't have to make difficult choices in trying to support themselves. Tune in to learn how PetSmart and Feeding Tampa Bay worked together to provide dog, cat, and people food to families during the pandemic, and how you can help support that mission going forward!
Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to learn about the other partners that make our mission of ending hunger possible, and how you can join the movement, too.
Recorded on location at the WellBuilt Bikes shop in the University Mall, we talk philanthropy and philosophy with grassroots community organizer, Jon Dengler. He shares how a single conversation with a homeless neighbor led him to build an organization that works tirelessly to support people struggling with poverty and independence. From opening his home to the unhoused, to starting community gardens, to providing free bikes to customers who complete a bit of community service -- Jon has collaborated with like minds to move mountains for people, without the backing of any major corporate or government funding. Tune in for an inspiring story that will help you to see poverty differently, and how much something small like a working bicycle can mean in helping someone out of a rut in their life.
Follow us on social media for more stories like this one @FeedingTampaBay!
What if your child could get a dental check-up without having to leave school? And if your elderly neighbor could get food for free when their money is tight? And if someone could help you navigate confusing government programs online? Well at Gulfside Elementary, all of these things are made possible through the Community Partnership program they are a part of -- and the services offered are available to students, families, and any other residents in the area who need help.
On this episode we're joined by the Gulfside Hub director, Mary Brown. And she explains not only how the program works, but how they've already seen amazing, measurable results in the few short years that it's been open. Tune in to learn how community partners have come together to support Gulfside and other schools all over Florida. And follow @FeedingTampaBay on any social platform to see how we're providing support too, so you can get involved!
It's become a tradition over the past 7 years for us to collect thousands of cereal boxes during the summer, to help feed children who normally depend on their schools for breakfast. And we have Kathryn Bursch and her team from local news station 10 Tampa Bay to thank for coming up with the idea and putting it into action. This year's collection is already underway, and Kathryn joins us on today's episode to tell you a bit about Cereal for Summer, and how you can get involved to help feed hungry children! Visit Cerealforsummer.org for more information.
And follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to see all the wonderful work being done by our partners like General Mills, who donated over 85 thousand boxes of cereal directly to Feeding Tampa Bay this year!
We return to our two-part episode featuring our friend Ian Adair from the Gracepoint Foundation, and our conversation about mental health in times of crisis. In part one we focused on the ways that world events, and their inescapable presence on social media, can have a negative impact on our mental health -- as well as ways to combat that impact. But in part two, Ian helps us understand the importance of mental health in the workplace. We spend so much of our lives working, and if that environment isn't one where we feel seen, heard, and understood, it's unlikely that we'll be happy there for very long.
If you missed it, click here to check out the previous episode!
And if you want to hear the first episode where Ian joined us on the show, click here.
Follow @FeedingTampaBay for future updates about the show, and ways you can get involved in the fight against hunger.
What can you do when there seems to be crisis all around you? Mental health guru Ian Adair joins us once again for a conversation about coping in healthy ways with the pandemic, a struggling economy, and now, a war between Ukraine and Russia that has the entire world on edge. He and Thomas Mantz, our Feeding Tampa Bay CEO, dive into the way that social media and news overload can affect us, our children, and our relationships with one another. And this episode has two parts! In part one we discuss the personal ways that people can develop tools for creating peace in their lives, and then in part two (releasing next week) we discuss ways to foster peace and understanding in the workplace.
To learn more about how the Ukraine conflict has affected folks right here in Tampa Bay, check out this powerful Tampa Bay Times article by Christopher O'Donnell.
And to listen to the previous episode where Ian joined us to talk about his work with the Gracepoint Foundation, click here!
Follow us for more information about the fight against hunger by searching @FeedingTampaBay on your favorite social media platforms.
Lisa Unger has had a passion for writing stories since she was a girl, and for the past 20 years has put out one new novel each year. She joins us on today's episode to describe how we all have creativity within and how she finds her muse "in the quiet" for her character-driven stories, and what it's like to grow up with a career dream that people tell you is silly or unlikely. We're also joined by a special guest host, our own Kelley Sims, adding to the rich environment of female leaders, mothers, and passionate strivers we celebrate this March during National Women's Month. Tune in to learn how reading is just as important for your children as a healthy meal, and how you can support Feeding Tampa Bay by buying books like Lisa's!
Follow us on your favorite social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay for more great insights and future guests!
Sometimes all it takes to start the spiral into inescapable poverty is a few unpaid parking tickets. When someone is already struggling with money, small legal fines can result in their license being taken away, and then they often can't earn any money at all. Sarah Couture, Florida Director of the Fines & Fees Justice Center, joins us on this episode to explain how her work seeks to erase these pitfalls from our legal system, so that people who find themselves in trouble don't end up stuck there.
A more equitable justice system not only benefits the individuals navigating it, but benefits the system itself, which often relies on the payment of fines and fees for funding. Tune in to learn how telling YOUR story of legal complications can actually make a difference, and also, how a little hot sauce can vastly improve your grandma's patented mac and cheese recipe.
And as always, follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay for more tips on how you can help improve your community for yourself, for your children, and for your neighbors in need!
After a year of perfecting the recipe, we finally get to sit with LJ Govoni and Shannon Brooks to taste their delightful creation, "Hops for Hunger" -- a collaborative project that benefits Feeding Tampa Bay each time somebody buys one of the perfectly-named brews. Big Storm Brewing has been a staple for decades in the Tampa Bay region, and they truly are masters of their craft. On today's episode they walk us through the history of the company, as well as the funny story that led to our partnership with them, and ultimately to this wheaty, citrusy drink idea. And stick around to hear from special guest taste-testers from our own team, and other local nonprofits like John Dengel from Tampa's own WellBuilt Bikes!
To see clips from other episodes, or learn more about our mission of ending hunger in Tampa Bay, visit FeedingTampaBay.org, or follow us on your favorite social media platform @FeedingTampaBay!
Want to contact us directly with questions or ideas about our show?
Email Shannon at soliviero@feedingtampabay.org!
George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida is like a second home to New York's own Yankees. Over the course of their 27 seasons here, some of the biggest names in baseball have trained right in our own backyard. And on today's episode we have the pleasure of reminiscing with Howard Grosswirth, the Yankees' Vice President of Corporate Sales, and a member of the Feeding Tampa Bay board of directors. He shares with us the Yankees' devoted history of supporting their communities, and the ways that the Steinbrenner family continues to be a huge believer in missions like that of Feeding Tampa Bay. With their help, and yours, we are working to make Tampa Bay healthy, happy, and hunger-free.
Click here to listen to our episode featuring Brian Auld, President of the Tampa Bay Rays
Click here to listen to our episode featuring Ian Beckles, former Tampa Bay Buccaneer
Learn more about our partnerships with the Yankees, the Rays, the Bucs, the Lightning and others by visiting our website or following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
Behind all of the phenomenal work done every day by our food bank staff and volunteers are the members of the Feeding Tampa Bay board of directors, who guide and support our organization in the mission of ending hunger in our community. On today's episode we are joined by three of those board members, each with their own passionate story about why fighting hunger is important to them, and how their unique positions allow them to do just that.
Two of these huge-hearted individuals have been on the show before, so if you missed those episodes, or just want to revisit them, find the links below! And as ever, if you want to find more info about Feeding Tampa Bay and how you can help us lift up the children and families that need us, visit FeedingTampaBay.org.
Monica Wilson - Director, Community Food Pantry
Roberto Torres - Owner, Blind Tiger Cafe
Tens of thousands of volunteers grace our programs with their presence every single year, and make possible our mission of ending hunger in our community. On today's episode, meet 6 more magnificent humans who have worked side by side with us in recent years, and learn what drives them to keep returning to the front lines every single week. From serving up hot dishes at Trinity Cafe to assisting shoppers in our Publix Community Market, these incredible people have touched the lives of their neighbors in ways they couldn't previously imagine. And we hope that hearing their stories will touch your life, as well.
The grand finale of this years Humans of the Food Bank series will feature Feeding Tampa Bay's own board members, and you can meet them here in just a couple of weeks! Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay for updates, and stay tuned.
It's becoming a tradition to spend our last few episodes of the year getting to know the huge-hearted people who carry our mission on their backs. Our food bank is huge, and continuing to grow rapidly, and the people we have to thank for that success come from all over the world, with all kinds of stories and dreams, and they are the folks we'd like you to meet today. Learn how 6 amazing individuals work every day to end hunger in the Tampa Bay area, whether they guide our volunteers in the field, coordinate the food we provide, or spread our message online -- they are all key parts of our philanthropic family, and we know you'll love them as much as we do.
Our next episode will introduce some of our veteran volunteers, who have been assisting us for years in feeding their neighbors, both young and old -- so keep an eye out for announcements by following us on your favorite social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay!
Author, comedian, and Executive Director of the Gracepoint Foundation, Ian Adair has spent 25 years managing communications in the non-profit world. He uses humor and human connection to introduce people to the reality that everyone has mental health that needs attending to, and that no one is completely alone in their struggles, even if it feels that way sometimes. On today's episode, he shares the work done by Gracepoint to bring self-care into the workplace, amidst anecdotes about his favorite tacos and his 11-year-old son's hilarious nickname for him.
If you're looking for additions to your own self-care routine, consider boosting spirits around you, and in turn your own, by giving back to your community with the gifts of time and talent. Visit our website, FeedingTampaBay.org, to learn about opportunities to get involved with our mission of ending hunger in Tampa Bay -- and follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
Accessible housing, tax assistance, early childhood education -- United Way guides people through some of the most difficult trials that life serves up, and many of us have no idea of the help they offer, all over the world. Kari Goetz of our local affiliate, United Way Suncoast, joins us on this episode and in her theater-honed style explains how so many people who work full time can still fall through the cracks of society. Tune in for a phenomenal convo about safety nets, German food, and the Mouseketeers -- then take a look through our episode list to hear from our other great community partners like the Rays, St. Pete Distillery, and wrestlers from the WWE!
Want to get involved in making your community a healthier, happier place? Visit FeedingTampaBay.org to donate or volunteer with us -- or if you're in need yourself, find food in your area that's fresh and free.
Raising a family and growing a business on a resort overlooking the sandy shores of St. Pete Beach, MaryAnn Renfrow understands the importance of preserving the nature that guests and locals enjoy every day. That's why she joined the board of Tampa Bay Watch to help restore our waterways and teach the community about them. And when the beaches were empty last year, she dedicated her time and resources to standing with Feeding Tampa Bay in the fight against hunger, which had been made more difficult by the pandemic. Tune in to learn about MaryAnn's lifelong adventures in Pinellas county, how she got into the hospitality industry, and what it was like trying to run a hotel during a nationwide lockdown.
And follow us on your preferred social media platform @FeedingTampaBay to learn how you can get involved in the fight against hunger, too!
One of our main goals here at Feeding Tampa Bay is to tell the stories of the people we serve each day, and we couldn't make that happen without the help of our friends in broadcast media. Local news icons like Gayle Guyardo, who has been reporting and anchoring for over 25 years, help shine a light on the needs and good deeds in our community, and we are incredibly grateful to each and every one of them. Tune into today's episode to learn how Gayle got into news media, and what it's like to be a reporter chasing down stories to share on TV!
And to stay up-to-date with FTB news, follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay, or visit our website at www.FeedingTampaBay.org!
For the past 7 years Brian Auld has been president of the Tampa Bay Rays, and during that time he has helped foster a culture of community involvement that sports fans everywhere can be proud of. Listen in to learn how he transitioned from teaching 4th grade students to helping the Rays clinch 2 straight AL East championships, and how important it is for the team to be more than just baseball players. We're proud to be partnered with such a compassionate and innovative organization, and look forward to continuing our shared work of bettering our community in every way we can. Go Rays!
Follow FTB on social media at @FeedingTampaBay and visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org to learn more about our sports team partnerships -- as well as opportunities to win official swag from your local favorites!
Math and science aren't the only things kids should be learning in school, as today's guest on the show will tell you. A food pantry orchestrated by neighborhood schools is an excellent opportunity for children to learn about serving their community, and who the people in that community really are. Tune in to learn how a small church pantry doubled in size after it was passed along to the care of Buck Johnson and his crew of large-hearted teachers and students, and how your community can easily participate in similar projects that lift spirits and fill bellies everywhere.
Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay and visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org for more information!
In a year full of change-ups we've altered the formula of our annual Epic Chef event to be a pack even more excitement into a shorter run of shows. If you're not familiar, Epic Chef is our sponsor-supported competition between Tampa's top restaurants, hosted by The Epicurean Hotel in SoHo. This year over the course of three nights we invited the community to watch the head chefs of the top-rated eateries in our city go head to head creating dishes using surprise mystery ingredients from our very own warehouse!
Tune in as Matt and Shannon broadcast the festivities, interviewing special guests and sampling the top-tier cuisine being judged by the evening's contest participants. And be sure to keep an eye out for next year's Epic Chef event so that you can be a part of the party, while helping raise awareness and donation money to aid the food-insecure folks in your community.
Visit our website and follow us @FeedingTampaBay on social media to stay up to date on our most recent and upcoming events!
On a special edition of Stick a Fork in It, Congresswoman Kathy Castor is interviewed by her daughter Chrissy Lewis, who just completed a multi-department internship with our organization learning about what we do! Then we get to talk in-depth with Chrissy about her experiences interning with us, as well as her own plans on how best to serve our community in the future.
And stick around for WTFB to meet Ronkevious Smalls, our Director of Employee Experience, and learn what it's like to actual work at one of the fasted growing food banks in the country. We place a premium on engaging and gratifying culture here at Feeding Tampa Bay, and go the extra mile to make sure that our employees feel like they fit in with the family!
Visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org to learn about career opportunities we currently have available, as well as other ways that you can get involved in your spare time!
What if you could grow 3 whole acres of food in a box in your backyard? Well, Brick Street Farms has developed a way to do just that, using hydroponics and metal shipping containers. Their growing methods provide everything a plant needs to produce the healthiest, tastiest veggies it possible can, without a bunch of artificial modifying. Tune in to learn how the process works, and where you can buy some of their greens near you.
Learn more about our community partners by visiting our website at FeedingTampaBay.org, and by following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
General Mills is the company that produces many of your most favorite, most iconic cereals -- but they're also responsible for TONS of other beloved breakfast, lunch, and dinner foods that you can find in any grocery store. On today's episode we're grateful to have Scott Nevitt (Sr. Customer Mgr.) and Katie Fenech (Brand Experience Asst. Mgr.) join us to marvel at the lifelong impact foods like breakfast cereal have on each and every one of us. This year alone General Mills helped us collect over 2 MILLION meals worth of food during our annual Cereal for Summer campaign. Tune in to learn about all the foods in your fridge that you didn't even know came from General Mills, and stick around to meet Kathryn Burch from our news partner 10 Tampa Bay! Kathryn has been helping FTB spread the word about food relief for years, and she shares with us the importance of that message to her and to her media team.
Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to stay up to date on our annual campaigns, and learn how you can get involved in feeding your community!
The University of South Florida stands with Feeding Tampa Bay not only to feed struggling youth in our community, but to understand why they're struggling, and how best to help them. Their faculty and staff are uniquely capable of conducting the necessary research to understand and fight hunger in the demographics we serve, never missing an opportunity to collaborate with us on exciting new projects. We are, better together forming The Center for the Advancement of Food Insecurity and Healthy Communities.
On today's episode, meet Dr. Eric Eisenberg, the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, and learn how the three campuses USF has in the surrounding counties provide opportunities to their students and their communities to rise out of their collective struggles and live the lives that are the healthiest and most fulfilling possible.
Learn more about our partnerships with USF by following us on social media @FeedingTampaBay! And Go Bulls!
It may take a village to raise a barn, but Rob Rozmeski, founder of construction contracting outfit the Zackary Group, did much more than that with far fewer people. Rob knows how incredibly essential it is to have support from your community of loved ones during hard times, and knows maybe better than anyone how important it is to have four walls and a roof for those loved ones to thrive under. So when he agreed to bring our dream of a Feeding Pinellas Community Center in Lealman, we were overjoyed -- and the result has been astonishing. Tune in to hear how Rob was called to give back to his community, through the skills he acquired growing a small business into a mighty one.
Then stick around to hear from FTB's own weather/handy man, Jim Carpenter, who has been holding our operation together with his own two hands for the better part of a decade. He explains how FTB acts as a first responder to cities all over the East coast of the country, and how our experience with hurricane aftermath prepared us to contend with the overwhelming need created by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to stay up to date with our latest projects and programs, and to learn how you can get involved in building a better community for all of our families to grow in.
You may know Tyson as "the chicken company" but they provide much more than just delicious wings and nuggets to your local grocery store -- they also provide thousands of pounds of food to food banks and veterans around our community. On today's episode Sales Lead Kevin Ordway shares the company's philosophy on philanthropy, and all of the important ways that people can help even when they don't have a massive tractor trailer of chicken to share!
Follow @Feedingtampabay on social media to stay up to date on all the ways that you can help too, and visit our website FeedingTampaBay.org to donate or volunteer with us in your community!
The people we serve come from all walks of life, and an array of cultures. We respect how important it is to meet them in their world -- providing foods and services that are meaningful to them, and to communicate in ways they can easily understand. On this week's episode, we're joined by Jaclyn Boland, CEO of the InterCultural Advocacy Institute, a wonderful organization that has helped us serve the Hispanic and Latinx community in their area. Jaclyn shares the story of her round-the-world journey into cultural philanthropy. Then on WTFB? meet our Community Partnerships Manager, Wilmarie Colon Alvarado, whose job is to ensure that we're serving our neighbors in the best way possible for them personally!
Browse our website FeedingTampaBay.org in one of the multiple language options we provide, and sign up for our informational texting service by texting FTBFYI (for English), or FTBPARATI (for Spanish)to 833-530-3663. Don't miss direct alerts about available food and services in your area!
Fans of the Tampa radio station Hot 101.5 have probably listened to the Miguel and Holly Show on their way to work. But for those who are out of range, our guest Miguel Fuller joins us on today's episode about living LIVE on-air, and accepting help in our own times of need. Follow Miguel's odyssey from Atlanta, GA to Tampa, FL, and hear how he came to live a life he never dreamed possible, and why it inspires him every day to give back (and pay it forward)!
Listen to Miguel and holly on 101.5 FM from 6-10am, and listen to more episodes of our podcast on your favorite platform (Spotify, Apple Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and more). You can also find the episodes on our website FeedingTampaBay.org, along with plenty of other information about our cause, and ways to get involved.
Tampa Bay experienced another first this year with Wrestlemania37! WWE Superstar Big E made an impressive, surprise entrance rocking our brand from head to toe! On this episode we find out Big E's motivation and how many meals the auction of his gear will serve and how he's using his influence to help others as well. Plus! Don't miss a very special WTFB? guest who busts in! (hint: he ALSO might be known to most as WWE's Global Ambassador Titus O'Neil but around here, we call him Thad)
And as ever, follow us on social @FeedingTampaBay to stay up to speed on our mission of ending hunger in Tampa Bay by 2025!
Few people understand the importance of showing up as well as players on a sports team. And Peter Masone, General Manager of the Tampa Bay Cannons, has been showing up every Saturday for over a year to help us feed his neighbors in Pinellas County. Tune in to learn how the Cannons moved to Tampa Bay, and adopted the community as their own in a time of great need.
Then stick around to learn about more amazing opportunities to help out from our Feeding Pinellas Volunteer Supervisor, Antoine Everett! Our newest Trinity Cafe location in St. Petersburg will provide hot food, frozen meals, showers, laundry, and more to folks that are struggling -- and we can't do it without you!
Visit FeedingTampaBay.org to see what volunteer opportunities are available, and follow us @FeedingTampaBay on social to see what we do on a daily basis!
YMCA's across the nation serve as community hubs where members can exercise, learn new skills, gather with fellow members of their faith, swim, dance, and more. And as CEO of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA Matt Mitchell explains, the collective goal of the organization is to adapt to the needs of their individual communities. So when the pandemic began last year, and members were having difficulty finding child care and food, the YMCA stepped in to provide, at no small cost to themselves. Tune in to learn about all the ways your local "gym & swim" is really so much more than that.
And to find out about more of our community partners and ways you can get involved, visit FeedingTampaBay.org and follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay!
It may come as a surprise to many that food banks exist in some of the more affluent areas around Tampa, let alone that residents actually visit it. But the Community Food Pantry in Carrollwood has been a life raft for hundreds of locals who have fallen on hard times, even before the pandemic. Their fearless director, Monica Wilson, joins us on the show to share how a single experience with her son drove her to take up the fight against hunger, and where that has lead her to today. Then join us for WTFB where our Director of Agency Relations, Catherine Godwin, explains where the heck all of this food comes from, and how a small team of drivers and volunteers get it where it's going.
To learn more about what we do, and the partners who help us do it, visit FeedingTampaBay.org, and follow us on social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn @FeedingTampaBay!
The Covid pandemic has created lots of unlikely allies, like a food bank and an alcohol distillery, for example. When the city's hand-sanitizer supply dried up, the savvy engineers at St. Pete distillery converted their vats to brew their own version and supply it for free to frontline workers and neighbors in need. We talk (bottle) service with Skip Ragan and Matt Armstrong, before tackling relief contributions from the NFL with former Buccaneer Michael Clayton and Angela Smith of the NFL Off the Field Players' Wives Association!
View clips from our recording sessions on our Facebook and Instagram pages @FeedingTampaBay! And visit our website FeedingTampaBay.org/Podcasts to listen to other episodes of Stick A Fork In It.
For the past 16 years Ross Anderson has been raising the young men of Tampa Bay out of difficult circumstances and into leaders, thinkers, and achievers. His Men of Vision program has guided literally thousands of children deemed "problematic" by their schools to a place where they can actively choose what kind of successful future will suit them best. Tune in to learn how he has worked such incredible magic, and how the Men of Vision have been an invaluable resource to programs like our Trinity Cafe restaurants in North and Downtown Tampa.
Our partnerships spread far and wide, and need just as much support as we do here at FTB -- so follow our social pages @FeedingTampaBay to see the names and smiling faces of the community heroes we work with every week!
A truly great man in both character and physical stature, local wrestling celebrity Thaddeus Bullard joins us on the show to talk hometown philanthropy. Not only has he established a groundbreaking adult learning center at Sligh Middle School in Seminole Heights, but he's partnering with Feeding Tampa Bay so that our FRESHforce culinary trainees can utilize the brand new, high quality kitchen inside! Tune in to learn how he grew from a destitute child into a symbol of strength and compassion for future generations. And on WTFB we're joined by FRESHforce leader Mike Perkins, who revels in the glory of the new facility, and what it means to the hopeful candidates that join our jobs training program.
Check out the other huge names from around the Bay that we get to partner with! Follow our social media pages @FeedingTampaBay and visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org.
We did it, Tampa! The Bucs are going to the Superbowl, and we're taking the opportunity to share some behind-the-scenes info about all of the phenomenal work the NFL is doing to feed struggling families in our community. Meet one of our Development Team all-stars, Ashley, who helps form partnerships like the one we have with the Bucs to make our mission possible.
Learn more about our mission and our partnerships by visiting FeedingTampaBay.org, and following us on social media like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn @FeedingTampaBay!
Through a new partnership with our local Habitat for Humanity affiliate, we're helping to give our neighbors two of the most basic needs on Earth - food and shelter. Our friend Mike Sutton, CEO of Habitat Pinellas & West Pasco, joins us to explain how he and his team are helping families break the poverty cycle, and invest energy and pride into their brand new homes. Tune in to celebrate with us, and learn how you can help feed and house deserving parents and children in your area.
Follow us on social @feedingtampabay, and visit our website FeedingTampaBay.org, as well as our partner's website HabitatPWP.org!
On this final (for now) episode of "Humans of the Food Bank" we learn all about our annual tradition of naming one employee as Food Banker of the Year. We speak with the previous title-holder from 2019, as well as the CO-winners of the title for 2020. Then on WTFB, our president and CEO explains how this tradition came to be, and what it means to be honored with the title.
See the fruits of our staff's collective labor on our social media platforms @FeedingTampaBay, and by checking out our website www.FeedingTampaBay.org to find food or learn how you can help us feed the community! We know we're not alone in our passion for service, and every hand that adds some help brings us closer to our goal of a hunger-free Tampa Bay by 2025!
The crew returns to share the stories of more of our incredible fellow food bankers -- from frontline warriors to behind the scenes miracle makers, the humans of FTB are inspirational, funny and kind. Tune in to meet more of our good friends, and as a treat, the mastermind behind the culture of our workplace that binds us all together behind a common cause -- Jayci Peters!
Visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org to learn about volunteer and career opportunities with our organization, and follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to see the work we're doing in your community every single day!
A food banker can look like anyone, come from anywhere. But no matter the difference in our age, nationality, or job status, we are all connected by our intense drive to help our fellow human beings. In the first episode of this two-part series, we interview a handful of the incredible souls that make up our team - that share their talents with this mission on a daily basis to deliver TWO MILLION MEALS every single week to our community! Learn what we do, what our individual journeys are that bring us together to provide life-saving nourishment to strangers, and why we are driven to continue doing this work.
Visit our website at FeedingTampaBay.org to learn about volunteer and career opportunities with our organization, and follow us on social media @FeedingTampaBay to see the work we're doing in your community every single day!
Fighting through poverty, cancer, and the loss of a dear friend, Colleen Chappell (co-founder of the ChappellRoberts Branding & Advertising Agency) has maintained her fiery spirit, and worked her way to the upper tiers of the marketing food chain in both locally and nationally. On today's episode she shares with us her journey from first college graduate in her family, to the dizzying heights of the corporate world, to a humbly powerful collection of creatives headquartered in Ybor City. And on WTFB, meet our Community Engagement Manager, Andrea Kitchen, who's self-defined role is to "bring some sexy" to all of our marketing materials and community events!
Be sure to follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to learn how you can get involved, and to hear about upcoming events Andrea is putting on for our partners, friends and families!
Feeding Tampa Bay is just one small part of a vast network of food banks feeding struggling American families. And we couldn't do it without the help of people like Robin Safley, Executive Director of Feeding Florida. On today's episode she compares her experiences in Iron Man triathlon competitions to the marathon that our country has experienced during the pandemic. But through it all, she maintains her trademark optimism:
"We're not trying to house people on Mars ... we're trying to connect an asset that exists, with a person who needs it, when they need it, in the right proportion that they need it.
Then stick around for WTFB with our own CEO, Thomas Mantz, as he explains the safety net our vast food bank network provides, how it works, and how it has been tested over the past 10 months.
For more information and insight, follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn!
Imagine if instead of shaming you for your diet, your doctor sent you home with bags of delicious, healthy food. Well that's the reality at Tampa Family Health Centers, where their team of holistic health specialists recognize the importance of a healthy diet, and also the barriers that keep people from maintaining one. Whether you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a high BMI, Darcy Klempner and her team can help you manage and reduce your symptoms, while teaching you tips and tricks to manage your own health and wellbeing on a daily basis!
And on today's WTFB, meet the unstoppable force behind our healthcare partnerships, Kelley Brickfield, and learn this New Englander came to Florida to lift our neighbors into a new life of nutrition and happiness.
Keri is an entrepreneur with a heart of gold, who for the past 11 years has been helping companies around Tampa Bay create an environment that their employees can feel comfortable in and proud of. In this episode she explains the philosophy that guided her to her role as an uplifter of human morale, and the many methods she's learned along her journey.
Then stay tuned for WTFB to learn how our own Chief Culture Officer, Jayci Peters, has introduced a "Grow Code" to Feeding Tampa Bay, to keep us grounded in our mission to make sure that no one in our 10-county area goes hungry on our watch!
Learn more about Trinity Cafe by following our shared social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @FeedingTampaBay!
Some people find a mission in life, and rather than waiting until everything falls into place, they start placing everything that's needed on their own. For years our guest and dear friend, Jeff Darrey, has been feeding a hot, healthy meal to people in our community without a single question as to why they might need it. And not long ago, his restaurant, Trinity Cafe, merged with Feeding Tampa Bay to combine our efforts and help our neighbors in ways we never before dreamed possible.
And stay tuned for WTFB to hear about the future of fresh meal delivery, being cooked up by our own innovative staff and partners!
Learn more about Trinity Cafe by following our shared social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @FeedingTampaBay!
As Summer becomes Fall, we're also moving into a new season on Stick A Fork In It! We're thrilled with the repertoire of exciting guests we've had on the show already, and looking forward to the insights and stories to come. If you missed any of our previous episodes, now is the perfect time to get caught up before a new lineup begins on Sunday, October 11th!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to catch up on all the other awesome things we're doing in the community as well!
We're so lucky to have amazing partners like Florida Blue, with wonderful folks like Rick Bennett who sit on our board. Rick joins us on this episode to discuss the ways that Florida Blue prioritizes the health of Floridians, by ensuring that they're not only well-fed, but fed the right foods to maintain their health. And our Chief Development Officer, Kelley Sims, joins us on "What The Food Bank?" to share the exciting details of our upcoming event, Epic Fork Fight! Visit our website FeedingTampaBay.Org to learn how you can tune in for a festive evening of food and fun this coming Thursday, September 17th!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to catch up on all the other awesome things we're doing in the community as well!
On this week's episode we welcome Chief Dan Slaughter of the Clearwater Police Department to the warehouse. We talk about all the ways that law enforcement helps us run our massive new "megapantries" as well as his department's "Park, Walk, and Talk" policy that helps them to better connect with the residents of their communities. Also, tune in to hear from our own Rhonda Gindlesperger, Chief Officer of Operations, and what it's been like delivering over 2 million meals into our communities EVERY SINGLE WEEK!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to catch up on all the other awesome things we're doing in the community as well!
What is a power couple? One that changes the lives of millions of people side by side with Feeding Tampa Bay. On today’s episode we introduce you to board member Marie Chinnici-Everitt and her husband Tom Everitt who stand with us every day, in some meaningful way. From warehouse funding to personal shopping in our Publix Community Market. Marie uses her marketing skills and corporate backing from DTCC to guide our job development programs and help expand our storage capacity, and Tim utilizes his experience as a former leader in the banking industry and current Marine Captain to facilitate our internal and external food distributions. Tune in to learn why we love these two so much, and why they choose to be family!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to catch up on all the other awesome things we're doing in the community as well!
The unsung heroes amidst the pandemic are our healthcare workers, many behind the scenes. Joining us is VP of Government and Community Relations for BayCare, Keri Eisenbeis, discussing Covid from the front line. We’ll also dive in to the EXCITING new opportunities arising out of the partnership between BayCare and Feeding Tampa Bay -- like home meal delivery for recovering Covid patients, and our "Food RX" program, wherein doctors will "prescribe" foods for ailing patients, and Feeding Tampa Bay will fill those prescriptions! Tune in to learn how food is medicine, and how healthy eating can not only prevent health problems, but help to cure them too!
Have you followed us on social yet? @FeedingTampaBay we really are EVERY where.
Let’s start with Rule #7 because it’s that time of year and EVERYbody's favorite meteorologist, Denis Phillips is here to talk hurricane season. With the country still struggling under the weight of the pandemic, storm season feels like more of a threat than ever. But don’t freak out! We got you! Tune in to hear from him, as well as our Director of Operations, Jim Carpenter, who keeps Feeding Tampa Bay running smooth and leads our disaster relief efforts when times get tough!
Visit Denis' online store to purchase some of his wonderful Rule #7 tumblers and wine glasses to raise money for Feeding Tampa Bay, and drink in style while you're quarantined at home: https://www.etsy.com/shop/rule7shopIf and don’t forget if you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
Keep up to date on all your weather needs by following Denis Phillips on Facebook.
One of our local faves and we know yours too, JJ Burton of ABC Action News joins us safely via Zoom to discuss reporting in a time of pandemic and protests, as well as how you can join us for “20 Days for Tampa Bay” all to help serve our struggling neighbors.
Follow JJ on Twitter @JJBurtonTV and our friends @abcactionnews too!
If you are in need of food don’t forget to visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
With Florida Senator Jeff Brandes philanthropy is a family affair. Not only has he brought his kids to volunteer at our Pinellas mega pantry over the few past months but his wonderful and creative brood have dreamed up their own way to help fight hunger. Listen in as we ask about his experiences serving the community directly as well as in legislative sessions and hang tight for WTFB? where you get to meet the senator’s oldest daughter, Lottie, the very talented leader of the Brandes crew.
If you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
Have an idea of who you might want to sit in the hot seat? Submit guest ideas to us through Facebook messenger @FeedingTampaBay
Can somebody explain where all the TP went? We have the guy. Brian West and Publix has been an avid supporter of Feeding Tampa Bay and the food banks in the states where their stores make ‘shopping a pleasure’. During the pandemic while many were complaining about paper products, Publix was making miracles happen connecting farmers with the people that needed them most. Listen in to learn how they continue to feed and supply their communities, both in their stores and in food lines where we serve with dignity every day.
If you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
Have you followed us on social? Why not? We’re everywhere! @FeedingTampaBay
After a short break we are back with our hosts Matt Spence and Shannon Hannon-Oliviero, filling you in on the exciting news and updates coming out of Feeding Tampa Bay. Learn about recent changes and additions to our mobile pantries, as well as the huge meal milestones we're so proud to have hit in the past week.
If you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
Have you followed us on social? Why not? We’re everywhere! @FeedingTampaBay
If you don’t know Sean Daly, where have you been? Listen in and enjoy the lovefest because we’re not sure who appreciates who more. You’ll shed a tear or two, happy and meaningful due to the many stories Sean has already shared during our journey through this beast of a pandemic. There are moments with those that we serve and times with our team that leans in night and day to take care of our community.
Follow Sean on Insta and Facebook @seandalytv
And know if you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you.
Message us directly on any of our social platforms with questions or ideas @FeedingTampaBay we’d love to hear from you!
Founded by military veterans, Team Rubicon began working in disaster relief in 2010, and has been growing as an elite response team ever since. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, they have been essential to our effort in keeping the residents of Tampa Bay nourished and safe. Longtime servant leader Chris Brewer joins on the show between shifts in the warehouse, to enlighten us about the efforts of his team, and the ways that people can join the Team Rubicon effort themselves!
If you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you. Message us directly on Facebook @FeedingTampaBay if you need any further assistance.
Cindy Stuart, the HCSB Member for District 3, fills us in on how students and families are handling the new virtual schooling program, and how schools are continuing to feed students during this uncertain time. Many students normally eat breakfast and lunch at school throughout most of the year, and hard-working administrators like Cindy are ensuring that they don't go hungry while schools are closed during the spring semester.
If you are in need of food, visit https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to learn about our programs and partners near you. Message us directly on Facebook @FeedingTampaBay if you need any further assistance.
In this time of crisis sports teams are on the bench but they are knocking it out of the park to help the community! We are thrilled to introduce you to Jenn Tran (representing Rays Baseball and Rowdies Soccer) to thank her for the donation of over 1 MILLION MEALS to the families of Tampa Bay. Learn all about how the team is handling the cancellation of their season, and all about the loyal partnership between the Rays, Rowdies, and Feeding Tampa Bay is innovating to make sure that everyone in our 10-county region remains safe, healthy, and hunger-free now and well into the future.
Visit https://feedingtampabay.org/ to find resources for yourself, or to donate to our mission! The Rays and Rowdies will match your donation to DOUBLE it and create up to 2 MILLION additional meals for our struggling neighbors.
It's important to check in on our friends now more than ever, so on this special edition episode we had a conference call with Chef Rachel Bennett of The Library St. Pete to see how she is holding up during the widespread closures of our favorite local eateries. Tune in to hear how she's staying optimistic and busy during this uncertain time, and how you can help our community stay healthy and happy without risking your own well-being!
To hear our previous, full-length episode with Chef Rachel, just look for "Food & Fitness with Chef Rachel Bennett" on your favorite podcast platform!
And follow @FeedingTampaBay on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn to catch up on all the other awesome things we're doing in the community as well!
Crisis has hit Tampa Bay, our country and world. On this special edition our President and CEO, Thomas Mantz, joins us to explain how we're continuing to serve our community. Not only are children home from school, where some of them get most of their daily meals, but our elderly neighbors are at the highest risk of infection and many of them depend on programs like ours to bring them food. Tune in to learn about the services we're continuing to provide to those that need assistance, and what you can do to help your community hold together during this global trial. We are incredibly grateful to all of our staff and volunteers that have continued to show up every day, despite the personal risk, to carry on our mission of ensuring that no one in our 10-county region goes without a meal on their family's table.
Be safe, everyone and please connect with us through any of our social platforms and let us know if we can help you or please go to https://feedingtampabay.org/findfood to find groceries closest to you.
Watching someone succeed is inspiring and motivating for many, and Roberto Torres is the man to watch in Tampa Bay. An entrepreneur with a passion for giving his time, talent and treasure, Roberto has utilized his multiple growing businesses to improve the lives of those who need a lift. As a member of our board, he shares his talent as a businessman to help guide our mission along a successful path, and we couldn't be more grateful for his insights and his support.
Let us know what you think! Message Shannon on Facebook @FeedingTampaBay Follow Roberto on LinkedIn through his page Why Tampa Bay
Ernest Hooper was a reporter and columnist for the Tampa Bay Times for 27 years, he now sits at the communications helm for the American Cancer Society. “Hoop” is a name that still resonates as a staple in Tampa Bay, covering everything from food festivals to sports and everything in between. A master storyteller, Ernest captures the hearts and imaginations of his readers and listeners, and both Feeding Tampa Bay and Trinity Café have had the privilege to have him alongside us in our mission to fight hunger and address our neighbors with dignity and respect. You won’t want to miss a moment of this storyteller’s interview that includes a very meaningful family interaction with Barak Obama – listen in, “that’s all we’re sayin’”.
Let us know what you think! Message Shannon directly on any of our social profiles @FeedingTampaBay
Follow Ernest on Twitter @hoop4you
At just 30 years old Chef Rachel Bennett has already held the position of Executive Chef at multiple high-end restaurants here in Tampa Bay, and received a coveted nomination for the James Beard award. She is a spirited leader in the kitchen who believes in teamwork and experimentation. Chef Rachel became a friend when she was tapped to judge one of our Epic Chef competitions, and displayed a thorough understanding of the culinary world. As a master of food and fitness, she has been a natural ally in our mission to improve the health and capability of our communities, and regularly opens our eyes to new frontiers in food.
Don’t forget to let us know what you think! Or suggest a guest! You can find us on all social platforms @FeedingTampaBay Follow Chef Rachel on Insta @chef_rbennett
The true “Flavor of Tampa Bay” radio host, deejay, social influencer, father of three and expert foodie, Ian Beckles began making our area his home by playing 7 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and has thrived in our community ever since. He also has a special place in his heart for doing good, and uses his driven, go-getter mentality to partner with programs in the surrounding area to support children and veterans in a very hands-on way. Listen in for a few surprises, a little parental advice and learn how he had a hand in helping name our show.
Be sure to drop us a line and tell us your thoughts on any of our social – @FeedingTampaBay
Follow Ian on Insta @ian_beckles
Stick A Fork In It is a show about the incredible work being done in Tampa Bay and its surrounding counties to help residents who struggle with food and financial insecurity. We are a production of Feeding Tampa Bay, the local affiliate of Feeding America, and over the course of our show we will give insight into the world of food banking, and how food connects every single person in a meaningful way.
The mission of Feeding Tampa Bay is to promote health and capability in our communities, and to end hunger in our surrounding counties by 2025. That means that anyone living in our 10-county region will have a place to go for a hot meal or weekly groceries if they are ever struggling to make ends meet.
The show will also feature local guests and celebrities, from award-winning chefs to sports all-stars. We have tons of partners fighting the same fight in our community, and we're proud to feature the amazing, innovative work that they do.
So tune in to learn more about the fight against hunger, and find out how you can join the movement yourself by visiting FeedingTampaBay.org!
You can also follow us for updates on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube @FeedingTampaBay.