Matt Thell is a Global Strategy & Innovation Leader at General Mills Inc. General Mills Inc. is the creator of iconic brands like Cheerios, Pillsbury and Häagen-Dazs. Matt is a member of an internal consultancy team that helps teams within his organization tackle challenges and seize opportunities. His career journey spans over two decades, beginning with product development roles for beloved snacks like Chex Mix and Gardettos and evolving into strategic roles that focus on front-end innovation. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Matt shares insights into his role as a strategic consultant within General Mills How Matt uses the I3 process to solve-problems Why curiosity and diverse experiences fuel creativity Tips on understanding team dynamics and timing idea sharing Show Notes Matt's  / LinkedIn  General Mills / Website /   TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Introduction (00:58) Matt explains what Sr. Strategy Manager does (04:56) Matt's I3 Process (09:47) Case study: Old Paso in Europe (15:00) Turning insights into action (20:13) Navigating challenges in research (22:08) Creating a supportive team environment (30:55) How to find ways to share ideas (34:27) Why curiosity is important (38:12) Matt's advice for interviews COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

This podcast marks the 100th episode of the FoodGrads Podcast! The podcast began in September 2020 and since then we have produced 100 episodes! The success this show has had and continues to build is all because of YOU. You listening, supporting, and sharing the show. We thank you for the support. To celebrate this achievement we are re-branding the the podcast to That's a Food Job! We wanted a fresh new look (and name) for the podcast. We’re here to celebrate food industry professionals and proudly say—That's a Food Job! In this episode Veronica Hislop is joined with Sydney Mohr and Nicole Gallace both team members from the FoodGrads team. So in this episode, we talk about how the podcast came to be, highlights from past episodes of the show, the behind the scenes of the podcast, some of the most memorable guests in the first 100 episodes, and the unveiling of the new assets for the rebrand! Show Notes   TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction (9:50) FoodGrads Podcast Rebrand (21:45) Looking at older intros of the podcast (37:00) Reflecting on the iterations (45:09) Behind the scenes of making the podcast (50:00) Listener Q&A   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Joesph Lyons is the Environmental Operations Coordinator for Susgrainable. Susgrainable has a bold mission to create a world where food waste and diabetes are a thing of the past. Right now they are producing a variety of baking mixes but they are looking to expand in the future.   Joseph with Honours from The University of British Columbia with a BCom specialized in Global Supply Chain & Logistics Management. Joesph is fairly new out of graduation but he has done a lot since he started at Susgrainable. In just 9 months he has helped build tools to track stock, built relationships with industry partners and he even has laid down the company’s groundwork for ERP. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Behind the scenes with Susgrainable  What Joseph does in his role  What a circular economy is Skills that Joseph is currently working on Show Notes Joseph's  / LinkedIn  Susgrainable / Website / Instagram / LinkedIn   TIMESTAMPS (1:15) Joseph’s food job (2:55) How Joseph got into this role (5:30) What is supply chain (7:00) Susgrainable’s supply chain (9:22) Joseph’s role in operations (10:20) Launching a snack pretzel (17:15) Coordinating Susgrainable’s supply chain (23:15) How Joseph got into supply chain (26:57) What Joseph likes about supply chain (32:42) Communication in supply chain roles (37:06) Why Susgrainable is a good place to work (38:21) Skills Joseph is working on (45:26) Advice for going into the supply chain   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Seamus Higgins is the Associate Professor & Course Director for Food Process Engineering at the University of Nottingham. With years of food industry experience, he combines his passion for a more sustainable world and novel manufacturing techniques with a new generation of process engineers at the University of Nottingham and supporting institutions.  Seamus began his career as an electrical engineer in the food industry and has worked with leading international food companies including Tongaat Hewlett, Nestle, and Premier Foods. He has held lead project and senior management roles in factory development, food process engineering, and new product development, and has also consulted for global food and UK companies as well as entrepreneur development and new company start-ups. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Understanding the concept of food Evolution of the food system Adapting to change management Exploring the role of a food engineer Show Notes Seamus's  / LinkedIn / Research Gate    TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction (1:40) What is the food? (4:50) Seamus’s food job (9:30) What is a food engineer (13:20) How Seamus got into engineering (19:00) Evolution of the food system (26:05) How food technologies have changed (30:00) Learning how to manage change (40:21)  What is exciting Seamus about the industry (51:40) Seamus’s new book   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.    SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Dana Dickerson is the Market Development and Sustainability Manager at Grain Farmers of Ontario. Grain Farmers of Ontario is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers. Her food job is working to expand markets and encourage new uses for Ontario grain through consumer awareness, domestic industry and export development and end-user relationships. Prior to her role with Grain Farmers of Ontario, Dana spent eight years at the British Consulate-General, where she held leadership positions, including North American Head of Sector for Consumer Goods and Agri-Food. In this role, she led the UK's strategy to develop agri-food exports to Canada and the U.S. Dana holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce with a major in International Business and a minor in French language from Lakehead University. 🔍 Episode Highlights:  • What a market development and sustainability manager does • Learning how to communicate on behalf of an industry • Facts about Ontario Grain  • Oppotunities in agricculture that aren't farming  Show Notes Dana's  / LinkedIn / Twitter / Instagram Grain Farmers of Ontario / Website / LinkedIn / Twitter TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction  (2:09) What Dana does (2:39) Facts about Ontario  grain  (5:44) What Dana does at Grain Farmers of Ontario (9:15) How to communicate on behalf an industry (10:12) Dana's career journey  (19:00) How Dana learns on the job (22:00) Surprises for foreign delegates  (23:15)Technology in grain agriculture  (29:25)Tech jobs in agriculture  (35:37) Where are the jobs located (38:40) Using school resources (40:40) Sustainable practices Ontario farmers are implementing (46:00) Advice for students  (48:00) Where to find Dana   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.    SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

AJ Taylor, Ph.D. is a Scientist II, Innovation at McCormick FONA who recently graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign with a Ph.D. in food science where his research focused on understanding the physiochemical and microbiological aspects of cocoa bean fermentation. This research is looking at ways to understand how microbes affect the quality and flavour profile of the resulting chocolate. Obtaining a Ph.D. was a rewarding but challenging experience for AJ. In addition to his research AJ acted as a  graduate teaching assistant who helped to teach food science to students.  Today he works at McCormick FONA teaching clients about working better with flavours covering everything from the science behind flavour, the labeling landscape, to using flavor in your specific application. 🔍 Episode Highlights: • AJ's research  • The unlikely experience that led to AJ getting a job  • Day in the life of a PhD • Transitioning between grad school and industry Show Notes AJ's  / LinkedIn McCormick FONA   TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction (1:34) AJ introduces himself (2:50) What AJ did in graduate school (12:15) Dealing with setbacks  (15:46) Process of getting a project  (20:50) Day in the life of PhD (27:00) What is being a TA  (37:50) Transition between acadamia and industry  (40:39) Standing out from the crowd (48:00) Where to find AJ  (48:33) Outro   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Brendan Niemira, PhD is a Lead Scientist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. He leads a team of 30+ scientists, engineers, technicians, postdocs, and students in Wyndmoor, PA., developing tools to kill human pathogens on produce, meats, poultry, shellfish, and other foods. However, his focus and passion are developing and validating cold plasma, high-intensity monochromatic light, irradiation, and other nonthermal food safety treatments for fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. Dr. Niemira has published over 180 peer-reviewed research articles, book chapters, and critical reviews. He is the co-editor and author of a well-regarded reference text and holds two patents. 🔍 Episode Highlights: • What Brendan does as a lead scientist • Why plasma could be a game changer for food safety  • Growing your career through food organizations  Show Notes Brendan's  / LinkedIn   USDA Agricultural Research Service Cold Plasma + Oranges TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction (1:04) Dr. Niemira introduces himself (1:55) How Niemira progressed into Cold Plasma (5:27) What a lead researcher does at the ARS (9:40) What is cold plasma (17:05) How to implement cold plasma (23:23) How to justify research? (29:08) Commercialization of cold plasma (31:57) Cost of the system (41:24) Growth opportunities (45:46) IFT Opportunities (53:22) Advice for students going into food safety   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.    SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Michael Sharp is the director of research and analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group. The Heartland Food Products Group is a global leader in making low-calorie sweeteners and liquid water enhancers. It is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, and makes Splenda Sweeteners.  Michael has over 13 years of experience in research and development, leading new products from concept to commercialization. He graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor's degree in food science and a master's degree from Ohio State University. 🔍 Episode Highlights:  • What a Research and Development Director does • The different kinds of R&D roles • Michael’s career journey • Advice for product development research interviews Show Notes Michael's  / LinkedIn TIMESTAMPS (0:00) Introduction (1:33) Michael's introduction (11:15) Why Michael decided to get a master's degree (12:50) Differences between product development and R&D (16:45) Michael's research process (22:20) Where Michael learned about data analytics (24:10) Basic tools of data analysis (26:40) Difference between small and large labs (29:20) Sponsor: CFIN (30:10) Transitioning from work to school (31:50) How to identify your skills (33:45) Michael's extra-curriculars during school (37:00) Technologies that are interesting to Michael (42:25) Advice for students looking to go into R&D   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN’s Career Hub to learn more about CFIN’s free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.    SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Jennifer McEntire, Ph.D., founder of Food Safety Strategy and former Chief Food Safety & Regulatory Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association. She is a food microbiologist by background and has worked in the Washington, DC, area for over 20 years, bringing the scientific perspective to food safety leadership positions within the grocery manufacturers association. She held previous food safety leadership positions with the Grocery Manufacturers Association and the Institute of Food Technologists, where she led the FDA FSMA traceability pilots. 🔍 Episode Highlights: Jennifer's food safety career journey Skills that are important for food safety professionals Safety concerns regarding produce Technology's role in the future of food safety Show Notes Jennifers's  / Website/ LinkedIn TIMESTAMPS (0:00)  Introduction (1:30)  Jennifer introduces herself (5:20)  Jobs in food safety policy (10:44)  Science and government policy (14:10)  How to practice communicating science (16:25)  Understanding people’s points of view (20:13)  Food produce food safety (24:31)  Food safety of sprouts  (28:15)  Technology’s role on food safety for the future (33:00)   How to learn about data science (37:22)   Soft skills needed by food safety professionals (44:34)   Outro   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

Davis Jaeger is a R&D Leader, Culinary Expert and Food Scientist. He has had a winding career path up until this point. Davis began working in the hospitality industry at the young age of 14, starting as a busboy. However, his career took a turn when he transitioned to the kitchen after one of the chefs resigned and another chef invited him to join the kitchen staff. That's how he ended up in the culinary science program at Clemson University. Since then, his passion for food science has only grown, and he has not regretted his decision for a moment. 🔍 Episode Highlights: ▪ Challenges and failures Davis faced along the way ▪ The necessity of gaining manufacturing plant experience ▪ The difficulties of collaboration in research ▪ The skill of communicating technical details to non-technical stakeholders ▪ Asking good questions to get a problem solved Show Notes Davis's  / Instagram / LinkedIn TIMESTAMPS (0:00) - Introduction (2:30) - Davis's career journey (16:50) - Switching between R&D expertise (meat to confectionery) (24:15) - Imporance of manufacturing plant experience  (34:39) - How to ask questions in the workplace (36:56) - How to demonstrate you can solve problems in an interview (40:14) - Davis talks about his failures and challenges in the workplace  (52:20)  Skills important to individuals looking to go into R&D (55:40)  Outro   WHEN YOU'RE READY 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development.   SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  

On today’s episode we are talking about what a senior researcher does, the difficulties of collaboration in research and figuring out what you enjoy. Matthew Teesgarden Ph.D., Senior Researcher and his role is providing strategic leadership for all scientific operations and communications in the Ohio States Foods for Health research initiative. FFH is focused on helping researchers work collaboratively to discover new ways in which food can enhance health. Matt completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Food Science at The Ohio State. Sponsorship Canadian Food Innovation Network: CFIN’s Food Innovation Career Hub is a a one-stop-shop for food professionals, students, and employers. This community is home to anyone who is interested in a career in foodtech or is actively seeking talented employees for their food business. The Food Innovator Career Hub lets you search job openings, access original content, and connect with a growing community of food professionals and mentors. Timestamps  (0:00) Introduction (2:22) Matt's career journey  (6:48) Matt explains what a senior researcher does  (12:08) Ohio State's Food for Health Initiative  (22:24) Sponsor: Canadian Food Inovation Network (23:00) How Matt learns about different disciplines  (27:30) Attending talks as a student  (31:10) Why Matt loves science communication (43:56) How to figure out if you enjoy graduate science  (47:16) Matt's experience with IFT Links Ohio State Foods for Health Research Initiative The Lancet Study on Diet and Health Matt Teagarden on LinkedIn Tasting Columbus IFT Food Disruptors Podcast IFT Career Center Show Notes https://foodgrads.com/matthew-teesgarden/

On today’s episode we are talking about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, what’s it like working in a small business and finding your "why". Surria Fadel, is the Co-Founder of Cedar Valley Selections. Cedar Valley Selections is not your average pita chip company. They are creating high-quality authentic pita chips in a variety of different flavours.  Surria graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and has spent several years in the fitness industry in many roles including being a Personal Trainer, Coach, Fitness Instructor, and Pain Management Therapist. She started Cedar Valley Selections with her son Ameen after receiving a small grant from his school board and wanted to share his mothers’ famous Fattoush Salad recipe. Timestamps (0:00) Introduction (2:19) Cedar Valley origins (7:38) Where Ameen's entrepreneurship spirit came from (12:05) Why Surria decided to commit to Cedar Valley (13:00) What drives Surria  (21:47) Sponsor: CareersNow! (22:14) Experience running a manufacturing facility (33:54) What it was like being on Dragon's Den  (40:30) Where Surria looks for guidance (47:36) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs Links Surria's LinkedIn Cedar Valley  Show Notes   MORE COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog) CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube SPONSORS CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  

On today’s episode, we discuss food safety consulting, essential skills for food safety professionals, and how volunteering can help you network. Tania is the Co-Founder and Director of Assured Food Safety Consulting. She is here to offer guidance on navigating the world of food safety careers. Tania has a Master's degree in food science and is a proud Centennial College Biotechnology alumni. She has worked in food safety within the government and the food industry. Tania is passionate about giving back to the student community and helping companies improve their food safety. Timestamps (0:00) Introduction (2:53) Tanya's career journey (5:39) How Tanya found out about food safety consulting (10:34) How food safety consulting works (14:51) Skills needed by a food safety consultant (13:05) Food safety regulations and consulting options (24:51) Improving communication skills in school and beyond (29:30) Overcoming language barriers (31:20) Mentorship and why Tanya started to (42:18) Skills students are lacking in the workplace Links Tania's LinkedIn Assured Food Safety Show Notes   WHEN YOU'RE READY 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network: CFIN's Food Innovation Career Hub is a one-stop shop for food professionals, students, and employers. This community is home to anyone interested in a career in food tech or actively seeking talented employees for their food business. The Food Innovator Career Hub lets you search job openings, access original content, and connect with a growing community of food professionals and mentors. SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify

On today’s episde we are talking about the Kaan's career journey, his book "Food for Thought" and philosophy. About Kaan Demiryürek Kaan Demiryürek is the Research and Development Director for Sustainable Packaging at PepsiCo. Pepsico products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo's food portfolio includes products such as Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream.  Kaan has over two decades of career experience working at PepsiCo in food science, engineering and R&D spanning multiple geographies. Kaan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Food Engineering from the Middle East Technical University and His first role at Pepsico was as an R&D intern in Turkey. Since then he has worked in various business units in Europe (Turkey, Balkans, and East Europe) and North America across different foods categories. Before his current role in sustainable packaging Kaan led the R&D team for Potato Chips for North America. Links  Show Notes  Kaan Demiryürek's LinkedIn PepsiCo Food for Thought: Food Science and Engineering for the Future of Humanity by Kaan Demiryürek How modern science is turning our foods into medicines | David Julian McClements | TEDxAmherst Dr.David McClements Webinar for The Good Food Institute Kaan's email Timestamps (0:00) Introduction (1:52)  Kaan introduces himself and career history (5:36) Difference between food engineering and science (7:00) Why Kaan transitioned to sustainable packaging (12:52) Discussion about "Food for Thought" Book (20:00) Philosophy and R&D (25:13) Sponsor: CareersNow! (30:17) Importance of curiosity (34:55) Prioritization in work (42:00) Advice for inspiring food professionals (45:39) Outro   MORE COOL STUFF 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog) CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube SPONSORS CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  

On today’s episode we are talking about the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN), CFIN's career resource library, Jamil's career story and cool innovation happening in Canada. Our guest today is Jamil Karim, Director of Communications for CFIN. CFIN helps to fund transformative foodtech projects, stimulate collaboration, and foster a growing community of food and beverage professionals. They connect the Canadian food and beverage ecosystem to new ideas, opportunities, and technologies to increase collaboration and position Canada as a global leader in food innovation. Jamil Karim combines more than a decade of marketing and communications experience with a passion for helping people and companies tell their stories. He also has extensive experience working with industry, where he’s led media and community relations strategies for some of the country’s fastest growing tech companies. Additionally, Jamil is deeply committed to having a positive impact on his community. Sponsorship This podcast episode is sponsored by the Canadian Food Innovation. Check out CFIN’s Career Hub  code to learn more about CFIN's free membership, our Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.  Timestamps [0:00] Introduction [1:43] Jamil’s career path in communications and public relations up until CFIN [6:57] Skills required in communication roles [14:26] About CFIN [23:15] Food tech innovation and collaboration in Canada [26:36] Green-tech definition [28:37] CFIN’s career hub [34:45] Jamil’s research process [38:05] Canadian innovation trends [41:27] Challenges of implementing innovation [44:35] CFIN funded startups [48:58] Advice for students looking to innovate Links Jamil Karim LinkedIn CFIN’s Career Hub CFIN’s YODL Relocalized Food Cycle Science Jamil Karim’s Email Find Jamil Karim Online Show Notes Website: FoodGrads.com/Jamil-Karim/    

On today’s episode we are talking about buliding a career journey into the tea industry, the differences about blended and single orgin teas, fostering a sense of continuous learning and problem-solving techniques which are pivotal for his consulting pursuits in the tea industry and advice for those looking to go into the tea industry.  Our guest today is William (Billy) Dietz, author or the book Spill the Tea. Billy has been in love with the tea industry since he first discovered the health benefits of tea back in high school. Billy has over 15 years of career knowledge. Which has amassed from his time as a tea blogger, a tea entrepreneurship, working in product development at DavidsTEA to currently being an independent tea consultant. Sponsors This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. Timestamps Coming soon!  Links Coming soon!  Find Billy Dietz Online Show Notes Website: FoodGrads.com/billy-dietz/  

On today's episode, we discuss the fields of packaging and project management, lessons learned in managing teams, and the importance of staying curious. Our guest is Karen Aranha, Innovation & Commercialization Project Manager at The Hershey Company. Karen graduated with a Bachelors's Degree from the University of Mumbai in Packaging and Printing Technology. After gaining some experience in the field she obtained a Master's Degree in Packaging Science from Rochester Institute of Technology. After graduating, she worked for the Packaging Corporation of America as a packaging engineer, developing and executing merchandising displays and corrugated packaging. Her responsibilities included creating and implementing temporary displays and corrugated packaging for Hershey's. Although she now works in project management for the food industry, she remains passionate about packaging and considers herself a "packaging geek." Sponsors This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction [4:12] Karen's career journey [9:46] Speaking about a packaging engineering degree [15:20] Differences between cardboard and corrugated material [21:11] Why Karen switched to project management [26:45] Designing and Coordinating Packaging [31:00] How Karen manages projects [36:58] Hershey’s sweet and salty division [39:31] Learning how to manage people [45:11] Advice for students and graduates [50:12] Outro Links Comin soon!  Show Notes Website: http://FoodGrads.com/karen-aranha/

On today’s episode we are talking about the ins and outs of food inspections, the art of communication in the workplace and balancing work a master’s program. Our guest today is Mariia Melnychuk, Food Processing Specialist Inspector at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and MSc. student for Food Safety & Quality Assurance at University of Guelph. The CFIA is a key science-based federal regulator of food, animals and plants. The CFIA is committed to enhancing the safety of food produced and sold in, or imported into, Canada, contributing to the health of animals and protecting the plant resource base. Mariia graduated from Niagara College with an advanced diploma & Associate’s Degree in Food Science and Technology and since then has held multiple food safety positions. Her current master’s research is looking at consumers perceptions of cultured meat.  Timestamps [00:00] Introduction [1:02] Mariia's Journey to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency [8:40] Important skills for a food processing inspector  [15:21] Stories that have stuck out to Mariia  [18:54] Exploring Maria's UofG Master's Program [24:20] Mariia's thesis on perceptions in cell based meats  [25:45] Choosing the Right Research Topic [26:43] Difficulties of conducting surveys  [27:06] Current State of Cell-Based Meats in Canada [30:29] The Role of Supervisors in Research [38:23] Why Mariia decided to get a master's degree  [40:29] Advice for Students and Closing Remarks Links Mariia Melnychuk LinkedIn Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) University of Guelph's Food Safety and Quality Assurance program Information about the different roles CFIA inspectors carry out Find Mariia Melnychuk Mariia Melnychuk LinkedIn Show Notes Website: https://foodgrads.com/2024/01/17/mariia-melnychuk/

On today’s episode we are talking about entrepenurship, Canada’s food landscape and how Venture Parks is helping to support small start-ups.  Mike McNeil is vice president of operations at Venturepark Labs. Venturepark Labs is a non-profit supporting early-stage entrepreneurs in the food & wellness categories. It was initially founded in 2015 as District Ventures Accelerator and District Ventures Kitchen by Canadian business icon Arlene Dickinson. In May 2021, this initiative became Venturepark Labs—a proud community within Venturepark—Canada’s only business growth ecosystem. Mike began his career as an advisor to Canada's Minister of Finance, the Honourable Jim Flaherty, but soon discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. As the first hire at Venturepark Labs, Mike established the accelerator program as one of Canada's leading programs for entrepreneurs. To date, the program has supported over 130 entrepreneurs and contributed over $1B in economic output. In 2023, Mike was named one of the Best Executives in Canada by The Globe and Mail. In 2023, the Globe and Mail recognized Mike as one of the Best Executives in Canada. Sponsors This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. Timestamps Coming soon!  Links Coming soon! Find Mike Online Mike McNeil Show Notes Website: http://FoodGrads.com/mike-mcneil/

On today’s episode we are talking about what a product developer does in the wine and spirits sector, sensory science and the valuable skills developed during postgraduate education. Our guest today is Esther Onguta, a Toronto native passionate about food and cooking, is an expert in food, fermentation, and sensory science. She earned a BSc in Food Science from the University of Guelph, specializing in Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, and later pursued a Certificate in Grape and Wine Technology and an MSc in Biotechnology at Brock University. Esther then moved to New Zealand for her PhD in Food Technology at Massey University, focusing on the sensory aspects of protein-based foods. In 2021, she returned to Canada to work in distilled spirits and recently joined the Absolut Group/Pernod Ricard in Windsor, Ontario, as a Product Development Specialist. Additionally, she has completed WSET Levels 2 and 3 in Wines and aspires to achieve the DipWSET. Timestamps  [0:00] Podcast Introduction [1:58] Esther Self-Introduction [5:51] The Role of a Product Development Specialist [7:15] Working With Other Departments [9:01] What Attracted Esther to This Role [10:25] The Transferability of Ph.D. to Product Development [13:03] How Esther Decided on a Ph.D. Supervisor [15:07] Differences Between Ph.D. and the Workforce [18:48] Tools Esther Uses to Manage Her Work [20:24] Skills Esther is Currently Developing [22:22] What is "Good" Sensory for a Consumer [26:15] Other places Ph.D.'s work in the Company [30:36] Lessons Esther has Learned Working [33:01] Esther's Experience as a TA [34:26] Networking during Ph.D. [40:56] The Impact of Technology and Innovation on Esther's Role [43:15] Advice for Aspiring Food Industry Professionals   Links  CareersNow! Absolut Group/Pernod Ricard University of Guelph Find Esther Online  Esther's LinkedIn Show Notes  Website: https://foodgrads.com/esther-onguta/

On today’s episode we are talking about innovation and artificial intelligence in the food industry, making an impact in the world and unique paths that you can take with an engineering degree.  Our guest today is Harjeet Bajaj, President & CEO at Savormetrics. Savormetrics provides AI driven sensor devices to food and agriculture companies. Our devices perform real time, in situ QA/QC. Their predictive quality metrics allow organizations to reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction. Harjeet Bajaj has over 14 years of work experience in various leadership and consultancy roles. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering & Management and a Master’s Degree in Engineering, both from McMaster University. Harjeet is recognized internationally as an AI expert, having won numerous awards for developing commercially viable solutions. Harjeet’s background includes developing Artificial Intelligence driven solutions for the medical and health care industries. Today he has sights sets on ag & food sector and innovated into the future. TIMESTAMPS Coming soon! LINKS FIND ONLINE: SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-81/

On today’s episode we are talking about millwrights that work in the food manufacturing industry, how to become one and career progession as a millwright. Our guest today is Nole Coutrouzas, VP & Business Representative UBC Millwright Local 1916. The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of thirteen affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. They represent thousands of woman and men working as progressive cross-trained construction and maintenance professionals with exceptional skills to install, maintain, diagnose, and repair precision machinery. UBC millwrights are vital partners in industries as diverse as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, pharmaceuticals and more. This podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. TIMESTAMPS [02:03] Noel introduction [5:40] Noel's Career Journey and the Path to Becoming a Millwright [9:49] Understanding the Term 'Millwright' [12:59] The Impact of Automation on Food Processing [15:58] Education and Training Requirements to Become a Millwright [20:31] The Role of the Millwright Union and the Importance of the 'Hall' [21:06] What is a journey person [24:13] The Importance of Attitude, Punctuality, Safety, and Effort in the Millwright Field [29:38] The Role of Millwrights in the Food Industry [37:42] The Impact of Emerging Technologies on Millwright Work [43:09] The Use of Augmented Reality in Diagnosing Machine Issues [45:54] Career Growth Opportunities in the Millwright Field [46:11] Advice for someone wanting to become a journey person [49:52] Final Thoughts and Contact Information Links UBC Millwright Local 1916 The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) Red Seal trade code called 433A. FIND NOLE ONLINE: SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-80/

In today’s episode, we discuss entrepreneurship, sharing your story on social media and perseverance.  Our guest today is Mitch Jacobson, Mitch Jacobsen, CEO of Rviita Energy Tea. Rviita Energy Tea is a clean pick-me-up drink made with caffeine from tea, organic honey, and vitamins, packed in a low carbon footprint, recyclable beverage pouches. Rviita is now a company centered around inspiring others and helping people become healthier and more productive. Rviita is a Calgary-based company that distributes energy teas in over 1000 stores across Canada, rapidly expanding in Canada and the USA. Mitch graduated from the University of Calgary with a degree in Petroleum Engineering. He got a job right out of school as a Water Strategist and Water Sustainability Engineer for an oil and gas company but during that time he witnessed a close friend have a heart attack which was attributed to unhealthy energy drinks - Mitch believed there had to be a better product which supplied energy and was also made of healthy ingredients. Mitch used his experience in sports combined with a lot of trial and error in the lab to create a low sugar energy tea made to give you a little energy when you need it most, without the crash and unhealthy ingredients. TIMESTAMPS  [2:36] Mitch introduces Rviita tea and himself  [5:59] Why Mitch and team decided release a mango flavour [6:44] Mitch sharing his career story [10:58] Caffeine and the CFIA drink recalls  [13:11] Things entrepreneurs should focus on [15:43] How do you get your product on supermarket shelves  [17:38] Building up your sales skills  [21:34] How small interactions make a big difference in someones day [22:50] Why Mitch has been so open with his journey on LinkedIn [29:33] Mitch's opinion on hiring individuals with a social media presence  [32:30] How has the transition been employing individuals  [35:19] What does career growth look like at Reviita  [39:56] Books and movies Veronica and Mitch have enjoyed  [45:57] Mitch's definition of success [50:33] Mitch's advice for students listening  [51:44] Where you can find Mitch Links Reviita Tea Mitch Jacobson LinkedIn Karly Jacobson LinkedIn Robert Wigg CFIA Caffeine Drink Recall Andy Frisella Erica Rankin The Millionaire Fastlane Relentless by Tim Grover The Alchemist Entrepreneur Roller Coaster by Darren Hardy Shawshank Redemption FIND MITCH ONLINE: Mitch Jacobson Reviita Tea SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-79/

On today’s episode, we are talking about what a food processing plant manager does, servant leadership and transitioning into leadership position as a young person.    Our guest is Gavin Johnston, Plant Manager at Veg Pro International Inc and Owner of Redpath Strategies. Vegpro International Inc. is a recognized leader in the innovative farming and processing of lettuce and vegetables. They are known under the "Attitude Fraîche" brand, and their pre-washed lettuces are available in major grocery chains.   Gavin is a manufacturing leader with success in servant leadership, business transformation, strategic planning and operational excellence. He has extensive segment experience in the hospitality industry, snack foods, high and low-acidic beverages, bakery ingredients and dairy manufacturing, pet food manufacturing and supply chain. He a firm believer in continuous improvement at all levels from C-suit executives to manufacturing operators.   Sponsors  This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner Durham College. Durham College Durham College (DC) offers more than 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 140 full-time and part-time programs in a number of different disciplines, enabling them to develop the skills required to meet the demands of today's job market. Timestamps [2:40] What is VegPro [4:15] What Gavin does as a plant manager at a food processing facility  [8:06] Gavin's journey to how he became a plant manager  [17:00] How Gavin decided that he wanted to become a plan manager  [20:59] How Gavin developed his skills to become a plant manager  [28:21] What to do if your supervisor isn't a good mentor or doesn't have the time?  [29:46] What is servant mentorship and how Gavin came to embrace it  [38:34] The skills and qualities essential for someone aspiring to be a plant manager  [44:53] Things that Gavin might consider if he wanted to perform continuous improvement on a food production line. Links CareersNow! VegPro International Scotland's Rural College Durham College Robert Greenleaf FIND GAVIN ONLINE: Gavin W. Johnston SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-78/

On today’s episode we are talking about growing a career in food safety,what a day in the life of a FSQA Coordinator/Supervisor looks like and skills recommended to do well in food safety. Our guest today is Neha Mehta, Food Safety Quality Assurance Compliance Coordinator/Supervisor at Maple Leaf Foods. Maple Leaf Foods is leading consumer protein company, making high-quality, innovative products under national brands including Maple Leaf, Scheiders and Lightlife. Neha Mehta graduated from Centennial College and after graduation she has worked both as a QA technician and Quality Assurance Supervisor. Through out her career Neha has learned to be a master of all traders and find solutions whenever an obstacle is encountered. She is now passing on those teachings through her passion of growing and developing fresh graduates into strong quality professionals. Sponsors  This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner by Centennial College. Over the past 50 year's, Centennial College has transformed itself from a local community college to a worldly institution, with a presence in countries like China, India, South Korea and Brazil. No matter who you are, or where you're from, your journey to success can start at Centennial College. Timestamps  [0:40] Neha introduction [1:53] Why Neha decided to go into food safety [3:07] Some of the things that Neha did to grow her career in food safety [5:15] Certifications that food safety companies look for and how to obtain them [8:07] Skills that have been essential to Neha moving up in food safety [11:57] Different approaches to addressing food safety concerns [15:10] Different work cultures in different food processing facilities [16:26] What Neha does as a compliance coordinator [22:52] How Neha has picked up learned the technical knowledge required for her job [25:44]Skills which have essential for Neha’s career. What skills she would recommend for students who are thinking or going into food safety [31:00] Automation in food safety [36:04] LinkedIn for food safety [37:15] Principles that guide Neha Links  Neha's LinkedIn Maple Leaf Foods NSF Training LinkedIn Training Six Sigma  Centennial College Find Neha Online  Neha Mehta Maple Leaf Foods Show Notes  Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-77/

Rebecca Bradley is the Chief Marketing Officer at Terra Bioindustries . Terra Bioindustries is a Canada based start-up helping to create a more circular economy with existing supply chain. They make highly sustainable products for the food, fermentation and chemical waste industries all while lowering food waste! Rebecca graduated from the University of Guelph in their Biology/Biological Science program with minor biotechnology and a specialization in plant science. She went on to obtain a master’s degree from the University of Guelph in Biotechnology. She is a a creative mind in the scientific community looking to showcase the value of scientific innovations in new and growing industry. On this episode we are talking about the up-cycling of Brewer’s Spent Grains, the importance of story-telling when showcasing scientific innovations and what it’s it like working at a start-up. Sponsors  This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner the University of Guelph. U of G offers more than 80 undergrad programs, more than 100 graduate and post-doctoral study programs, co-op education in a wide variety of disciplines, support for international students, continuing education for lifelong learners, diploma programs and access to a unique form of higher education at the University of Guelph-Humber. We'll help you make the choices - we'll help you explore the possibilities. Our community is tailored for students, and that difference is noticeable from the first moment you get in touch. Timestamps  [1:48] Rebecca and Veronica talk about Canada’s wildfire situation [4:17] What Terra Bio Industries is and Rebecca’s role there [10:34] How Terra Bio Industries has helped other organizations with their food waste [11:39] What Brewer’s Spent Grains are [15:58] How Terra Bio Industries began [20:21] Scaling up products from bench scale to commercial scale [23:22] Different kinds of Brewers Spent Grains [25:02] How Rebecca ended up in a marketing position after her science degree [30:15] The human aspect when story-telling and conveying this messaging for start-ups [39:07] What it is like working in a start-up [43:17] Benefits of working at a start-up [47:14] What collaboration looks like for a start-up [49:30] The first steps that someone can take to present themselves in a way that brings value [54:53] What’s next for Terra Bioindustries/ Where you can find Rebecca Links Terra Bioindustries Rebecca Bradley LinkedIn University of Guelph Shownotes  Website:https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-76/      

In today’s episode we are learning about what a dietician is, the different areas that they can work in, the difficulties of finding a role in your field after graduation and food philosophies. Our guest today is Jasmine Kwok, RD. Jasmine is a registered dietitian who is enthusiastic about regulatory affairs and nutrition promotion in retail grocery. She has completed her mandatory Dietetic Internship at hospitals, and Long Term Care Centres. Since then, she has worked at sports medicine rehabilitation clinics, long term care centres, home care are retail. She is passionate about about educating consumers on how to buy nutritious foods and ensuring food products are safe and accurate. This podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. TIMESTAMPS [1:59] Jasmine and Veronica talking about the wildfires in Canada  [2:45] Jasmine’s self introduction and talk about her role as a registered dietitian [3:34] Why Jasmine decided to switch from Ryerson’s Food Studies program to McGill [5:07] The different internships that Jasmine did during school and what it was like to be an in-store dietician  [8:47] The different kinds of dieticians  [10:56] How dieticians take into consideration family members when making meal plans  [12:24] How dieticians learn about different diet types  [16:15] Why Jasmine wanted to become a dietician  [17:18] Food philosophies that Jasmine has  [20:34] Skills and talents that Jasmine believes are essential for a dietitian  [22:39] How Jasmine ended up selling insurance after she graduated [27:16] Suggestions on how students can learn to market themselves or obtain business skills before they graduate  [28:06] Trade groups and associations relevant to the space of dieticians  [35:26] Something that has surprised Jasmine about being a dietician  [39:00] Misinformation that Jasmine wants to dispel  [44:09] Skills or topics that Jasmine is currently looking to learn/improve  [44:55] What is regulatory affairs  [49:19] What Jasmine loves about her job as a dietician  [50:09] Advice that Jasmine would give to students looking to become a dietician  [50:39] Where people can find Jasmine FIND JASMINE ONLINE: Jasmine Kwok, RD SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-75/  

We are covering what's it like to be a food auditor, what it's like being a part of a food audit, how audits are helpful to organizations and the different types. But more importantly, we are talking about building a career in food safety, obtaining training, and how to stand out amongst the crowd when you are going to an interview.  Our guest today is Gordon Hayburn, Vice President of Food Safety and Quality at Trophy Foods Inc. Trophy Foods is a Canadian owned and operated producer of edible nuts, confectionary and bulk foods. Gordon has over 30 years of experience in food manufacturing, food safety, and auditing in both the private and public sector. In addition to being apart of the food technologist program, he also has two master's degrees, a master's in food, safety and control and an LLM in food law. Gordon has done so much more than that. However soon after the release of this podcast episode Gordon will be embarking on a new journey of food safety consultant. TIMESTAMPS [4:06] Gordon’s current role as VP of Food Safety at Trophy Foods and [5:21] Key roles that Gordon has taken on in his career journey [11:21] What are audits and the different forms in food processing/manufacturing [16:38] Standards in food auditing and where they come from and the different food safety bodies [26:52] How to create a path in food safety after you graduate [34:13] Finding certifications in food safety and what employers would look for [43:43] What to do at food safety conferences [47:59] GFSI Food Safety Initiative Links Gordon’s LinkedIn Trophy Foods Inc. University of Wales Tata. Global Beverages SAI Global BRCGS Standards SQFI Ontario Food Protections Association Institute of Food Science and Technology GFSI Public Safety Initiative FIND GORDON ONLINE: Gordon Hayburn SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-74/

We are covering finding a career that matches your passions, cultivating innovation, navigating your career in an age of change and the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN). Our guest today is Michelle Brisebois, Senior Marketing Strategist and Founder of Textrix Consulting Ltd. Textrix has start-ups define marketing strategy, mid size companies boost their SEO through engaging and optimized content plans, and have conducted research and discovery on digital transformation trends used by large, international software companies. Michelle has launched products, brands and campaigns across a wide array of packaged goods and service industries. She is also a published writer and part-time Marketing Professor at Niagara College. Overall, she is a lover of technology, restaurants, retail and people. Sponsors This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner the Niagara College. Niagara College is the leading innovator in Learning Enterprises, with on-campus businesses in beer, wine, distilling and greenhouse where you can hone your business and entrepreneurship skills. You can get involved in the operations of these businesses as part of your learning journey. Niagara College is one of Canada's top Research Colleges, with a strong food and beverage research program. You might just get involved in our research programs to innovate and accelerate with industry partners on your learning journey. TIMESTAMPS [2:32] Who Michelle Brisebois is and what Textrix Consulting Ltd is [5:49] What drew Michelle to marketing [14:17] What is the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) [19:48] Michelle's definition of innovation [22:39] How students get better at innovating  [27:39] The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron [31:10] Michelle's take on artificial intelligence and how it will affect jobs in the food space  [37:34] Being open to new experiences and career roles FIND MICHELLE ONLINE: Michelle Brisebois SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-73/

In today's episode, we are covering building a career in product development, building a leadership mindset, working with other departments and working in upper management positions. But we'll also go deeper on how to become a better food scientist. Our guest today is Sheila Jones PMP - Business Consultant, Coach and Owner of Whicked Results. Their focus is on growing business and people using a deep knowledge of innovation, manufacturing, quality systems, and sales.  Sheila started her career as a chef and eventually transitioned into becoming a food scientist. She has worked for big names like Nestle’, Campbell's Soup, Walmart, and Savencia Fromage and Dairy. At Walmart she developed strategies to grow their business, resolve global supply chain problems, reduce operational challenges, and drove billions in profits. Sponsors  This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner George Brown College. The George Brown College Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts is set in downtown Toronto - the largest, most vibrant hospitality city in Canada, and located just steps away from the city's top restaurants, bars, hotels and event venues. You'll be trained by professors who work in the industry; they will teach you the essential skills required to succeed and help you build a network of industry professionals. Gain real-world experience in our fully functioning restaurant, The Chefs' House, where you will have the chance to interact with customers in real life work situations. TIMESTAMPS [2:32] What Sheila Jones does  [5:57] Key roles Sheila has done in here career including chef and product developer  [11:14] What made Sheila want to move up in leadership roles [14:24] How to develop and identify the skills you need in leadership roles  [20:57] What new product developers should do to move up the ranks  [27:24] Learning the roles that other people do around a company [37:56] How to present yourself when you love a product and believe it should move forward  [50:40] If Sheila ever had to reel in her curiosity because it would be to her detriment [53:03] Advice Sheila would give to students and new graduates looking to be successful in their careers FIND SHEILA  ONLINE: Sheila Jones SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-72/

We are covering what does a product developer do, advice for students looking to go into product development and paying mind to allergens when to creating products but we'll also go deeper on how to embrace challenges to help you grow.  Liana Yee is a Junior Product Specialist at Export Packers Company Limited. Export Packers is an international importer, exporter and distributor of food commodities. They operate five key business segments: International Trading, Domestic Food Service, Retail, Asian and Fresh Seafood. You may know them for their retail product lines of Diamond Harvest and Ocean Jewel. Liana is a graduate of the University of Guelph Food Science program and has had roles in Quality Control and Quality Assurance. She is passionate about raising around food allergens and supporting students.  TIMESTAMPS [2:05] University of Guelph Spill the Beans Event [3:45] What Liana does at Export Packers as a product developer [8:49] Where Liana gets her inspiration when developing new products  [10:41] How Liana got to where she is today  [20:29] Times that Liana has used her background from QA in her product development [21:59] What Liana enjoys about her current job [28:10] Why Liana enjoys about thinking about allergies when developing products [35:06] Challenges that Liana is currently experiencing with her work  [43:15] Advice Liana would give to students that want a career similar to hers FIND LIANA  ONLINE: Liana Yee SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-71/

In this episode we are covering the importance of energy consumption in the food sector, unique career paths for engineering graduates and working as part of a team. But we'll also go deeper on how to attend tradeshows as a student.  Tanner Behrand, Manager of Funding and Expansion at Edgecom Energy.  Edgecom energy provides energy solutions for businesses in Canada. They help provide the data to help businesses understand their consumption and effects on the grid as well provide solutions that are all built into one portal. Tanner is passionate about environmnetal consciousness, becoming multifaceted in terms of his skill and raising the standard and quality of life worldwide.   TIMESTAMPS [2:08] What Edgecom Energy and Tanner’s role as a manager of funding and expansion [3:30] Why industries don’t already have access to this information [5:26] Organization’s that Edgecom Energy have helped and how [15:06] How Tanner got into this role despite being an engineer by trade [18:54] Why Tanner decided to become start off as a policy analyst [23:45] How can food product developers think about the energy perspective in product development [28:21] Becoming an expert in a field [31:11] Skills Tanner picked up from transitioning between undergraduate and graduate degree  FIND TANNER ONLINE: Tanner Behrend   SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-70/

Graduating with a PhD can sometimes put you in a difficult position when trying to find a job when you graduate. You are highly educated but may not have the work expierence that employers are looking for. Sripad has made it to the other side and understands how both sides of the coin work. In this episode, Sripad talks about his PhD journey, what he does at Arda Inc. and the differences between academia and industry. Sripad Josei, PhD. is an Operations Manager at Ardra Inc. Arda Inc is harnessing the power of engineering biology to solve pressing problems in the sustainable supply of natural ingredients. They use designer biochemical pathways to produce high-value ingredients for cosmetics, beverage and pharmaceuticals industries using renewable sugars. TIMESTAMPS [2:31] Sripad introduces himself and what he does at Arda Inc.  [3:55] What precision fermentation is [8:07] Sripad's Ph.D. Dissertation and what it focused on [10:36] Sripad's experience with the Ivy Business School in Western Ontario  [14:02] The benefits of cold emailing  [18:19] Why your Ph.D. is more like "work" rather then "school" [22:16] Skills you learn in your Ph.D. that are transferable to the workplace  [37:22] Should take an entry-level role out of your Ph.D.  [44:00] Differences in managing your time in academia vs industry [48:17] Sripad's advice for new graduates of graduate programs FIND SRIPAD ONLINE: Sripad Josei   SHOWNOTES Website: https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-69/

On this episode, we interview Janice Groenheide, Cheesemaker and Owner of WalkaboutFarm. Join us as we discuss cheesemaking, what a cheesemaker does and misconceptions about the profession.  Janice Groenheide is a cheesemaker and owner of WalkAboutFarm. Janice owns WalkAboutFarm with her husband Rob where they currently milk sheep with the help of the Thunder Oak Cheese Farm to produce 3 different types of cheese including a local feta style cheese. Janice was very involved in agriculture while growing up on her family’s sheep farm. She was very active in both 4-H and her local agricultural society. After attending the University of Guelph for Agriculture and Conestoga College for Paramedics, Janice moved to Thunder Bay and currently works as a paramedic as well as on the farm. Sponsors   This episode of the podcast is supported by CareersNow! CareersNow! is Food and Beverage Ontario’s multi-year workforce development initiative that is connecting students and job seekers with employers in Ontario’s food and beverage processing industry for exciting career opportunities. Check out CareersNow.ca for more information on exciting jobs, career information, industry mentors and training opportunities for professional development. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by our Education Partner, Conestoga College. Conestoga College is a leader in polytechnic education and one of Ontario’s fastest growing colleges, delivering a full range of career-focused education, training and applied research programs to prepare students for success in the new knowledge economy and promote economic prosperity throughout our region and across Ontario. Timestamps  [2:26] What Janice does at WalkaboutFarms and Cheeses they make [9:46] Why Janice decided to stay in agriculture [12:53] Parts of the job that Janice likes best [19:35] University of Guelph Cheese Making Course [22:44] The cheese-making process [24:29] Misconceptions about cheese-making [28:17] Cheese-making community and what is like [29:34] Skills needed to be a cheese-maker [31:59] Advice for students looking to become a cheese-maker Links  The Royal Agricultural Farms WalkAboutFarm University of Guelph Cheese Making Course Conestoga College Find Janice Online  WalkAboutFarm [email protected] Show Notes  https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-68/ 

On this episode, we interview Melody Ge, FSQA Director at StarKist Co. and Founder of the Women in Food Safety Group. Join us as we discuss what Melody's career journey, her approach to food safety and learn more about the Women in Food Safety Group. Show Notes https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-67

On this episode, we interview Bryan Quoc Le (Ph.D) Food Scientist, Food Industry Consultant and Author. Join us as we discuss what Bryan does as a consultant, completing a PhD and how he approaches experimental design. Show Notes https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-66  

On this episode, we interview Doug Alexander, Vice President of Sustainability and Government Relations at Belmont Meats. Join us as we discuss Doug's career transitions, managing failures in a role and advice for those pursuing a career in the manufacturing side of the food industry.  Show Notes   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-65  

On this episode, we interview Abbey Thiel (Ph.D.) Postdoctoral Researcherat Wageningen University and Science Communicator. Join us as we discuss what a post-doctorate research does, what it is like doing a food science PhD and why she decided to start Abbey the Food Scientist. Show Notes   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-64  

On this episode, we interview Jared Kligerman, President of The Think Tank, a full-service communications agency supporting the food industry. Join us as we discuss The Think Tank, Toronto's small food buisness scene and advice for students on how to network authentically. Show Notes   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-63/  

On this episode we are joined with Marcus Washington, Business Development Manager at SGS and Co-Founder of Just4Bars. Marcus shares his experience transitioning from a food safety master's degree to his full-time job at SGS. He also talks about his entrepenurial journey founding Just4Bars. We'll also discuss the challenges he faced along the way, the skills he's currently working on, and advice for students looking to break into the food safety industry.  Show Notes   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-62

On this episode we are joined with Sandra Ulewicz, Communications Coordinator at the Ontario Produce Marketing Agency. Together we discuss what a communication coordinator does, misconceptions associated with Ontario produce industry, networking tips and a whole lot more! Show Notes   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-ep-61/    

On episode 60 of the FoodGrads Podcast, we interviewed Lisa Cove, Founder, Packaging & Food Safety Consultant of Co-Motion Packaging Solutions. On this episode Lisa and Veronica talked about: 🎤 Co-Motion Packaging Solutions 🎤 How Lisa got into the packaging industry despite having a degree in Criminology from Wilfrid Laurier University 🎤 Why you don't have to rush into a career if you are unsure 🎤 What is considered sustainable packaging 🎤 The process of becoming a Certified Packaging Professional  🎤Food brands that Lisa would like to promote 👇 Check out the full episode below 👇 https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-60/  

On episode 59 of the FoodGrads Podcast, we interviewed Erica Rankin, Founder and CEO of Bro Dough.    On this episode, Erica and Veronica talked about:   🎤 How Brodough started from her time as a bodybuilder 🎤 What it is like being an introvert in the small business space 🎤 How she re-coops during her crazy entrepreneurial journey 🎤 What it is like being in a single person business 🎤 Why Erica loves the food space    👇 Check out the full episode below 👇   https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-59

This week on the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Pedro Medina, E.E.- Founder & Chief Data Farmer at Haystack Data Solutions On this episode Pedro and Veronica talked about: 🎤 Haystack and what they aredoing to help food producers, processors and distibutors 🎤 Pedro's career journey 🎤 What is "data" and how it is used in the food industry 🎤 Why he believes the food industry is slow to adopt digital technologies 🎤 Non-coding softwares 👇 Check out the full episode below 👇 https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-58

This week on the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Ran Goel, CEO of Fresh City Farms.   On this episode Ran and Veronica talked about:   🎤 How Ran started Fresh City Farms in 2011 after leaving his job as a Wall Street Lawyer 🎤 What he does as a CEO 🎤 Why he believes that home delivery is the way to help fight climate change 🎤 Urban agriculture 🎤 His approach to change   👇 Check out the full episode below 👇   http://ow.ly/A7VA50LBIgM  

On episode 56 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Evonne Chan, Food, Grocery & Nutrition Data Analyst at Pinto. On this episode Evonne and Veronica talked about: 🎤 How got Evonne became a data analyst 🎤 What a data analyst does 🎤 Her self-directed project helped her find a job after graduation 🎤 Skills she is currently trying to improve on write now 🎤 Data communication 🎤 Advice for those thinking about going into data analyst 🎤 Where she finds all the cool products she tries 👇 Check out the full episode below 👇 http://ow.ly/o9Z650Likja

On this special episode of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Jobseeker Coach Jason Wilson for CareersNow! On this episode Jason and Veronica talked about: 🎤 What to wear to a job interview 🎤 How to answer the question "tell us about yourself" 🎤 What do you look for in a first job 🎤 Why the food industry is recession proof 👇 Check out the full episode below 👇 https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-special

On episode 55 of the FoodGrads Podcast we interviewed Kirsten Sutaria, Co-Founder and Head of Curious Creation at Wonderlab's Doozy Pots. On this episode Kirsten and Veronica talked about: 🎤 Kirsten's career journey spending over 13 years in the food product development space 🎤 The development of Doozy Pots 🎤 What the hemp based space looks like and it's health benefits 🎤 How hemp is processeed 🎤 Ice cream science 👇 Check out the full episode below 👇 https://foodgrads.com/foodgrads-podcast-episode-55/