Cutting the Curd (Heritage Radio Network)

Albert Straus - founder of Northern California's Straus Family Creamery - chats with host Greg Blais about milk, sustainability, community and quality.

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Marissa Mullen, founder of That Cheese Plate and creator of Cheese By Numbers, is back with us to celebrate her new book, That Cheese Plate Wants to Party. We get into the details of writing a second book, social media, book deals, and building a work life you love. We also dive into the book and talk cheese plates, cheese pairings, and cheese playlists!

Photo courtesy of Alyssa Greenberg.

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Joe chats all things cheese with Emma Young aka The Cheese Explorer. Emma is a UK based author, cheese teacher, and consultant with 15 years experience in all aspects of the cheese industry as well as international cheese judge and teacher both in France and in the UK.

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Loveneh Labneh is a collaboration between Erivan Yogurt and Merion Park Cheese Co, The story of these two Philadelphia-area companies, and how they came together, is a modern story rooted in tradition and memory.

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Felice Thorpe, national sales director and owner of Felice Foods, returns for another conversation about the business of selling cheese. This time we're talking about forecasting. What is it? Why do it? Who should be doing it? And when?

Photo Courtesy of Felice Thorpe.

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If great cheese comes from great milk, and great milk starts with grasses grown in pastures filled with biodiversity, where do those building blocks to great grass come from? Joan Gussow is a professor emerita of Nutrition and Education at Columbia's Teacher's College, author, food policy expert, organic gardener and HRN Hall of Fame inductee. We will discuss the connection between soil and the future of food, and the role of regenerative agriculture in making great cheese.

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Today on the show we will review how tonic water and sparklings can work as a flavor component in your cocktails that then can be paired to your cheeses. Plus, what are the differences in tonic water? We sit down live for the first time in Bushwick since the pandemic began to chat with Samantha Kane, a CCP certified cheesemonger and a regional key account manager at Fever-Tree USA.

Photos Courtesy of Samantha Kane.

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My two guests are Stephanie Skinner and Molly Browne, both of whom were instrumental in starting Victory Cheese, which has attempted to help American cheesemakers during the pandemic. We discuss the origins of the movement and how Victory Cheese Boxes have helped cheesemakers through out the country sell their cheese. 

In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.

Keep Cutting the Curd on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate. 

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Stephanie Skinner,  Molly Browne, Victory Cheese, pandemic, COVID-19, Coronavirus, Covid, Victory Cheese Boxes, cheesemakers, 

A profile of Jumi, discussing the challenges of being a smaller European producer that does their own importing, and does not rely on major distributors to do logistics and sales.

Photo Courtesy of Sam Frank

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Meet Sean Hartwig, the specialty food manager at Zingerman's Deli. In this episode, Sean shares cheese tales about what he has seen and learned over his 14 years at the Zingerman's cheese counter. We discuss what servant leadership is, and what changes Zingerman's has made since 2020 that have improved work / life for the team and what makes things at Zingerman's Deli tick.

Photo courtesy of S. Carter.

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It's movie time! We are delighted to have Tenaya Darlington on the show, to discuss her love of classic movies and the cheeses that suit them. Plus, what's up in Philadeliphia, who really is Madame Fromage, and what are the best cocktails per movie. Is it a martini??

Image courtesy of Tenaya Darlington.

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Seamus Sheridan chats with Greg about why nibbling on Irish cheese is the best way to celebrate St. Patty’s Day this year and shares tips on running a family cheese biz.

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Cutting the Curd's annual interview with cheese visionary and thought leader, Jason Hinds.

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This is the second episode of a two-part series on the difference between raw and unpasteurized milk. In this episode Carlos Yescas speaks with Jonny Crickmore, cheesemaker at Fen Farm Dairy in England.

Photo Courtesy of Fen Farm Dairy.

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From New Zealand to Buffalo, from Farmers' Markets to national chains, and from 5000 sq ft to 35,000 sq ft of production space. Rebecca Brady, founder and CEO of Top Seedz, joins us to share the story of her company's growth.

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Join hosts Cara, Jessica, and Joe as they take you through the American Cheese Society conference, held in the vibrant city of Buffalo. In this episode, they dive into the latest trends and insights from the world of cheese. From artisanal craftsmanship to industry advancements, our hosts share their favorite moments, interviews with cheese experts, and behind-the-scenes stories from the conference. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or a professional in the industry, this episode is packed with rich content that you won't want to miss. Tune in for an in-depth recap of the ACS 2024 and discover what’s shaping the future of cheese!

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The annual American Cheese Society Conference is virtual this year!  The virtual event's theme is Moving Forward Together with Purpose, taking place from July 28-30, 2021. 

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Fourteen months. Four continents. Lots of cheese.

On this episode of Cutting the Curd, Linnea Burnham, recipient of the prestigious Watson Fellowship, discusses her fellowship project–exploring how social, cultural, and economic forces shape cheese makers’ lives from the Arctic Circle to South Africa and Mongolia.

On today's show Diane interviews writer Natalie Danford. Natalie was the translator for Slow Food's Osteria: 1,000 Generous and Simple Recipes from Italy's Best Local Restaurants.

It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate

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In this episode of Cutting the Curd, host Diane Stemple interviews Charles Wekselbaum, owner of Charlito's Cocina and author of "Cured: Handcrafted Charcuteria & More". In his book, Charles provides instructions for easily constructing your drying and fermentation chamber, putting together the perfect charcuterie board, pairing wines and beers with the finished product, and recipes to implement your favorite dry-cured ingredients.

Tune in this episode when Joe interviews Cheese Professional Jeff Buck, who daylights as a cheese monger and moonlights as a comedian in the LA area circuit and beyond. Hear how Jeff runs bits and cheese anecdotes on and off the stage, and how his good work at the cheese counter has helped him produce three different comedy shows in the LA area - you might hear a cheese parody or anecdote or celebrity impression too- tune in to hear more about what Jeff's been up to!

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In this special episode, our CTC hosts reflect on the wheel-turning events, the curd-inary highlights, and the fon-due moments that shaped the cheese-scape this past year.

We explore it all with a sprinkle of humor, a dash of clever insight, and a dollop of cheesy charm. Unpack the stories behind the latest cheese trends, hear again about the curd-preneurs making waves, and laugh along as we recount the unforgettable, and sometimes amusing, moments that defined the year.

Get ready for a flavorful blend of nostalgia, cheese wisdom, and a hint of cheesy humor as we slice through the curd-ious and unexpected happenings that made 2023 a vintage year in the world of curd exploration. So, grab your favorite cheese board, pour a glass of wine, and join us for a gouda time as we wrap up the year that was on Cutting the Curd! 🎉🧀

Image courtesy of Armen Spendjian.

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Tune into this episode as Joe hears from 30-year veteran cheese and vegan cheese monger and "Cheddar" book author Gordon Edgar. He talks about the recent Good Food Awards Vegan Cheese Kerfuffle in which he was named an "informant" by the Washington Post. And, Joe learns the proper way to pronounce vegan! Don’t miss this one!

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On today's episode, I have Anais Saint-Andre Loughran.  She is the co-owner of Chantal's Cheese Shop, located in Pittsburg, PA,  Anais moved there a few years back to start her own business and make her dreams a reality. Today her shop is a community focused market with European flair. In our discussion, I'll ask her what it's like to sell French cheeses in the states and how the marketing of her cheese shop has changed in the last year. 

Image courtesy of Chantal's Cheese.

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Hosts Elena Santogade, Diane Stemple and Aaron Foster are all in studio together to reflect on 2019 and make cheese-related bets for 2020. Hijinks ensue...

The holiday season is all about food and community. There’s no better time to show your support for food radio by becoming a member! Lend your voice and help HRN continue to spreading the message of equitable, sustainable, and delicious food – together, we can change minds and build a better food system. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate  today to become a crucial part of the HRN community.

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According to cheesemongers across the country, raw milk cheese is tradition, history, a taste of place, and, of course, it is delicious! Tune in to this special episode of Cutting the Curd in honor of the Cheese Coalition’s Raw Milk Cheese Appreciation Day to learn why raw milk cheese is so great, and what raw milk cheeses we’re obsessing over right now.

When you think of the Canary Islands, cheese may not immediately come to mind, but on this episode of Cutting the Curd, host Greg Blais talks with Rafael Chacón of Chacón e Hijo - distributors of Canary Islands cheese and charcuterie.

Tune in as Sheila Flanagan shares the rich history and innovative techniques behind Nettle Meadow's artisanal cheese-making process. From their commitment to sustainable farming practices, to their dedication for cheese-making, Nettle Meadow embodies the essence of craft and quality. Discover the unique flavors and textures of Nettle Meadow's signature cheeses, crafted with care from the finest ingredients. From creamy soft cheeses to aged masterpieces, each bite tells a story of passion and expertise.

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We talk to Robert Aguilera, Account Manager for Cultures and Enzymes working with CHR-Hansen, about the role of commercial cultures in cheesemaking.

Photo Courtesy of Robert Aguilera.

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We check back with David Asher from The Black Sheep School of Cheesemaking on his journey to promote natural cheesemaking around the world.

Are you a business owner? Become an HRN business member! For $500 HRN will shine a light on your work AND you will help sustain our mission to expand the way people think about food. As a thank you for this tax-deductible donation, your business will receive on-air mentions, social media posts, listings on our website and more. Go to heritageradionetwork.org/biz to become a business member today.

Photo Courtesy of The Black Sheep School of Cheesemaking.

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Cascadia Creamery in Trout Lake, Washington produces beautiful raw milk cheese made with USDA certified organic milk. In this episode of Cutting the Curd, Marci and John Shuman discuss the history of cheese-making in this region, the differences in using A2 milk, and the challenges and benefits of going organic.

This week's show is a collaboration between Cutting the Curd and The Farm Report. Elena is in the studio fellow HRN host and producer, Lisa Held, interviewing farmer and cheesemaker Celeste Nolan. Celeste and her husband purchased their family dairy farm 15 years ago. Struggles with sustaining the business on fluid milk production alone led them to add cheesemaking to the mix. Soon to be featured on Farmsteaders, an episode of PBS's POV series, Celeste and her family give an honest portrait of their rural experience.

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The Daphne Zepos Teaching Endowment is now accepting applications for grants! You may ask, "What does this mean?" We will explain on this episode, as we have a lively chat with 2023 DZRA recipient Alexandra Jones, 2015 DZTA recipient Tom Perry, and DZTE board president Brandi Wills.

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Anne Saxelby is our quest to discuss her new book, " The New Rules of Cheese: A freewheeling and Informative Guide." It's an interesting book with a wide scope of topics. We'll discuss the book and other current topics.

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Will Studd is perhaps best known for his cheese-focused television show, Cheese Slices. Now in its eighth season and with sixty-four episodes under his belt, Will Joins Elena on air to talk about all that goes into the show. We'll also hear about his newest adventure, Will Studd's Cheese Range, a curated selection of cheeses offered to the US and Australian markets.

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This time sensitive show is devoted to making sense of the potential tariffs on cheeses imported into the U.S. from the European Union. It's clear how the tariffs could impact importers (read: not good for business), but what other sectors of the industry will feel the effects? And, will those effects be all bad, or are there some who stand to gain? Elena will be speaking with Stephanie Ciano of World's Best Cheese to make sense of what's happening, what might happen and what––if anything––can be done about it all.

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The Bedford Cheese Shop's Charlotte Kamin and Nate McElroy join Diane Stemple in the studio to discuss their book - A First Course in Cheese.

Diane welcomes Steve Jones of Portland's Cheese Bar and writer Adam Lindsley––co-authors of Cheese Beer Wine Cider: A Field Guide to 75 Perfect Pairings––to the show this week. Listen as Diane gets to geek out on two of her favorite things: cheese and beer!

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On today's show Diane interviews Tia Keenan, New York City–based cook, cheese specialist, writer and activist. She is the author of The Art of the Cheese Plate: Pairings, Recipes, Style, Attitude (Rizzoli, 2016) and the forth-coming cookbook Melt, Stretch & Sizzle: The Art of Cooking Cheese (Rizzoli, fall 2018).

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Clara Diez and Ruben Valbuena of Cultivo chat with Elena about Cultivo, their Neals Yard Dairy-inspired shop in Madrid. Born from an economic need to get their cheeses in front of more customers, we hear how Cultivo is evolving and developing into a full-blown cheese destination and way of life.

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On today's episode, we chat with George, Debbie, and Rosanne Crave about their family life and the growth of the Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese operation. We also discuss how the support of the state of Wisconsin helps Cheesemakers in their research and refinement. This, plus dairy queens, chocolate mascarpone, and more.

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Tia Keenan is back in studio with Diane for this month's book review. Melt, Stretch, & Sizzle: The Art of Cooking Cheese – the book just landed and it is fierce! With a captivating style the photos take the idea of 'hot cheese' to new places and Tia tells all about her inspiration for the book and her path to pub date.

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Elena takes us out to San Francisco for the 4th annual SF Cheese Fest, hosted by the California Artisan Cheese Guild. Meet the folks behind Achadinha Cheese, Folly Cheese Co., Stuyt Dairy Farmstead Cheese and the cracker folk at Rustic Bakery!

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Host Cara Warren chats with Jane E. Ciccone about her company Onesto Foods, from their eco-friendly commitment to the unique market of crackers. Plus best pairings for different cheeses.

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On this month's book review Diane Stemple interviews Mike Edison, fellow Heritage Radio Network host (Arts & Seizures) about his latest memoir, You Are a Complete Disappointment, A Triumphant Memoir of Failed Expectations. With the title pulled from real life––it was one of the last things the author’s father said to him before dying––there's a lot to get into here!

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We caught up with Rachel Smith, General Manager at Goed Zuur, in the midst of a cheese-inspired road trip. Two years after opening Denver's first sour beer tap room, Goed Zuur is en route to pick up their first cheesemaker collaboration: Acid Wash, made by Parish Hill (washed with––you guessed it: sour beer!). Elena and Rachel chat about this first cheese collaboration project, the joys of growing a passion-fueled business and the excitement it all entails.

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Molly Browne, Directory of Education at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, joins us to discuss Cheese State University, a digital campus for people in the cheese industry to "deepen their knowledge, sharpen their skills, and build connections".

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Retailing ain't easy, especially in New York City. Agatha and Clair of Belle Cheese chat with us about staying sane and having fun on the eve of the shop’s one-year anniversary in the DeKalb Market.

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Cara interviews Elias Cairo co-owner and founder of Olympia Provisions, about American charcuterie and what's currently trending in the Salumi world.

Images courtesy of Olympia Provisions.

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E-Commerce sales for cheese are way up. In-store sampling programs are on pause. Conversations, written descriptions, and editorial copy are making the sale.

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We're doing things a little differently on this week's episode of Cutting the Curd. Our dear friend and former CTC host Diane Stemple is being recognized by the new world chapter of the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers for her work in the cheese industry. For decades, Diane promoted artisanal cheese makers form the US and abroad, first as a monger, then in sales, then as a brand ambassador, and of course as a co host of this podcast.

Diane’s niche was interviewing authors about their cheese-centric books. She stepped away from CTC about a year ago, and we want to take this opportunity to honor her as well, by throwing it way back to 2010 when she was a guest of Anne Saxelby on episode 10 of CTC. Their conversation recaps the decade in cheese (2000-2010), which was a big one for artisanal cheese. Diane and Anne held each other in high esteem, and were good friends who shared a passion for cheese. We really hope you enjoy this time capsule, and that you enjoy hearing Anne and Diane’s voices!

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Show favorite Andy Hatch regales Elena in studio with tales of a recent sales trip to Australia. And, don't miss the buried lead: Andy sounds the alarm on the potential for a conglomerate-controlled cheese market in the not-too-distant American future. Fear not! We also discuss what those at each link in the supply chain can do to protect innovation and variety in artisan cheese, and the space for family-sized cheesemaking companies like Uplands Cheese Co.

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Redwood Hill Farm is a pioneering artisan cheesemakers in the U.S. based in Sonoma County. On this episode of Cutting the Curd, tune in to hear host Greg Blais and guest co-host Debra Dickerson chat with Jennifer Bice, owner of Redwood Hill, as she discusses retirement and her decision to sell the company.

On today's episode we discuss Epicure Foods history of importing and distributing through the eyes of Jennifer Drezga, owner and CEO. She will take us through the humble beginnings of Epicure and mention the highlights leading to their 50th anniversary!  

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Joe chats with industry veteran Lydia Burns from Rogers Collection, contemplating what makes Food so Fancy and the new location of the Winter Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas.

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Diane and Cara interview author Joe Berkowitz about his new book, American Cheese: An indulgent odyssey through the artisan cheese world. 

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Kate Leeder of Aperitivo in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Emily Lindh of Denizen in Brooklyn, NY join host Diane Stemple to discuss cheese restaurant tales.

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In just four years, Stevie Lee Webb and his wife Michelle have successfully grown their business from a pop-up cheese stand to a small shop, and now, they're about to open a full-service cheese shop with the area's first cheese bar. Hoping to inspire others, Joe sits down with Stevie in this episode to hear the story of how it all came to be! Tune in to this one to hear more!

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On today's episode, Cara will discuss with Aaron Quint co-owner and head food guy at Kingston Bread and Bar, his bread making skills and how his love for cheese helps him create the ultimate pairings bread and cheese combos. Crunchy bread with gooey cheese... nom nom.

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Today we interview Adam Moskowitz, host and showrunner of the Cheesemonger Invitational, about the Fall 2021 edition. It's gone virtual, but now it's back for the first time!! What does this mean and who will participate?? We find out the facts for the next competition.

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Jessica and Cara talk about what has evolved at Sweet Grass Dairy for Jessica Little since her previous interview with Anne Saxelby (one decade ago) in 2010 and what's next down the line!

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We continue our pandemic-focused series of interviews with industry professionals about selling cheese in the time of COVID. Here we're joined by Laura Logos Downey of Fairfield Cheese Shop to hear about retail landscape now that we're through the first wave of infections in the Northeast. And we look forward to what the Fall may bring, and what actions Laura is taking to prepare.

In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.

Keep Cutting the Curd on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate. 

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We check in with Agela Abdullah, Kyra James and Nicole Garrett of the Cheese Culture Coalition about the CCC's growth as a non profit, and as a national community since they were on CTC in 2021. One indicator of their success is the sizable grant and scholarship program available for BIPOC cheese professionals to further their cheese education and professional development. Deadline to apply for grants and the CMI scholarship is May 10th! Listen here for all of the details.

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In this episode, we dive into the world of Vermont Creamery with co-founder Allison Hooper and lead scientist of research and development Austen Czymmek. Join us as they share the inspiring journey behind their latest creation: Hooper, a unique washed rind cheese named in honor of Allison’s incredible legacy in the cheese-making community.
 

Discover the meticulous process that went into developing Hooper, from selecting the shape to mastering the art of washed rind techniques. Allison and Austen discuss the flavors that make Hooper truly stand out, and they offer tips on the best pairings to elevate your Hooper cheese experience.

Photo courtesy of Vermont Creamery.

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Our 2019 Cheesemaking Elements series kicks off with...milk! Sheep’s milk, at that, in all its luscious glory. Elena interviews Mariana Marques de Almeida, sheep and goat specialist on everything from milk production to cheesemaking.

Check out the Dairy Sheep Association for more resources!

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Cara interviews Amy Sherman, Editor in Chief of the Cheese Professor. They discuss the new educational website and what it's like to curate cheese content online. Plus, a new cheese competition is announced for May 2021. (NYICC) New York International Cheese Competition. 

Image courtesy of Amy Sherman.

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Zach Berg and Will Werner met when they were ten years old in Michigan. After living in the Bay Area for a few years, they wrote a mission statement for a new food business, Mongers' Provisions, focused on supplying customers for a journey of Cultivation, Connection, and Passion. Now co-owners of two retail locations in Metro Detroit, Zach and Will join us to discuss beginnings, growth, and lessons learned.

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Joe Salonia and Elena do a tasting on air (hint: the cheese is from Switzerland) and strategize on how to prevent one of the world’s oldest traditions from going extinct.

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On today's book review, Diane interviews cheese industry champion Lassa Skinner. With a new book on cheese boards and Counter Culture production in full-swing, Lassa's cheese plate is full!

Join Heritage Radio Network on Monday, November 11th, for a raucous feast to toast a decade of food radio. Our tenth anniversary bacchanal is a rare gathering of your favorite chefs, mixologists, storytellers, thought leaders, and culinary masterminds. We’ll salute the inductees of the newly minted HRN Hall of Fame, who embody our mission to further equity, sustainability, and deliciousness. Explore the beautiful Palm House and Yellow Magnolia Café, taste and imbibe to your heart’s content, and bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and tasty gifts for any budget at our silent auction. Tickets available now at heritageradionetwork.org/gala.

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Elena continues to explore the cheese retail landscape! Today's guests are Laura Downey and Chris Palumbo, owners and cheesemongers of Fairfield and Greenwich Cheese Companies in Connecticut and Cheesemonger Box. Elena, Laura and Chris tackle big questions: how can stand-alone independent 'family-sized' cheese retail compete in today's bifurcated marketplace? What is 'the market' for specialty cheese retail in the United States anyway, and how can a small neighborhood shop cultivate the kind of customer interest needed for success?

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On today's episode of Cutting the Curd, our host team of Cara, Carlos, and Jess talk about last year's realizations and next year's possible trends. Also, is anyone going to FFS Vegas?? Happy NEW Year!!

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Our annual holiday special - Cheese Stories - returns! Thalassa Skinner (Culture Magazine) and Matt Rubiner (Rubiner's Cheesemongers) join host Greg Blais to recap the holidays, make cheese predictions for 2017 and tell their favorite cheese stories from behind the counter.

Cheesemaker Andy Hatch joins host Greg Blais in the studio to talk about Uplands Cheese and the endurance of Pleasant Ridge Reserve.

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Peter Gethers, author, screenwriter, playwright, book editor, and film and television producer (!!), chats with Diane about his new memoir – what Library Journal calls "a great primer on second acts and living (and dying) well."

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Today Cara speaks with Felice Thorpe, Owner of Felice Foods, Consulting Sales Director for the specialty food businesses, and Rebekah Baker, Director of Sales on the west coast for Treeline Cheese. They are on today's episode to discuss the commonalities and perspectives of the plant-based cheese world with the fluid milk cheese market. By reviewing how the grocery world has evolved in these last few years, we discuss how they are merging in the marketplace and how their stories can be more aligned than you would think.

Photo Courtesy of Felice Thorpe and Rebekah Baker.

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Carlos Yescas (guest hosts) talks to Arnaud Sperat­-Czar and Susan Sturman about the new book Raw Milk Cheese: Mission Reconquer and shares their vision for the future to save raw milk cheeses in France.

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Diane Stemple is on location in London this week, for Neals Yard Dairy's 40th birthday party! Tune in for interviews with Jason Hinds, David Lockwood, Sara Stewart and Bronwen Percival.

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Special Show: We check in with cheesemakers and cheese professionals from Ukraine.

We hear from Olha Ternytska, cheesemaker and restaurant fromager, Oksana Chernova, cheese judge and training expert, as well as cheesemakers Andriy Kulyk and Oleksander Ukrainets also known as 'The Milk Master at Lel’. They share their plans, worries, and love for Ukrainian cheese.

“Cheesemakers are resilient, but so many in Ukraine face an uncertain future.” Carlos Yescas would like to dedicate this show to the victims of war.

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In our second episode of the 2019 Cheesemaking Elements series Elena dives deep into the world of cheese cultures. Culture expert Robert Aguilera explains how culture houses work and why we're starting to see monoculture creep when it comes to starters and adjunct cultures used in cheesemaking. Plus, how the culture supply chain business is changing within the growing cheese industry.

Check out the Cheese Science Toolkit Robert mentions at the end of the episode!

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Pairing wine and cheese is so classic, it's become a cliche. Craft beer has enjoyed an upswell of interest lately, and with that it's also been the focus of a lot of pairing opinions. But one of our favorite pairing partners - cider - hasn't gotten its proper due. Today, Jeff Russell - cider fanatic and sales director for Vermont's Eden Cider - joins us to talk about the state of the cider nation, tips for pairing, and how cheese and cider might not be such strange bedfellows.

It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate

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What is cider? What is American Cider? Why is everybody drinking it? And what does this have to do with cheese? Rachel Freier, a Certified Cheese Professional AND Certified Cider Professional is here to answer all of the questions. From Ithaca to Spain and back again, we talk about the history, the production, and the pairings of cider, and let tastebuds do the talking.

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Amanda Freund tells us all about her experience as a 3rd generational farmer and how cooperatives are helping support New England and Vermont communities thru sustainable agriculture like smart barns and cow pots!

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The Anne Saxelby Legacy Fund celebrates Cutting the Curd originator, Anne Saxelby, and the passion she held for farmers and cheese-makers. The mission of ASLF is to provide month-long paid apprenticeships for young adults to live on sustainable farms - to work, learn, and be inspired to create change in their communities. Now wrapping up their third year, we talk with Kristina Graeber,  Director of Programs about the Fund. Mike Koch of FireFly Farms also joins us to discuss the role of Farm Partners, and Allison Sirota, an Apprentice with the Fund tells us about her experience. We also get a sneak peak at the upcoming fundraising Gala.

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The Summer Fancy Food Show is happening this week in New York City and that means cheesemakers and specialty food producers are in town in a big way. Our guests today are in town from Italy: Bruno Gritti of Quattro Portoni and Paola Calciolari of Le Tamerici chat with Elena about their products and what's ahead for them during their trip to the states.

It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate

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On a continued Italian kick, Diane interviews author and food tour operator Elizabeth Minchilli about her new cookbook, The Italian Table.

It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate

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Elena chats in-studio with Missy Hughes about how the Organic Valley Cooperative works, and Missy's work as Chief Mission Officer and General Counsel. Missy works with legislatures and government agencies as she advocates for nationwide access to organic products, animal welfare, farmworker rights and good stewardship of the earth. Hear how her efforts impact dairy farming and what she sees as top priorities in sustainable agriculture moving forward.

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As we look into the next four years under a new US President, we explore some of the issues around regulation and production of raw milk cheeses in the United States. Guest host Carlos Yescas is joined by two academics of cheese to share with us their thinking about the work of the FDA, the CDC, the USDA and the USTR.

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Back in June 2014, almost a decade ago, our former CTC host Greg Blais chatted with Mike Lee of Twig Farm Vermont and Judy Schad of Capriole Goat Cheese Indiana to learn the differences between the two goat cheesemakers. Each farm milks the alpine breed of goat but has very different cheesemaking styles. Here we take a look at the thought provoking nuances between the two classic American artisanal producers.

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Continuing our deep dive into COVID-19 and its impact on the cheese and specialty food industries, we pick up the conversation with Tyler Hawes. Tyler brings two decades of industry experience and scholarship to bear, as we ask him to help us make predictions about what the retail, distribution, and production landscape will look like over the next few months and years.

In March, HRN began producing all of our 35 weekly shows from our homes all around the country. It was hard work stepping away from our little recording studio, but we know that you rely on HRN to share resources and important stories from the world of food each week. It’s been a tough year for all of us, but right now HRN is asking for your help. Every dollar that listeners give to HRN provides essential support to keep our mics on. We've got some fresh new thank you gifts available, like our limited edition bandanas.

Keep Cutting the Curd on the air: become an HRN Member today! Go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate. 

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Jessica Kesselman joins Elena in studio to discuss working in cheese alongside her journey as a parent. How well does the cheese industry support parents, and what are the challenges specific to parents that come up when working in cheese? Elena and Jessica explore the answers to these questions and more on today's episode!

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Elena taped today's episode at the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Booth at the Summer Fancy Food Show. Today's episode features shorter interviews with ten different cheesemakers, all from Wisconsin and all making unique products! From the science behind cheese spread texture to the benefits of using a bio digester, these mini-interviews are full of interesting details and endearing Wisconsin accents.

It's HRN's annual summer fund drive, this is when we turn to our listeners and ask that you make a donation to help ensure a bright future for food radio. Help us keep broadcasting the most thought provoking, entertaining, and educational conversations happening in the world of food and beverage. Become a member today! To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we have brand new member gifts available. So snag your favorite new pizza - themed tee shirt or enamel pin today and show the world how much you love HRN, just go to heritageradionetwork.org/donate

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To celebrate the 300th episode of Cutting the Curd, host Diane changes things up a bit and talks about meat with fellow HRN host Katy Keiffer. Katy's new book What's the Matter with Meat? is filled with valuable information about the meat industry and its impact on the environment.

Recorded live in the Podcast Lounge at the Art of Cheese Festival in Madison, Wisconsin, Cutting the Curd spoke with three women in cheese who are changing the landscape of the Dairy State. Huma Siddiqui-Seitz joined H Conley from HRN to discuss the relationship between food and culture, and her goals for her company, White Jasmine; Madeline Kuhn shares her journey in cheese and describes the process of Product Development at Emmi Roth; Pam Hodgson of Sartori Cheese is currently one of only two women to have the title of Master Cheesemaker. She explains what this title means, and her path to get here.

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In the past, cheese has generally been paired with wines and craft beers, but today we take a deep dive into the world of Mezcal. Here we'll explore the many options that can surprise us and even tempt us to new levels within the world of Agave spirits. Today we'll chat with Lou Banks of SACRED Agave and Chava Periban - they're also the awesome duo of the cool new podcast Agave Road Trip, also streamed on the Heritage Radio Network.

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Elena's fascination with cooperative approaches to business turns to cheesemaking as she looks at unique partnerships among Wisconsin cheesemakers. Today's show features Ann Bates of Landmark Creamery and Chris Gentine of The Artisan Cheese Exchange. Find out how friendly neighbors can be the difference between success and failure in cheese distribution, and Chris offers a surprise comparison between hot rodding cars and making cheese 😱!

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Elena, Diane and Aaron are at it again with our second end-of-season host show. Following the runaway 'morning talk show' style success of last season's host show, Elena has some thought-provoking cheese-related prompts for the group, Diane tries to thwart her efforts and Aaron tries his best to answer while aghast at what's happening in the studio.

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Brooklyn cheesemonger turned affineur and educator, Mary Casella joins us to talk about her upcoming presentation for the Daphne Zepos Research Award. Plus, we review what she has found so far in her project as well as what's next for her gender study of the dairy industry.

Photo Courtesy of Mary Casella.

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We're back and this time we have Joe Salonia on the show. Director of Sales and Marketing in the US for Gourmino Affinage and Selection, Joe is coming off the big win of having a best in show cheese at the World Cheese Awards. Here we kick back and discuss what it means to win such an award and what's next for the cheesemakers of Gourmino.

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Host Greg Blais interviews the newest addition to the Cutting the Curd team, Elena Santogade. A four-time guest, Elena is taking over as Producer and will be hosting the show once a month. Who is she? We'll find out!

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The cheese industry has a presence in almost every country around the world and those who work in this industry are passionate about their jobs, cheese, and community. In this episode we heard voices from around the world from cheese professionals on how they became experts. They shared their thoughts with Carlos Yescas as he concluded his time as guest host of this podcast.

Carlos would like to thank everyone at HRN for their hard work opening spaces for thoughtful conversations, and to his co-hosts Cara and Jessica. Follow him online at www.carlosyescas.org to learn about his upcoming projects.

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