Walk-In Talk Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast, Carl sits down with Chef Massimo Orlando and Jack Ross for a powerful conversation about Italian heritage, food culture, and the stories that shape who we are.   Chef Massimo Orlando shares his journey from growing up in Italy and learning to cook in his grandmother's kitchen to working professionally at a young age in the kitchens around Lake Como. His path took him across the ocean to Miami Beach and eventually to California, where he built a life, a career, and a community. Massimo opens up about mentorship, immigration, the impact of the pandemic, rebuilding after loss, and how mental health and therapy changed his leadership and outlook on life. He also discusses his role with A.P.C.I. North America and the mission to protect and promote real Italian food and culture in the United States and Canada.   Joining the episode in the studio is Jack Ross, the creator of YO! Meatball. Jack is a home cook whose Sicilian family recipes are rooted in tradition, comfort, and the Sunday table. While cooking his signature meatballs live, Jack shares how family food traditions became a way to connect with community and preserve heritage outside of the professional kitchen. This episode explores two different paths connected by one common thread. Food as memory, identity, resilience, and connection.     Brand & Industry Partners

• Metro
https://www.metro.com

• RAK Porcelain USA
https://www.rakporcelain.com/usa

• Pass the Honey
https://www.passthehoney.com

• Aussie Select
https://www.aussieselect.com

• Ibis Images Studio
https://www.ibisimages.com

Official Trade Show & Event Partners

• New York Restaurant Show
https://www.nyrestaurantshow.com

• California Restaurant Show
https://www.californiarestaurantshow.com

• Florida Restaurant Show
https://www.floridarestaurantshow.com

• Pizza Tomorrow Summit
https://www.pizzatomorrowsummit.com

• U.S. Culinary Open at NAFEM Show
https://www.usculinaryopen.org

Cause & Community Partners

• The Burnt Chef Project (Mental health advocacy in hospitality)
https://www.theburntchefproject.com

• Operation BBQ Relief
https://operationbbqrelief.org

• Hogs for the Cause
https://hogsforthecause.org

• Sustainable Supperclub
https://www.sustainablesupperclub.com

In this episode, Carl sits down with Stan Hays, co founder and CEO of Operation BBQ Relief, to talk about what it really looks like to feed people on the worst day of their lives. From the recent deployment to Jamaica after a massive hurricane to the emotional weight of serving their thirteen millionth meal, Stan shares the stories behind the numbers, including the moment a simple pulled pork sandwich became a symbol of love, humanity and hope.

Joining the conversation in studio is champion pitmaster Tillman Lee Nelson III of Tillmans BBQ. Tillman rolls in with award winning brisket, his Perfect 200 rub and honest talk about the grind of the competition circuit, marriage on the road, barbecue family and why he still watches every face in the room when people take that first bite. Together, Stan and Tillman dig into why barbecue has such a deep emotional pull, how the barbecue community shows up for each other, and what it means to use food as a vehicle for comfort, connection and service.

Key takeaways:

• What it takes for Operation BBQ Relief to activate in places like Jamaica and why safety, dignity and cultural respect matter as much as the food.

• How a pulled pork sandwich, a parking lot and one stranger's gratitude helped Stan find his "why" and changed how he sees the work forever.

• Why competitive barbecue is a family sport for Tillman, how his wife Amy became the real secret weapon, and why the barbecue community feels like a second family.

• Simple ways listeners can get involved, from volunteering with OBR at OBR.org to supporting the people doing the cooking in their own communities.

About Walk-In Talk Podcast and Walk In Talk Media:

• Walk-In Talk Podcast is hosted by food industry veteran and storyteller Carl Fiadini, shining a light on the flavor, the hustle and the heart of the industry. Walk-In Talk is the official podcast for the New York, California and Florida Restaurant Shows and the Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and the on-site media partner for the US Culinary Open at the NAFEM Show. Walk In Talk Media is also the North American media platform for The Burnt Chef Project and regularly supports cause driven partners like Operation BBQ Relief and Hogs for the Cause. Recorded at Ibis Images Studios, where food photography comes alive and Carl gets the first bite. Learn more at thewalkintalk.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Aussie Select - Fully cooked, premium Australian lamb

Fully cooked, premium Australian lamb—ready to serve and packed with clean flavor.

RAK Porcelain USA -Tableware

We use RAK for all in-studio tableware—clean, durable, and designed for chefs.

Ciji Castro, the founder of Domestic Gourmet, joins us on the Walk-In Talk Podcast to explore the profound significance of culinary heritage and its impact on contemporary cuisine. This episode centers around her exquisite dish, Bistec Empanizado, which embodies not only the flavors of her cultural roots but also the essence of family legacy and connection. Ciji passionately discusses her mission to preserve Latin food traditions and share them with a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of family recipes passed down through generations. She elaborates on the creative fusion of flavors she employs, including a unique Cuban-Chinese twist, which further exemplifies the rich tapestry of cultural influences in her cooking. Our conversation delves into the role of food as a bridge between tradition and modernity, demonstrating how culinary practices can unite diverse communities and foster a deeper understanding of heritage.

Thanks to Crab Island Seafood and Del Encanto Foods for supplying and supporting our show!

Link to our article from Executive Tradeshow Magazine:

Podcast Generating Buzz for Restaurant Events' Shows

Takeaways:

• Ciji Castro emphasizes the importance of preserving Latin food traditions through her culinary endeavors.
• The dish Bistec Empanizado represents a fusion of family recipes and innovative flavors, showcasing cultural heritage.
• In the podcast, Ciji discusses how her upbringing influences her commitment to sharing authentic recipes with new audiences.
• Cultural representation in food is vital, as it fosters connections and understanding across diverse communities.
• Ciji's black bean recipe, a cherished family legacy, has gained recognition as a leading Spanish language result on Google.
• The conversation highlights how food and music serve as powerful unifying forces in bridging cultural gaps.

Crab Island Seafood Company | Seafood Spreads

Del Encanto Foods

Send us a text

Join us for this walk and talk as we encounter the world of rodeo through the eyes of Brylee Johnson, the reigning Miss Rodeo Texas 2020. Get ready to be charmed by her fascinating journey into the rodeo circuit and her inspiring platform that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals within the rodeo community. Her devotion to honoring veterans, military personnel, and special needs individuals with her advocacy will undoubtedly captivate your hearts. In a world where the rodeo sport is often overlooked, Brylee's dedication to promoting and educating others about it provides a refreshing perspective.

As we further unwrap her experiences, Brylee candidly exposes the challenges of being a rodeo queen in the digital age, discussing the delicate equilibrium between social media and mental health. She emphasizes the significance of preserving traditional values amidst the evolution of rodeo into a competitive sport. The conversation also navigates through the range of age groups represented in the Miss Rodeo Texas pageant, painting a vibrant picture of this rodeo pageant tradition. We also have a few laughs over custom belt buckles, mispronunciations, and even a surprise admiration for Miss Rodeo Florida's sparkling hat. So tune in and saddle up for an exciting ride into the rich culture of rodeo with Brylee Johnson!

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Hold on to your spatulas, foodies! We've got Team France, at the World Food Championship, bringing the taste of victory to our podcast! Feel their fervor as they recall their incredible journey to the US, participating in a thrilling burger championship. From crafting the perfect burger using quality ingredients, to their unique techniques involving homemade ketchup and Tabasco, and the fiery debate over cooking over charcoal - their story is a sizzling serving of passion on a platter. And wait till you hear about their love for In-N-Out burgers and the immense pride they take in representing American cooking styles!

But that's not all, we've got a delectable dialogue between a French and an American Chef, both united by their mutual love for burgers and barbecues. Listen as they swap stories about their favorite food destinations, with Texas and Argentina reigning supreme. Discover their camaraderie, their belief in the universal appeal of burgers, and the magic that happens when you cook with love. Hear about the French chef's restaurant in Washington DC, his love for New Orleans cuisine, and our warm welcome to him into our food community. So whether you're a professional chef, a home cook, or just a food enthusiast, join us in this savory saga of friendship, food, and friendly competition. Trust us, you'll be left craving for more!

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Welcome to the Walk-In Talk Podcast, where we dive into the fascinating world of food and culinary expertise. In this episode, we have the pleasure of introducing Chef Raymond, a talented member of The United States Coast Guard Culinary Team competing at the prestigious World Food Championships.

Join us as we explore Chef Raymond's culinary journey, from his background in the Coast Guard to his passion for creating delicious and innovative dishes. Discover the unique challenges and experiences he faces as a member of the culinary team, representing his country on a global stage.

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Ever wondered what it feels like to be smack in the middle of The World Food Championships? I, your host Carl Fiadini, and my co-host Mark Conway, the event's MC and host, are here to share all the electrifying energy and stunning culinary showdowns taking place in this extraordinary foodie fest. Imagine the buzz as 200 teams go head-to-head in a thrilling gastronomic battle – and we've got the best seats in the house, right on the red carpet!

But that's not all! We spice up our food talk with some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including an unexpected encounter involving a truck and a deer! Plus, I'll be stepping into a new role as a master judge at the competition. Listen to Mark and I spar over my 'Rocky Balboa'-style training, and his anticipation of meeting some of his well-known friends from the culinary world. And as the icing on the cake, we're introducing a brand new mixology competition. So brace yourselves for a delicious blend of food, fun, and a hint of friendly debauchery at one of the biggest food events of the year! Will we catch sight of you there?

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Ready to step into the thrilling world of competitive cooking? Join us as we unravel the fascinating stories of our powerhouse guests – Jay Ducote and Pooch Rivera. Together, we delve into the heart of the World Food Championships 2023, exploring the grueling demands of this culinary battlefield. Rivera, a seasoned contestant and new addition to the Walk-In Talk Podcast lineup, pulls back the curtain on a decade of experience in the Championships, while Ducote, a former competitor turned host, shares the guts and grit required to stand on such a prestigious platform. 

From food journalism to hosting national cooking shows, Ducote's journey is nothing less than inspiring. He began his culinary journey in a cubicle, sparking an interest that led him to food writing, podcasting, and eventually, to a full-fledged culinary career. His audacious leap from teaching and grant writing to eating and drinking for a living is a tale that has inspired millions, and one that you certainly won't want to miss! This episode is a testament to the world of competitive cooking and the life of a true culinary renaissance man. Tune in, as we promise an enthralling gastronomic adventure!

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Join us on a tantalizing journey into the heart of culinary competition at the World Food Championship in Dallas, Texas. This episode is flavored with the lively discussions surrounding the thrilling competition that allows chefs and home cooks to showcase their skills on a level playing field. Our guest, Mike McCloud, the marketing director for the Kansas City Barbecue Society and the brainchild behind Sam's Club Barbecue Tour, shares the meaty details of what it takes to organize an event of this magnitude.

McCloud peels back the layers of his journey, uncovering the strategic deal with IMG that led to the creation of the World Food Championship. We grill him on his innovative plans to expand the championship, including the introduction of military-style competitions and a "Food Week". McCloud also serves up a reminder that every competitor is a "food champ", reinforcing the inclusive spirit that makes this event a melting pot of culinary enthusiasts.

Adding to our recipe for an engaging podcast; Anthony Martorina, a competitive cook and Instagram sensation, joins the conversation. Martorina dishes on his experiences in the competitive culinary world and his Instagram page, which has become a visual feast for food lovers. This episode is a perfect blend of passion, creativity, and love for food, served with a side of enlightening discussions on the importance of cash flow management for successful events. Come, feast on this flavorful discussion that is sure to whet your appetite for all things culinary.

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com

Send us a text

Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey with our culinary maestros, Chef Brian Duffy and Mark Henry. They're pulling back the curtain on their illustrious careers, sharing pearls of wisdom, and recounting tales of their global culinary escapades. From the spicy Cajun and sophisticated French cuisine of Louisiana to the vibrant Spanish and exotic African influences on food, your taste buds are in for a feast of stories. 

Ever wondered how meticulousness in the kitchen can translate into a life skill? Chef Brian and Mark underline the necessity of preparation and cleanliness in cooking, insisting that this 'clean as you go' philosophy can be incorporated into our daily routines. They enlighten us about their passion for infusing entertainment into cooking and intriguingly introduce us to Creole cuisine from Apollousus. 

Mark Henry, a man of many talents, doesn't shy away from sharing his recipe for success. With a dash of humility, a sprinkle of relentless hard work, and a refusal to accept 'no' for an answer, he has cooked up a diverse portfolio that includes a successful website, podcast and pro wrestling show. Rounding off our chat, we touch upon the electrifying energy of the World Food Championships, expressing our awe for the commitment and creativity exhibited by all involved. If you're a food enthusiast, or aspire for culinary greatness, this episode is your perfect ingredient.

Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries, integrating seamlessly to transform your operations and improve profitability - get started at SupraCut.com and ask about risk-free trials.

The following brands and companies help us continue supporting the food industry - have a look below! 

Support the show

Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

We're the Official Podcast Partner for the NY, CA & FL Restaurant Shows, Pizza Tomorrow Summit, and U.S. Culinary Open.

Brand Partners:
RAK Porcelain USA
Metro Foodservice
SupraCut Systems
Aussie Select
Crab Island Seafood
Pass the Honey
The Burnt Chef Project
Citrus America

Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

📩 Partner or pitch a story: Carl@thewalkintalk.com