ShandeeLand

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mia Silverman, a Food Allergy Advocate and NYU student who's making a huge impact both in the allergy community and beyond. We first discovered Mia through her TikTok. She was traveling with her 50+ food allergies. But her work goes far beyond that. She shares her personal journey, from discovering her diagnosis to managing new allergies as she grows older. Mia also discusses her experiences with food challenges, offering valuable advice for others on a similar path. While studying psychology, focusing on child and adolescent mental health, Mia balances multiple jobs, research projects, and her work with a non-profit—all while staying committed to helping the allergy community. She also shares dating tips (green flags included!) and provides expert travel guidance for navigating food allergies. Tune in to hear Mia’s incredible story and be inspired by her resilience and dedication to making a difference. This young woman is determined to give back!

Heather Neary, the President and CEO of Taco John’s International, Inc. shares her inspiring professional journey, which began in a cheesesteak shop outside of Philadelphia, where she often left work smelling like onions. It was here Heather discovered her passion for the fast-paced and exciting hospitality industry. Her career trajectory took a fascinating and incredible trajectory. Heather advanced through the ranks at Auntie Anne’s, gaining valuable experience and eventually finding her way to Taco John’s. In her current role, she is deeply committed to honoring the brand's legacy while guiding its growth. One of the key topics Heather addresses is the delicate balance of leading an established company—understanding what aspects to preserve and identifying areas of growth. A significant part of her leadership philosophy centers on the importance of listening, both to her team and to the franchisees with whom she maintains strong relationships. Throughout the episode, Heather emphasizes a positive outlook on life, discussing the best and worst parts of her day while maintaining an optimistic perspective. She also offers invaluable advice for women aspiring to grow and advance in the hospitality industry. Heather's approach to leadership is characterized by a willingness to take risks, learn every aspect of the business, and never say, "That's not my job." Additionally, Heather shares some personal reflections, including the proudest moment of her career, highlighting her journey as one of hard work, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Meet Rebecca Berry, a hospitality trailblazer with over a decade of dedicated service! As the Senior Sales Manager for Career & Workforce Advancement at the National Restaurant Association, Rebecca is reshaping careers in the dynamic world of hospitality. Her impressive background includes serving as a former board member of The Colorado Restaurant Association and being a proud member of the World Wide Women's Association. Rebecca is instrumental in the success of ServSuccess, driving the development of industry-leading training programs and certifications. Her commitment to professional development is unwavering. In this episode, Rebecca shares her inspiring journey. Initially a licensed cosmetologist, she transitioned to hospitality after being diagnosed with celiac disease, driven by concerns about chemical exposure. Rebecca explains the critical role of ServSuccess in providing training and certification support for restaurant and hospitality workers. She highlights how it equips employees with the necessary tools to build knowledge and validate skills, facilitating growth across various career stages. Rebecca also delves into the post-pandemic state of the industry, discussing the evolving demands for quality of life from employees and how leadership is responding. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into the next big shift in hospitality. Tune in to hear Rebecca Berry's insightful journey and valuable perspectives on the future of the hospitality industry.

We had the pleasure of featuring the incredible David "Rev" Ciancio for his second appearance on our podcast! If you missed his first episode, be sure to check out #158. Rev is a powerhouse in the business, tech, and marketing world. He's the Co-Founder and CMO of Handcraft Burgers and Brews and the Head of Revenue Marketing for Branded Strategic Hospitality. Recently, he's embarked on a new journey with Baboo, an innovative online ordering and food delivery platform that's commission-free and fee-limited, designed to support independent restaurants in Greater North Jersey. In this episode, Rev dives deep into the inspiration behind Baboo and its significance for the restaurant industry. He passionately discusses why, for the first time, guests are paying for the experience rather than just the food. Rev also shares valuable insights on how restaurants can enhance their guests' experiences.

Meet Caitlin Follett, the Pastry Chef Extraordinaire at Fenway Park! Boston-born and deeply immersed in Boston sports, Caitlin shares her journey from MBA graduate to creating delectable desserts for Fenway's premium department, private suites, and catering programs. Her unique blend of culinary expertise and business acumen sets her apart in the industry. With a family who supported her every step of the way, Caitlin inherited their strong work ethic. She walks by the iconic field every day, fueled by passion and gratitude for her dream job. Tune in as Caitlin reveals the ins and outs of her game day routine, from crafting desserts for restaurants to catering to exclusive events. She dishes on the best moments of her day and what tasks she dreams of delegating. From the hustle and bustle of the kitchen to the thrill of seeing her creations delight patrons, Caitlin's day is a symphony of culinary artistry and precision. Caitlin shares advice on building technique and expertise. Despite her remarkable career, she ponders what the future might hold. Her journey is a testament to the power of dedication and hard work, inspiring aspiring chefs to pursue their passions. Don't miss this inspiring episode as Caitlin Follett serves up insights from the heart of Fenway Park!

Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palette America, the parent company of Pepper Lunch is our exciting guest this week. Troy's journey is a fascinating blend of real estate, construction, culinary arts, and supply chain expertise, all converging into his remarkable career path. Troy delves into the art of choosing the perfect location for success, drawing parallels between real estate and crafting the perfect menu. He emphasizes that just like a well-curated dish, a strategic location is a recipe for triumph. But here's the real takeaway: it's not just about getting people to try your offerings; it's about ensuring they keep coming back for more. Troy reveals the sobering statistic that 70% of customers never return, shedding light on the true challenges of building customer loyalty in the culinary world. Moreover, Troy provides valuable insights into the unique challenges the US market faces compared to international markets, offering a holistic view of the culinary landscape. Tune in to our podcast episode to discover Troy's wisdom and experience firsthand!

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Weedy, Vice President of Finance for Ledo Pizza, to unravel the fascinating journey of a finance professional in the dynamic world of hospitality. Aaron shares his unexpected entry into the industry during college, highlighting the diverse career paths that hospitality can offer. We delve into Ledo Pizza's rich history, exploring its origins, unique selling points, and how it has carved its niche in the competitive pizza landscape. Aaron sheds light on the intriguing aspects of operating a pizza chain that offers dine-in and take-out but stands out by not delivering – a strategic choice that includes shipping for their customers. The conversation takes a deep dive into the pros and cons of franchising, offering valuable insights for those navigating the complexities of expanding a business. Aaron shares the financial intricacies of his role as a CFO, providing a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities and decision-making processes that contribute to the success of Ledo Pizza. Join us in this insightful episode as we explore the slice of hospitality with Aaron Weedy and uncover the secrets behind this iconic brand.

We're thrilled to welcome back Žana Usher, Founder and CEO of Žana DeVine Hospitality, for another insightful episode. In our previous chat, Žana shared her incredible journey in the hospitality industry and emphasized the importance of attention to detail for an exceptional guest experience. Today, she's back, urging us to go the extra mile and elevate our hospitality game to ensure our guests have the ultimate experience! But that's not all – Žana has launched her very own podcast, "Global Dating Dynamics," on Instagram Live! She delves into the intriguing intersection of hospitality and dating – a topic that is unique and diverse. Žana Devine Hospitality is a commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Her passion for creating a warm and productive work environment shines through, ensuring your team, services, and processes are exceptional. Ready to discover the smallest things that make your guests feel special? Join us in this week's episode as Žana takes us on a journey of hospitality excellence!

Dive into the world of fearless travel with our latest episode featuring Allie Bahn! As a seasoned writer, content creator, educator, and consultant, Allie shares her awe-inspiring journeys through the unique lens of living with severe food allergies. Starting her blog back in 2008, Allie has become a beacon of knowledge in the realm of safe and enjoyable travel for those with food allergies. Her website, missallergicreactor.com, is a treasure trove of information and a go-to resource for anyone seeking tips, tricks, and strategies for navigating the world with dietary restrictions. Tune in to discover Allie's firsthand experiences, as well as gain insights into her online courses offering invaluable guidance for safe and worry-free travel both at home and abroad. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, this podcast is a must-listen!

We welcome back Lisa Cohen, the founder and CEO of The Kyah Rayne Foundation. Lisa, who tragically lost her daughter Kyah Rayne to an anaphylaxis reaction, returns with inspiring updates. The foundation has just launched new course specifically designed for restaurants and food service personnel. These courses aim to raise awareness and educate on the critical aspects of handling food allergies. In this episode, Lisa shares her ongoing advocacy efforts, including taking on big pharma to push for price caps on epinephrine in Arizona. Her dedication doesn't stop there; she's also actively supporting schools in accessing epinephrine, a life-saving measure in allergy emergencies. Lisa's work with The Kyah Rayne Foundation continues to make a meaningful impact, emphasizing the crucial need for increased awareness, education, and accessibility in the fight against food allergies. For more information on The Kyah Rayne Foundation and their initiatives, visit: https://www.kyahraynefoundation.org/

In this podcast episode, our guest is Natalie Rice, owner of the peanut-sniffing service dog named Harley, who has gained fame on Instagram. Natalie shares the story of her daughter, who experienced a traumatic bullying incident that heightened her anxiety over a peanut allergy, making dining out even more challenging. The podcast delves into the family's experiences navigating life with a peanut-sniffing service dog, the unique challenges her daughter faces due to the allergy, and the positive impact Harley has had on their daily lives. Additionally, the discussion touches on the development and features of the app that showcasing Harley and provides valuable information related to food allergies. Overall, the podcast episode offers insights into the world of service dogs, the emotional journey of living with a severe food allergy, and the innovative use of technology through the app featuring the internet-famous peanut-sniffing service dog, Harley. Find the app here: https://www.detectiveharleyfadd.com/

We have the pleasure of hosting Diva Galan, an attorney, blogger, and dedicated Food Allergy Mom. Her story is one of resilience and transformation, driven by her children's food allergies. Diva's journey began when her son experienced an anaphylactic reaction to milk at just 6 months old. Additionally, her daughter was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). Removing dairy from their home due to her son's allergy had an unexpected positive impact on her daughter's health. This moment led Diva to begin her food allergy advocacy journey. She started by sharing allergy-friendly meal photos on Instagram, which quickly evolved into a mission to help others facing similar challenges. Through her efforts, Diva's family began to eat healthier, her kids developed a love for cooking, and she became a valuable resource for the food allergy community. Diva's website, FoodAllergyDiva.com, is a hub of information for those dealing with food allergies. It provides allergy-friendly recipes, research updates, travel tips, and a supportive community. In this episode, Diva also discusses her children's recent entry into school and their journey of self-advocacy. Her insights and experiences offer valuable guidance for parents facing similar challenges. Join us as we explore Diva Galan's inspiring journey, and how her passion for advocacy has transformed her family's life while making a positive impact on countless others.

Join us for an extraordinary journey with Betsy Craig, a true testament to the power of resilience and determination! Battling and conquering the relentless autoimmune disease scleroderma, she has emerged as an unstoppable force in the business world. Food played a pivotal role in Betsy's life, especially in the context of her illness. Scleroderma, a condition that threatened her life, made her acutely aware of the impact of nutrition on health. This realization became her driving force in founding MenuTrinfo. At the helm of MenuTrinfo, Betsy is rewriting the rules of the foodservice industry. Her mission: to ensure safe food service by providing comprehensive allergen and nutritional information, along with employee training and certification. Since its founding in 2010, MenuTrinfo has evolved into a trusted partner for food service providers and manufacturers. But Betsy's journey isn't just about business success. It's a testament to her unwavering commitment to protecting lives and health through nutrition and food safety training. Her dedication shines through in every aspect of her work, enhancing transparency and excellence in the industry. And if you're hungry for more inspiration, be sure to check out her book, "Unstoppable: A Recipe for Success in Life and Business." Inside its pages, you'll find the wisdom and insights that have propelled Betsy to where she is today. Join us in celebrating Betsy Craig's remarkable journey—a journey that serves as a beacon of hope, resilience, and unwavering determination, all fueled by her profound connection between food and health. ShandeeLand is hosted by Shandee Chernow, CEO and Founder of CertiStar.

In this compelling episode, we're joined by Lianne Mandelbaum, the Founder of The No Nut Traveler. Her journey began with a distressing airport incident while traveling with her 8-year-old son, who has severe food allergies. Shockingly, the airline's response was, "If you think he's going to die, don't fly." This experience ignited Lianne's mission to advocate for food allergy travelers' dignity and respect. Lianne, a prolific writer for publications like Allergic Living, stepped into writing because there was a void in content on this critical topic. She highlights the glaring issue of inconsistent policies across airlines, making air travel unpredictable for those with food allergies. Lianne's advocacy reached a pivotal moment when she filed a complaint with the Department of Transportation after an airline failed to follow its own food allergy policy. Her determination has sparked vital discussions about the rights and safety of food-allergic individuals when flying. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Lianne Mandelbaum as we explore the challenges and triumphs of ensuring a future where all food-allergic travelers receive the care and respect they deserve in the skies.

In this episode, we are joined by Dan Anfinson, President of Slapfish Restaurant Group and COO of Mac Haik Restaurant Group. Growing up around the restaurant business, with his father as the general manager of Jack in the Box, Dan's passion for the culinary world ignited at an early age. Starting as a dishwasher at a local pizza joint, he found himself irresistibly drawn to the exhilaration of restaurant kitchens. As he progressed in his career, he experienced moments of addictive highs, but ultimately realized that his true motivation came from forging meaningful connections with people. Dan shares insights into the restaurant industry's changing landscape, emphasizing how technology has transformed it into a tech-driven sector. He discusses his day-to-day experiences, what he enjoys, and the tasks he wishes to delegate. Opening up about his successes and vulnerabilities, he candidly reflects on the "biggest mistake of his career" and the invaluable lessons he learned from it. Beyond the restaurant realm, Dan also shares his love of music, a passion he inherited from his father and passed on to his children. Tune in to this episode to explore Dan Anfinson's inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected leader in the restaurant industry. Discover the power of passion, people, and the lessons learned from mistakes, leaving you with newfound motivation to embrace the dynamic world of restaurants.

Dr. Julie Sweeney, a pediatrician and food allergy consultant, shares her personal journey of navigating her child's food allergy diagnosis. As the founder of ALLERGY MOM MD, Dr. Julie brings a unique perspective to the challenges faced by families in dealing with allergies and other inflammatory conditions. She discusses the process of food allergy testing and the importance of food challenges to accurately identify potential allergens. Dr. Julie also delves into the topic of doctors advising patients to avoid foods they have tested positive for, even if they haven't had a reaction, and explores the different approaches taken in such situations. Additionally, she sheds light on the connection between food allergy anxiety and the overlapping symptoms with anxiety disorders. Through her consulting services, she aims to educate and empower families, ensuring that their children thrive in the face of food allergies.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth Anderlik, a remarkable advocate for food allergies and disabilities. Elizabeth shares her personal journey, highlighting the challenges she faced with multiple food allergies and the lack of proper accommodations in her school, which led to her being homeschooled. She experienced a newfound sense of belonging when she attended the FARE Summit—an event dedicated to food allergy awareness and advocacy. At the FARE Summit, Elizabeth participated in the Innovation Tank, where she showcased her groundbreaking concept—an epi-pen that automatically calls 9-1-1 in case of an emergency. Her innovative idea earned her recognition as a finalist, highlighting her exceptional problem-solving skills and dedication to improving the lives of individuals with food allergies. Elizabeth's passion for making a difference doesn't stop there. Currently majoring in Health Science and minoring in Public Policy, she will intern for Senator Tammy Duckworth this summer. She aims to contribute to the disabled community through policy initiatives. She also works as an Outreach Coordinator with Securing Safe Food, a youth-led organization that donates allergen-friendly foods to food pantries, emphasizing the importance of accessible and safe food options for everyone. Elizabeth also founded Teal Kids, a mentorship program designed to support children with food allergies, providing them with guidance and encouragement. Additionally, she serves as an Inclusion Aide for a non-profit, furthering her commitment to creating inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities Join us in this enlightening conversation as Elizabeth shares her inspiring story, highlighting the power of advocacy, innovation, and community involvement in making a positive impact on the lives of those with food allergies and disabilities.

John Pepper is a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for socially responsible capitalism. With a strong belief in the power of capitalism to benefit hourly workers, John shares his inspiring journey and insights into creating a more inclusive economy. John's path began during his business school days, where he partnered with two fellow students to launch a restaurant as part of an entrepreneurial project. However, it was a pivotal moment when one of his employees called in sick that he had an epiphany about the untapped potential of his real purpose. This experience ignited his passion for people initiatives, leading him to prioritize livable wages, employee benefits, and providing them with skills to thrive beyond their roles in the industry. Recognizing that work matters and that good people with purpose can drive positive change, John eagerly embraced the role of a guinea pig, investing in and advising early-stage technological solutions designed to empower workers in the hourly job market. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as John Pepper provides valuable insights on how inclusive capitalism can be achieved, highlighting the role of entrepreneurship, technology, and a deep belief in the inherent value of every individual in building a more equitable and prosperous future.

Jason Chan, an Australian-based advocate for food allergies and mental health, is also a dedicated researcher in the field of alternative medicine. Among his three children, all of whom have had food allergies, his daughter continues to grapple with them. Upon discovering her food allergy while feeding her at just 3 months old, Jason experienced overwhelming guilt. However, he managed to alleviate this guilt by connecting with other parents facing similar challenges and immersing himself in medical journal research. Beyond his professional work, Jason's passion for improving lives is evident in his commitment to food allergy and mental health advocacy. For over 18 years, he has actively raised awareness and provided support for individuals and families affected by food allergies. Recognizing the crucial role of mental health in overall well-being, Jason has dedicated himself to researching methods to enhance mental health outcomes. As a co-founder of Mental Massages, he offers accessible and effective therapies such as Apitherapy, Massage Therapy, and Virtual Reality Therapy.

Associate Professor Joey Mattingly from the University of Utah College of Pharmacy discusses his collaboration with the FDA to better understand patient and caregiver experiences in developing therapies for food allergies. These interviews provided valuable feedback on the FDA's current practices and areas for improvement. The FDA's inclusion of patients and caregivers in the process is commendable, as it allows for a comprehensive understanding of food allergies' impact and potential treatment benefits and risks. Shifting the discussion to testing for food allergies, Joey and the host, Shandee, delve into the challenges posed by false results and the resulting uncertainty and fear. They emphasize the importance of a more reliable diagnostic process to reduce the number of individuals who mistakenly believe they have food allergies. The episode emphasizes the significance of patient perspectives and involvement in shaping drug therapies for food allergies. By actively incorporating patient experiences, as well as implementing accurate diagnostic processes, healthcare professionals can enhance care quality for individuals with food allergies.