The Edible Valley Podcast

In this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, hosts Chef Jonathan Frazier sit down with Chef Avi Sternberg, fresh from his appearance at the Vines & Tides Harvest Dinner at 40 Knots Winery. The conversation goes beyond the event to explore Avi’s fascinating culinary path — from his roots in Colorado to his time training and working in Japan, and finally, to finding his home and inspiration in Powell River, British Columbia. Avi shares how his international experiences shaped his philosophy on food, from the discipline and respect for ingredients he learned in Japan to the creativity and community focus he’s discovered on the West Coast. His story is one of adventure, adaptability, and a lifelong pursuit of flavour and meaning through cooking. This episode offers an inspiring look at how one chef’s global journey has led to a deep connection with the people, place, and produce of coastal BC - blending international technique with the spirit of local cuisine.

The Island Taste Trail is back - and this year, it’s bringing together the flavours of the Comox Valley and Parksville Qualicum Beach in one delicious celebration of local food and community. In this episode, we head to the Comox Valley Visitor Centre to chat with Samantha Scholefield, one of the driving forces behind the Island Taste Trail. She shares how the program connects local restaurants, producers, and communities while inspiring diners to explore the best of Vancouver Island cuisine. We talk about why initiatives like this are so important for our region — because when you dine local, you truly make a difference. In fact, for every $100 spent at a BC-owned restaurant, $68 stays right here in our local economy, supporting farmers, suppliers, and countless small businesses that make up the heart of our food culture. Join us as we discover what’s new this year, which restaurants are participating, and how you can taste your way through the Island this fall! Tune in, get inspired, and support local — one bite at a time.

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Culinary Team Canada to the Comox Valley and Campbell River for two incredible culinary events! Host Chef Jonathan sits down with Chef Ronald St. Pierre, one of the team managers, and Chef Lesley Stav, who shares insight into the Senior National Team and their exciting journey toward international competition. We talk about what it takes to represent Canada on the global culinary stage, the precision and passion behind their craft, and what guests can expect from these two extraordinary dinners showcasing the very best of Canadian cuisine. Join us as we celebrate world-class talent, local connections, and a taste of Team Canada right here on Vancouver Island! Looking for tickets try Eventbrite (Culinary Team Canada)

Episode 191 of Edible Valley takes you beneath the tides with Logan Zeinert of NIC’s Seaweed Innovation Hub. We explore how seaweed is grown, processed, and scaled to support BC’s coastal food systems and blue economy. We hope to sit down with the rest of the team soon to see how this exciting project could change things for all of us across Vancouver Island. Listen now — because what grows in the sea matters on our plates. #Seaweed #BlueEconomy #MarineInnovation #EdibleValley

Welcome to a special fall edition of the Edible Valley Podcast! In this episode, we dig into the rich diversity of squash - from sweet delicata and creamy buttercup to vibrant Hubbard and nutty acorn varieties - and explore how harvest time shapes our local food system. We talk with growers and chefs about what makes certain squash stand out, flavour tips, storage secrets, and what to expect during this season’s barns-full of fresh produce. Plus, we chat about three upcoming events you won’t want to miss: Seafood Festival Dinner with Avi Stienberg — October 18 at 40 Knots Winery. A special evening celebrating local seafood and culinary craftsmanship. Culinary Team Canada in town — November 1 & November 3: Two exclusive dinners featuring top-tier chefs collaborating with local producers. Island Taste Trail (Oct 29 – Nov 16) — a fall-wide celebration of Vancouver Island flavours. Participating restaurants and cafés in the Comox Valley and Parksville / Qualicum Beach will offer locally inspired pairings and dishes. Tune in to get inspired for your own fall menus — and to find your next delicious night out. Stay in the loop & explore more at https://www.ediblevalley.com/or https://ediblevalley.wordpress.com/

Each September, chefs, cooks, and culinary enthusiasts gather at North Arm Farm in Pemberton, BC for three unforgettable days of cooking, learning, and connecting at CooksCamp. Since 2022, this annual retreat—hosted by the Chefs’ Table Society of BC—has become a must-attend event for both rising talent and seasoned professionals. In this episode, we take you inside CooksCamp 2025 (Sept 10–12) to share what it’s really like to be part of this one-of-a-kind gathering. From the crisp morning foraging walks to the hands-on butchery demos, the farm buzzed with energy, knowledge, and collaboration. Highlights included: Wild Foraging Tours – exploring edible treasures with award-winning chefs. Cultural Dinners – from Filipino foodways and resilience to a grand Italian feast. Skill-Building Sessions – beef breakdowns, sausage making, bluefin tuna demos, and dry-aging workshops. Panels & Talks – media training, financial literacy, HR problem-solving, farming and food security, and Indigenous foodways. Community & Collaboration – associations and advocates across BC uniting to support young chefs and strengthen the industry. World’s Largest Family Meal – chefs from across Canada cooking together, serving dishes that celebrated diverse culinary traditions. CooksCamp isn’t just about cooking—it’s about connection, mentorship, and inspiration. It’s a space where culinary students rub shoulders with industry icons, where learning is hands-on, and where Canadian food culture is honored and pushed forward. For me, the experience is always a reminder of why I chose this profession: the camaraderie, the craft, and the chance to keep growing. Tune in as William and I relive the moments, conversations, and flavours that made CooksCamp 2025 an event to remember—and maybe share a few laughs, as we always do. #CooksCamp2025 #ChefsTableSociety #EdibleValleyPodcast #CulinaryCommunity #CanadianChefs #FarmToTable #CulinaryEducation #FoodCulture

Join host Chef Jonathan Frazier in this intimate visit to Shamrock Farm, the Comox Valley sanctuary Mike and Shannon Farrell began in 1993. What started as a humble pumpkin patch has blossomed into a biodiverse 20-acre operation, cultivating over 40 vegetable varieties, fragrant lavender, specialty cut flowers, and raising chickens, Nubian goats, and even pigs to support the land and farm family. Beyond produce, the farm produces handcrafted soaps using fresh goat milk and lavender oil, preserves, and lavender products,all reflecting their ethos of thoughtful, local craftsmanship. Shamrock Farm thrives through seasonal markets, a roadside farm stand on the honour system, and online sales, building connections one harvest at a time. WEBSITE: FACEBOOK LINK INSTAGRAM LINK ADDRESS 2276 Anderton Road Comox, British Columbia Canada V9M 4B2 CONTACT T: (250) 339-1671 E: info@shamrockfarm.ca HOURS ROAD-SIDE FARM STAND: May - September: 10:00am - 5:00pm, Tuesday - Sunday November - April: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Friday - Sunday

Blackberry season is here, and in this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, Jonathan and William dive into everything blackberry. From their wild abundance along Vancouver Island’s trails and hedgerows to their starring role in jams, desserts, sauces, and even cocktails, blackberries are a true taste of late summer. We explore the history of this hardy berry in the Valley, the challenges and opportunities they bring for farmers and foragers, and how they’ve become a staple in local kitchens. Jonathan shares culinary tips for bringing out their sweet-tart flavor in both savory and sweet dishes, while William looks at their nutritional benefits, their cultural role in the region, and, true to form, may wander off on a few entertaining tangents along the way. Whether you love a simple blackberry pie, a tangy BBQ glaze, or just eating them fresh off the vine, this episode will leave you inspired to celebrate one of nature’s most generous gifts. Listen in and discover why blackberries might just be the jewel of our local harvest

In this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, hosts Chef Jonathan Frazier and William McStringer explore the vibrant food culture of Vancouver Island through the lens of community and collaboration. Jonathan, in his role as president of the North Vancouver Island Culinary Association (NVICA), discusses the association’s mission to unite chefs, cooks, culinary students, and food producers in advancing the culinary arts across the region. The conversation dives into how NVICA promotes professional growth, champions local products, and supports signature events like Food Day Canada. From organizing skill-building workshops to creating mentorship opportunities for emerging talent, the association plays a pivotal role in both preserving culinary traditions and encouraging innovation in the kitchen. As always, the Edible Valley Podcast serves as a storytelling hub, giving voice to farmers, fishers, food artisans, and restaurateurs whose work defines Vancouver Island’s unique food identity. Jonathan and William share how these stories inspire greater community engagement and how listeners can get involved—whether by joining NVICA, attending local food festivals, or simply supporting island-grown products. This episode is a celebration of connection, passion, and the shared commitment to keeping Vancouver Island’s culinary culture thriving for generations to come. #EdibleValley, #NVICA, #FoodDayCanada, #CulinaryCommunity, #CF, #ChefFrazier, #WACS, #WorldChefs, #CulinaryFederation, #ChefLife, #CulinaryArts, #SupportLocal, #FarmToTable, #Foodie, #Podcast, #NewPodcast, #ListenNow, #ChefsOfInstagram, #EatLocal, #LocalFoodLove, #Gastronomy

Welcome back to The Edible Valley Podcast. In Episode 251, hosts Chef Jonathan Frazier and William Stringer kick off a brand new season by reflecting on the incredible journey so far, and sharing what’s coming next. The Edible Valley is growning alongside the local food movement, and this season promises to be the most exciting yet. Jonathan and William also tease upcoming episodes featuring new voices from across the region, innovative food initiatives, and fresh ways to engage with the community — whether at the farmers’ market, in the kitchen, or online. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just joining us, now is the perfect time to tune in, reconnect, and be inspired by the people who make our Valley edible.

In this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, we delve into the world of artisan cheesemaking with Doug Smith, co-owner Natural Pastures Cheese Company in Courtenay, BC. Since its inception in 2000, Natural Pastures has become a cornerstone of Vancouver Island’s culinary landscape, celebrated for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Doug shares insights into the company’s journey from a local dairy operation to an award-winning cheese producer. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of working with both cow and water buffalo milk, highlighting how the rich, creamy texture of buffalo milk contributes to distinctive cheeses like their acclaimed Bufetta, which earned a Gold Medal at the 2023 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Listeners will gain an understanding of the meticulous processes involved in crafting cheeses such as Comox Brie, Pacific Wildfire, and Aged Farmhouse. Doug emphasizes the importance of local sourcing, noting that all milk used is obtained from Vancouver Island farms, ensuring freshness and supporting the local economy. The conversation also touches on the broader cheese industry in British Columbia, the significance of traditional methods in modern production, and the role of community support in sustaining local food artisans. Doug’s passion for cheesemaking and dedication to excellence shine through, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the craft behind their favorite cheeses. #EdibleValleyPodcast, #DougSmith, #NaturalPasturesCheese, #CheeseTalks, #CheesePodcast, #OnTheCoast #ArtisanCheese, #Cheesemaking, #Cheeselover, #Cheeseboard, #Cheesemaker, #CheesePlatter, #Fromage, #AgedCheese, #GourmetCheese #VancouverIslandCheese, #BuyBC, #SupportLocal, #FarmToTable, #SustainableFarming #Foodie, #InstaFood, #FoodPhotography, #CharcuterieBoard, #WineAndCheese, #FoodiesOfInstagram

This week on The Edible Valley Podcast, Chef Jonathan Frazier is joined by special guest host Erin Haluschak as they take the show on the road to Radio Row in New Orleans for Super Bowl 59. They sit down with Mark Bologna, host of the Beyond Bourbon Street podcast, to explore what makes New Orleans’ food culture so iconic. From gumbo and jambalaya to po’ boys and beignets, they dive into the city’s rich culinary traditions and how food is at the heart of the New Orleans experience. Mark shares his journey into podcasting, his love for the city, and what makes Beyond Bourbon Street a must-listen for food lovers and travelers alike. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Super Bowl episode without a little football talk. Jonathan, Erin, and Mark break down their predictions for the big game, discuss the energy in the city leading up to kickoff, and talk about the best game-day eats. Tune in for a fun, flavorful, and football-filled episode live from New Orleans!

In this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, we dive into the biggest food trends shaping 2025. From sustainable innovations and global flavors to the rise of AI in the kitchen and locally sourced ingredients, we explore what’s next in the world of food. How will these trends impact chefs, home cooks, and the way we eat? We break it all down! Plus, we shift gears to talk about Chef Jonathan’s exciting trip to the Super Bowl and New Orleans! From legendary Creole and Cajun cuisine to iconic spots like Café du Monde and the French Market. Tune in for future mix of insightful food discussions, travel stories, and a taste of New Orleans, only on The Edible Valley Podcast!

In this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, we sit down with the dynamic and multi-talented Taylore Darnel, also known as The Spirited Chef. With a deep-rooted passion for food, spirits, and education, Taylore brings a wealth of knowledge from her experience as a chef, instructor, and meal designer, specializing in food and beverage pairings. We also dive into a couple of delicious meal ideas, exploring how thoughtful pairings can elevate the dining experience. Plus, we chat about the Victoria Whisky Festival, where Taylore shares her insights on the world of whisky, flavor profiles, and how spirits can complement a dish just as well as wine. From leading formal culinary instruction for adults to creating engaging and fun cooking experiences for kids, Taylore’s approach to food is all about connection, creativity, and flavor. She also teaches a course on flavor, helping people develop their palates and understand the science behind great taste. Beyond the kitchen, Taylore applies her expertise in accounting, business development, and marketing, making her a powerhouse in both the culinary and entrepreneurial world. Join us for a conversation filled with flavor, insight, and inspiration—whether you’re a home cook, an aspiring chef, or a food and drink enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this episode! 🎧 Listen now and follow Taylore on Instagram: @thespiritedchef_taylore

In this special year-end episode, hosts & Chef Jonathan Frazier and William Stringer take a heartfelt look back at the highlights of The Edible Valley Podcast in 2024. With episodes 229 through 245, they explored the rich food culture of Vancouver Island, featuring local farmers, chefs, and producers, while sharing practical tips and delicious recipes with their audience. From creative Thanksgiving ideas to the savory secrets of umami, each episode brought fresh insights and inspiration. Highlights included an in-depth discussion on sustainable farming with Ridgewood Farm, a deep dive into the history of Courtenay Country Market, and the heartfelt reflections on mental health in the culinary industry. The holiday episode, hosted by Jonathan and his wife Erin, was particularly memorable, showcasing a festive menu that brought the community together to raise funds for the food bank. The year also marked personal milestones, such as the arrival of William’s baby girl and collaborations with Jet FM’s Valley Now. These moments exemplify the podcast’s mission to strengthen connections within the community and celebrate the unique culinary identity of Vancouver Island. As a special treat, Jonathan and William share a simple recipe to highlight the magic of umami: Miso Butter Mushrooms Ingredients: •2 tbsp unsalted butter •2 tbsp white miso paste •200g button or cremini mushrooms, sliced •1 clove garlic, minced •1 tsp soy sauce •Fresh parsley for garnish Instructions: 1.Heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and mix in the miso paste until combined. 2.Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender. 3.Add the garlic and soy sauce, cooking for another minute. 4.Garnish with parsley and serve as a side dish or over rice for a quick umami boost! Thank you for joining us on this flavorful journey. Here’s to another year of culinary discovery in 2025!

In this festive episode of The Edible Valley, Jonathan is joined by Erin, stepping in for William, who is away celebrating the arrival of his baby girl. Together, they reflect on their recent holiday dinner at Dove Creek Hall, sharing the triumphs, lessons learned, and how the event brought the community together. From serving up a locally-sourced turkey and vegan roast to sending guests home with delicious leftovers and raising funds for the local food bank, the evening was a perfect blend of celebration and giving back. Jonathan and Erin also offer practical tips to help you plan your own holiday feast, including sourcing local ingredients, incorporating family traditions, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large celebration, their insights will inspire you to make this season memorable. And finally, a warm congratulations to William on the arrival of his baby girl—welcome to the world, little one!

In this episode, hosts Chef Jonathan and William dive into the story of the Courtenay Country Market, a beloved staple of the Comox Valley. They’re joined by Dean Garrett, the former owner who helped shape the market’s success. Dean shares stories from his years in the grocery business, offering insights into the challenges, rewards, and community connections that come with running a local market. Now a mortgage broker in the Comox Valley, Dean reflects on his journey and the enduring impact of the market on the community. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at this local treasure!

In the latest episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, hosts Jonathan Frazier and William Stringer are joined by Mary-Jane Douglas, co-owner of Ridgewood Farm in Merville and an active member of the BC Cattlemen’s Association. Mary-Jane shares insights into her commitment to raising beef, eggs, and pork with sustainable practices, which are offered at the Comox Valley Farmer’s Market. She also highlights her excitement for “Burger It Forward,” a Canada-wide initiative launched by Canada’s beef farmers to support community restaurants and food banks. Last year, the campaign raised over $67,000, and organizers aim to expand BC’s participation in 2025. Mary-Jane encourages Vancouver Island restaurants to get involved, emphasizing the pride local farmers feel in supporting this community giveback program.

On this episode of The Edible Valley Podcast, we explore the HABIT Cookbook with the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind it, Josie Boulding and Ryan Stuart. HABIT Cookbook is a unique tool designed to help anyone reset their relationship with food. Josie, a social media influencer known as “Restless Josie” with over 55,000 followers, shares her firsthand insights on cooking with health at the forefront, featuring recipes that are as enjoyable as they are nourishing. Ryan, a widely published journalist specializing in outdoor adventure and environmental topics, walks us through the research and development of HABIT, explaining how even small changes in diet and mindset can have lasting health impacts. Together, they offer a fresh approach to sustainable eating, inspiring readers to build healthy habits that are impactful and easy to maintain. Ryan and Josie call the Comox Valley home, where they continue to inspire and innovate both in and outside the kitchen. Website and Book Link: restlessjosiecooks.com https://www.amazon.ca/Habit-Bases-Recipes-New-Cooking/dp/1068814209 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/habit_cookbook https://www.instagram.com/restlessjosie/ #EdibleValleyPodcast, #HABITCookbook, #HealthyHabits, #SustainableEating, #FoodIsMedicine, #HealthyLifestyle, #CookingWithPurpose, #NutritionMatters, #FoodiesOfInstagram, #MindfulEating, #WholeFoods, #EatClean, #RealFood, #HealthJourney, #WellnessTips, #RecipeInspo, #FoodForWellbeing, #CulinaryCreativity, #WellnessWarrior, #FoodEducation, #MindBodySoul, #GoodEats, #EatForLife, #HealthyLiving, #WellnessCommunity, #InTheKitchen, #FoodInnovators

Welcome to The Edible Valley Podcast, episode 241! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, today we’re diving into creative ways to put a twist on classic holiday dishes. Hosts Chef Jonathan Frazier and William Stringer are here to inspire you with exciting alternatives to traditional recipes, from unique turkey preparations to inventive side dishes that will surprise your guests. Plus, we’ll explore fun and delicious ways to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers, so nothing goes to waste. Join us as we take Thanksgiving to the next level with these fresh, flavourful ideas. Let’s get cooking and make this holiday unforgettable!