Whether you love TV or not, you have to respect the amount of skills and resources that go into making it. This week's interviewee is giving you the opportunity to make some of your own TV: submit a 90-second video about how you or someone you know is changing the way their communities eat for the better, and you could win Food Forward's #FoodRebel video contest. The winner receives a $3,000 cash grant, and the opportunity to be featured on an episode of Food Forward's second season.
When did you know that you wanted to work in food?
I've been a TV Producer for many years. I was working on a series for Planet Green called "Supper Club with Tom Bergeron" that featured sustainable chefs, celebrities and eco-experts. I always loved food and shopping at farmers markets, but when I was sent on assignment to Slow Food Nation in San Francisco in 2010, I was blown away, and decided to devote myself full time to promoting sustainable food and farming. Since then I've produced the Good Food Festival and Conference in Los Angeles, and many other food events, in addition to the PBS series, Food Forward TV. I've also worked promoting the film GMO OMG.
How did you get your current good food job?
When I was producing the Good Food Festival & Conference, I met director Greg Roden, who asked if I would work with him on the 13 episode series of Food Forward TV. It's been a labor of love for the last 3 years.
How did your previous work or life experience prepare you for a good food job?
My previous experience producing TV shows - everything from Entertainment Tonight, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous and Supper Club - exposed me to the best chefs and food around the world. When I was at ABC I profiled farmers and chefs, and for A&E I interviewed some of the best chefs in America. I've made many contacts in the sustainable agriculture field. I've also volunteered to promote events for the Los Angeles Food Policy Council and the Santa Monica Farmers Market, Netiya and Fair Food Network.
What was the greatest obstacle you had to overcome in pursuing your Good Food Job dream?
Thankfully I've not had any major obstacles so far.
What can you identify as the greatest opportunities in food right now?
I would say the greatest opportunities in food right now are for young farmers.
If you could be compensated for your work with something other than money, what would it be?
Learning to cook with the best chefs in the world.