Episodes

Recorded on National Wear Red Day to bring greater attention to heart disease as the leading cause of death for Americans and promote steps we can take to protect our hearts and our attendees. Tracy was joined by the inspiring and amazing Eliz Greene...

🍹 In this episode, Tracy sits down with Marcos Salazar, CEO of the Adult Nonalcoholic Beverage Association (ANBA), to explore the booming growth of the adult non-alcoholic beverage market. From the evolving definitions of what makes a beverage "adult," to navigating regulations and the powerful cultural shift towards moderation and health, Marcos unpacks how this industry is far from a passing fad. They discuss the increasing demand for sophisticated, flavorful non-alcoholic alternatives and how venues, event planners, and hospitality leaders can turn this trend into opportunities for revenue and inclusion. Marcos shares insights into market data, membership benefits of ANBA, and the community-building power of events like the Mindful Drinking Fest. Whether you’re hosting a wedding or planning a major conference, you’ll hear practical takeaways for making adult non-alcoholic beverages part of every inclusive, memorable celebration. Tune in for data, best practices, and inspirati…

Tracy is joined by Cate Faulkner and Jen Veralla of Zero Proof Collective to spotlight why elevated non-alcoholic (NA) beverages are a must-have at events. Together, they outline seven persuasive reasons—from inclusivity and guest safety to innovation and increased revenue—why NA drinks go far beyond sodas and water. The discussion covers the cultural shift in drinking habits, actionable ways to promote non alcoholic options, key challenges with venue implementation, and creative ideas for planners to integrate sophisticated NA cocktails that do not exclude anyone. This episode is essential listening for meeting planners, hospitality professionals, and venue managers seeking to foster more inclusive, mindful, and profitable event environments. Get practical insights, real-world stories, and pro tips for transforming your event beverage experience.

In this episode of Eating at a Meeting we explore the world of plant-based cuisine with the remarkable Char Nolan, a fervent advocate and chef renowned for her delicious and healthful plant-based creations. Char's rich background, including a degree...

Tracy gathered a culinary dream team – Amber Kispert, Senior Content Producer from Catersource, Christopher Sanchez, Managing Partner of LUX Catering & Events, and Jennifer Bargisen, Senior Vice President – Culinary for Sodexo Live!. Together, we unleashed the must-know food and beverage trends for 2024 that every hashtag#EventProf and hashtag#CateringProf needs to have on their radar. 🌐 What to Anticipate: 👉 Flavorful Forecasts: We will unravel the biggest culinary trends set to captivate taste buds in 2024. From innovative dishes to unique flavor profiles, get ready for a feast of fresh ideas! 👉 Sustainability in Sips and Bites: Discover how the industry is leaning towards eco-conscious practices, ensuring your events not only taste good but also contribute to a greener future. 👉 Inclusivity on the Menu: Explore the art of crafting menus that cater to diverse dietary needs, creating events where everyone feels valued and included. 👉 Pro Tips from the Pros: Gain …

Indulge your ears and sweet tooth in this extra-special episode of "Eating at a Meeting" with your host Tracy Stuckrath! 🍪✨ I sit down with two incredible guests, Chef Sera Cuni of Feed-Well Fridges and Chef Kristin McCarthy of Les Dames...

This episode of Eating at a Meeting was recorded at the beginning of 2024 to celebrate of Dry January and Veganuary and share they are important dietary trends to understand and embrace for the month and throughout the year. I discuss the significance...

In this episode of Eating at a Meeting, I’m sitting down with Martiz’s Jill Blood, VP, Deputy General Counsel, and Privacy Officer. We'll be delving into the game-changing My Health My Data Act recently enacted in Washington State and its impact...

In this episode, Tracy sits down with the PCMA Canada East Chapter Canadian Innovation Conference organizers, Natalie Marino, CMP, DES, Heather Reid, and Erica Orecchio, DES, to discuss how they managed the dietary needs of more than 250 attendees at...

I've been at the Financial & Insurance Conference Professionals (FICP) Annual Conference at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort the last three days with some amazing food and beverage experiences.  For today's Eating at a Meeting...

In October 2023 at IMEX, Jaclyn Bernstein, John McKinnon, Stephanie Krzywanski and Tracy presented this session for planners on how we help our clients save money on food and beverage for events. With food prices on the rise, we all need to learn the...

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. As I review and plan menus for my clients. I'm so frustrated by the unhealthy options available to choose from.   Connect with Tracy: facebook.com/groups/EatingataMeeting

To close out National Disability Employment Month, I'm thrilled to invite you to what promises to be an engaging and informative Eating at a Meeting Podcast episode on inclusive dining experiences with the co-founders and director of accessibility for...

For the third episode of Eating at a Meeting Podcast coming to you LIVE from IMEX America, planners will join me in person on the show floor and from their offices to talk about how they are managing attendee dietary needs. I can’t wait to talk to...

In this special episode of Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE at IMEX America, I'm joined by Victoria Chivers (Tori), Vice President of Convention Services & Catering at MGM Resorts International.  Tori and I will dive into the dynamic and...

Monday, October 16 was World Food Day, one of the most celebrated days of the United Nations calendar. The theme for World Food Day in 2023 is "Water is Life. Water is Food." To shine a spotlight on water as the foundation for life and food. In this...

In celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), join me as I talk with Teresa Goddard from the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) to delve into the intricacies of accommodating employees with food allergies and other medically necessary dietary restrictions. NDEAM, observed each October, serves as a backdrop to this discussion, where we can all learn invaluable lessons for creating safe and inclusive experiences for employees in various workplace settings, from staff lunch meetings and company cafeterias to corporate sales meetings and boardrooms. Whether they have a food allergy or celiac disease, have to take certain medications, or eat or avoid certain foods at certain times, they want — MUST — take extreme caution in all environments. Discover best practices, practical strategies, and expert advice to ensure that every employee feels valued and can fully participate in these essential workplace events. Tune in to learn how to make every meal matter …

In this episode, Tracy sat down with Rishabh Kewalramani, co-founder of Backbar Solutions, to explore the innovative world of craft beverage dispensers. Together, they dove into the future beverage trends, focusing on the shift towards fresh and...

If you thought going gluten-free meant missing out on bold flavors, think again. Executive Chef Sarah Thompson proves that authentic coastal Mexican cuisine not only excites the palate—it also welcomes every guest, regardless of dietary needs. From celiac diagnosis at 17 to running one of Las Vegas' most vibrant kitchens, she shares how a commitment to inclusivity, ingredient integrity, and flavor can elevate both casual nights out and high-profile events. Whether you plan group dinners or just dream about masa and mole, this episode offers a masterclass in operational excellence and guest care. Sarah is a two-time James Beard Award - Best Chef SW nominee.

Starting September 1st, 2023, Texas set a new standard for food safety with the Sergio Lopez Food Allergy Awareness Act. 🌮🙌 In this powerful episode of Eating at a Meeting, we hear from Belinda Vaca, a passionate advocate for food allergy...

Food safety and allergen management are not just buzzwords – they're paramount for the success and well-being of your food service establishment, events, and attendees. As event planners, caterers, and hospitality professionals, ensuring that your...

In this episode of Eating at a Meeting Podcast LIVE Tracy chats with Liz Lathan, CMP and Nicole Osibodu, XOXO the dynamic co-founders of The Community Factory. With a mission to infuse more community into their events and help marketers forge...

In honor of Food Safety Awareness Month, I've gathered a panel of experienced event planners — Joan Eisenstodt, Andrea Lapp, and Jayna Larrea — to share their perspectives on food safety expectations in the event industry. From corporate meetings...

To close out National Wellness Month in August, Tracy delved deep into the world of sustainable and nutritious eating with Diana Rodgers, a renowned nutritionist, author, and advocate for regenerative agriculture, to explore "The Case for (Better)...