Postcards from the Kitchen

Summary In this episode, Elaine Acker interviews Dana McManus, the director of marketing for Eggersmann USA, about the company’s new cookbook “Heirloom Flavors.” They discuss the complex process of creating the book, which involved coordinating photoshoots across Eggersmann’s 7 showrooms and collecting recipes from the design team. Dana shares insights into the Eggersmann brand and how the company...

Foodies and travel lovers, get ready! Season 2 of Postcards from the Kitchen is back, and host Elaine Acker is taking listeners on more unforgettable culinary journeys. This season promises an even deeper dive into the rich stories behind beloved dishes, from bustling city bistros to peaceful countryside kitchens across the globe. But that’s not all—Elaine will also take us behind the scenes of on...

Join us on this episode of Postcards from the Kitchen as we sit down with Todd Lefkovic, a seasoned expert in the world of New York City food tours. Broadcasting from the historic Chelsea Hotel, Todd shares his journey from a curious teenager exploring New York’s culinary gems to becoming the go-to guru for immersive food tours in the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Todd’s insights and...

In this episode of Postcards from the Kitchen , host Elaine Acker sits down with Keira Crooms to reminisce about their recent five-day adventure in New York City. They share their experiences, favorite spots, and some unexpected delights as they explore the city’s culinary and cultural gems. From luxurious transportation and cozy hotel stays to unforgettable meals and unique tours, this episode is...

In this episode of Postcards from the Kitchen , host Elaine Acker sits down with Chef Robbie Rensel, a culinary maestro based in Houston, known for his unique approach to in-home dining and private events. Chef Robbie shares his journey, his passion for creating personalized culinary experiences, and his expertise in using advanced cooking techniques like sous vide. He also delves into his role in...

In this episode of Postcards from the Kitchen , we continue our deep dive into the world of food banks with Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Derrick shares eye-opening insights into the challenges faced by food banks, the critical role they play in addressing hunger as a public health crisis, and the innovative ways they are partnering with heal...

In this episode of “Postcards from the Kitchen,” host Elaine Acker sits down with Derrick Chubbs, CEO of Central Florida’s Second Harvest Food Bank, to discuss the critical role food banks play in disaster response and ongoing community support. With a background in disaster management from the American Red Cross, Derek shares how his experiences prepared him—or, in some ways, didn’t—for the chall...

In this episode of Postcards from the Kitchen , host Elaine Acker and her travel buddy, Keira, reminisce about their recent trip to New York City, focusing on their exploration of the iconic Chelsea Market. They dive into the rich history of the market, revealing its origins as a Nabisco factory and the birthplace of the Oreo cookie. The conversation weaves through the market’s evolution from an i...

Summary In this solo episode of “Postcards from the Kitchen,” Elaine Acker discusses the power of cookbooks as a marketing tool and shares an example of how she and her team created a mini-cookbook for a networking conference. She also explores the idea of strategic referral partnerships between food brands and shares a free download of the mini cookbook with the audience. Guests • Solo episo...

In this episode, Elaine Acker interviews Chelsea Nicole of Little Mountain Ranch in British Columbia, Canada. They discuss the concept of homesteading and Chelsea’s experiences growing food, stocking the pantry, and cooking from scratch. They also touch on Chelsea’s recently published cookbook and her advice for aspiring cookbook authors. Throughout the conversation, Chelsea emphasizes the importa...

Discover the hidden history and heritage of Fredericksburg, Texas, and indulge in the delicious and unique dishes at Hondo’s on Main. Experience the charm of the town and the passion for food at this renowned restaurant. Owner Cris Crouch Graham (daughter of Hondo Crouch, founder of Luckenbach) talks about how she found herself in the restaurant business and how it’s David Strackbein’s magic touch...

If you’re a fan of barbecue and love exploring unique flavor combinations, you won’t want to miss Elaine’s conversation with the owners of Eaker Barbecue, in Fredericksburg, Texas. Listen in as Boo and Lance share their journey of combining South Texas and Korean flavors and how they’ve created a winning fusion menu. Learn about their popular menu items, challenges of running a barbecue restaurant...

Summary In this episode, Lecia Duke, the CEO and founder of Quintessential Chocolates Company, shares the story behind her unique and innovative chocolates. From her training by a Swiss master chocolatier to the development of her liquid center chocolates, Lecia discusses the challenges and successes she has faced throughout her 40-year career. She also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her retail...

Summary In this episode, Chris LeBeau, the founder of Decoding Cocktails, shares his journey from working in strategic planning to becoming a full-time mixologist. He discusses how he simplifies cocktail-making and teaches others how to make delicious drinks at home. Chris also recommends books for beginners and shares his favorite tips and techniques. Guest • Chris LeBeau: Founder of Decoding Coc...

Summary In this episode, the Elaine highlights the work of Dr. Deb Tolman, an environmental scientist and founder of the SILO Project, who shares her knowledge on sustainable gardening, specifically using keyhole gardens. With origins in Africa, keyhole gardens can be adapted to challenging climates like Texas. In this episode, Elaine discusses the benefits of keyhole gardening, including its pote...

Summary In this episode, host Elaine Acker interviews Molly McAdams, in Part 2 of our series with the Texas Beef Council. Molly shares her passion for ranching and her role in advocating for cattle producers. She also discusses the practicality of meat science and the valuable insights it provides. The episode highlights the hard work and dedication of ranchers and explores the culture and goals o...

Summary In this episode, Chef Robert Hale, with the Texas Beef Council, discusses his role in educating professional chefs on how to cook beef and the challenges faced by family ranches in Texas. He also shares his experiences cooking for special events. Chef Hale provides advice on how to elevate the dining experience at home and emphasizes the importance of investing in a good knife. Guests • Ch...

Summary In this episode, host Elaine Acker answers questions about cookbooks and explains the process of creating a beautiful cookbook. She discusses the importance of capturing recipes that are meaningful and leveraging the power of stories in food branding. Elaine also highlights the benefits of cookbooks as marketing tools for food brands and shares why people still buy printed cookbooks in the...

Summary In this episode, Chef Tony Biggs, the Director of Culinary Arts at Certified Angus Beef, shares his lively career and experiences in the culinary industry. He discusses his love for entertaining and grilling events, as well as his travels around the world to discover local cuisine and cultures. Chef Tony also provides valuable tips for cooking the perfect steak and highlights the importanc...

Summary In this episode, we talk to Jeffrey Schlissel, the founder of the Bacon Cartel. Jeffrey discusses his passion for bacon and his mission to bring support local farms. Jeffrey also talks about his podcast, Walk and Talk, where he discusses trending topics in the culinary industry and addresses important issues such as mental health and food addiction. Guest • Jeffrey Schlissel - Founder of t...

Summary In this episode, Elaine interviews Nicole Cruz, also known as Farmer Nicole, from Circle C Farms. They discuss the stereotypes around farming and the reality of being a farmer in Florida. Nicole shares her experiences as a first-generation farmer and the inspiration behind her decision to start farming. She also talks about the challenges of farming, including dealing with hurricanes, and...

Author Sylvie Bigar is a New York food and travel writer who went to France on a magazine assignment to write about Cassoulet. Ten years later, that assignment led to her latest book, Cassoulet Confessions: Food, France, Family, and the Stew That Saved My Soul. It’s a beautifully written book that’s part literary memoir and part travel journal; and it paints a rich picture in words as she literall...

Summary In this episode, Elaine Acker shares her love for collecting cookbooks and her decision to launch a series of souvenir cookbooks. She takes a road trip to Galveston, a tourist destination, and explores the local food scene. Elaine highlights the experience of visiting Katie’s Seafood House and trying their special creation called snapper wings. She also provides a list of 29 foodie-friendl...

Summary In this episode, host Elaine interviews Ed Arnett, CEO of the Wildlife Society, about hunting, conservation, and the importance of knowing where our food comes from. They discuss the changing attitudes towards hunting and the role of hunters in conservation. Ed also shares the story behind his annual Beast Feast, a celebration of food and hunting heritage. They also touch on Ed’s experienc...

Summary In this episode, Elaine interviews Stephanie Stuckey, the owner of Stuckey’s, a famous brand known for its roadside stores and snacks. Stephanie shares the story of how her grandfather started Stuckey’s back in 1937 and the downfall of the brand under outside corporate ownership. She then discusses her decision to buy back the brand and revive it, focusing on the snack and candy products t...