In this engaging episode of Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders, host Charlie welcomes Amanda Hernandez, the Vice President, Community Accountability Officer for Associated Bank. With 20 years of experience in community service and philanthropy, Amanda shares her inspiring journey from the south side of Milwaukee to her pivotal role in shaping community relationships through funding.

Dive into a free-flowing discussion about Amanda's commitment to strengthening local communities and how her background has infused her with unique insights into the nonprofit sector. Explore her experiences at Wisconsin Philanthropy Network and how they paved the way for her impactful work at Associated Bank.

In the culinary segment, Amanda, along with her son Jack, whips up a delightful Italian gnocchi dish. This showcases that even busy leaders find time to cook a meal that pleases the family. Tune in for a taste of Milwaukee's warmth, dedication, and food-loving spirit!

You can watch the video here - https://youtu.be/9byIKzEXZVs 

Join Charlie in this captivating episode of "Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders" as Hector Colon, President CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, shares his inspiring journey from boxing champion to respected community leader. Despite facing racial adversity at a young age, Hector found strength in boxing, eventually becoming a seven-time national champion. Discover how the virtues he learned in the boxing ring propelled him to success in the boardroom and beyond.

Hector reveals the impact of his work at Lutheran Social Services, touching the lives of 30,000 individuals annually. From children in crisis to refugees fleeing war, Hector's compassion and leadership shine through.

As they cook a traditional Puerto Rican Guiso, Charlie and Hector discuss his upbringing, his career path, and the mission that drives his community involvement.

Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Samantha “Sam” Maldonado. Sam is a strategy consultant at Spectrum Non-Profit Services. She has received several awards. These include Women of Influence from the MKE Business Journal. She is also on the Milwaukee Business Journal's 40 under 40 list. She is on the list of the Most Influential Latino Leaders 2022.

Peruvian Lomo Saltado is a vibrant dish that blends Asian and Latin flavors, showcasing Peru's rich culinary heritage. It's a stir-fry made with tender strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and Aji Amarillo chili. All the ingredients are cooked in a savory sauce of soy and vinegar. The dish is traditionally served with crispy French fries and fluffy white rice.

You can watch the video here - https://youtu.be/OywiliUriuw 

The recipe is available on our website at - https://cookingsecretsformen.com/2025/04/22/lomo-saltado/ 

This Podcast is an Interview and cooking show with Milwaukee Community Leaders. We have a short interview about their work in the community, then we cook something, and then we eat it. From our elected leaders to those working at the grassroots, we talk with people trying to make Milwaukee a better place.

In this episode of "Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders," your host, Charlie, is joined by Tom Barrett, former U.S. Congressman, Milwaukee Mayor, and U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg. Tom shares anecdotes from his formative years in Milwaukee and his remarkable career in politics and diplomacy.

They discuss his journey from growing up on Milwaukee’s west side to his various political roles, culminating in his international experience as an ambassador. Together, they explore the responsibilities, challenges, and memorable moments from his time representing the U.S. overseas, including fascinating stories about his diplomatic tenure in Luxembourg.

The episode also includes a fun cooking session where Charlie and Tom whip up some Luxembourg-inspired potato pancakes and Milwaukee favorite bratwurst, blending cultural flavors with political insights. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that highlights leadership, community, and the culinary arts.

Join host Charlie as he dives into a captivating conversation with Omar Shaikh, a prominent restaurateur and visionary leader in Milwaukee. Discover how Omar's journey from establishing the renowned Carnivore Steakhouse to becoming an influential figure in the revitalization of downtown Milwaukee unfolded over the years.

In this episode, Omar shares fascinating stories about introducing Wagyu beef to Wisconsin and how he navigated the challenges of the restaurant industry to achieve success. He delves into the creation of the acclaimed Third Street Market Hall and his collaborative work on the expansion of the Milwaukee Convention Center that brought significant attention to Milwaukee.

Get insights into Omar's involvement in community initiatives, including hosting the Republican National Convention, supporting local charities, and advocating for safer marijuana legislation. This episode highlights the importance of collaboration and leadership in fostering community growth and transformation, offering a glimpse into Omar Shaikh's dedication to making Milwaukee a better place.

Join Charlie in this episode of "Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders" as he welcomes Antoine Carter, the Director of Philanthropy for the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation. Discover Antoine's rich journey from his early years in Milwaukee to becoming an influential community leader, recognized in the Milwaukee Business Journal's 40 under 40. Antoine shares his passion for art, community engagement, and the importance of the library as a cornerstone of cultural access.

In this engaging episode, Antoine takes us on a culinary adventure as he prepares his childhood favorite, salmon croquettes with a twist of asparagus on the side. Experience the blend of flavors and stories as Antoine reminisces about his unique family traditions.

"Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders" explores the vibrant food scene while spotlighting individuals dedicated to enhancing Milwaukee's community life. Tune in for inspiring conversations and delicious recipes!

Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Antoine Carter. Antoine is the Director of Philanthropy at the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation. He is a Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 Honoree, a Forward48 Alum, and an alum of AALP, which is the African American Leadership Program. Milwaukee Public Library Foundation https://www.supportmpl.org/ 

Salmon croquettes are a delightful dish with a rich history, often associated with Southern and soul food traditions. They are salmon patties that combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into patties and typically pan-fried until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. 

Antoine tells us how he makes his mom's Salmon Croquettes.

You can watch the video here - https://youtu.be/XEPHuGPXGpQ  

The recipe is available on our website at -  

This Podcast is an Interview and cooking show with Milwaukee Community Leaders. We have a short interview about their work in the community, then we cook something, and then we eat it. From our elected leaders to those working at the grassroots, we talk with people trying to make Milwaukee a better place.

Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Maysse Herr. Maysee is the CEO of the Hmong Chamber of Commerce, Wisconsin.   Her awards include Women of Distinction 2024, MKE Magazine, 2022 CEO of the Year by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and on the list of Wisconsin’s 48 Most Influential Asian Americans

Mustard Greens with Chicken Stir Fry Over Rice is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant mustard greens, and aromatic seasonings, served over a bed of rice. The mustard greens add a slightly bitter and peppery taste, which pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and the neutral rice base.

Maysee tells us how she makes Mustard Greens with Chicken Stir Fry Over Rice.

You can watch the video here - https://youtu.be/rblay3YbzdM 

You can find the recipe on our website at - https://cookingsecretsformen.com/2025/04/16/mustard-greens-with-chicken-stir-fry-over-rice/ 

This Podcast is an Interview and cooking show with Milwaukee Community Leaders. We have a short interview about their work in the community, then we cook something, and then we eat it. From our elected leaders to those working at the grassroots, we talk with people trying to make Milwaukee a better place.

Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Lynda Welsh, President/CEO at SHARP Literacy. Lynda has won many awards, including the Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 and the Women of Influence. Lynda tells us how she makes her easy Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken and Balsamic Glaze.

A Caprese salad is the essence of simplicity and elegance. It’s an Italian classic that requires only a handful of fresh ingredients. They include Fresh tomatoes, Fresh mozzarella, Fresh basil leaves, Balsamic glaze, salt, and fresh black pepper. SHARP Literacy - https://sharpliteracy.org/

You can find the recipe on our website at - https://cookingsecretsformen.com/2025/04/12/easy-caprese-salad-with-balsamic-glaze-grilled-chicken/ 

You can watch the video here - https://youtu.be/E8TOkAITY2M 

This Podcast is an Interview and cooking show with Milwaukee Community Leaders. We have a short interview about their work in the community, then we cook something, and then we eat it. From our elected leaders to those working at the grassroots, we talk with people trying to make Milwaukee a better place.

Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Dr. Stacia Thompson. Stacia is the president & CEO of the Sherman Phoenix Foundation. She is one of the Women of Distinction from the 2024 MKE Magazine. And recently, on the list of 30 People Shaping Milwaukee’s future.

Stacia tells us how she makes her award-winning chunky guacamole. She won a competition at the Sherman Phoenix with TruMan McGee, Founder of Funky Fresh Spring Rolls. It was a blind taste test. And she won!!

You can find the recipe on our website at -https://cookingsecretsformen.com/2025/04/04/chunky-guacamole-award-winning-from-dr-stacia-thompson/

You can watch the video here https://youtu.be/xP2hKwgTlek 

This Podcast is an Interview and cooking show with Milwaukee Community Leaders. We have a short interview about their work in the community, then we cook something, and then we eat it. From our elected leaders to those working at the grassroots, we talk with people trying to make Milwaukee a better place.