Join us on this culinary journey as we sit down with Jesse Galdston, Director of Retail Operations at Firefly Farms and General Manager of Firefly Farms Market in Baltimore. From his unexpected career transition to becoming a dedicated cheesemonger, we delve into Jesse's path from law to the world of delicious flavors. Don't miss this episode filled with tales of diverse adventures and a passion for cheese, where food transitions from a hobby to a profession!

In this episode, we explore:

• Into Jesse Galdston's life and experiences as a quintessential Upper West Side liberal Jew from New York City, exploring the influences and perspectives that have shaped him.
• Into the world of Firefly Farms Market, an artisanal cheese and meat shop nestled within Baltimore's indoor market, and learn about their commitment to cut-to-order excellence.
• The art of crafting the perfect cheese board with insights into the importance of incorporating diverse textures and milk types, elevating your culinary presentation.
• Explore the nuanced dynamics of awards and recognition within the business landscape, and delve into the challenges and complexities of personal leadership in the midst of success.
• Uncover the significance of the performative aspect in business as Jesse shares insights into how demonstrating value to both customers and employees creates an environment of mutual appreciation.

Jesse shares his background, the Firefly Farms Market, and the art of being a cheesemonger. Jesse shares his unique upbringing as a quintessential Upper West Side liberal Jew and how he gradually expanded his palate from being a picky eater to becoming a cheese lover. He describes the Firefly Farms Market as a cut-to-order cheese and meat shop located in an indoor market in a redeveloped mill in the Jones Falls Valley. Jesse explains the process of selecting cheeses for a cheese board, emphasizing the importance of diversity in texture and milk type. He also discusses the impact of awards and recognition on the business and the challenges of leadership in the hospitality industry.

Mentioned in this episode:

Firefly Farms Baltimore

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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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