Sarah Simiele, owner of The Curd Nerd in Syracuse, NY has forged a path from Microbiology studies to cheese shop ownership with no signs of slowing down. A story about following your passion and taking risks that most recently culminated in being crowned the new CMI champion. Listen and get inspired!

Meet CMI 2023 Winner Sarah Simiele

Featuring interviews with notable cheesemakers, cheesemongers, and cheese-lovers, Cutting the Curd is an informative, occasionally irreverent, but always cheesy look at the curdy, the nerdy, and the downright funky world of artisan cheese.

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We check in with Agela Abdullah, Kyra James and Nicole Garrett of the Cheese Culture Coalition about the CCC's growth as a non profit, and as a national community since they were on CTC in 2021. One indicator of their success is the sizable grant and scholarship program available for BIPOC cheese professionals to further their cheese education and professional development. Deadline to apply for grants and the CMI scholarship is May 10th! Listen here for all of the details.

Cheese Culture Coalition Scholarships! A Guide to What's Available Right Now

Benita Kasbo is the owner of Kasbo's Market based in Madison, NJ. Benita is originally from Syria and specializes in making Jibneh, Syrian Cheese. Her old world recipe is made with a unique spice called mahleb and her cheese was featured in The New York Times food section. She is passionate about Middle Eastern food and enjoys helping people discover the traditional flavors of the Middle East. She hosts cheese events to allow others to discover the versatility of her cheese. Give a listen to be inspired by her story and to learn more about Jibneh.

Photo courtesy of Robin & Sue Photography & Styling.

Jibneh Means Cheese: A Conversation with Cheesemaker and Founder of Kasbo's Market, Benita Kasbo

On this episode, Joe chats with twin sisters Sarah and Boo Simms, co-owners, and the culinary and creative duo behind Lady & Larder – the renowned Los Angeles-based specialty cheese shop credited with initiating a global grazing board movement in 2016. Lady & Larder was founded on their deep respect for American and California-made seasonal ingredients, with the goal of elevating the producers and cheese makers' stories behind the stunning cheese and charcuterie boards and sandwiches.

Photo courtesy of Jenna Jones.

Lady & Larder

Discover the secrets behind the time-honored techniques used to craft this iconic cheese, as Jane shares insights into the art of maturation, flavor development, and the enduring legacy of Quicke's Cheese. From the rolling hills of Devon to your plate, explore the journey of craftsmanship and tradition that defines each bite of Quicke's clothbound cheddar.

Bound in Flavor: Exploring English Clothbound Cheddar With Jane Quicke of Quicke’s Cheese

Kristine Jannuzzi is a journalist, cheese specialist, content creator, and World Cheese Awards Judge. In 2023, she was inducted into the Guilde des Fromagers in Bra. A dual American/Italian citizen, Kristine hosts cheese tastings and bespoke tours in Tuscany and beyond. On this episode, Jessica catches up with Kristine from across the Atlantic.

Meet CMI 2023 Winner Sarah Simiele

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