Next Up Podcast

In this episode of Next Up, the team from Garland ISD—Craig Hempel, Jennifer Miller, and Chef Kevin Jenkins—breaksdown how they transformed one of Texas’s largest districts into a model for freshly prepared, student-centered school meals. Their story immediately raises a powerful question: How can a district this size pull off scratch cooking at this scale?

They share how their “Freshly Prepared” philosophy makes scratch cooking more approachable, supported by hands-onculinary training and simple recipe videos filmed on an iPad. The team also highlights their award-winning partnership with Action for Healthy Kids, their Healthy Meals Incentive Awards, and the creative dishes that students now love—from Cuban sandwiches to Mediterranean bowls. It sparks another thought:How does restaurant-quality creativity change the way students view school meals? Garland ISD’s commitment to community engagement—through Menu Advisory Committee meetings, parent conversations, and strong social media presence—shows how transparency can turn critics into advocates.

This episode offers inspiration and real strategies for anyone working in child nutrition, culinary leadership, or education who wants to see what’s possible when a district fully commits tobetter food for kids.

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 ➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts

➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019

➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 Turning Adversaries into Advocates

00:52 Meet the Team: Culinary Experts in School Nutrition

 06:14 From Military to School Meals: A Culinary Journey

07:24 Bringing Restaurant Inspiration to School Food

09:24 Healthy Meal Incentives and Culinary Innovation

10:23 Freshly Prepared Meals: A New Approach

14:14 Training for Success: Elevating School Nutrition Staff

17:01 The Importance of Professionalism in School Nutrition

20:20 Engaging the Community: The Menu Advisory Committee

22:06 Transforming Perceptions of School Meals

24:28 Turning Adversaries into Advocates

26:16 Innovative Training Videos in School Nutrition

32:18 Community Engagement and Communication Strategies

39:19 Culinary Creativity and Menu Innovation

In this episode of Next Up, we sit down with Shannon Almand- the Director of Child Nutrition Services for Quitman ISD whose journey into child nutrition proves how powerful purpose-driven work can be. Shannon shares how she transformed her district’s meal program through scratch cooking, innovative service models, and a strong commitment to student wellness.She explains why scratch cooking matters—not just for food quality, but for building trust with students—and asks an important question: What would it take for more districts to make the switch to freshly prepared meals?Shannon also breaks down the success of her second chance breakfast program, which dramatically increased participation across her schools. Her story prompts another conversation: Should more districts rethink how and when breakfast is served so students don’t miss out?Throughout the episode, Shannon highlights her district’s brand-building efforts, creating a recognizable identity within the school nutrition program. We also explore the awards and recognition her team has earned, the impact of healthy choices on students, and the importance of community partnerships. It raises a key question for listeners: How can school meal programs create a brand that students actually recognize and get excited about? Whether you’re in school nutrition, public health, or simply passionate about improving student well-being, this episode will leave you inspired—and thinking deeply about how innovative school meal programs can change lives.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.childnutritionqisd.netLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-almand/Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰00:00 The Joy of School Nutrition Careers02:49 Shannon Alman: A Journey into Child Nutrition05:44 Innovations in School Lunch Programs08:55 The Importance of Scratch Cooking11:56 Second Chance Breakfast: A Game Changer15:01 Building Community Through School Nutrition17:38 Recognition and Awards in School Nutrition20:56 Creating a Unique School Nutrition Brand23:49 The Impact of Healthy Choices on Students26:59 Partnerships and Support in School Nutrition29:42 Inspiring Future Generations in Nutrition

This conversation explores the vital work of Action for Healthy Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health programming in schools across the United States. The discussion highlights the personal journeys of the speakers, the importance of school nutrition, the impact of the Healthy Meals Incentives initiative, and the challenges faced in child health today. The speakers emphasize the need for collaboration between education and nutrition professionals, innovative approaches to school meal programs, and the importance of measuring success in these initiatives. They also discuss future plans for Action for Healthy Kids and the ongoing commitment to supporting child health and nutrition.

Connect with our Guests!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/act4healthykids

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/act4healthykids/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/action-for-healthy-kids

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Action4HlthyKids

Website: https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/

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Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 Introduction to Action for Healthy Kids03:56 Personal Journeys in Nonprofit Work09:55 The Importance of School Nutrition14:53 HMI Initiative and Its Impact19:50 Challenges in Child Health24:46 Innovations in School Nutrition Programs29:40 Measuring Success in School Nutrition34:42 Collaboration Between Education and Nutrition39:35 Future Plans for Action for Healthy Kids

***A little bit of technical difficulties couldn't stop us from a great conversation and tons of laughs. Make sure you stick around for the bloopers!***We’re kicking off Season 6 with an inspiring, laugh-filled, and eye-opening conversation recorded live in Washington, D.C.! Host Marlon joins Bettina Applewhite, Nichole Taylor, and Stacey Williamson — three powerhouse women whose careers span satellites, school kitchens, and national nutrition leadership.In this episode, we explore everything from:How Stacey went from working on NASA weather satellites to food systems research at Johns HopkinsNicole’s journey from chef to school nutrition director and how she’s using real student voices to drive school food innovationBettina’s mission to blend culture and nutrition in schools (and her stint on Top Chef Amateurs!)We also dive into the power of food photography, community over competition, and why telling your story — especially in school nutrition — is the game-changer.This is a fun, fast-paced conversation about purpose, pivoting, and the intersection of technology, culture, and healthy food. Whether you're in school nutrition, a dietitian, or just love a good reinvention story, this one’s for you.===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================Bettina Applewhite, MS, RDN, LDN, SNS- https://www.biteswithapplewhite.com/- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettina-applewhite/- https://www.facebook.com/BitesWithApplewhite- https://www.instagram.com/biteswithapplewhite/E. Nichole Taylor- https://www.linkedin.com/in/e-nichole-taylor-3a08a9114/Stacey Williamson- https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceykwilliamson1/===========================Connect with us! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-gordon/IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Building Community in Nutrition02:42 From Space to Nutrition: A Unique Journey05:53 Culinary Backgrounds and School Nutrition08:42 Cultural Foods and Healthy Lifestyles11:18 The Transition from Tech to Nutrition14:05 Process Improvement in Dietetics17:07 Food Photography and Storytelling20:00 Creating Impactful School Meals23:00 Engaging Students in School Nutrition26:06 The Importance of Authenticity in Food28:55 Personal Growth and Goal Setting31:40 The Power of Collaboration in Nutrition34:30 Future of School Nutrition and Culinary Arts

How can school cafeterias spark innovation, build community, and change the way students see nutrition? In this episode of the Next Up Podcast, we're live at Ignite 2025 and leaders in school nutrition share stories of creativity and passion that are transforming mealtime in schools.The conversation sponsored by AmTab, explores hydroponic gardens, charcuterie-style bento boxes, culturally inspired menus, and modern cafeteria redesigns that make meals exciting, healthy, and community-focused. Lacy Willey, Alex Hallmark, and Conor Doyle reflect on the latest trends in student preferences, the misconceptions that still surround school meals, and the importance of marketing and communication in reshaping public perception. They also share what the future of school nutrition could look like if money were no object.Listeners will hear why engaging students and families in menu planning makes such a difference, how cafeteria environments impact participation and pride, and what it takes to introduce global flavors into everyday menus. The discussion also asks big questions: What innovative practices are reshaping the way students experience school meals? How does cafeteria design influence student engagement? Why do misconceptions about school nutrition persist? What role does marketing and storytelling play in building community support? And if resources were unlimited, how would school leaders reimagine the future of food in schools?===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/lacywilley/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hallmark-ms-rn-rdn-b794869a/https://www.linkedin.com/in/conor-doyle1/https://www.linkedin.com/company/amtab-manufacturing-corporation/https://www.amtab.com/===========================Connect with us! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-gordon/IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Celebrating Community and Innovation03:44 Innovative Practices in School Nutrition08:40 Trends and Preferences in Student Meals14:40 Future Directions in School Nutrition21:32 Perceptions of School Meals and Their Impact

Welcome to the debut of the Next Up Podcast Live at the NxtGen Masterclass—where creativity, purpose, and school nutrition collide. Marlon is joined by a panel of powerhouse guests like Melissa Santell, DJ Bonoan, Jamie Ouverson, and Cassie Tucker, this episode kicks off the NxtGen Masterclass- two days of sessions on how to elevate your storytelling, marketing, and photography game in the K-12 Nutrition space, even with minimal resources. From shrimp-styling, to capturing boba yogurt pearls on a phone, this crew shares how to craft compelling narratives and visuals that highlight the innovation and heart behind school meals. You’ll hear how iPhones can be powerful creative tools, how to build content calendars, and why school cafeterias are America’s largest restaurant chain.Packed with real stories, expert tips, and a whole lot of laughter, this episode is for anyone who believes school nutrition deserves better branding—and that even school meals can be exciting, beautiful, and impactful. What’s a story from your program that deserves more attention? Are you using your phone to its full creative potential? Join the conversation and share your favorite moments using #NxtGenMasterclass. #ThisIsSchoolMeals #FoodMarketing #CreativeEducation #NextUpPodcast===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================https://www.instagram.com/melsantell/https://www.instagram.com/hadji.tv/https://www.instagram.com/cassiejoytucker/===========================Connect with us! ===========================IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Welcome and Introduction to the Master Class03:02 Meet the Team: Culinary Experts and Innovators05:54 The Importance of Storytelling in Food Photography08:52 Creative Marketing Strategies in School Nutrition11:47 Navigating Challenges in School Nutrition15:01 Innovative Approaches to School Meals17:40 The Role of Community in School Nutrition20:40 Harnessing Social Media for School Nutrition24:01 Building a Brand Identity in School Nutrition26:44 The Power of Visual Storytelling29:56 Engaging Students through Culinary Experiences32:57 Leveraging Technology for Content Creation35:49 Creating Impactful Content with Limited Resources38:37 The Future of School Nutrition Marketing41:38 Q&A: Addressing Challenges and Opportunities43:52 Closing Remarks and Next Steps

How can we make school lunch cool again? What strategies actually boost student participation in school meal programs? In this episode sponsored by Multiteria, school nutrition leaders Marcus Shelton and Anji Branch share how they’re transforming the cafeteria experience through creativity, innovation, and strong community relationships. Plus, we’re joined by a special guest from Multiteria—Regional Senior Sales Manager Tracie Samp—who brings unique insights on how thoughtful design and flexible equipment can support these efforts.You’ll hear practical insights on how to redesign food spaces, implement new services, and engage both students and staff—especially in rural districts where resources can be limited. Our guests discuss the importance of supportive administration, the power of networking, and the need for continuous improvement in food service programs. They also explore how exposure to healthy foods and inventive meal presentation can increase student excitement and involvement.If you’re a school nutrition professional or simply passionate about improving education and student wellness, this episode offers real-world solutions to some of the biggest challenges in school food today.===========================Connect with our Guests!===========================FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100062954423017IG: https://www.instagram.com/gooding_cnp/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/multiteria/===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Media Kit: https://the.nxtgennetwork.com/MediaKitServed Digizine December 2024 | Gifting Gratitude: https://nxtgennetwork.serveddigizine.com/view/674102441/===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰00:00 Celebrating Connections and Community02:52 Innovative Approaches in School Nutrition05:58 Building Support and Infrastructure08:51 Transforming School Cafeterias11:51 Creative Solutions for Student Engagement14:57 The Importance of Vision and Leadership19:30 Innovative School Nutrition Initiatives22:09 The Importance of Exposure to Healthy Foods25:11 Fostering Creativity in School Meal Presentation29:17 Networking and Learning from Industry Events30:51 The Value of Continuous Improvement in School Programs34:40 Sharing Best Practices and Collaboration39:08 Building Relationships in the Food Service Community

In this episode, Tom Ferris shares his journey from a soccer-loving youth to a successful career in the food service industry. He discusses his early experiences in hospitality, his transition to food brokerage, and his current role at ES Foods. The conversation also delves into the importance of fitness and health, especially as life becomes busier with family and work commitments. Tom emphasizes the value of relationships in business and the foundational experiences that shaped his work ethic which ultimately led him to winning the Industry Member of the Year award with the School Nutrition Association. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss the intersection of fitness, leadership, and the importance of school nutrition. They share personal anecdotes about their journeys, the significance of networking, and the impact of school meals on children's lives. The dialogue also highlights the innovations in school food products and the need for better communication about the quality and nutritional value of these meals to parents and the public.===========================Connect with our Guests!===========================FB: https://www.facebook.com/ESFoodsInc/IG: https://www.instagram.com/e_s_foods_inc/X: https://twitter.com/esfoodsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/e-s-foods-inc-/about/===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Media Kit: https://the.nxtgennetwork.com/MediaKitServed Digizine December 2024 | Gifting Gratitude: https://nxtgennetwork.serveddigizine.com/view/674102441/===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰00:00 Introduction and Soccer Passion07:50 Career Beginnings in Hospitality12:52 Transition to Food Brokerage16:48 Current Role at ES Foods19:36 Fitness and Health Mindset27:20 Balancing Family, Work, and Fitness28:34 The Mental Game of Fitness and Leadership30:20 Building Connections and Networking31:38 Recognition and Awards in the Industry33:52 The Impact of School Nutrition41:08 The Importance of School Meals46:18 Promoting School Meals to Parents51:31 Innovations in School Food Products55:11 Healthcare and College Nutrition Trends

In this episode of the Next Up Podcast, produced by NxtGen Network, host Marlon Gordon welcomes guests Jenna Kaczmarski and Shani Hall to discuss the importance of innovation in school nutrition. The conversation revolves around the Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative and its impact on school meal programs. They delve into the significance of the Trailblazer Awards, administrative reviews, and how school meals can positively influence children's nutrition.The discussion also highlights the importance of local sourcing and community partnerships in enhancing school meal programs. Tune in to learn more about innovative approaches to school nutrition, fresh food initiatives, student engagement in nutrition education, and the value of community collaborations. The speakers also share their insights on the challenges, successes, and future plans for improving school nutrition programs.===========================Connect with our Guests!===========================- Action for Healthy Kids -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/act4healthykidsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/act4healthykids/X: https://twitter.com/Act4HlthyKidsWebsite: https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/- Hillsborough County Student Nutrition Services -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCPSNutritionX: https://twitter.com/HCPSNutritionWebsite: https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/sns===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Media Kit: https://the.nxtgennetwork.com/MediaKitServed Digizine December 2024 | Gifting Gratitude: https://nxtgennetwork.serveddigizine.com/view/674102441/===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles04:57 Understanding the Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative09:48 The Importance of Administrative Reviews in School Nutrition15:00 Trailblazer Awards: Celebrating Innovations in School Meals20:10 The Impact of School Meals on Children's Nutrition25:07 Local Sourcing and Community Partnerships in School Nutrition28:05 Engaging Students in Nutrition Education31:02 Innovative Menu Options and Student Feedback36:04 Collaboration and Data Sharing for Healthy Kids44:45 Future Plans for School Nutrition Programs

Join Marlon as he chats with Tara Sharpe and Kristine Buyers at the Zee Zees HQ in Michigan. The trio discusses Zee Zees' innovative approach to school nutrition that combines fun branding, product development, and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of School Meal Programs. Learn how Zee Zees is committed to creating engaging products that not only adhere to nutritional standards but also appeal to students, ultimately boosting participation in school meal programs. The conversation delves into Zee Zees' expansion of product lines and their focus on understanding market trends to better serve their customers.

The discussion also highlights the company's sales strategies, marketing efforts, and their commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives that help alleviate meal debt in schools called Grab the Tab where they will be paying off $100K with of meal debt across the country.

This conversation offers an in-depth look at Zee Zees' mission to elevate school meals by fostering a fun brand experience, emphasizing product development for school needs, and engaging with the community. Gain insights into the entrepreneurial spirit within the organization and their dedication to forming partnerships and delivering innovative solutions for school nutrition.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZeeZeesFoods/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeezeesfoods/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zee-zees-foods

Website: https://zeezees.com/

Website: http://www.zzgrabthetab.com

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network

Media Kit: https://the.nxtgennetwork.com/MediaKit

Served Digizine December 2024 | Gifting Gratitude: https://nxtgennetwork.serveddigizine.com/view/674102441/

Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱

➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts

➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019

➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 Introduction to Zee Zees and Team

03:06 The Importance of Fun in Branding

05:57 Innovative Solutions for School Nutrition

09:04 Product Development and Student Engagement

12:08 Expanding Product Lines and Market Reach

14:59 Trends in School Nutrition and A La Carte Sales

18:00 Team Composition and Roles

22:01 Promoting the Grab the Tab Program

24:47 Celebrating School Partnerships

25:36 New Product Launches and Innovations

28:57 Creating a Fun Brand Experience

29:57 The Mission Behind the Brand

30:57 Innovative Product Development for Schools

31:57 Understanding School Food Needs

33:57 The Importance of Commodity Processing

34:57 Engaging with School Districts

36:57 Elevating School Meals

38:59 Building Relationships with Schools

40:50 The Role of School Meal Programs in Communities

42:59 Entrepreneurial Spirit in Product Development