What does it take to navigate culinary school, sharp knives, hot pans — and the food industry — without sight?

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by chef and founder of The Blind Kitchen, Debra Erickson, who shares how vision loss shaped her journey into the kitchen and led her to create over 90 adaptive tools and strategies for blind and visually impaired cooks. We talk about inclusive design, the psychology of confidence in the kitchen, how tech is transforming accessibility, and the cultural misconceptions that still exist around blindness and ability.

Debra’s story is about more than food — it’s about reclaiming independence, joy, and identity through cooking. Whether you’re passionate about inclusive design, love hearing stories of innovation and resilience, or simply want to learn how to be a better ally in your own kitchen, this episode is for you.

✨ Don’t forget: If you know someone who could benefit from these tools or insights, please share this episode. You never know who might need it.

🎧 Learn more at theblindkitchen.com

Connect with Debra:

- Email: [email protected]

- YouTube

- Facebook

- Instagram

- LinkedIn

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

What happens when you blend Turkey’s rich, vibrant breakfast traditions with Argentina’s bold, expressive wines? You get a brunch worth talking about — and tasting!

In this shorty episode, I’m joined by Chef Nil and sommelier Eleonora to talk about our upcoming Turkish brunch event in Buenos Aires.

We chat about Turkish breakfast staples, the magic of meze, why Argentine wines are surprisingly perfect pairings, and the cultural similarities that make this collaboration so fun.

If you’re local, come join us on Saturday, May 17th at 12 PM at Pain y Vin — tickets available NOW - just click the link in the bio!

And even if you're not in town, this mini episode is a delicious peek into how food brings people (and cultures) together.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Connect with Eleonora: @painetvin

Connect with Chef Nil: @nilhomecooking

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

Think Belgian beer is just about strong ales and fancy glasses? Think again.

In this episode, I sit down with Breandán — Irish writer, podcaster, and long-time Belgian resident — to explore the rich, quirky, and surprisingly complex world of Belgian beer. From ancient monasteries and spontaneous fermentation to UNESCO recognition and regional pride, we dive deep into what makes Belgium’s beer culture truly one-of-a-kind.

We talk:

• The real story behind Trappist beers (it’s not what you think)

• How beer became part of Belgium’s national identity

• Classic Belgian styles you need to try — and how to pair them with food

• Tips for finding the best beer bars (hint: it’s not always the tourist favorites)

• Why brewers are often the most “interesting” characters you’ll meet 🍻

Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or full-on foam-forward fanatic, this episode will leave you thirsty for more — in the best way.

**Connect with Breandán**

Instagram: ⁠@belgiansmaak⁠

⁠Belgian Smaak website⁠

⁠Listen to Belgian Smaak on Apple⁠

⁠Listen to Belgian Smaak on Spotify⁠

⁠Listen to Belgian Smaak ⁠

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

In this rich and flavorful episode, I sit down with Lebanese chef and luxury event designer Tara Khattar to explore what makes Lebanese food and hospitality so extraordinary.

Tara shares how food in Lebanon is so much more than sustenance—it's a love language, a cultural expression, and a celebration of life itself.

From the abundant mezze spreads of restaurants to the soulful home-cooked stews passed down through generations, she paints a vibrant picture of Lebanese cuisine and the traditions behind it.

We talk about the difference between restaurant food and home cooking in Lebanon, the culture of generosity in hosting, and how Tara’s upbringing and experiences—from Lebanon to France to New York—have shaped her approach to food and events.

She also opens up about her time on Top Chef France and Chopped, the challenges of being in the spotlight, and how she built her successful all-in-one luxury events company, Maison Tara.

Whether you're curious about Middle Eastern food, looking for a peek behind the scenes of the culinary world, or just love hearing about cultures that celebrate life through food, this episode is a warm, joyful, and inspiring listen.

**Connect with Chef Tara

Instagram - @tarakhattarofficial

Maison Tara Website - https://maisontara.co/

Maison Tara Instagram: @maisontara.co

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

Step into the forests of Italy and uncover the world of real truffle hunting with expert guide Matteo!

In this episode, we explore the mystique behind Italian truffles, the rigorous training of truffle dogs, the truth about fake truffle products, and what makes these earthy delicacies so rare—and expensive.

Matteo shares how this ancient (and secretive!) tradition has been passed down through generations, the difference between black and white truffles, what to know about truffle season in Italy, and the best ways to eat truffles like a local.

You’ll also get the inside scoop on his intimate truffle experiences for travelers—including forest foraging, fresh truffle cooking, and multi-course lunches with local wine.

🎧 You’ll learn:

• Why truffles are so valuable (and how to avoid fakes)

• What truffle dogs do, and how they’re trained

• Where and when to go truffle hunting in Italy

• Best dishes to enjoy fresh truffle (and what not to pair it with!)

• How Matteo turned a family tradition into immersive food experiences

Whether you’re a truffle lover, planning a trip to Italy, or curious about food traditions in Europe, this episode is full of flavor, fun, and fungi.

Connect with Matteo

Instagram: @matteo_truffles

Website: https://matteo-truffles.com/

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

Get ready to transport your taste buds and travel dreams straight to Thailand! In this vibrant episode, I sit down with Thai chef and YouTuber Chef Ramida to explore the colorful world of authentic Thai cuisine, regional cooking traditions, and cultural celebrations that make traveling Thailand so unforgettable.

We dive into beloved Thai dishes like spicy lab (minced meat salad), tangy som tam (papaya salad), creamy green curry, and of course, the ultimate dessert: mango sticky rice. Ramida shares stories from her childhood , family food traditions, and how her grandmother’s garden sparked a lifelong love of cooking.

🌊 But we don’t just talk food—we celebrate Songkran, Thailand’s epic New Year festival! Ramida offers a firsthand look at this iconic, multi-day water celebration and its deeper cultural meaning. From the lively street water fights in places like Bangkok and Bang Saen Beach to the beautiful rituals of pouring water over elders’ hands and honoring ancestors, we unpack how Songkran blends playfulness, family, and spiritual renewal. Learn about the traditional foods served during the holiday (yes, mango sticky rice makes another appearance!) and what makes this time of year so magical for locals and travelers alike.

🎧 In this episode:

• Must-try dishes from Eastern & Central Thailand

• The cultural significance of Thai ingredients & techniques

• Local tips for foodies traveling in Thailand

• Why Songkran is more than just a water fight

• Where to find great pad Thai in Bangkok (hint: it might be in a mall!)

• Chef Ramida’s cookbook & YouTube channel for Thai cooking at home

Whether you're planning your next trip to Thailand, dreaming of Thai street food, or just hungry for culture, flavor, and connection, this episode is your perfect introduction.

***

Connect with Chef Ramida

YouTube: @cheframidathaifoodexpert

Instagram: @chef_ramida

Ramida's Bangkok Recommendations

- White Flower Factory 

- KubKao' KubPla Emquartier

- Nara Thai Cuisine Siam Paragon

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

South African cuisine is a rich blend of cultures, history, and bold flavors, and no one brings it to life quite like Mogau Seshoene, aka The Lazy Makoti! 🇿🇦🥘

In this episode, we dive into the heart of South African food traditions, from braais (barbecues) and pap to the comforting spice of chakalaka.

Mogau shares how she’s preserving and modernizing classic dishes, making them accessible for home cooks everywhere.

Whether you're a fan of South African cuisine or just discovering it, this episode will transport your taste buds! 🎧🍛

🎙️ Tune in now and let us know—**what South African dish are you dying to try?**👇

Connect with Mogau:

Instagram: @thelazymakoti

Website

Buy her book - Hosting with The Lazy Makoti

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

New York is famous for its bagels, but what happens when you try to recreate that magic thousands of miles away?

In this special anniversary episode, I sit down with Jake Eichenbaum-Pikser, the owner of Sheikob’s Bagels, to talk about how he brought authentic New York-style bagels to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

We dive into the art of making a perfect bagel, the challenges of sourcing ingredients abroad, and what it means to introduce a beloved NYC food tradition to a new culture.

**Plus, we’re celebrating one year of the podcast with a giveaway!

If you're in Buenos Aires you've got the chance to win a bagel lunch at Sheikob's!! All you have to do to enter is:

- Follow both our accounts on Instagram

- Tag 3 friends

- Share the post to your stories

Have your entries in by Friday, March 28th at noon ART!!

Check out more details in the post HERE

If you’re a bagel lover, a foodie missing NYC, or just someone who loves the intersection of food and culture, this episode is for you!

🎧 Listen now and join the celebration!

Connect with Jake and visit Sheikob's

Instagram: @sheikobsbagels

Website

Palermo Soho Location

Las Cañitas Location

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

In this second part of my conversation with Linda and Luke Black Elk, we explore the significance of food sovereignty and its vital role in Indigenous communities today.

Linda unpacks the difference between food security and true sovereignty, while Luke shares how intergenerational knowledge and traditional food gathering help reclaim Indigenous identity.

We also discuss sustainable foraging, the power of trade networks, and how food connects us to culture, history, and community.

Plus, they share how their work is helping Native communities regain control over their food systems—and how you can be part of the movement.

Connect with Linda & Luke:

- Instagram: ⁠@linda.black.elk⁠

- Linda and Luke's work:

⁠NATIFs (North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems )⁠

- ⁠Makoce Ikikcupi (Land Recovery)⁠

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨

In this episode, I sit down with Linda and Luke Black Elk to explore the deep-rooted food traditions of the Lakota people.

We discuss how indigenous foods—like bison, corn, and the Three Sisters planting system—have influenced global cuisine, and the ongoing efforts to reclaim food sovereignty.

Linda and Luke share powerful stories about resilience, land access, and the cultural significance of traditional dishes like Bapa soup and wasna (pemmican).

This conversation sheds light on the history, science, and spirit behind indigenous foodways—an essential part of North America’s culinary heritage.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how food connects the past, present, and future of the Lakota people!

Connect with Linda & Luke

Instagram: @linda.black.elk

Linda and Luke's work:

NATIFs (North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems )

Makoce Ikikcupi (Land Recovery)

Hang out with me: Food: ⁠@tastytrailstravelpod⁠

Life in Korea: ⁠@wherewefindhome⁠

Identity & Belonging: ⁠Substack⁠✨