Culinary Confidential with Christina Cates

This week on Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes back Dr. Ian K. Smith - physician, bestselling author, and a trusted voice in health and nutrition - for a clear and grounded look at one of the biggest shifts in American dietary policy in years.

With the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the traditional food pyramid has now been inverted, prioritizing protein and healthy fats while placing stronger limits on ultra-processed foods and added sugars. 

Dr. Smith breaks down what these changes mean for everyday eating, how they align with current science, and why this new pyramid challenges decades of conventional wisdom. Christina and Dr. Smith explore how these guidelines may influence home cooking, menu development, and the broader nutrition culture, while offering a practical and accessible way to navigate through the noise.

They also discuss Dr. Smith’s latest book, The Last 15: Say Goodbye to Those Most Stubborn Pounds, a science-based, seven-week program designed to help readers overcome weight loss plateaus without gimmicks or deprivation. He shares the research behind the plan, the psychology of stubborn pounds, and the real-world strategies that make sustainable change possible.

If you’re trying to make sense of the new nutrition guidelines, curious about the future of American nutrition, or looking for smarter ways to cook, this week’s episode delivers clarity and context without the extra confusion.

As we continue to roll into 2026, Culinary Confidential helps rethink one of the most misunderstood parts of the modern day diet: carbohydrates.

This week, Christina Cates dives into how better carbs - not fewer - can transform your pantry, your meals, and your energy. Joining tonight's show is Alicia Lang and Marisol Villalobos.

A Community Manager and Nutrition Expert at Queen Street Bakery, Alicia breaks down why ingredient integrity matters, how to read labels with confidence, and why fear-based food rules often miss the mark. She shows how thoughtfully made breads and baked goods can absolutely belong in a balanced diet, and how smarter carbs can support your energy, gut health, and everyday enjoyment.

As the founder of Amasar, Marisol introduces listeners to breadfruit, an ancient, nutrient-dense, naturally gluten-free staple with deep cultural roots and modern culinary relevance. She shares how Amasar champions sustainability, heritage, and equitable food systems while bringing this resilient ingredient into contemporary kitchens.

If you're looking to rethink your pantry, explore healthier eating patterns, or perhaps are curious about the future of carbs, this week's episode offers grounded, accessible insight. From ancient ingredients like breadfruit to modern grain innovation, you'll be sure to walk away inspired and better equipped to make choices that fuel wellness and joy at the table.

We're now well into January, and with that comes the growing movement many are partaking in called Dry January.

For Culinary Confidential's second show of 2026, Christina Cates brings clarity, balance, a fresh look at how and why we drink, and why this movement towards more mindful drinking keeps growing in popularity. She also looks into how the beverage world and how our personal wellness choices evolve with two special guests.

Nicholas Poletto, Vice President of Education at Kobrand Corporation, breaks down the rapidly expanding world of non-alcoholic beverages. He explains how the category has moved beyond simple substitutes, becoming a space defined by creativity, flavor integrity, and intentional design. From zero-proof wines and spirits to elevated alternatives crafted for modern palates, he offers the inside scoop on what's driving this shift and what consumers can expect next.

Dr. Ali Cadili brings a medical perspective, offering clear and evidence-based insight into the health benefits of reducing or eliminating alcohol. He discusses how even short-term abstinence can improve your sleep, mental clarity, metabolic health, and overall vitality - demystifying the science behind mindful drinking and empowering listeners to make informed choices.

So whether you're sober-curious, committed to Dry January, or simply exploring healthier choices, this week's episode offers a grounded, accessible look at the cultural and personal shifts around alcohol, and how even the smallest of changes can make a meaningful impact.

Culinary Confidential opens 2026 with a celebration of love, craft, and the details that make "I do" unforgettable. Christina Cates dives into the artistry behind modern weddings, from the menu to the rings to the cake, with three wedding experts shaping how couples personalize their big day.

Rich Levy is Founder & CEO of Chicago's acclaimed catering company, Butter and Vine (https://butterandvine.com). From launching weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to thriving today as an operation known for custom menus, elevated beverage programs, and hospitality driven service, Rich brings deep insight into what makes a wedding menu truly memorable.

Michelle Luchese is Co-Founder & CEO of Manly Bands (https://manlybands.com), a bold and storytelling-driven wedding ring brand that redefines what men's rings can be. From meteorite to whiskey barrels to guitar strings, Michelle shares the story of how Manly Bands turned from a garage start-up into a multimillion dollar disruptor with inclusive sizing and in-house production.

Arlene Murray is the Owner and lead cake designer of Polkadot Cake Shop (https://polkadotcake.com) in Lyndhurst, NJ. Polkadot has become known today as New Jersey's most beloved custom bake shop. A self taught artist known for buttercream, fondant, and show-stopping wedding cakes, Arlene talks creativity, craft, and the joy behind edible art that becomes the centerpiece of a celebration.

From curated menus to custom rings to unforgettable cakes, Culinary Confidential's 2026 premiere explores how couples are rewriting standard wedding traditions, and why personalization has become the heart of every celebration.

https://culinaryconfidentialchristina.com

To close out 2025, Christina Cates brings on a chef whose work, heart, and perseverance has shaped the soul of Los Angeles dining: Chef Jason Neroni.

Known for his soulful, ingredient-driven cooking and his leadership at some of LA's most beloved restaurants including Superba Food + Bread, Rose Cafe, and Best Bet Pizza, Jason has built a career defined by intention. His food is bold yet thoughtful, his kitchens are collaborative, his approach to hospitality is rooted in community and the belief that restaurants can be places of connection and care.

In the 2025 finale, Jason opens up about the journey behind the craft: the early influences that shaped his palate, the evolution of neighborhood dining, the challenges and triumphs of building restaurants from the ground up, and the personal growth that comes from decades in a demanding industry. It's an honest, reflective conversation on creativity, resilience, leadership, and the lessons learned along the way.

For those that love food, storytelling, or the human side of the culinary realm, this year's finale delivers heart, depth, inspiration, and makes for a perfect final course of 2025.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates brings on one of the sharpest voices in food journalism today - Andy Wang, contributing writer for Forbes and a leading storyteller on how America eats, drinks, and plays.

Andy has covered restaurants, bars, dining culture, and nightlife for Food & Wine, Robb Report, Los Angeles Magazine, Observer, The New York Times, New York Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and more. His reporting spans the country, capturing the chefs, scenes, and shifts that redefine hospitality in 2025.

He’s also the founder of Industry Only, a hospitality‑focused platform and event series that brings together chefs, restaurateurs, and insiders for real conversations about the business behind the culture.

Together, Christina and Andy will dig into the rise of new culinary cities across the U.S., the future of nightlife and bar culture, why storytelling, community, and creativity matter more than ever, and more!

Andy’s nationwide perspective and insider access make this a conversation you’ll want to hear — whether you’re in the industry or a foodie obsessed with food culture.

This week on Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates unwraps the holiday season's most thoughtful gourmet gifts - delicious and tasty finds that are perfect stocking stuffers for the foodie in your life! Featured brands on this week's show are Arbo's Cheese Dip, HASSY Avocado Oil, Blume Honey Water, and Projo Coffee.

Arbo's Cheese Dip: Founded by Andrew Arbogast, a U.S. Army combat veteran and Apache pilot, this Memphis-born queso turned a family recipe into a fast-growing brand. Bold, clean, and authentic, Arbo's is stocked in thousands of stores across the Southern United States and is a true veteran-owned success story.

HASSY Avocado Oil: Created by Martha Forero and rooted in three generations of avocado farming, HASSY brings pure, cold-pressed oil from Michoacán, Mexico. With refined and extra-virgin varieties, it's a versatile and heart-healthy staple that blends heritage with modern wellness.

Blume Honey Water: Founded by Michele Meloy Burchfield, Blume reimagines ancient honey water into sparkling hydration. With flavors like Citrus Vanilla, Wild Blueberry, and Ginger Zest, Blume champions bee sustainability while offering wellness-forward refreshment.

Projo Coffee: Co-founded by Charbel Mawad and Lisa Hermosillo, Projo fuses premium coffee with superfoods like collagen and digestive enzymes. Taking inspiration from fitness and resilience, Projo's all about energy, empowerment, and nourishment in every cup.

From must-haves to standout stocking stuffers, this episode delivers flavor-forward gifts with rich backstories. Perfect for anyone looking to give with taste and thoughtfulness this holiday season!

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates explores how food and drink become extraordinary gifts to give during the holiday season, and how they can transform into tokens of luxury, thoughtfulness, and lasting memory.

Two remarkable voices join the show: Petra Highby and Priscilla Jimenez.

Petra Higby, CEO and Co-Founder of The Caviar Co., has redefined how Americans experience one of the world's most iconic delicacies. Since launching The Caviar Co. with her sister Saskia in 2015, Petra has made caviar approachable while preserving its luxurious aura. Her company sources sustainable, small-batch roe balancing tradition with innovation.

Joining the show later in the hour is Priscilla Jimenez, known to her audience as The Wannabe Sommelier. With humor and deep knowledge, Priscilla resonates well with her audience - one that has become a loyal following. She makes wine education accessible and fun, with her content demystifying the complexities of wine while offering expert-level insight, approachable reviews, pairing suggestions, and tasting notes resonating across multiple experience levels. Her philosophy is a simple yet powerful one - wine should be a source of joy and connection, not intimidation.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates is joined by two guests that bring family, fashion, and Campbell's products to the table. Celebrated New York fashion designer Cynthia Rowley is known for fearless use of color, surf-chic aesthetic, and decades of shaping American style. From ready-to-wear to swimwear and accessories, Cythnia has transformed everyday inspiration into runway art.

Joining Cynthia on the show is her daughter, Kit Keenan. An entrepreneur and digital creator, Kit blends wellness, cooking, and fashion into her creative work. She also made headlines as the youngest contestant on Season 25 of ABC's The Bachelor, bringing her sharp wit and modern perspective to a national audience.

Together, the mother-daughter duo will explore how food and fashion have always been part of the fabric of their family's story - rituals in the kitchen, creative expression, and the way personal style shows up everywhere, including at the dinner table.

Cynthia and Kit also share details on their newest collaboration with Campbell's Soup - The Sides Collection, a limited-edition holiday collection that transforms comfort food nostalgia into wearable art. Think festive bags and accessories that make something as simple as holiday sides into runway ready fashion!

Expect a belated Thanksgiving feast of conversation, one where taste meets trend and holiday traditions meet innovation.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes in the duo behind Bridgehampton's own Almond, Chef Jason Weiner and restauranteur Eric Lemonides.

For two decades plus, Almond has been the East End's gathering place where farmers, fishers, and foragers aren't just suppliers - they are all partners at the same table. Its chalkboard menus shift like the soil and the tides of the Atlantic, serving food rooted not in gimmicks but in integrity.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, Jason and Eric break down what it means to champion local agriculture, how the dining scene has evolved since the opening of Almond, and why supporting small purveyors is much more than hospitality - it's stewardship.

Chef Jason Weiner, Almond's culinary engine, allows for peak-season ingredients to lead the way. Expect kitchen stories, sharp insights, and how he keeps the menus aligned with the farms and docks.

Eric Lemonides, the heartbeat of Almond's hospitality, connects front-of-house to community. He shares how trust with these local and smaller purveyors, staff culture, and long-term collaborations have shaped the enduring vibe Almond has consistently brought to the Hamptons.

Together, the two have made Almond a Hamptons staple, and proved that farm-to-table isn't a fad but a philosophy.

Culinary Confidential takes to the seas this week as Christina Cates dives into the world of luxury hospitality on the water!

Joining this week's show is Captain Hugo Ortega and Chief Stewardess Bee Hayn, two seasoned pros whose careers were shaped by the tides. Hugo, well known to fans of Bravo's Below Deck, shares his journey from deckhand to captain, and the leadership skills required to manage high-pressure charters. Bee brings her expertise in interior service, guest care, and the subtle art of making every detail feel effortless.

Together, they've launched Super Yacht Sunday School (www.superyachtsundayschool.com), a training program built to prepare aspiring crew for the reality that is living life at sea. From safety drills to silver service, their curriculum blends practical know-how with the polish of elite hospitality.

Whether you may be involved with the hospitality industry or merely curious about what it takes to create unforgettable moments at sea, this week is sure to deliver a unique glimpse into a reality where service meets adventure.

On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates dives into the tasty and savory intersection that is sports and food - the part of the fan experience where game day passion meets plate worthy flavor.

Returning to the show is Chef Joey Fortunato of The Splendid, known for elevating comfort food with soul and precision. Also joining the show is Martin Whelan of Stout NYC Hospitality Group, whose venues have been go-tos on game days since the days of operating Maggie's Place.

Together, these two industry vets break down why tailgate favorites like wings, hot dogs, and nachos became stadium staples, how chefs balance hype with heart, and what makes a bar truly feel like home turf.

It's all flavor this week! No lab-grown nonsense, just the real deal served hot!

On this week's Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates explores the dining scene and culture in Hong Kong with Ronald Asher, founder and chief pie maker of Tai Tai Pie Pies - one of Hong Kong's most beloved dessert brands.

Known for his handmade pies and nostalgic comfort flavors, Ronald has carved out quite the unique space in the city's competitive culinary scene by blending American-style baking with Hong Kong's vibrant food culture. He shares how Tai Tai Pie Pies grew from a passion project to a citywide sensation, the flavors that inspire his creations, and what it takes to stand out in a dynamic and very competitive culinary market that Hong Kong has become.

From street stalls to patisseries, Hong Kong is a pace where Eastern and Western cultures meet at the table. Ronald's savory pies perfectly embody that, celebrating the spirit, creativity, comfort, and sweet sides of Hong Kong food culture.

Better not ghost this week's spooktacular edition of Culinary Confidential! Christina Cates is serving up a special Halloween treat that you won't want to miss.

She dives into the sweet side of spooky season with Katie DeCapria, Senior Brand Manager for the Halloween portfolio at The Hershey Company.

Katie takes us behind the scenes of Hershey's largest season of the year. From the creative process behind haunting new treats to trends shaping your 2025 trick-or-treat haul, this episode is packed with sugary surprises!

Did you know Hershey produces nearly half a billion pounds of candy every year for Halloween? October sales alone top $500 million. The reigning champions of the candy bowl? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kats, and Hershey's Miniatures make up the Top 3 in that order.

Whether you're a candy connoisseur, Halloween superfan, sweet tooth enthusiast, or merely curious how the biggest name in sweets plans for the annual Candypocalypse, this episode is right up your alley!

Christina will be unwrapping some chocolatey secrets, as well as a few Halloween jokes with producer Ryan Pagano and this week's Ingredient of the Week! The best part? No golden ticket is required.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes Zamir Gotta - Russian-born producer, cultural diplomat, and longtime travel companion of the late great Anthony Bourdain - for a powerful and insightful conversation on food, friendship, and the art of connecting with others.

Zamir's unique journey spans from classrooms in the Soviet Union, to global film sets, to unforgettable meals in every corner of the globe. With an English degree from Moscow State Pedagogical University, Zamir began his career as a teacher before becoming a bridge between cultures through film and television. His work on No Reservations, Parts Unknown, and Cities of the Underworld made him a fan favorite. He leaves a deeper legacy though, in using food and storytelling to foster understanding throughout the world.

Together, they explore how food becomes a language of diplomacy, how meals in unfamiliar places shape our view of the world, and how Zamir's new memoir, The Fixer and The Chef, honors his life and friendship with Bourdain.

This week's episode is all about laughter and insight into these adventures, as well as a few unexpected confessions along the way.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates celebrates the strength, creativity, legacy, and hospitality that family-run food businesses have to offer, by featuring three inspiring guests whose brands are built on parent-child relationships.

Linnie and Morgan Gold, the mother-daughter duo behind NOSH NYC, have turned candy into a personalized experience by specializing in custom candy gift boxes and 'candy grams', blending premium treats with playful designs. From sour gummies to rich chocolates, NOSH NYC delivers joy in every box. Their secret ingredient? The Golds' bond as co-founders of a women-owned business.

Misty Skolnick is co-founder of Uncle Jerry's Pretzels, an artisanal brand of pretzels based out of Lancaster County, PA, alongside her father Jerry. The two have spent over three decades crafting crunchy, all-natural sourdough pretzels with integrity and grit. 

Their stories are ones of resilience, tradition, and staying true to their roots in this changing food landscape - proof that teamwork as a family can truly elevate a business and deepen its purpose in ways that trends cannot.

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates continues the tradition of spotlighting women who are hard at work shaping culture and community through passion, creativity, and purpose. Joining the show is Judia Black, founder of enJoie - a lifestyle, media, events, and gifts company that celebrates wine culture and shared experiences, and Maricel Gentile of Maricel’s Kitchen in East Brunswick, NJ.

Judia is a certified somellier, strategic consultant, and luxury event curator known for her warmth, storytelling, and insight into the hottest beverage trends. Whether she’s hosting a pairing dinner or breaking down the latest in wine marketing, Judia brings charisma and clarity to every conversation.

As Chef and Founder of Maricel’s Kitchen in East Brunswick, Gentile runs a studio that is a culinary haven offering Chef’s Table dinners, cooking classes, and bespoke catering rooted in tradition and community. Maricel is also a Chef Ambassador for K-Seafood, where she represents Korean seafood and Asian culinary heritage on the global stage. She’s been featured on Food Network, Hulu, and PBS, and continues to inspire countless others through appearances at food and women’s expos. Her story is one of perseverance, pride, and the power of flavor to connect generations.

Judia and Maricel’s stories combine to make this flavorful hour one of inspiration, insight, and celebration!

This week marks the start of Season 2 of Culinary Confidential, and there's no better way to kick that off than by opening with the world's best bar!

Handshake Speakeasy out of Mexico City is not just the world's best bar - it's redefining cocktail culture worldwide. Hidden behind an unmarked door in Colonia Juarez, this intimate lounge's recent accolades speak for itself. Christina Cates goes behind the scenes in the Season 2 premiere with the two men who made that happen: Rodrigo Urraca and Javier Rodriguez.

Urraca is the co-founder and creative force behind this unique concept, and shares how Handshake Speakeasy evolved from a dream into a destination.

Rodriguez is Handshake's head bartender whose cocktails are pure artistry. From rare spirits and lab-based techniques to unforgettable hospitality, they've created a place where innovation meets intimacy, and every cocktail tells a story. In addition to revealing the science, emotion, and storytelling behind every drink, Javier also discusses Handshake’s newest campaign in partnership with 1800 Tequila.

The campaign, Obsessed With Taste, highlights Rodriguez crafting a cocktail with seven unique ingredients, and with 1800 Tequila Blanco as the central element. The World’s Most-Awarded Tequila proudly poured at the World’s Best Bar!

This week on Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates celebrates a huge milestone in the finale of season one. We're celebrating ONE YEAR of pulling back the curtain on the culinary world! Sharing the unforgettable stories, voices, and flavors that have shaped our dining experiences today. From luxury dining to behind-the-scenes grit, Christina has brought heart, humor, and insight to all 52 episodes thus far!

Christina welcomes back powerhouse guest Shaina Nestor, Regional Director of Gibsons Restaurant Group in Chicago, IL. With prior executive roles at Darden, The Palm, The Russian Tea Room, and Tavern on the Green, Shaina brings an unmatched perspective on the evolution of dining culture. Shaina isn't just a guest. She's a loyal listener, ready to reflect on the episodes that resonated, the insights that stuck, and the moments that have made this show a must-listen.

Also joining the one-year anniversary show is Lucas A. Ferrara and producer Ryan Pagano to discuss their favorite moments from season one!

Whether you've been with Christina since day one or you're just discovering Culinary Confidential, this week's one year reflection is a celebration of the journey, and a toast of what's to come.

One year, dozens of guests, countless stories, with many more to come in Season 2!

On this week's edition of Culinary Confidential, Christina Cates welcomes hospitality power duo Kevin and Janine Fenton to talk all things private dining and luxury hotel culture. With decades of experience managing and curating guest experiences in branded NYC properties, the Fentons have seen firsthand just how intimate dining spaces are reshaping the hotel industry.

Kevin, General Manager at a premier hospitality provider, has led operations at some of Manhattan's most iconic boutique hotels. His approach blends hospitality with cultural programming, turning private dining into a strategic asset for guest loyalty and brand identity.

Janine, Director of Catering at a prestigious lodging brand, brings her signature style and precision to luxury events and culinary experiences. With a PR background and a career spanning Loews Hotels, Highgate, and The RealReal, Janine understands the way private dining creates emotional impact and serious revenue.

They will share stories, lessons, and expert insights on why private dining is now a must-have, not just a perk.