Synopsis
Hospitality industry veterans, Max Trujillo and Matthew Weiss, get behind the scenes of North Carolina's burgeoning food and beverage culture. Hear from local chefs, Sommelier's, distillers, farmers, brewers and the whole lot of them in the NC F&B podcast.
Episodes
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Tacos and Tariffs: A Capitol Encounter with Congresswoman Deborah Ross
19/06/2025 Duration: 44minHost Max Trujillo welcomes Congresswoman Deborah Ross for an insightful discussion. We explore topics such as North Carolina's vibrant food scene, the significance of Juneteenth, and the intersection between politics and the food and beverage industry. Congresswoman Ross shares her culinary favorites in the Raleigh Triangle area and details her legislative efforts to support the local food industry. The conversation also delves into broader issues like tariffs, the importance of a strong food community, and the current challenges in the U.S. agricultural sector. The episode emphasizes the role of public awareness and engagement in driving meaningful change. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com
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Bubbles, Brisket, and the Business of Being Mo
12/06/2025 Duration: 01h19minHost Max Trujillo and his co-host, Hershey the dog, welcome the talented and outspoken chef, Mo (Modega). The conversation traverses Mo's eclectic background, from her roots in Philadelphia to her pivotal role as head chef at LA Dive Bar in downtown Raleigh. They bounce back and forth from recapping the 5th Annual Bubbles & Brisket, some personal details in Max’s life, and the similarities to other events happening around town. They delve into Mo's controversial past involving a heated incident at Plum in Durham, her entrepreneurial ventures with the Modega popup, and the ensuing journey that led her to helm the kitchen at LA Dive. The episode is peppered with candid discussions about the highs and lows of the culinary world, humorous anecdotes, and even a dash of Malört. This episode is a raw, yet inspiring exploration of resilience, creativity, and the sheer passion that drives a chef to turn challenges into delicious opportunities. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Tru
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Behind The Stick: Matt Coleman's Mixology Meets Neighborhood Vibe at The Davie
22/05/2025 Duration: 40min'Bubbles and Brisket' is in its fifth year, on Saturday, June 7th. The event will feature around ten chefs, multiple bars, and a variety of beverages, including sparkling wines, beers, and potentially a cash bar for full-strength drinks. Get Tickets HERE In this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo interviews Matt Coleman, owner of The Davie in Raleigh. They discuss Matt's journey from being a bartender at various high-end cocktail bars like Fox Liquor Bar, to opening his own neighborhood bar. The conversation dives into the evolution of the cocktail culture in Raleigh, the challenges and learnings of running a bar business, and the significance of community spaces in urban settings. Matt also shares insights into his bar's offerings, including special events like comedy nights and live music, and his dedication to maintaining a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. Alongside personal anecdotes and local industry highlights, the episode reflects on the post-pandemic rejuv
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Holy Cow! 150 Years of Shipley Farms with Gray Shipley
15/05/2025 Duration: 01h02minThis episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, hosted by Max Trujillo, highlights the return of the 'Bubbles and Brisket' event for its fifth year, scheduled for Saturday, June 7th. The event will feature around ten chefs, multiple bars, and a variety of beverages, including sparkling wines, beers, and potentially a cash bar for full-strength drinks. Get Tickets HERE Today we speak with Gray Shipley, a fifth-generation owner of Shipley Farms. They discuss the history and operations of Shipley Farms, which dates back to 1872, including its focus on high-quality, pasture-raised beef and pork. They delve into topics like the impact of Hurricane Helene, government and community response, the ethics of farming, and the differences between local farms and large-scale industrial farming. The discussion also touches on dietary issues, the political landscape surrounding food, and upcoming events and new store openings for Shipley Farms. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max
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Bartender Banter: Mixing Humor with Spirits at Wolfe & Porter
08/05/2025 Duration: 46minThis episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, hosted by Max Trujillo, highlights the return of the 'Bubbles and Brisket' event for its fifth year, scheduled for Saturday, June 7th. The event will feature around ten chefs, multiple bars, and a variety of beverages, including sparkling wines, beers, and potentially a cash bar for full-strength drinks. Get Tickets HERE Let's chat bartending and bar culture with Jacob Gallant and Ritchie Reno of Raleigh's Wolfe & Porter, a bar offering multiple spaces, including a neighborhood bar, a classic cocktail lounge, and an outdoor patio with live music. We share anecdotes from our bartending days and discussing cocktail recipes, customer interactions, and the evolution of drinking trends. Highlighting their expertise and passion for mixology, we talk about crafting distinctive cocktails and the importance of creating a welcoming environment. The episode concludes with a teaser for an upcoming tiki-themed anniversary party, promising an exciting ce
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The Ideal episode about Ideal's Sandwiches... Get in Line...
01/05/2025 Duration: 01h07minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo is excited to talk about delis, sandwiches, and the story behind Ideals Deli Market Gourmet. Featuring business partners Ian Bracken and Paul Chirico, Max dives into their backgrounds, their inspirations from New York-style delis, and the journey of creating Ideals in Durham, North Carolina. With nostalgic anecdotes, they discuss the growth of their business, their unique approach to making fresh sandwiches, and creating a strong community presence without traditional marketing. Banter includes the emotional connections to deli aromas, the specifics of their menu, and humorous takes on topics like PB&J sandwiches and health inspections. The episode wraps up with a focus on their highly successful, beloved sandwiches and a call to visit their market for unique items. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email ma
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Go Rae Soju and a Recap of Dreamville
17/04/2025 Duration: 45minThis episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, hosted by Max Trujillo, highlights the return of the 'Bubbles and Brisket' event for its fifth year, scheduled for Saturday, June 7th. The event will feature around ten chefs, multiple bars, and a variety of beverages, including sparkling wines, beers, and potentially a cash bar for full-strength drinks. Get Tickets HERE Welcome Hoon Lee, the president and co-owner of @goraesoju, and Shane Calder, a liquor broker for @dorado.rock, to discuss all things Soju. We delve into Soju’s backstory, its production process, and its rising trend of lower alcohol content. Max sample various Soju flavors like original, peach, grape, lemon, and honey do, and discuss their appeal and potential in markets like nightclubs and bars. Additionally, we chat about Go Rae’s exposure at the Dreamville hip-hop festival and elaborate on its global market presence. The podcast ends with a playful hint at possibly bringing Soju to the Bubbles and Brisket event.
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Coastal Culinary Conversations: Behind the Feast of Wilmington 2025!
10/04/2025 Duration: 01h03minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, hosts Max Trujillo and Chef Savannah Miller dive into a rich conversation that spans from Savannah's Top Chef journey to the intricacies of the North Carolina culinary scene. They discuss Savannah's experience on Top Chef, highlighting her development and the final challenge of cooking the best meal ever. While at the 2nd Annual Feast of Wilmington, the duo explore the roles of various chefs detailing the collaborative efforts of local chefs, progressive meals, and the significance of balancing work and family. Engaging, informative, and filled with delicious details, this episode celebrates the vibrant and evolving food culture of North Carolina. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com
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Hurricane Helene Impact and Project Skyline's Mission
06/03/2025 Duration: 47minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo chats with John Seelbinder, of Local Icon Hospitality and owner of multiple establishments, including the newly relocated Merchant and the Architect's speakeasy, Green Light. The conversation covers Seelbinder's unexpected role in disaster relief following Hurricane Helene, where he transformed his Spruce Pine hotel, The Skyline Village Inn into a critical hub for rescue and relief efforts. Despite his new nonprofit commitments with Project Skyline, Seelbinder continues to innovate Raleigh's food and beverage scene with upcoming projects like the Embargo Bar. The discussion also touches on community resilience, the importance of public and private mobilization during crises, and the continuing needs of affected areas. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com
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Drink Malört: Chicago's Liquid Legend Unbottled
27/02/2025 Duration: 40minWe dive into the distinctive world of Jeppson's Malört with Tremaine Atkinson, CEO and head distiller at CH Distillery. Known for its unique and polarizing taste, Malört has a rich history dating back to its Swedish roots and Prohibition-era Chicago. Atkinson shares the story of Carl Jeppson, the drink's creator, and the journey of Malört through history, highlighting its revival and growing popularity. The conversation also covers the intricacies of Malört’s flavor profile, its medicinal properties, and its place in modern cocktail culture. Atkinson, an enthusiast of crafting unconventional spirits, emphasizes the authentic and challenging nature of Malört, making it a beloved choice for many, albeit an acquired taste for some. Their discussion is infused with humor, nostalgia, and a shared appreciation for this iconic Chicago liquor. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.co
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A Pasta Passion Kneading to Get Out at Figulina
20/02/2025 Duration: 54minIn this engaging episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo interviews Chef David Ellis of Figulina, a newly nominated James Beard Award contender for Best New Restaurant in America. Chef Ellis shares his journey from Stoke-on-Trent, England, through various culinary adventures around the world, including his impactful experiences in Raleigh and his pivotal role at Ashley Christensen’s Poole's Diner. They discuss the inspiration and dedication behind Figulina's artisanal pasta, made fresh daily in an open kitchen for guests to observe. Figulina, located in Raleigh's former Humble Pie space, focuses on creative, scratch-made pasta dishes that transcend traditional Italian cuisine. The episode highlights Chef Ellis’s philosophy, commitment to texture and balance in his dishes, and the exciting provisions section selling fresh pasta and sauces. With insights into the potential expansion of this section and the future vision for Figulina, this conversation captures Chef Ellis’s pas
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Irregardless of Tradition: A 50-Year Journey with Lee Robinson
13/02/2025 Duration: 49minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo interviews Lee Robinson, the current owner of the iconic Irregardless in Raleigh. Lee took over the cafe in 2020, just 10 weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. They discuss the history of Irregardless, including its origins as a vegetarian sandwich shop in the 1970s, its evolution over the years, and the community's love for the establishment. Lee shares his journey in the restaurant industry, having worked in various notable Raleigh establishments like Frazier's and The Pit. The conversation also touches on the cafe's recent innovations, including introducing THC-infused beverages, aiming to maintain its roots while appealing to newer generations. The episode highlights the upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration of Irregardless and Lee's ongoing efforts to ensure its legacy continues in the ever-evolving Raleigh food scene. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquir
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Hospitality Trends and Transformations with Courtney Blake of Pilot Light Consulting
30/01/2025 Duration: 47minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo speaks with Courtney Blake, owner and managing director of Pilot Light Consulting. They discuss their shared bi-coastal experiences and delve into serious topics like the natural disasters affecting California and North Carolina. Courtney shares insights into the challenges faced by the food and beverage industry, the evolution of restaurant consulting, and the importance of building sustainable business models. We highlight the essence of California and Southern cuisines, trends in the industry, and the innovative ways to maintain quality and profitability. We explore Courtney's background, her educational journey, and how Pilot Light Consulting helps restaurateurs develop robust business and cultural systems. They wrap up with a discussion on the vibrant food scenes in North Carolina cities like Charlotte, Durham, and Asheville.
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Neighborhood Italian: The Charm of Cucciolo Famiglia
23/01/2025 Duration: 33minIn this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo connects with Jimmy Kim and Andrew Robison to discuss their exciting venture into opening the third Cucciolo location, Cucciolo Famiglia, near Southpoint Durham. We get into the unique Italian journey of the Cucciolo brand, from its origin in Korea to its expansion in North Carolina. Kim and Robison reveal their plans for Cucciolo Famiglia to offer approachable, family-friendly Italian-American staples, focusing on a neighborhood restaurant feel. We also reflect on the North Hills community's response to recent local tragedy at Coquette, and our hearts go out to their families, friends and coworkers. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com
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Crafting Legacy: Jim Meehan's Cocktail Philosophy
16/01/2025 Duration: 01h04minWe have returned! And to kick off 2025, the NC F&B Podcast starts right by featuring renowned bartender, author, and cocktail expert Jim Meehan. Celebrating his new book, 'The Bartender's Pantry,' Meehan reflects on his journey from Madison, Wisconsin to New York’s elite bars like Gramercy Tavern and PDT. He shares anecdotes about working with Danny Meyer, the philosophy behind his writing, and his views on the modernization of the cocktail industry. Meehan highlights the importance of service, community, and the true essence of hospitality in bartending. The episode showcases Meehan’s meticulous attention to detail and his dedication to preserving the craft of cocktail making in a fast-evolving industry. The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by @Trujillo.Media For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com
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*Bonus Episode: WineCentric: Understanding The Wine Critic With Eric Asimov of The New York Times
30/10/2024 Duration: 55minIn this inaugural episode of @WineCentricShow , host Matt Weiss interviews Eric Asimov, the wine writer for The New York Times. They discuss various topics including the importance of evaluating wine producers over individual bottles, the role of blind tastings in wine education, the rise of natural wines, and the cultural significance of wine. Asimov emphasizes that wine should be enjoyed without the pressure of expertise and that there are many layers to the experience of wine appreciation. Follow him on Instagram @WineCentricShow
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Durham's East Side Treasure: Mike D's BBQ
24/10/2024 Duration: 01h14minMax sits down with Mike De Los Santos, popularly known as Mike D from Mike D's Barbecue in Durham. We get into Mike D's Dominican heritage, financial and operational challenges faced in the restaurant industry, and the art and science of barbecue-making. It's a blend of humor and seriousness, touching on community support, moral values, and the pursuit of culinary authenticity. Mike D employs a strategy to create standout barbecue sauces and dishes, his commitment to paying a living wage, and the importance of local support in the barbecue business.
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EUPHORIA pt 5 A Dialogue Between Barbecue Roots and French Culinary Techniques with Dylan Cook and Jacques Larson
03/10/2024 Duration: 19minDonate to World Central Kitchen Chefs Dylan Cook from Fork Grove Barbecue and Jacques Larson of The Obstinate Daughter join the conversation, set on day three of Euphoria's Feast on the Field, explores their diverse culinary backgrounds—Dylan's roots in barbecue and his journey from a musician to a pitmaster, and Jacques's expertise in French and Italian cuisine. They discuss the influence of modern culinary trends, the impact of social media, and their passion for pushing culinary boundaries. Their discussion highlights the evolving food scene and the significance of collaborations and shared experiences in the industry. The podcast ends with a shout-out to visit their respective restaurants in South Carolina.
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EUPHORIA pt 4 A Taste of Afro-lachia: Chef T's Story
03/10/2024 Duration: 17minDonate to World Central Kitchen Max Trujillo and Swarup Bandyopadhyay introduce Chef T from Union 41 in Bristol, Virginia, and Chef Sean from Noble Barbecue in Kingsport, Tennessee, recorded live at the Euphoria food festival in Greenville, South Carolina. Chef T discusses her innovative approach to Appalachian cuisine, incorporating elements from the Caribbean diaspora, particularly from St. Vincent. Highlights include discussions about her signature jerk chicken and famous fried chicken recipes, emphasizing the layers of flavors and the importance of execution. Chef Sean highlights the new Noble Barbecue location, emphasizing their creative use of bourbon barrels for tables and the high-end bourbon selection. Both chefs share their dedication to evolving their craft and maintaining continuity in the dynamic culinary world.
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EUPHORIA pt 3 Cooking Humbly, Dreaming Big: The Christian Hunter Interview
03/10/2024 Duration: 17minDonate to World Central Kitchen Max Trujillo and Swarup Bandyopadhyay interview Chef Christian Hunter, partner chef at Atelier in Chicago. Christian shares his journey from Lexington, Kentucky to Chicago. He delves into his background, culinary philosophy, and experiences, including earning a Michelin star at Atelier. The discussion covers his use of local ingredients, innovative approaches to traditional dishes, and the importance of honoring food's cultural and historical roots. Christian also hints at his upcoming restaurant, Laverne's, named after his mother.