Changing Plates Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:06:28 -0500 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2388231 en-us © 2026 Changing Plates yes ec302ec7-6730-5b6f-bc5b-ea8790051d3d changingplates1@gmail.com Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer episodic false Hi! We’re Allison Pigatto and Bianca Mercouffer, two nutrition experts and food enthusiasts on a mission to transform the conversation around food. Tired of the negativity and fear-mongering, we created Changing Plates -- a forward-thinking podcast spotlighting fresh perspectives and impactful work.

Each episode features leaders, innovators and disruptors shaping the future of food. Together, we discuss challenges facing our global food system and transformative solutions paving the way forward. 

Ready to discover the brighter side of food? Tune in for bi-weekly episodes!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer changingplates1@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/bzc8f4gmzpo47nopb2z1jifmnqqc?.jpg Changing Plates Episode 15: The Power of Food Culture with Dr. Eva Monterrosa Episode 15: The Power of Food Culture with Dr. Eva Monterrosa In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Dr. Eva Monterrosa, co-founder of the Food Culture Alliance, for a conversation on why culture is such a powerful force in shaping what we eat.

Eva shares the story behind launching the Alliance in 2023 and explains how food culture can shift demand toward healthier, more sustainable foods. We discuss the NIBS framework (Narratives, Identity, Beliefs, and Culinary Systems) and explore the food cultural topics being explored at the Food Culture Alliance.

We also look at the role of storytelling in defining what feels “normal” or “desirable” to eat — and how understanding culture can help create healthier food futures.

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Dr. Eva Monterrosa, co-founder of the Food Culture Alliance, for a conversation on why culture is such a powerful force in shaping what we eat.

Eva shares the story behind launching the Alliance in 2023 and explains how food culture can shift demand toward healthier, more sustainable foods. We discuss the NIBS framework (Narratives, Identity, Beliefs, and Culinary Systems) and explore the food cultural topics being explored at the Food Culture Alliance.

We also look at the role of storytelling in defining what feels “normal” or “desirable” to eat — and how understanding culture can help create healthier food futures.

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17817883 Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0200 2350 2 7 full false Episode 14: Advancing Food Innovation with Ella Marshall & Sami Simreen Episode 14: Advancing Food Innovation with Ella Marshall & Sami Simreen In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Ella Marshall and Sami Simreen - two innovators shaping the future of food. Sami is the co-founder of KiCo Kitchen, a sustainable and inclusive co-working kitchen, while Ella works at Nali Consulting, where they focus on the intersection of food systems and innovation, helping early-stage businesses move from idea to impact.

Together, they explore what “food innovation” really means beyond the buzzword and share insights for start-ups finding their footing. From novel ingredients to lessons learned from entrepreneurs, we discuss how collaboration and creativity can help new ideas take shape.

Tune in for an inspiring look at the role innovation plays in shaping more sustainable, diverse and delicious food futures.

Episode links:

Kico: www.kico.kitchen

Nali Consulting: www.naliconsulting.co.uk

Instagram: www.instagram.com/kico.kitchen/

LinkedIn:

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Ella Marshall and Sami Simreen - two innovators shaping the future of food. Sami is the co-founder of KiCo Kitchen, a sustainable and inclusive co-working kitchen, while Ella works at Nali Consulting, where they focus on the intersection of food systems and innovation, helping early-stage businesses move from idea to impact.

Together, they explore what “food innovation” really means beyond the buzzword and share insights for start-ups finding their footing. From novel ingredients to lessons learned from entrepreneurs, we discuss how collaboration and creativity can help new ideas take shape.

Tune in for an inspiring look at the role innovation plays in shaping more sustainable, diverse and delicious food futures.

Episode links:

Kico: www.kico.kitchen

Nali Consulting: www.naliconsulting.co.uk

Instagram: www.instagram.com/kico.kitchen/

LinkedIn:

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17748468 Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0200 2299 2 6 full false Episode 13: Translating Science Into Trust with Liz Shaw Episode 13: Translating Science Into Trust with Liz Shaw In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Liz Shaw MS RDN CPT, a nutrition communicator, science translator and storyteller, for a conversation on how credible food messaging can cut through the wellness noise. 

Drawing on her experience across media, brand work and writing, Liz shares how the way we talk about food influences daily choices, what it takes to build trust with a skeptical audience, and how to navigate the rapid spread of misinformation online. We also explore how cultural context shapes food systems, communication and the way we think about health.

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Liz Shaw MS RDN CPT, a nutrition communicator, science translator and storyteller, for a conversation on how credible food messaging can cut through the wellness noise. 

Drawing on her experience across media, brand work and writing, Liz shares how the way we talk about food influences daily choices, what it takes to build trust with a skeptical audience, and how to navigate the rapid spread of misinformation online. We also explore how cultural context shapes food systems, communication and the way we think about health.

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17661293 Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0200 1796 2 5 full false Episode 12: Prioritizing Healthy Aging with Barbara Bray Episode 12: Prioritizing Healthy Aging with Barbara Bray In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Barbara Bray MBE - a registered nutritionist, food safety expert, and PhD researcher at Queen’s University Belfast - for a conversation on what it means to eat well as we age.

Barbara shares insights from her research on the dietary habits of older adults in the UK and explains why the gap between what we do eat and what we should eat as we grow older has never been more urgent. We unpack the difference between age span and health span, challenge common myths around aging and nutrition, and explore how food systems can better support longevity, equity, and accessibility for older populations.

Tune in for an evidence-based look at how we can all shape a healthier future.


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Barbara Bray MBE - a registered nutritionist, food safety expert, and PhD researcher at Queen’s University Belfast - for a conversation on what it means to eat well as we age.

Barbara shares insights from her research on the dietary habits of older adults in the UK and explains why the gap between what we do eat and what we should eat as we grow older has never been more urgent. We unpack the difference between age span and health span, challenge common myths around aging and nutrition, and explore how food systems can better support longevity, equity, and accessibility for older populations.

Tune in for an evidence-based look at how we can all shape a healthier future.


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17586136 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0200 2412 2 4 full false Episode 11: Feeding Futures with Heidi Kessler Episode 11: Feeding Futures with Heidi Kessler In this episode of Changing Plates, Heidi Kessler, Deputy Director of the Global Child Nutrition Foundation (GCNF), joins us to discuss how school meal programs are transforming health, education, and local economies around the world.

Heidi shares insights from GCNF’s Global Survey of School Meal Programs©, highlights the impact of home-grown school feeding, and explores how these programs support gender equity and community resilience. We also touch on Japan’s Shokuiku model of food education and look ahead to the future of school meals following the 2024 Global Child Nutrition Forum.

Tune in for a hopeful, thought-provoking conversation about how nourishing children today helps shape a better tomorrow.


Episode links

  • Website: gcnf.org
  • Global Survey of School Meal Programs©: gcnf.org/global-survey
  • Global Child Nutrition Forum: gcnf.org/events/forum/
  • Newsletter: bit.ly/GCNFNewsletter

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, Heidi Kessler, Deputy Director of the Global Child Nutrition Foundation (GCNF), joins us to discuss how school meal programs are transforming health, education, and local economies around the world.

Heidi shares insights from GCNF’s Global Survey of School Meal Programs©, highlights the impact of home-grown school feeding, and explores how these programs support gender equity and community resilience. We also touch on Japan’s Shokuiku model of food education and look ahead to the future of school meals following the 2024 Global Child Nutrition Forum.

Tune in for a hopeful, thought-provoking conversation about how nourishing children today helps shape a better tomorrow.


Episode links

  • Website: gcnf.org
  • Global Survey of School Meal Programs©: gcnf.org/global-survey
  • Global Child Nutrition Forum: gcnf.org/events/forum/
  • Newsletter: bit.ly/GCNFNewsletter

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17514526 Wed, 16 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0200 1865 2 3 full false Episode 10: Wellbeing at Work with Macy Chow Episode 10: Wellbeing at Work with Macy Chow In this episode of Changing Plates, we explore how employee wellbeing is transforming workplaces - and why it's essential for both health and business. Our guest, Macy Chow, a registered dietitian and employee wellbeing expert, shares her journey into dietetics and discusses the growing impact of nutrition at work.

From cultural insights in Hong Kong to global best practices, Macy unpacks how companies can implement effective workplace wellness programs, boost employee engagement, and drive performance through better health. We also explore the future of corporate wellness trends, including innovative strategies to encourage healthier eating on the job.

Tune in for a concise, insightful conversation about why investing in workplace wellbeing leads to healthier teams and stronger businesses.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, we explore how employee wellbeing is transforming workplaces - and why it's essential for both health and business. Our guest, Macy Chow, a registered dietitian and employee wellbeing expert, shares her journey into dietetics and discusses the growing impact of nutrition at work.

From cultural insights in Hong Kong to global best practices, Macy unpacks how companies can implement effective workplace wellness programs, boost employee engagement, and drive performance through better health. We also explore the future of corporate wellness trends, including innovative strategies to encourage healthier eating on the job.

Tune in for a concise, insightful conversation about why investing in workplace wellbeing leads to healthier teams and stronger businesses.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17435331 Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0200 1498 2 2 full false Episode 9: Tech-Driven Nutrition with Ro Huntriss Episode 9: Tech-Driven Nutrition with Ro Huntriss In this episode of Changing Plates, Ro Huntriss, a registered dietitian and Chief Nutrition Officer at Simple App, shares her insights on the role of health tech in transforming weight management. From wearable devices to breakthrough medications, Ro dives into the science behind sustainable weight loss and how health tech is supporting individuals in their wellness journey. We also discuss the future of weight management, the growing influence of tech in healthcare and how we can ensure technology is used responsibly to support long-term well-being. Don’t miss this exciting conversation about the intersection of health, tech and weight loss!

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In this episode of Changing Plates, Ro Huntriss, a registered dietitian and Chief Nutrition Officer at Simple App, shares her insights on the role of health tech in transforming weight management. From wearable devices to breakthrough medications, Ro dives into the science behind sustainable weight loss and how health tech is supporting individuals in their wellness journey. We also discuss the future of weight management, the growing influence of tech in healthcare and how we can ensure technology is used responsibly to support long-term well-being. Don’t miss this exciting conversation about the intersection of health, tech and weight loss!

Episode links


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-17384754 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0200 1978 2 1 full false Episode 8: Communicating Nutrition & Health with Christina Xenaki Episode 8: Communicating Nutrition & Health with Christina Xenaki Why is communication key to advancing nutrition? In this season finale of Changing Plates, we speak with Christina Xenaki, a registered dietitian with experience spanning marketing, medical affairs and communications for major food brands about the transformative power of storytelling.

From bridging the gap between innovation and public perception to emphasizing the growing importance of medical nutrition, Christina shares compelling stories and practical strategies for driving meaningful change. Tune in to discover how effective communication can reshape how we think about food - and why it matters now more than ever!

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Why is communication key to advancing nutrition? In this season finale of Changing Plates, we speak with Christina Xenaki, a registered dietitian with experience spanning marketing, medical affairs and communications for major food brands about the transformative power of storytelling.

From bridging the gap between innovation and public perception to emphasizing the growing importance of medical nutrition, Christina shares compelling stories and practical strategies for driving meaningful change. Tune in to discover how effective communication can reshape how we think about food - and why it matters now more than ever!

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-16401523 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0100 1666 1 8 full false Episode 7: Prescribing Food as Medicine with Dr. Megan Gow Episode 7: Prescribing Food as Medicine with Dr. Megan Gow Could your next prescription be a trip to the produce aisle?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Megan Gow, Senior Research Fellow at the George Institute, to unpack the concept of Food is Medicine. From addressing chronic disease to ensuring access to nutritious food after acute events, Dr. Gow shares her research and explores the diverse strategies behind this innovative approach. Discover how these interventions are reshaping the future of healthcare.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Could your next prescription be a trip to the produce aisle?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Megan Gow, Senior Research Fellow at the George Institute, to unpack the concept of Food is Medicine. From addressing chronic disease to ensuring access to nutritious food after acute events, Dr. Gow shares her research and explores the diverse strategies behind this innovative approach. Discover how these interventions are reshaping the future of healthcare.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-16299807 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0100 1582 1 7 full false Episode 6: Unpacking Eco-Labels with Ásta Ágústsdóttir Episode 6: Unpacking Eco-Labels with Ásta Ágústsdóttir Have you noticed the explosion of eco-labels and environmental claims on products in the grocery store? With 456 types of eco-labels used across 200 countries, knowing which labels truly reflect sustainable practices—and which may be little more than marketing—is more challenging than ever. 

In this episode, Ásta Ágústsdóttir delves into the difficulties consumers face in deciphering these labels and explores why, despite their intentions, eco-labels may fall short of shaping consumer behavior. Join us to learn about alternative initiatives and regulations that could be more effective at driving sustainable diets.


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Have you noticed the explosion of eco-labels and environmental claims on products in the grocery store? With 456 types of eco-labels used across 200 countries, knowing which labels truly reflect sustainable practices—and which may be little more than marketing—is more challenging than ever. 

In this episode, Ásta Ágústsdóttir delves into the difficulties consumers face in deciphering these labels and explores why, despite their intentions, eco-labels may fall short of shaping consumer behavior. Join us to learn about alternative initiatives and regulations that could be more effective at driving sustainable diets.


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-16216427 Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0100 1003 1 6 full false Episode 5: Rethinking Ultra-Processed Foods with Nichola Ludlam-Raine Episode 5: Rethinking Ultra-Processed Foods with Nichola Ludlam-Raine Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a hot topic, fueling both confusion and concern. But without a clear, universal definition or dietary guidelines on "ultra-processed," navigating what’s on our plates can be confusing for both consumers and health professionals.

In this episode, we’re joined by Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a registered dietitian and author of the book How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed. Nichola shares a balanced, realistic approach to incorporating UPFs into our diets. Tune in as we discuss her new book and what the conversation around UPFs mean for the broader food landscape.

Episode links

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a hot topic, fueling both confusion and concern. But without a clear, universal definition or dietary guidelines on "ultra-processed," navigating what’s on our plates can be confusing for both consumers and health professionals.

In this episode, we’re joined by Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a registered dietitian and author of the book How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed. Nichola shares a balanced, realistic approach to incorporating UPFs into our diets. Tune in as we discuss her new book and what the conversation around UPFs mean for the broader food landscape.

Episode links

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-16139323 Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0100 2288 1 5 full false Episode 4: Shaping the Future of Food Tech with Lia Carlucci Episode 4: Shaping the Future of Food Tech with Lia Carlucci In today’s food industry, innovation is key to overcoming global challenges and creating sustainable solutions.

In this episode, we dive into the role of food technology in shaping a brighter future. Lia Carlucci, Managing Director of Food Campus Berlin, shares insights into some of the most exciting advancements from food tech companies, along with her work on climate-driven initiatives. Discover how these innovations are helping to revolutionize the way we approach food and the environment.

Episode links

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> In today’s food industry, innovation is key to overcoming global challenges and creating sustainable solutions.

In this episode, we dive into the role of food technology in shaping a brighter future. Lia Carlucci, Managing Director of Food Campus Berlin, shares insights into some of the most exciting advancements from food tech companies, along with her work on climate-driven initiatives. Discover how these innovations are helping to revolutionize the way we approach food and the environment.

Episode links

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-16057173 Wed, 06 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0100 1820 1 4 full false Episode 3: Unlocking Personalized Nutrition with Leta Pilic Episode 3: Unlocking Personalized Nutrition with Leta Pilic Can genetics determine the best diet for you? From caffeine sensitivity to protein metabolism, personalized nutrition is reshaping how we approach food choices. Yet, many individuals and health professionals are unsure how to effectively apply genetic testing results to improve our diets.

In this episode, Leta Pilic, founder of Optimyse Nutrition, breaks down how genetic testing can enhance nutrition counseling, offering a tailored approach that can inspire behavior change. Whether you're a practitioner or looking to optimize your own diet, Leta provides insights into the practical applications of personalized nutrition.

Episode links



Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Can genetics determine the best diet for you? From caffeine sensitivity to protein metabolism, personalized nutrition is reshaping how we approach food choices. Yet, many individuals and health professionals are unsure how to effectively apply genetic testing results to improve our diets.

In this episode, Leta Pilic, founder of Optimyse Nutrition, breaks down how genetic testing can enhance nutrition counseling, offering a tailored approach that can inspire behavior change. Whether you're a practitioner or looking to optimize your own diet, Leta provides insights into the practical applications of personalized nutrition.

Episode links



Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-15975195 Wed, 23 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0200 1880 1 3 full false Episode 2: Escaping Diet Culture with Maeve Hanan Episode 2: Escaping Diet Culture with Maeve Hanan Have you found yourself tangled in the web of diet culture? As the landscape of food and nutrition advice grows more crowded, many people feel anxious over their food choices. Meanwhile, society’s relentless focus on weight loss has fueled disordered eating and strained our relationship with food.

In this episode, we sit down with Maeve Hanan, a registered dietitian and founder of Dietetically Speaking, to explore the principles of intuitive eating. Maeve shares insights on how to break away from diet culture and her work to help people heal their relationship with food. 

Episode links
Website: dieteticallyspeaking.com
Empowered Group Programme: dieteticallyspeaking.com/empowered-programme
Instagram: @dieteticallyspeaking


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Have you found yourself tangled in the web of diet culture? As the landscape of food and nutrition advice grows more crowded, many people feel anxious over their food choices. Meanwhile, society’s relentless focus on weight loss has fueled disordered eating and strained our relationship with food.

In this episode, we sit down with Maeve Hanan, a registered dietitian and founder of Dietetically Speaking, to explore the principles of intuitive eating. Maeve shares insights on how to break away from diet culture and her work to help people heal their relationship with food. 

Episode links
Website: dieteticallyspeaking.com
Empowered Group Programme: dieteticallyspeaking.com/empowered-programme
Instagram: @dieteticallyspeaking


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-15922460 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0200 2000 1 2 full false Episode 1: Navigating Celiac Disease with Chris Rich Episode 1: Navigating Celiac Disease with Chris Rich Did you know that celiac disease can present with over 200 symptoms? For those affected, navigating the challenges of this autoimmune condition can be overwhelming. In this episode, Chris Rich (CEO & Executive Director of the National Celiac Association) sheds light on the realities of living with celiac disease, from the complexities of diagnosis to the hurdles of maintaining a gluten-free diet – the only current treatment option.

Chris also discusses the impactful work of the National Celiac Association in supporting individuals with celiac disease, advocating for better resources, and fostering a future where managing this condition is easier and more understood.

Episode links
Website: nationalceliac.org


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Did you know that celiac disease can present with over 200 symptoms? For those affected, navigating the challenges of this autoimmune condition can be overwhelming. In this episode, Chris Rich (CEO & Executive Director of the National Celiac Association) sheds light on the realities of living with celiac disease, from the complexities of diagnosis to the hurdles of maintaining a gluten-free diet – the only current treatment option.

Chris also discusses the impactful work of the National Celiac Association in supporting individuals with celiac disease, advocating for better resources, and fostering a future where managing this condition is easier and more understood.

Episode links
Website: nationalceliac.org


Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-15902688 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0200 2165 1 1 full false Trailer: Welcome to the Changing Plates Podcast! Trailer: Welcome to the Changing Plates Podcast! Welcome to Changing Plates, the podcast that explores how food is shaping a better world! We’re Allison and Bianca, two nutrition experts and food lovers, fed up with the negative stories surrounding food. So, we created Changing Plates to focus on the innovations and ideas transforming the way we eat and think about food.

In each episode, we bring you conversations with leaders, innovators and disruptors who are tackling global food challenges with fresh solutions. If you're passionate about the future of food—whether you're a health professional or just love a good meal—this podcast is for you. Tune in for insightful and uplifting discussions about the future of food.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Welcome to Changing Plates, the podcast that explores how food is shaping a better world! We’re Allison and Bianca, two nutrition experts and food lovers, fed up with the negative stories surrounding food. So, we created Changing Plates to focus on the innovations and ideas transforming the way we eat and think about food.

In each episode, we bring you conversations with leaders, innovators and disruptors who are tackling global food challenges with fresh solutions. If you're passionate about the future of food—whether you're a health professional or just love a good meal—this podcast is for you. Tune in for insightful and uplifting discussions about the future of food.

Have questions, comments or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you!

]]> Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer Buzzsprout-15881638 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0200 83 trailer false