The Stories Food Can Tell with Melissa Hall

On this episode of the Audience podcast, Stuart and Melissa talk about the podcast, Gravy and how it's a springboard to bigger stories. Gravy tells the stories of the changing American South through the foods we eat. It showcases a South that is constantly evolving, gives voices to the unsung folks who prepare and serve everyday foods, and challenges stereotypes. From how KFC is succeeding in China to the story behind sweet potato vodka, the culture of The South is both varied and wide-reaching.

Sometimes producing a podcast can feel like having too many cooks in the kitchen. Melissa talks about the importance of getting out of the way in order to tell a great story. She also talks about how the producers bring the stories to life, what makes a great story, and why there are so many to tell.

Melissa Booth Hall holds a J.D. from Northern Kentucky University and a B.A. in English from Centre College. In 2003 she volunteered at the SFA’s Fall Symposium…13 1/2 gallons of pimento cheese and 1000 deviled eggs later, she was hooked. Since joining the SFA’s staff, Melissa has led field trips and Summer Symposia, organized countless Potlikker Film Festivals across the region (and beyond), and served as operations manager for many many Fall Symposiums. These days, Melissa manages people and programs for the SFA.

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Today you’ll learn about:

• The history behind the Gravy podcast and the Southern Foodways Alliance
• Melissa Hall’s story and how it started with a briefcase and a skillet
• Creating a dynamic where the values of the creators are cohesive and curious
• Getting out of the way in order to tell a great story
• How Gravy is challenging stereotypes
• What makes a Gravy story?

Resources/Links:

The Gravy podcast: https://www.southernfoodways.org/gravy/

Castos Academy: https://academy.castos.com/

Castos, private podcast: https://academy.castos.com/privatepodcast/

Castos, website: https://castos.com/

Castos, YouTube: