Episode 2

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Published on:

6th Oct 2024

Cultural Connections: Community Building with Bleu Cease

In this episode of "Shelling Peas," Chef Ryan Jennings talks with Bleu Cease, Executive Director of ROCO in Rochester. They explore Bleu's journey from his initial steps into arts and the dynamic blend of visual arts and community events at ROCO. They reminisce about past collaborative events, like the Art of the Mix, and reflect on the impact of the pandemic on the arts and culture sector. Bleu discusses ROCO's adaptability through artist collaborations, public art initiatives, and hybrid programming. He shares insights on the importance of supporting small arts venues, advocating for cultural investments, and fostering community engagement through programs like First Fridays. Bleu emphasizes the shared potential and challenges of for-profit businesses and non-profit arts organizations, advocating for mentorship and resource-sharing.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Pauly Guglielmo Show

Pauly Guglielmo is a former radio guy turned food business entrepreneur. While running a manufacturing facility is his day job, he likes to dust off his broadcasting skills once a week on this podcast and talk to entrepreneurs and other influencers.

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About the Podcast

Shelling Peas
A plant-powered podcast with Chef Ryan Jennings of Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen
Join Chef Ryan Jennings as he delves into the dynamic intersections of food, entrepreneurship, and the compelling stories behind his guests’ journeys. Each episode offers an inspiring blend of culinary insights, business wisdom, and personal narratives that highlight the passion and drive shaping the world of food and beyond.

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Ryan Jennings

Ryan Jennings is the CEO and Co-Founder of Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen, a chef-prepared, plant-based meal delivery and co-packing company based in Rochester, NY.
Ryan is a graduate of the French Culinary Institute, where he honed his culinary expertise before returning to Rochester to lead several esteemed dining establishments, including Rio Bamba and Max Rochester. At Sweet Pea, he champions innovative and efficient food production, with a strong emphasis on sourcing locally within New York State. As the winner of the 2022 Grow-NY Competition, Ryan and his team are focused on regional expansion, working to make whole-food, plant-based lifestyles accessible to everyone.

Shelling Peas began with the simple idea that when a chef peers beyond the kitchen into the dining room, they are given the rare opportunity to touch the lives of a diverse cross-section of their community. In his weekly podcast, Ryan delves into his guests’ past, present, and future, exploring shared experiences and building new connections that deepen their relationships and introduce them to broader audiences.

In addition to Shelling Peas, Ryan hosts Plant Powered, a cooking show on the Eat This TV Network. Watch Season 1 here:
https://youtu.be/mFUFlkBC_Ic?si=k_26oURHPkMZgrv2