Next Up Podcast

NxtGen Network
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The Next Up Podcast series is the landing place for those interested in thought leadership. Here you'll find the podcast versions of our Live talk show, Premier talk show, and stand alone podcasts. We focus on having real, and open conversations with the most inspiration, intellectual, innovative, individuals from across the globe that share a common desire to help others be the best version of themselves.

  1. Packing Bags and Paying Tabs

    JAN 28

    Packing Bags and Paying Tabs

    In this episode of The Next Up Podcast, host Marlon Gordon sits down with Samantha Bourque from National Food Group and Zee Zees for a powerful conversation about food insecurity, corporate social responsibility, and how purpose-driven work can create real change in communities across the country.From Samantha’s journey through the Detroit Lions, ESPN, and Ford Motor Company to her current role leading community impact initiatives, the conversation explores how food can be a vehicle for education, equity, and connection. They dive into hunger relief efforts, partnerships with organizations like Blessings in a Backpack and Detroit Food Academy, sustainability and food waste reduction, and the many unexpected career paths that exist within the food industry beyond “just being a chef.”The episode also takes a deep look at school meal debt and National Food Group’s Grab The Tab initiative, which has helped pay off hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid school lunch balances nationwide. Samantha shares why school meal debt continues to rise, how it affects students and schools in every type of community, and what individuals and organizations can do locally to help ensure kids have access to food beyond the school day.If you care about food insecurity, school meals, sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and making a meaningful impact through business, this episode is a must-watch.===========================Connect with our guests! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeezeesfoods/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalFoodGroupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZeeZeesFoodsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zee-zees-foods/posts/?feedView=allLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-food-group/posts/?feedView=all===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetworkAgencyLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network ===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz ⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction to Food Insecurity and Community Impact02:51 Samantha's Journey: From NFL to Food Advocacy05:58 The Role of Zee Zee's in Combating Food Insecurity08:50 Project Serve: Philanthropic Initiatives at Zee Zee's11:56 The Importance of Community Engagement and Education15:05 Collaborations with Nonprofits and Local Organizations17:46 Innovative Programs: Grab the Tab and Blessings in a Backpack20:53 The Challenge of School Meal Debt23:59 Future Plans and Growth for Zee Zee's27:08 Conclusion: The Path Forward in Food Advocacy

    47 min
  2. If it's About Us Don't Do it Without Us | GENYOUth

    JAN 16

    If it's About Us Don't Do it Without Us | GENYOUth

    This conversation features members of the GENYOUth National Youth Council discussing the importance of student engagement in school meal programs. They explore the mission of GENYOUth, the stigmas surrounding school meals, and the need for improvements in meal options and cafeteria experiences. The students emphasize the significance of time and space during lunch, the impact of breakfast on performance, and the desire for more cultural diversity in food offerings. They also address misconceptions about school meals and the importance of inclusivity and feedback in shaping meal programs.===========================Connect with our Guests!===========================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genyouthorg/wall/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genyouthnow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genyouthnow/Website: https://genyouthnow.org/===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetworkAgencyLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network ===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz ⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction to Gen Youth and Its Mission03:04 The Role of Students in School Meal Programs06:11 Stigmas Surrounding School Meals08:59 Desires for School Meal Improvements11:54 The Importance of Time and Space in Cafeterias15:04 Breakfast and Its Impact on Student Performance18:00 Cafeteria Experience and Customization21:03 Future Visions for School Meal Programs23:59 Misconceptions About School Meals26:55 Engagement and Feedback from Students30:03 The Importance of Inclusivity in School Meals33:02 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

    42 min
  3. Behind the Brand: Zee Zees

    JAN 5

    Behind the Brand: Zee Zees

    In this episode of The Next Up Podcast, host Marlon Gordon sits down with Tara Sharpe, K-12 Segment Director for Zee Zees® (National Food Group), for an in-depth conversation about branding, innovation, and what it truly takes to succeed in school foodservice.From why K-12 is the “PhD of foodservice” to how strong branding directly increases student participation, Tara shares real-world examples of how fun, compliant, and student-approved products can transform the lunch line. They dive into innovation in a highly regulated space, allergen-friendly foods, grab-and-go success stories, scratch and speed-scratch cooking, and how listening to districts leads to game-changing solutions.The conversation also explores Zee Zees Grab the Tab initiative, which has helped pay off over $225,000 in school meal debt, the power of partnerships with School Nutrition Professionals, and what’s coming next for Zee Zees in 2026 — including new bulk products, commodity processing, and major conference plans.If you care about school meals, student participation, innovation, branding, and feeding kids well, this episode is a must-watch.===========================Connect with our Guests!===========================Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZeeZeesFoods/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeezeesfoods/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zee-zees-foodsWebsite: https://zeezees.com/Website: http://www.zzgrabthetab.com===========================Connect with us! ===========================Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network ===========================================Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ===========================================➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz ⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 – Why branding matters in K-12 foodservice00:55 – Welcome to The Next Up Podcast + first episode in the new studio01:15 – Meet Tara Sharp, K-12 Segment Director at Zee Zees02:40 – Driving innovation and working directly with school districts03:30 – Why K-12 is the “PhD of foodservice”04:45 – Standing out through branding, swag, and student excitement05:45 – How branding influences what kids choose on the serving line06:40 – Creating products based on direct district requests08:10 – Why innovation is critical in an ever-changing regulatory landscape09:40 – Scratch cooking vs speed scratch & meeting districts where they are11:10 – Labor shortages and how products support understaffed kitchens12:20 – Allergen-friendly products and Zee Zees core brand values13:30 – Participation success story: 20% increase with grab-and-go yogurt14:40 – Favorite products, flavors, and student favorites18:40 – Zee Zees sales team and long-term relationships in K-1220:10 – Why School Nutrition Professionals are unmatched in dedication21:40 – Lessons from COVID and the power of school meal programs23:20 – Inside the Zee Zees office culture25:00 – Giving back: the story behind Grab the Tab26:45 – Paying off school meal debt and director reactions28:20 – What’s coming next for Zee Zees and ANC 2026 teaser29:15 – Universal free meals and the future of school nutrition30:30 – Conferences, advocacy, and industry leadership31:45 – Commodity processing explained32:50 – New Zee Zees bulk product line walkthrough34:40 – Creative menu applications and speed-scratch recipes36:10 – Why bulk options give districts more flexibility37:10 – How to connect with Zee Zees37:55 – Final thoughts and wrap-up

    38 min
  4. Inside Eagle Mountain Saginaw’s Nutrition Mission

    11/14/2025

    Inside Eagle Mountain Saginaw’s Nutrition Mission

    In this episode of Next Up, we’re joined by Darlene Lopez and Megan Martinson from Eagle Mountain–Saginaw ISD for a powerful look at how food, culture, and education intersect inside today’s school nutrition programs. They share their personal journeys into the nutrition world and raise an important question: What inspires someone to choose school nutrition as a career—and how do we bring more people into this work?Darlene and Meghan walk us through their district’s creative approach to menu innovation, from culturally inspired meals to fun fusion dishes like spaghetti tacos and Korean BBQ tacos. As they describe balancing flavor with regulations, we’re prompted to ask: How can school menus better reflect student diversity while still meeting standards?A big part of their mission lies in nutrition education and community connection. Through newsletters, student feedback, and hands-on learning, they help kids understand why healthy eating matters. Their approach raises another question: Are we giving students a voice in shaping the foods they’re served every day?The conversation also highlights their impactful partnerships—from local farms to statewide programs—and how these collaborations enrich both the menu and the community. It leads us to consider: What role should local producers and families play in the future of school meals? This episode is full of inspiration and actionable ideas for anyone passionate about child nutrition, public health, or building stronger school communities.Connect with our guests! website: https://www.emsisd.com/about-ems-isd/departments/child-nutritionConnect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰00:00 Connecting Food, Culture, and Nutrition04:54 Personal Journeys in Nutrition09:48 Innovations in School Nutrition Programs14:47 The Role of Education in Nutrition19:47 Community Engagement and Communication24:30 Future Goals and Partnerships in Nutrition

    37 min
  5. Garland ISD’s Culinary Revolution

    11/14/2025

    Garland ISD’s Culinary Revolution

    In this episode of Next Up, the team from Garland ISD—Craig Hempel, Jennifer Miller, and Chef Kevin Jenkins—breaksdown how they transformed one of Texas’s largest districts into a model for freshly prepared, student-centered school meals. Their story immediately raises a powerful question: How can a district this size pull off scratch cooking at this scale? They share how their “Freshly Prepared” philosophy makes scratch cooking more approachable, supported by hands-onculinary training and simple recipe videos filmed on an iPad. The team also highlights their award-winning partnership with Action for Healthy Kids, their Healthy Meals Incentive Awards, and the creative dishes that students now love—from Cuban sandwiches to Mediterranean bowls. It sparks another thought:How does restaurant-quality creativity change the way students view school meals? Garland ISD’s commitment to community engagement—through Menu Advisory Committee meetings, parent conversations, and strong social media presence—shows how transparency can turn critics into advocates. This episode offers inspiration and real strategies for anyone working in child nutrition, culinary leadership, or education who wants to see what’s possible when a district fully commits tobetter food for kids. Connect with us! Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter:https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Subscribe and Listen to the Next UpPodcast HERE:📱  ➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz ⏰ Chapters ⏰ 00:00 Turning Adversaries into Advocates 00:52 Meet the Team: Culinary Experts in School Nutrition  06:14 From Military to School Meals: A Culinary Journey 07:24 Bringing Restaurant Inspiration to School Food 09:24 Healthy Meal Incentives and Culinary Innovation 10:23 Freshly Prepared Meals: A New Approach 14:14 Training for Success: Elevating School Nutrition Staff 17:01 The Importance of Professionalism in School Nutrition 20:20 Engaging the Community: The Menu Advisory Committee 22:06 Transforming Perceptions of School Meals 24:28 Turning Adversaries into Advocates 26:16 Innovative Training Videos in School Nutrition 32:18 Community Engagement and Communication Strategies 39:19 Culinary Creativity and Menu Innovation

    46 min
  6. How One Choice Changed a District

    11/14/2025

    How One Choice Changed a District

    In this episode of Next Up, we sit down with Shannon Almand- the Director of Child Nutrition Services for Quitman ISD whose journey into child nutrition proves how powerful purpose-driven work can be. Shannon shares how she transformed her district’s meal program through scratch cooking, innovative service models, and a strong commitment to student wellness.She explains why scratch cooking matters—not just for food quality, but for building trust with students—and asks an important question: What would it take for more districts to make the switch to freshly prepared meals?Shannon also breaks down the success of her second chance breakfast program, which dramatically increased participation across her schools. Her story prompts another conversation: Should more districts rethink how and when breakfast is served so students don’t miss out?Throughout the episode, Shannon highlights her district’s brand-building efforts, creating a recognizable identity within the school nutrition program. We also explore the awards and recognition her team has earned, the impact of healthy choices on students, and the importance of community partnerships. It raises a key question for listeners: How can school meal programs create a brand that students actually recognize and get excited about? Whether you’re in school nutrition, public health, or simply passionate about improving student well-being, this episode will leave you inspired—and thinking deeply about how innovative school meal programs can change lives. Connect with our Guest! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.childnutritionqisd.netLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-almand/Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 ➡︎ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz⏰ Chapters ⏰00:00 The Joy of School Nutrition Careers02:49 Shannon Alman: A Journey into Child Nutrition05:44 Innovations in School Lunch Programs08:55 The Importance of Scratch Cooking11:56 Second Chance Breakfast: A Game Changer15:01 Building Community Through School Nutrition17:38 Recognition and Awards in School Nutrition20:56 Creating a Unique School Nutrition Brand23:49 The Impact of Healthy Choices on Students26:59 Partnerships and Support in School Nutrition29:42 Inspiring Future Generations in Nutrition

    37 min
  7. Fueling Healthy Futures

    10/31/2025

    Fueling Healthy Futures

    This conversation explores the vital work of Action for Healthy Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health programming in schools across the United States. The discussion highlights the personal journeys of the speakers, the importance of school nutrition, the impact of the Healthy Meals Incentives initiative, and the challenges faced in child health today. The speakers emphasize the need for collaboration between education and nutrition professionals, innovative approaches to school meal programs, and the importance of measuring success in these initiatives. They also discuss future plans for Action for Healthy Kids and the ongoing commitment to supporting child health and nutrition. Connect with our Guests! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/act4healthykids Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/act4healthykids/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/action-for-healthy-kids YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Action4HlthyKids Website: https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/ Connect with us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuptalkshow/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NxtGenNetwork365 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nxtgen-network/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NxtGen_Network TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxtgen.network Subscribe and Listen to the Next Up Podcast HERE:📱 YT: https://www.youtube.com/@nxtgennetwork/podcasts Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-podcast/id1598968019 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ex3Oj7aodeUe48EJGy9Dz ⏰ Chapters ⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Action for Healthy Kids03:56 Personal Journeys in Nonprofit Work09:55 The Importance of School Nutrition14:53 HMI Initiative and Its Impact19:50 Challenges in Child Health24:46 Innovations in School Nutrition Programs29:40 Measuring Success in School Nutrition34:42 Collaboration Between Education and Nutrition39:35 Future Plans for Action for Healthy Kids

    50 min
  8. Astronauts, Chefs, & Dietitians: Building Better Meals Together

    10/10/2025

    Astronauts, Chefs, & Dietitians: Building Better Meals Together

    ***A little bit of technical difficulties couldn't stop us from a great conversation and tons of laughs. Make sure you stick around for the bloopers!***We’re kicking off Season 6 with an inspiring, laugh-filled, and eye-opening conversation recorded live in Washington, D.C.! Host Marlon joins Bettina Applewhite, Nichole Taylor, and Stacey Williamson — three powerhouse women whose careers span satellites, school kitchens, and national nutrition leadership.In this episode, we explore everything from:How Stacey went from working on NASA weather satellites to food systems research at Johns HopkinsNicole’s journey from chef to school nutrition director and how she’s using real student voices to drive school food innovationBettina’s mission to blend culture and nutrition in schools (and her stint on Top Chef Amateurs!)We also dive into the power of food photography, community over competition, and why telling your story — especially in school nutrition — is the game-changer.This is a fun, fast-paced conversation about purpose, pivoting, and the intersection of technology, culture, and healthy food. Whether you're in school nutrition, a dietitian, or just love a good reinvention story, this one’s for you.===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================Bettina Applewhite, MS, RDN, LDN, SNS- https://www.biteswithapplewhite.com/- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettina-applewhite/- https://www.facebook.com/BitesWithApplewhite- https://www.instagram.com/biteswithapplewhite/E. Nichole Taylor- https://www.linkedin.com/in/e-nichole-taylor-3a08a9114/Stacey Williamson- https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceykwilliamson1/===========================Connect with us! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-gordon/IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Building Community in Nutrition02:42 From Space to Nutrition: A Unique Journey05:53 Culinary Backgrounds and School Nutrition08:42 Cultural Foods and Healthy Lifestyles11:18 The Transition from Tech to Nutrition14:05 Process Improvement in Dietetics17:07 Food Photography and Storytelling20:00 Creating Impactful School Meals23:00 Engaging Students in School Nutrition26:06 The Importance of Authenticity in Food28:55 Personal Growth and Goal Setting31:40 The Power of Collaboration in Nutrition34:30 Future of School Nutrition and Culinary Arts

    59 min
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The Next Up Podcast series is the landing place for those interested in thought leadership. Here you'll find the podcast versions of our Live talk show, Premier talk show, and stand alone podcasts. We focus on having real, and open conversations with the most inspiration, intellectual, innovative, individuals from across the globe that share a common desire to help others be the best version of themselves.

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