Every meal tells a story of connection and consequence. Behind each bite lies a network of fuel, profit, and power shaping what we eat. In this episode of the Zero Hunger Project, we speak with Raj Patel, member of the IPES-Food panel, a film-maker, best-selling author, to break down how our global food system is built on inequality. Raj shares how capitalism, colonialism, and corporate control have made both people and the planet sick. You’ll hear how profit often comes at the cost of public health and how political choices determine who eats and who doesn’t. We must move beyond quick fixes and toward systemic change that prioritizes justice, sustainability, and community well-being. If you’ve ever questioned the true cost of your food, this episode will challenge and inspire you to think differently about what’s on your plate and the systems behind it. Tune in NOW: ▶️Behind the Plate: How Fuel, Profit, and Power Shape Our Food System. Raj Patel is a member of the IPES-Food panel, a film-maker, best-selling author, and a research professor in the Lyndon B Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas, Austin. His research on political ecology and food systems has been widely translated and taught, particularly his book “Stuffed and Starved: The Hidden Battle for the World Food System” (2012). He has testified about the causes of the global food crisis to the US House Financial Services Committee and the European Union, and has conducted research across different scales of policy – from global hunger, to the needs of low income communities in Austin, Texas. He recently completed an award-winning documentary project on climate change, gender and agroecology, The Ants & The Grasshopper. He has a PhD in Development Sociology from Cornell University. Website: https://ipes-food.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raj-patel-37876a5/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ipes-food/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Raj-Patel-100058338120418/ https://www.facebook.com/IPESFood/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rajpateluk/?hl=en X: https://x.com/IPESfood Suman Roy is a globally recognized leader in food security, poverty reduction, and community resilience. As the founder of Feed Scarborough and a key force behind Hunger-Free Canada and the Zero Hunger Project, he is dedicated to ensuring no one goes to bed hungry. He played a pivotal role in crafting Toronto’s first Food Strategy and has represented Canada at the United Nations and FAO to champion sustainable development goals. With multiple global leadership awards, including CEO of the Year (NGO) and Visionary of the Year, Suman is a sought-after expert on global food security. His mission is clear: to create a hunger-free, resilient future for all. Website: https://sumanroy.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chef.suman.7 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chefsuman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefsuman/ X: https://x.com/chefsuman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWrU2TbiLazorpOHjsDJhkA Stacia Neale, M.A., is a seasoned professional dedicated to fostering equality, representation, and social justice. With a background in sociology and decades of experience across entrepreneurial, non-profit, and corporate sectors, she brings a unique perspective to addressing systemic challenges. During the pandemic, she launched The Skills Audit, a transformative program empowering individuals to articulate their professional identities and maximize their potential. Her work is driven by a deep commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and creating opportunities for growth. Through authenticity and advocacy, Stacia continues to champion meaningful change on a global scale. Website: https://www.theskillsaudit.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theskillsaudit# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacianeale/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-skills-audit/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskillsaudit/ Produced by https://www.BroadcastYourAuthority.com
