#79. In this episode of the meez Podcast, Josh Sharkey sits down with Melina Shannon-DiPietro, Executive Director of the MAD Foundation, to explore how MAD is transforming the hospitality industry through education, sustainability, and community-building. Melina, who has been at the helm of MAD since joining René Redzepi in Copenhagen, shares insights into how the organization is empowering chefs and food professionals to lead with purpose. From their groundbreaking MAD Academy programs, to MAD Mondays, To their incredible symposiums, Melina discusses how MAD is fostering a global network of food leaders committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable food system.

They dive into MAD’s efforts to address environmental challenges by equipping hospitality professionals with the tools and knowledge to make impactful changes in their kitchens and communities. Tune in to hear how MAD is helping chefs not just cook, but change the world.

Where to find Melina Shannon-DiPietro:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Where to find MAD

• Newsletter
• Instagram

Where to find host Josh Sharkey:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• Twitter

In this episode, we cover:

(01:17): Melina's background
(13:54): How MAD helps
(19:12): How NOMA is involved in MAD
(22:03): MAD's academic courses
(26:14): What Melina is excited about
(31:28): Memories of MAD's impact
(33:57): MAD Symposium & MAD Monday
(39:07): Melina's day to day
(41:39): MAD in the future
(44:24): What Josh is excited about regarding meez