In this episode, we sit down with Rechie Valdez, Canada’s first Filipina Canadian woman elected to Parliament, former banker, small business owner, and the former Minister of Small Business. Rechie’s journey from baking out of her home kitchen to navigating the halls of power is anything but linear. She opens up about overcoming the risk-averse nature of Filipino culture, embracing entrepreneurial risks, and how her background as a daughter of immigrants informs her approach to leadership.

We explore the intersections of food, identity, and policy — from her mother’s fish head sinigang to the growing prominence of Filipino flavours in Canadian cuisine. Rechie shares insights on the current state of small business in Canada, how the federal government is supporting newcomers and entrepreneurs, and what it truly takes to shift the systems that shape our economy. This conversation is a unique blend of personal experience and political perspective, offering a deeper look at what it means to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for small business owners and the communities they serve.

*This episode is intended to highlight personal experiences and is not an endorsement of Rechie Valdez or the Liberal Party.*

From the Lebanese food he was introduced to by his best friend growing up, to the meaningful memory of learning how to cook for his younger brother, Jagmeet Singh opens up about how food has shaped his life.

He also talks about his favourite comfort meal, and how he makes it a point to explore every vegetarian restaurant while campaigning across Canada. Get ready for a delicious conversation that blends personal stories, politics, and, of course, food.

*This episode is intended to highlight personal experiences and is not an endorsement of Jagmeet Singh or the New Democratic Party (NDP).*

In this episode of Cooking Up Culture, producer Kika reflects on the bittersweet moments shared with her late granny—a time filled with love and shared wisdoms. Over countless meals, she discovered how food became a source of comfort, a way to better understand her granny, and a bridge to untold stories.

Episode credits:

This episode was produced by Kika Memeh and our host, Karla Jubaily. Our sound designer and editor is Poornima Francis.

Intro/Outro jingle: ⁠Alfred Hermida⁠

Connect with us:

Twitter ⁠@cookinupcultpod⁠

Instagram ⁠@thecookingupculturepod⁠

This week on The Cooking Up Culture Podcast, we’re joined by food photographer and writer Hisham Assaad, author of Taboon. Hisham takes us beyond the recipes to share the personal stories and cultural experiences that inspired his Balad-Al Sham (Levantine) pastry cookbook. We chat about how food becomes a bridge between generations, how it carries the weight of migration, and the connections it helps us build along the way. Tune in for an intimate conversation with Hisham about how his dishes reflect his journey and what it means to truly cook from the heart.

Episode credits:

This episode was produced by Kika Memeh and our host, Karla Jubaily. Our sound designer and editor is Poornima Francis.

Intro/Outro jingle: Alfred Hermida

Connect with us:

Twitter @cookinupcultpod

Instagram @thecookingupculturepod

In this episode, we step into Shiva's childhood kitchen, where her mother's South Asian culinary artistry and love shaped their daily lives. But due to her mom’s dementia, those memories are now fragile. Join us as we explore how food transcends generations, offering solace and connection amidst loss. Shiva's quest becomes a tribute to her mother's resilience, showing that while memories fade, the essence of culture and love endures through the power of a shared meal.

Episode credits:

This episode was produced by Kika Memeh and our host, Karla Jubaily. Our sound designer and editor is Victoria Mercedes.

Intro/Outro jingle: Alfred Hermida

Connect with us:

Twitter @cookinupcultpod

Instagram @thecookingupculturepod

Delve into Palestinian culinary storytelling with Chef Fadi Kattan, author of 'Bethlehem: A Celebration of Palestinian Food'. Join us as Chef Kattan illuminates the flavours, stories and cultural significance woven into every dish and ingredient, offering a captivating exploration of Palestine's gastronomic legacy.

Episode credits:

This episode was produced by Kika Memeh and our host, Karla Jubaily. Our sound designer and editor is Victoria Mercedes.

Intro/Outro jingle: Alfred Hermida

Intro oud playing: Raphael R. Haddad

Connect with us:

Twitter @cookinupcultpod

Instagram @thecookingupculturepod

Discover the flavors of Abeera's childhood, as she unravels the threads that weave together her cultural heritage and culinary experiences. From the family kitchen to the academic realm, we delve into what compelled her to pursue dietetics and how her unique perspective shapes her approach to nutrition.

In this "Tea Time" episode, we dig into the challenges of fitting in and the importance of building welcoming communities. We'll talk about how belonging, or not, affects our lives and mental well-being. Join us for real stories and practical tips on creating more inclusive, friendly spaces.

Pour yourself a cup of your favourite tea, get comfortable and join us for a stirring discussion on the complexities of belonging and the power of community building.