Episodes

  • Harney & Sons: Tea That Makes You Smile
    May 12 2026

    Join host Margaret McSweeney for a special Tea Themed episode of Kitchen Chat: A Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality with the true American Masters of Tea and Hospitality Harney & Sons. Visit: https://www.harney.com/.

    Margaret attended the prestigious Chicago Tea Festival, and into a world of refined elegance and storied heritage for an exclusive one-on-one interview with Michael Harney, the Master Tea Blender of the iconic Harney & Sons. Michael Harney is the author of the greatly respected book The Harney & Sons Guide to Tea, a compendium of the fifty-six teas every tea connoisseur should know. On this special episode, Margaret celebrates the journey of a family-led tea empire that has redefined the luxury of hospitality, exploring the perfect synergy between global sourcing and the art of welcoming with the perfect brew. In 1983, John Harney, Michael's father, officially launched Harney & Sons. Harney & Sons now reaches tea enthusiasts on all seven continents, including Antarctica. Harney & Sons masterfully blends the finest tea, artisanal quality with a legacy of impeccable service. Margaret's conversation with Michael Harney explores how the firm translates their family's philosophy of "mouth-filling umami" and timeless hospitality into every tin. She also discovers the brand's most celebrated blends, including the romantic Paris tea and the brisk, high-altitude Havakai Frost, while delving into the nuances of tea sourcing from the gardens of Japan and China. What is your favorite blend of Harney & Sons Tea?

    Savor the day!

    ✅ Be sure and visit https://www.KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9 or Webtalkradio: htps://www.Webtalkradio.com.

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: https://www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    11 mins
  • Kitchen Chat®: Luxury Home Kitchens with Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD
    Apr 21 2026

    Welcome to a special Kitchen Chat® featuring luxury home kitchens. Host Margaret McSweeney returns to one of her all-time favorite locations for this landmark episode: the historic The Brazilian Court in Palm Beach. Joining Margaret is Stacy McCarthy, CMKBD. As a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer and a Kitchen and Bath Magazine 2025 Innovator of the Year, Stacy's mastery lies in the "transition"—specializing in seamless interior renovations for families navigating significant life challenges. This episode offers a compelling look at the essential framework of modern design, moving beyond fleeting trends to discuss the resurgence of natural woods, the deliberate use of bold color, and the sophisticated evolution of 1970s-inspired aesthetics.

    If you are "reimagining your kitchen," today's show will help provide some insights into working with a designer and making your dream into a reality.

    Savor the day!

    Show More Show Less
    10 mins
  • Chef Robert Gadsby and Noe
    Mar 31 2026

    Welcome, dear foodie friends, to my charming hometown of Barrington, Illinois. I'm your host, Margaret McSweeney, and it is such a joy to welcome you to a very special episode of Kitchen Chat as we celebrate a culinary destination that is truly elevating the spirit of our community. I am so honored to feature the visionary Chef and Owner of the new Progressive American restaurant Noe, Robert Gadsby. Many thanks to Quintessential Barrington for introducing me to Chef Robert and Noe.

    Impressive, innovative, and intentional are the words that best describe Chef Gadsby's cuisine, and today we explore the profound emotional authenticity, seasonality, and excellence that elevate every dish he creates.

    Although Chef Robert Gadsby has worked with some of the most iconic chefs around the world, his mother and the family's Victory Garden in England had a major influence on his appreciation of fresh produce and food preparation. The above photo features Chef Robert's mother, grandfather and sister in the family's Victory Garden in England.

    At the heart of Noe's mission is a Four Pillars philosophy—Seasonality, Sustainability, Technique, and Community—which serves as a sacred reminder that Progressive American cuisine is a rigorous commitment to both the land and the craft. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to discover how Noe defines the new American palate through a sophisticated global lens. Their culinary identity is masterfully forged by French sophistication, Italian freshness of product—aligned perfectly with the seasonality of the Victory Gardens—and the unwavering Japanese discipline of execution. Most of all, it is defined by a distinct American ingenuity that transforms these influences into something entirely original. Join us as we explore how this soulful intentionality brings a world-class perspective to our Barrington landscape.

    Savor the day!

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

    Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

    Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    15 mins
  • The Peninsula London - A Delicious Destination
    Feb 10 2026

    Join Kitchen Chat host Margaret McSweeney as she steps into a sanctuary of bespoke British elegance in the heart of London's most prestigious neighborhood: The Peninsula London in Belgravia. On this week's special London Tour '25 episode with a Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality, Margaret explores the perfect synergy between architectural grandeur and culinary artistry at The Peninsula London. Superbly situated alongside Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, the hotel masterfully blends classic British design with the Peninsula's signature Asian grace.

    Margaret has a fascinating and delightful conversation with Executive Chef Saravanan Palanipandichamy, exploring how he and his world-class team translate the hotel's philosophy of impeccable, cross-cultural service onto the plate and home to the two-Michelin-starred Brooklands by Claude Bosi.

    • Delicious highlights include: Margaret's Afternoon Tea in The Lobby with May Wong and Claire Myers-Lamptey, founder of Great British Tea Party.
    • The Beef Wellington Experience in The Lobby, which brought back special memories for Margaret.
    • Dinner at Canton Blue, which is the top Cantonese restaurant in London.
    • Dinner at Brooklands by Claude Bosi, the two Michelin starred rooftop restaurant on the 8th floor of The Peninsula London. The Tasting Menu is outstanding.

    It was an honor to meet Chef Claude Bosi at Brooklands. The Peninsula London is indeed a delicious destination.

    Savor the Day!

    ✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
    • Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
    • Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    9 mins
  • Drew Nieporent: One of America's Most Respected and Celebrated Restaurateurs
    Dec 23 2025

    Get ready for what we're calling the most exciting and anticipated Kitchen Chat episode of the year! Host Margaret McSweeney traveled straight to the heart of the culinary world in New York City to sit down with a true legend: celebrated restaurateur Drew Nieporent, the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group. The reason for this dynamic, can't-miss conversation is the release of his insightful and candid new memoir, "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" written with Jamie Feldmar.

    This episode, like the book, is an intimate, compelling look at one of the world's most impactful hosts and multi-talented men in the hospitality industry. From establishing iconic eateries to shaping the entire modern dining landscape through the preservation of the legacy hospitality style, Nieporent's influence is unparalleled. Join Margaret as she invites Drew to share the stories behind the man—a titan of service, a visionary entrepreneur, and, as you'll quickly discover, a genuine genius who is one of the kindest people in the industry. (Photo below is when Margaret met Drew in 2015 at the International Association of Culinary Professionals celebration of Chef Jacques Pepin's 80th birthday).

    As Ruth Reichl says, "If you go out to eat, you need this book." Here is a link to the must read "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" by Drew Nieporent.

    Savor the day!

    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
  • ENCORE: Biscuit Time! Holiday Baking with Carla Hall
    Nov 25 2025

    It's time for a holiday kitchen confession… I grew up in the South, yet somehow never learned how to make biscuits! Thankfully, my dear friend Chef Carla Hall—along with the wonderful Chadwick Boyd—brought Biscuit Time to this special encore edition of Kitchen Chat.

    We rolled up our sleeves at Chicago's Merchandise Mart, where Chef Jaime Laurita joined us for a fun, flour-dusted biscuit lesson. One bite of a warm, fresh biscuit instantly transported me back to my childhood and the flavors my father used to make with such love. This is an episode you'll want to cherish.

    With Carla and Chadwick as your biscuit buddies, you'll learn exactly how to create tender, perfect biscuits every single time.

    ✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
    • Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
    • Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness by Kevin Boehm
    Nov 4 2025

    Congratulations to Kevin Boehm on the launch of his compelling book The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness. In this Kitchen Chat, Kevin shares the highs and lows of his personal life along with key components of success in his professional life. He also discusses the importance of mental health. You will be inspired by his story and strength.

    Link to the book (Launching November 4, 2025) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1419775243

    Margaret McSweeney and Kevin Boehm first met in 2016 at The James Beard Awards in Chicago after their first Kitchen Chat. Kevin is the co-owner and co-founder of the highly acclaimed and award winning Boka Restaurant Group which he started with Rob Katz. In 2019, Kevin and Rob were the recipients of Outstanding Restaurateur at the James Beard Awards.

    ✅ Be sure and visit Kitchencaht.info for photos of this amazing property.

    Savor the day!

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

    Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • Estelle Manor: A Taste of Luxury, History and Hospitality
    Oct 14 2025

    Host Margaret McSweeney takes us to the Oxfordshire countryside to Estelle Manor, one of the "hottest" destinations in England. Originally built in 1780 in Georgian style and rebuilt in 1908 in Jacobean style, Estelle Manor sits on 85 acres and is surrounded by 3,000 acres of parklands and gardens. In 2023, Ennismore opened this beautiful property as a private club and hotel.

    The kitchen gardens provide a bountiful and beautiful harvest of greens for the salads at the Glass House, one of the hotel's restaurants. Margaret enjoyed chatting with one of the chefs who was collecting the day's harvest from the gardener.

    The Potting Shed is the perfect place for a morning latte and pastries amongst the lush plants throughout the interior.

    Margaret's friend May and her dogs, Lulu and George joined her for this stay. They enjoyed a delicious lunch in the private library and dinner at Brasserie.

    Margaret especially enjoyed booking the Thermal Journey at the Eynsham Baths, an oasis of relaxation at Estelle Manor. This experience included exclusive access to the Tea Lounge where a tea master prepared a special blend for her. She purchased some tea to continue her wellness journey in Chicago.

    Please click here for additional information about Estelle Manor. https://estellemanor.com/.

    ✅ Be sure and visit Kitchencaht.info for photos of this amazing property.

    Savor the day!

    Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
    • Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

    This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins