The Backstage Kitchen Podcast

Chef Ariana Rodriguez shares her journey from culinary student to restaurant owner, emphasizing the cultural significance of corn and masa in Mexican cuisine. Discover her innovative approach to traditional dishes, her plans for Tulip restaurant, and insights into sourcing, making masa, and preserving culinary heritage.

My guest today is none other than Corey " the Donair Beast" Good!!!Join us as we explore the legendary Halifax donair, its history, cultural significance, and the upcoming Donair Showdown. Discover what makes this street food a beloved icon and how local shops compete for the title of best donair.

This episode explores Lana Grant's transformative journey from hospitality and music to healing and wellness. She shares insights on how music, therapy, and personal growth intertwine to foster healing, resilience, and purpose.#music therapy #healing #traumarelease #hypnotherapy #personaltransformation #wellness #storytelling #emotionalhealing, #breathwork #creative collaboration

In this engaging conversation, Richard Julien and Sean Kelly (Crash Kelly, Helix, Lee Arron, Coney Hatch, Northern Strum Alan Frew solo) explore the evolution of rock music from the glam era to the rise of grunge, discussing personal experiences, the impact of the music industry, and the significance of Canadian music. They reflect on the importance of discipline, connections, and humility in a musician's journey, while also touching on the influence of iconic bands and the role of CanCon in shaping the Canadian music landscape. Sean shares insights from his books and upcoming projects, emphasizing the passion behind music creation.

In this episode of the Backstage Kitchen, Chef Richard Julien speaks with Carl Coutinho, the president of Avondale Sky Winery, and Shawn from the Halifax Progress Club. They discuss the importance of community in the food and wine industry, the evolution of the Crave event, and the dynamics of running a family business. Carl shares insights into the challenges of the wine industry, the significance of customer engagement, and how success is defined beyond just financial metrics. The conversation highlights the personal growth that comes from entrepreneurship and the joy of creating memorable experiences for customers.

In this episode of the Backstage Kitchen Podcast, Chef Richard Julien sits down with singer-songwriter Christina Martin to discuss her journey in music, the impact of Mary Ann Faithfull, and the importance of storytelling in songwriting. They explore the challenges of the music industry, the joy of collaboration, and the connection between food and music. Christina shares her experiences with healthy living, her upcoming holiday music, and her love for cooking, all while reflecting on the inspirations that drive her artistry.Photo Credit - Cherakee Andresen aka cherakeeandresen.photo on Intragram

In this engaging conversation, Chef Richard Julien welcomes Chef Dan Geltner, who shares his culinary journey from his early days in Montreal to his current role as a consultant and private chef. They discuss the evolution of the food scene in Halifax, the challenges and joys of launching a new restaurant, and the importance of family recipes in shaping culinary identity. Dan reflects on his experiences catering for music festivals and the unique challenges of creating memorable dining experiences in that setting. The conversation culminates in a discussion about the creative process behind developing new dishes, emphasizing the significance of quality ingredients and technique.

In this engaging conversation, Richard Julien hosts the husband duo, The Standstills, discussing their journey in music, the evolution of their sound, and their experiences on the road. They share insights on songwriting, live performances, and the importance of passion in both music and cooking. The duo reflects on their collaboration with Jesse Hughes from Eagles of Death Metal and the challenges they faced while touring. The conversation highlights the intersection of culinary arts and music, emphasizing the creative process and the joy of sharing experiences through food and sound.

In this engaging conversation, Richard Julien sits down with Ryan McDonald, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Alert the Medic. They delve into the intricacies of songwriting, the pressures of performance, and the journey of maintaining a band over the years. Ryan shares insights into the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and the challenges faced in the music industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion also touches on the connection between music and culinary arts, highlighting how both require creativity and passion.

Chef Richard talks about some of the culinary traditions of the world for this time of year. He also shares some of his Holiday memories and even some fatal screw ups. Plus we have a world excusive interview with the big man in red: Santa Claus, just back from his latest world tour!!! ( Please note this is a Santa parody interview, please listen and know its not intended to poke fun at Christmas or Christianity in any way, shape of form) Much love - Chef Rich

In this episode of Backstage Kitchen, host Richard Julien sits down with chef Roland Glauser for a grounded, no-nonsense conversation about what it actually takes to build a lasting career in professional kitchens.From discipline and technique to leadership, pressure, and pride in the craft, Roland shares hard-earned insight from years on the line—where standards matter, shortcuts don’t exist, and consistency is everything. This is a candid look at the work behind the plate, the lessons that don’t get taught in culinary school, and the mindset required to stay relevant in an industry that never slows down.If you care about longevity, integrity, and respecting the craft—this one’s for you.

In this engaging conversation, Richard Julien and Mike Turner ( founding member of Canadian icons Our Lady Peace) discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal connections and experiences in the music industry to the impact of technology and AI on creativity. Emtee shares insights about his reunion tour with Our Lady Peace, the significance of community in his current venture, Flying Squirrel Motors, and the importance of connection through food. The dialogue also touches on the evolving landscape of music production and the role of AI, culminating in reflections on memorable culinary experiences and the value of interpersonal relationships.

The Backstage Kitchen Podcast — where culinary craft,creativity, and culture take center stage.In this episode we look at themoments shaping the food world this week: chef birthdays, new openings, a Michelin Star update and some local restaurant highlights that are driving conversations in professional kitchens everywhere.We are also heading into the core of Nova Scotia’s farm-to-table movement with a chef whorepresents place, purpose, and patience in every plate he creates.Chef Dave Smart, the culinary force behind Bessie North House, is known for his hyper-seasonal tasting menus, his connection to the land, foraging walks, wood-smoke technique, and the kind of Maritime hospitality that stays with you long after the meal is over.In this conversation, we dive into his story, the ingredients and landscapes that shaped his philosophy, and the rhythm of cooking in rural Nova Scotia. It’s thoughtful, grounded, honest, and the perfect way to begin the journey of this podcast.We round out the show with a brand new Christmas single Sex! Drugs! and Christmas Time! from Christina Martin!Enjoy the Season!

All great feasts should start with a taster! Here is a short clip to tantalize your ear drums!!!A new Podcast drops Dec 4/2025 This is a overview on what to expect!Special thanks to The Standstills, especially Jonny and Renee Fox for letting me use their hit - "Wild" from their 2018 album "Badlands" check them out: thestandstills.com