50 Tastes Of Gray

Don't Eat That! It's a Vegetable!

In this engaging conversation, Heidi Herman, author of the Hidden Vegetables Cookbook, shares her journey of overcoming a childhood aversion to vegetables and how she creatively incorporates them into her cooking. Our discussion explores joyful cooking and yummy recipes, and the importance of family meals, the challenges of dietary preferences, and the cultural influences on food choices. Heidi emphasizes the joy of experimentation in the kitchen and the significance of finding balance between nutrition and enjoyment in food. The conversation also touches on her Icelandic heritage and the impact it has had on her culinary perspective.
#HiddenVegetables #JoyfulCooking #vegetables
00:00 Reclaiming Joy Through Food
02:52 Childhood Aversion to Vegetables
05:43 Nutritional Challenges and Experimentation
09:04 The Importance of Family Meals
11:45 Creative Ways to Incorporate Vegetables
15:00 The Role of Texture and Flavor in Food
17:48 Cultural Influences on Food Preferences
20:48 The Hidden Vegetables Cookbook
23:50 Food as a Social Connector
26:51 Exploring Icelandic Heritage
29:40 The Evolution of Food Habits
32:45 Gateway Dishes for Veggie-Averse Adults
35:42 The Balance of Nutrition and Enjoyment
38:42 The Future of Food and Cooking
41:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Heidi Herman Social Media Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeidiHermanAuthor/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/storiesbyheidi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidihermanauthor/?hl=en
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-herman/
Website: https://HeidiHermanAuthor.com/
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Living Authentically—Beyond Buzzwords: A Practical Path to Happiness

#AuthenticLiving #SelfLove #ManifestationTools #SuZanPeltekian #DailyWellness What does it really mean to live authentically—beyond the buzzwords? In this episode of 50 Tastes Of Gray, SuZan Peltekian joins Matthew Gray for a powerful conversation about personal transformation, self-acceptance, and building happiness through practical daily habits.
🌍 From leaving a successful real estate career to launching Supercharged with SuZan, she shares how global experiences shaped her divine purpose 🧘‍♀️ Manifestation, self-love, and nutrition as tools for real-world change ⚖️ Integrating masculine and feminine energies, redefining success, and embracing emotional awareness 💬 “The fastest way to manifest is to love yourself.”
This episode is packed with grounded insights, honest reflections, and tangible routines for anyone ready to live life by design—not default.
🔗 Connect with SuZan Peltekian: https://superchargewithsuzan.com/suzan-peltekian/ linktr.ee/superchargewithsuzan
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Chapters 00:00 Life by Design: Embracing Global Living
03:10 Transformational Decisions: From Real Estate to Purpose
06:03 Manifestation Techniques: Creating Your Life by Design
08:52 Self-Love and Awareness: The Keys to Happiness
11:59 Food as Medicine: The Importance of Nutrition
15:07 Judgment and Awareness: Navigating Personal Growth
17:49 Integrating Masculine and Feminine Energies
20:52 Success Redefined: Daily Habits for a Fulfilling Life
23:59 Connecting with Susan: Resources and Closing Thoughts 
Takeaways
Living globally is a choice that reflects personal design.
Transformational decisions can lead to fulfilling life paths.
Manifestation begins with a clear vision and repetition.
Self-love is essential for happiness and success.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall well-being.
Awareness is the first step towards personal growth.
Judgment can be constructive when rooted in knowledge. Integrating masculine and feminine energies enhances personal development.
Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not societal standards.
Daily habits shape our reality and contribute to our success.
🎧 All My Shows & Episodes: https://LoveLife.com
📘 Get My Book: https://HawaiiFoodTours.com/
📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@50tastesofgray/playlists
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OK, NOW IT’S PERSONAL! | David Samson on Baseball, Identity & Reinvention

🎬 50 TASTES OF GRAY — OK, NOW IT’S PERSONAL!
David Samson flips the script on his own show’s title (*Nothing Personal*)—and this time, it gets real. In this episode of *50 Tastes ​Of Gray*, I sit down with David Samson—former President of the Miami Marlins, *Survivor* contestant, and unapologetically sharp media voice—for a conversation that’s bold, layered, and deeply personal. We talk about baseball, business, food, family, and the emotional intelligence it takes to navigate all of it.
#DavidSamson #50TastesOfGray #OKNowItsPersonal #MLB #Survivor #SportsBusiness #Podcast #NothingPersonal
@NPDS
🎧 All My Shows & Episodes: https://LoveLife.com
📘 Get the Book: https://HawaiiFoodTours.com/
📺 Watch More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@50tastesofgray/playlists
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• 50 Tastes of Gray → https://www.facebook.com/50TastesOfGrayPodcast
• Hawaii Food Tours → https://www.facebook.com/LetsEatHawaii
📸 Instagram (Occasional Vibes): https://www.instagram.com/50tastesofgray/ 
🧠 TAKEAWAYS & QUOTES:
• "Wives get better seats in baseball games."
• "The ultimate baseball food isn't a hot dog and a beer."
• "I use food like a gas station to refuel."
• "I couldn't name my kids' favorite food."
 ⏱️ CHAPTERS:
00:00 From Baseball to Media: A Journey of Transformation
05:54 Building Dynasties: The Pursuit of Championships
09:01 Baseball's Changes: Embracing Modernization
11:56 The Business of Baseball: Contracts and Negotiations
14:50 Revenue Streams: Understanding Team Finances
18:00 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Sports Management
22:04 The Iceberg of Sports Fandom
22:59 Behind the Scenes of Baseball Seating
23:55 Baseball Food Traditions and Personal Preferences
25:34 Food as Fuel: A Personal Perspective
27:05 Family Dynamics and Food Preferences 29:12 Communication in the Digital Age 30:40 The Evolution of Personal Interactions
32:59 Romantic Decelerators and Emotional Intelligence
34:18 Navigating Professional and Personal Relationships
36:13 The Role of Collaboration in Show Production
38:30 The Unique Dynamic of Live Shows
40:54 The Impact of Remote Work on Show Production
42:41 Clothing Rotation and Personal Habits
44:09 Cultural Heritage and Personal Identity
45:39 Work Ethic and Professional Life
46:34 The Art of Cooking and Culinary Connections
49:12 The Impact of Baseball on Life and Relationships
51:40 Statistics and Modern Baseball
53:19 Media Consumption and Personal Reflections
55:30 Survivor Experience and Personal Growth
57:12 Marathon Challenges and Philanthropy
59:38 Facing Challenges and Personal Philosophy
01:01:09 AI and Gambling in Sports

​Using Number Two to Get to Number One

In this lively and heartfelt conversation, Angela shares her unconventional journey from engineer to self-help author, revealing how motherhood, momentum, and a healthy dose of bathroom humor led to her debut book, Using Number Two to Get to Number One. With charm and candor, she dives into the challenges of self-publishing, the power of authenticity, and the role cultural identity plays in personal growth. Along the way, Angela reminds us that humor makes healing easier, parenting offers profound life lessons, and every day is a fresh chance to move forward. #LaughWhileYouGrow #RealTalkRealGrowth #FromEngineerToAuthor

Cupboard Love & Culinary Language: The Words We Eat

Join us on "50 Tastes Of Gray" for a captivating episode featuring Mark Morton, author of Cupboard Love. In this engaging conversation, we delve into the intricate connections between food, love, and language.
Our guest Mark, and Matthew Gray explore the fascinating intersections of food, language, and culture, discussing the origins of culinary terms and the evolution of food practices over time. We'll uncover the etymology of food words, the cultural significance of sharing meals, and how food plays a vital role in storytelling and relationships.
The dialogue touches on personal culinary experiences, the influence of language on food enjoyment, and the importance of food in fostering connections among people. We also explore the impact of cultural exchanges through food, the significance of awards in the culinary world, and the changing landscape of cooking shows.
This episode highlights the rich tapestry of food-related words and their meanings, as well as the personal connections that shape our culinary preferences. Don't miss this insightful and delicious discussion!
#FoodEtymology #CulinaryHistory #StorytellingThroughFood
Sound Bites
"I like to make stews, I like to make soups."
"Lobster was considered the bug of the sea."
"The word whiskey means fire water."
"I became very interested in words and language."
"The food in that region of the world is fantastic."
"Poutine is definitely a staple here."
"I think there's one other thing about Nanaimo bars."
"Bone of love is kind of like a pickup line."
"Cupboard love refers to love for food."
"Avocado literally means testicle in Nahuatl."
"Food words influence how we enjoy our meals." "Food plays a central role in storytelling."
"Food is at the heart of our deepest traditions."
"The word companion means fellow bread eater."
"Breaking bread is almost like a sacred occasion."
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Borders and Geography
01:03 Introduction to 'Cupboard Love'
02:41 The Evolution of Editions
04:11 Childhood Influences: Words vs. Food
05:20 Food Origins and Personal Experiences
09:06 Cooking Styles and Preferences
10:48 Historical Food Practices
12:24 Cultural Food Comparisons
15:51 Etymology of Food Words
19:09 Cultural Exchange Through Food
20:22 Recognition and Awards 21:56 The Shift in Cooking Shows
23:02 The Journey to Writing About Food Words
24:51 Fast Food Etymology
27:08 Canadian Cuisine: Poutine and Beyond
30:31 Signature Dishes and Family Recipes
33:12 Food, Love, and Sentimentality
36:31 Culinary Adventures and Cultural Influences
37:31 The Etymology of Food Words
44:01 The Language of Food and Enjoyment
47:10 Food in Storytelling and Culture
51:58 Breaking Bread: The Importance of Sharing Food
53:06 Romantic Meals and Culinary Memories
54:24 Alcohol and Its Role in Food Culture
56:06 Pronunciation and Language Variations
01:00:06 Cultural Artifacts and Personal Memories
01:02:21 Words of Wisdom on Food and Connection ​
✅ Stay Connected With Us: 50TastesOfGray@gmail.com
👉My Book: Ultimate Eater's Guide: https: //www.hawaiifoodtours.com/
👉FeedSpot's 70 Best Food Podcasts You Must Follow for 2025 - https://podcasts.feedspot.com/food_podcasts/
🍫 👥 💰 🎭 🔄 🔗 🧠 🚀 🎬 📽 🤔 📡 🏅 🎙🌟
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Naming Gotham: The Historical Allure of New York City's Place Names

Rebecca Bratspies on the Hidden Stories Behind New York City’s Place Names & the Intersection of Law, History, and Environmental Justice
In this engaging episode of 50 Tastes of Gray, Matthew Gray sits down with Rebecca Bratspies—award-winning author, historian, and former law professor—to uncover the overlooked stories woven into the very fabric of New York City. Through her latest book, Naming Gotham: The Villains, Rogues & Heroes Behind New York's Place Names, Rebecca sheds light on the Revolutionary War figures, civil rights leaders, and political power players who left their mark on the city’s map.
But this conversation goes deeper than just street signs—Rebecca shares insights on environmental law, corporate influence, and the vital role of community advocacy in protecting air and water quality. They explore the challenges of legal battles for environmental justice, the impact of AI on education, and how storytelling can transform activism.
Along the way, Rebecca also dives into the culinary richness of NYC, her own vegetarian journey, and how history, research, and creativity intersect in her work—including her award-winning environmental justice comic series. Whether you're a history buff, legal mind, or just curious about the layers of meaning behind the places we walk every day, this episode offers a fresh take on the stories shaping our world.

Improv, Chocolate & Personal Growth: Unwrapping Life’s Ingredients

Unwrapping Life's Ingredients: Cooking, Improv, and Growth with Mary Lemmer
In this engaging episode, Matthew Gray sits down with the insightful Mary Lemmer to explore the unexpected intersections of cooking, improv, and personal growth. From the nuances of 100% chocolate to the highs and lows of customer service and the evolving tipping culture, Mary shares invaluable insights from her journey in entrepreneurship, creativity, and training.
But it doesn't stop there—this conversation dives deep into improv as a life skill, how embracing adaptability can transform communication, and why nostalgia plays a surprising role in shaping identity. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a creative thinker, or someone looking to refine your approach to the digital age, this episode has something for you!
#CookingAndImprov #personalgrowthjourney #chocolate @MaryLemmer @50tastesofgray
Mary Lemmer Website
ChooseImprove.com
                ( ͡❛ ͜ʖ ͡❛) Key Topics Covered ( ͡❛ ͜ʖ ͡❛)
The unique experience of tasting 100% chocolate
Why proper customer service training is crucial
Tipping culture and its global differences
How improv can sharpen personal and professional skills
Navigating change with creativity and resilience
The intersection of identity, comedy, and nostalgia
How technology and communication are reshaping our daily lives
The creative process behind becoming an author
                                    Takeaways
Improv isn't just for comedy—it’s a powerful tool for navigating uncertainty
Quality ingredients make all the difference in cooking
Understanding customer service dynamics can elevate restaurant success  
Nostalgia can fuel creativity and personal reflection  Embracing multiple identities allows for personal and professional growth  
100% chocolate offers a unique flavor experience.  
Training in customer service is crucial for restaurant success.  
Tipping culture varies significantly across different countries.  
Improv skills can enhance personal and professional life.  
Navigating change requires adaptability and resilience.  
Improv can be practiced to improve communication skills.  
Acknowledging reality is key in improvisation.  
Creative problem-solving is a vital skill in life.  
Personal anecdotes can provide valuable lessons.  
The pandemic inspired a creative surge in my life.  
Identity is shaped by how others perceive us.  I
embrace both my analytical and creative sides.  
Intentional living helps bring back wonder and peace.  
Communication methods have evolved with technology.  
College athletes deserve recognition for their hard work.  
Culinary creativity can be explored with chocolate.  
Becoming an author is a dream come true for me.  
Connecting with the audience is essential for sharing my work.
☼ Memorable Sound Bites ☼
✯ Zingerman's really prioritizes training.
✯ I was an extra background actor in Whip It.
✯ I consider myself a humorist.
✯ I found the humor in this situation.
✯ I think we all contain multitudes.
✯ I practice a simple Sunday.
✯ I could send you my carrier pigeon.
✯ I love the Olympics.
✯ I haven't made it myself yet.
✯ I'm excited to share this work with people.
                                            CHAPTERS
00:00 - A Culinary Journey Begins
02:49 - The World of 100% Chocolate: A Taste Like No Other
05:52 - The Art of Customer Service & Training in Restaurants
09:02 - Tipping Culture: A Double-Edged Sword Explained
11:55 - Improv as a Life Skill: Learning to Adapt
15:10 - Navigating Change with Improv Techniques
18:10 - Where Improv Meets Real Life
20:56 - Teaching Improv: A Path to Personal & Professional Growth
24:06 - Improvisation in Tough Situations: Thinking on Your Feet
26:53 - Reflections on Early Creative Days & Finding Your Voice
30:43 - From Background Actor to Comedy Creator
33:12 - Exploring Identity & Perception in a Changing World
35:35 - Embracing Creativity & Multidimensional Thinking
36:29 - Nostalgia & Intentional Living: Looking Back & Moving Forward
39:43 - Communication in the Digital Age: How We Connect
40:35 - Sports, Opinions & Personal Interests
42:25 - Culinary Adventures: The Magic of Chocolate
44:50 - The Journey to Becoming an Author
48:36 - Connecting with the Audience & Sharing Your Work
 Stay Connected With Us
Email: 50TastesOfGray@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/50TastesOfGrayPodcast/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-hawaii
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/50TastesOfGray/
My Written Words Blog: https://www.hawaiifoodtours.com/blog/
Tongue-in-Cheek: http://www.archive.lovelife.com/matthew.html
My Book: Ultimate Eater's Guide: https://www.hawaiifoodtours.com/
FeedSpot's 70 Best Food Podcasts You Must Follow for 2024: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/food_podcasts/
Matthew's Substack: 50TastesOfGray.substack.com
Support the Show
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Mastering the Art of Balance

In this captivating episode, Jeremy Roadruck explores the deeper meaning of a productive day, emphasizing the joy of serving others and cherishing magical family moments. From the art of creating culinary experiences to the discipline of Kung Fu, Jeremy shares how these elements have shaped his journey of personal growth. He also addresses critical topics like mental health challenges for men, parenting in a tech-driven world, and the rise of young digital coaches. Packed with actionable insights, listeners will discover the importance of meaningful connections, adapting to challenges, and embracing accountability for growth. Jeremy also offers resources like books and courses designed to inspire personal and professional success.
@JeremyRoadruck
Key Takeaways:
* Productivity is about service and creating special moments with loved ones.
* Culinary experiences connect people and open new perspectives.
* Kung Fu teaches self-discipline and self-awareness.
* Men’s mental health needs attention and support systems.
* Adaptability is key for parents in understanding their children.
* Technology’s impact on youth relationships and mental health is profound.
* Building meaningful connections enhances growth in all areas of life.
Sound Bites:
“Was your magic moment for the day?”
“I do the bulk of the cooking.”
“You have to take a thank-you bite.”
“I grew up internationally.”
“How do I solve this problem?”
#PersonalGrowthJourney #FamilyAndFulfillment #KungFuLifeLessons
Social Media & Contact: ​​
✅ Stay Connected With us: 50TastesOfGray@gmail.com
👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/50TastesOfGrayPodcast/
👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-gray-hawaii
👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/50TastesOfGray/
👉My Written Words: https://www.hawaiifoodtours.com/blog/ 👉
Tongue-in-Cheek: http://www.archive.lovelife.com/matthew.html
👉My Book: Ultimate Eater's Guide: https: //www.hawaiifoodtours.com/
👉FeedSpot's 70 Best Food Podcasts You Must Follow for 2024 - https://podcasts.feedspot.com/food_podcasts/
👉 Matthew's Substack: 50TastesOfGray.substack.com
☕Would You Like To Buy Me A Coffee? - https://buymeacoffee.com/50tastesofh