Farm-to-Table Chef: Building Community Through Food & Local Markets
Mike took a road trip to visit his brother and sister-in-law in the Dallas Fort Worth area. While there, Mike learned about Chef Brian Santiago's work building community, through food. Join Mike and Chef Brian in the kitchen as Brian preps for a party that he is catering.
Brian shares his farm-to-table philosophy, discussing how sourcing from local farmers like Cherokee Lakes and partnering with ethical butchers like Prolific Butcher keeps meals sustainable, affordable, and deeply nourishing. He explains why community starts at the farmers market and extends to intimate dinner experiences that celebrate local food culture.
Beyond private dining services and event catering for 20-70 guests, Brian manages Fort Worth's Clear Fork Farmers Market (open Saturdays, 8am-12pm year-round at Edward's Ranch) and leads innovative community initiatives. Learn about his butchery classes held during winter and spring, where students bond around campfires, and his 'Chaos to Confidence' personal development retreat -- a unique program created with life coach Jennifer Land that uses culinary challenges to build self-belief and break limiting cycles.
Brian also shares his Cajun heritage, generational cooking wisdom from New Orleans, and his vision for working with troubled youth ages 18-25. Discover how demystifying food, embracing seasonal menus, and creating spaces for authentic human connection can transform both individuals and communities. Whether you're interested in farm-to-table dining, local food sourcing, community building, or personal development through culinary arts, this interview offers practical insights and inspiring philosophy.
If you're passionate about community building, sustainable food systems, or personal development, subscribe to the Woven Record or our YouTube Podcast for more inspiring interviews with local leaders.
How food has connected you to your community? Who's story should we tell next?
Upcoming Retreat
Clear Fork Farmers Market
Cherokee Lakes Farm
Prolific Butcher Shop
Jennifer Land Coaching
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