The Human Ingredient: Why Leadership [Not AI] is the Secret to Resilient Food Safety Culture

Episode notes

In a new era for Food Tech Talk: Supply Chain Insights from Farm to Fork , we are thrilled to welcome back Katy Jones , CEO of Trustwell, as our host. She returns for a second spell in the chair after launching the podcast back in 2024. She kicks off her first episode back by sitting down with Jill Stuber and Tia Glave , cofounders of Catalyst Food Leaders, to challenge the traditional "checklist" approach to food safety. They argue that while technical subject-matter expertise is essential, the root of most operational failures lies in broken communication, a lack of trust, and an absent sense of belonging. By shifting the focus from technical problem-solving to people-centered leadership, organizations can build teams that remain resilient even when facing staffing shortages or economic turbulence. Jill and Tia share how leaders must model the values they expect through visible, daily actions rather than relying on slogans or generic training programs. The discussion highlights the unique strengths women bring to the food industry, particularly their natural instincts for systems thinking and community building.

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