At Society of Work our members are the heartbeat of our community so we enjoy telling their stories. This month we connected with member Food as a Verb to learn a little bit more about their work and what they do.
Tell us a little bit about you, your organization and what you do.
Food as a Verb is a media startup that tells local food stories: chefs, farmers, bartenders, brewers, beekeepers and everyone and everywhere in-between. We believe that media has a responsibility to spotlight the farm-to-table landscape in our region, yet too often, media overlooks the most important system in our lives: food.
We exist to fill that gap, especially in a media landscape so chaotic and confusing.
How did you get into this work and why is it important for Chattanooga’s community?
I (David) am a career journalist and teacher. Sarah is a career photographer, easily the best I’ve ever known. Alex is a career designer and creative, also among the finest in this region.
We met around this shared idea: can we tell stories that uplift, dignify and remind folks of what we seem to be forgetting?
What is the most rewarding part of the work that your team does?
Creatively, it’s that garage-band experience where we three are working together to produce and publish something really beautiful and meaningful for others.
Most of all? We get to encounter and spend time with some of the most resilient, ethical, kind and generous people around while walking through kitchens, farms and fields with them.
What's something you've learned from being part of Chattanooga's community that's changed how you approach your work?
People are desperate for media that dignifies, calms and slows down. People love stories about the table as a common denominator for our shared experience as humans. In a world full of awful headlines, there’s plenty of room for us to be reminded of all the good ways we exist together. Food is the bond.
What do you enjoy about working at Society of Work?
We wouldn’t exist without Society of Work. Some of our first brainstorming meetings happened here. Our ongoing office exists here. An immeasurable amount of problem-solving, laughter and thoughtfulness has emerged from our office and time at Society of Work.
Plus, everyone is so kind, cool and encouraging. Lauren and Mary? A standing ovation to you both.
What are some important events or happenings coming up for Food as a Verb that you want people to know about?
Every Wednesday and Sunday, we publish original stories unlike any other being told in regional media. And, it’s free to subscribe! Visit foodasaverb.com
