Around the Table: Strengthening Connections Through Culinary Adventures

A while back, my favorite way to unwind after work was watching an episode of Phil Rosenthal’s Netflix show, Somebody Feed Phil. In each episode, the charismatic TV personality travels to a new city, explores its local culinary scene, and learns about the region’s rich history and traditions, making the show not just about food but also a celebration of culture. When watching his Venice episode, I was particularly struck by his closing statement, which is a big call to action to his viewers: 

“Shouldn’t we be friends with people from all over the world? But you got to start somewhere, so go!”

Fortunately, my involvement in the National Millennial & Gen Z Community (NMGZ) has been my stepping stone. On our field trips, I’ve had the privilege of exploring new cities and meeting peers from across the country and beyond. Throughout these trips, I’ve had the opportunity to meet more than 100 new people, most of whom are walking similar career paths as me. These trips have been immensely valuable for my career, but more importantly, for my self-development and discovery. Engaging with people outside my usual bubble has given me fresh perspectives and allowed me to learn about things beyond my immediate scope.

Much like Phil Rosenthal, the trip dinners are always the most exciting part for me—not because I’m a major foodie, but because I find that meals offer the best opportunities for conversation and relationship building. The saying “good food, good mood” rings true, but I’d also add “good conversations.” A delicious meal naturally breaks the ice, sparking meaningful dialogue and creating a warm, communal atmosphere. 

I especially cherish moments when I’m at the table with people trying a dish for the first time, one I’m familiar with and enjoy. Their initial reactions—often fear or confusion—usually give way to pleasant surprise after the first bite. For instance, during a meal at an Armenian restaurant called Carousel in Glendale, Calif., many NMGZ Community members were hesitant to try beef tartare. Eventually, a few adventurous members decided to give it a try and ended up enjoying it. The conversation then took an unexpected turn toward hunting and eating wild game, sparked by two members from Boise, Idaho. They shared how hunting is not just a recreational activity for them but also an essential part of their diet. This opened my eyes to the cultural diversity that exists not only globally but also within different regions of the United States. While exploring new cities, we’re not only expanding our palates but also our knowledge and cultural appreciation. 

Whether it’s trying Persian ice cream for the first time or taking part in a historical food tour at the Municipal Market in Atlanta, these shared experiences help build bridges between people from diverse backgrounds. The NMGZ trips are a great testament to what Somebody Feed Phil emphasizes: food is a powerful force in strengthening community and social connections. While it’s not always easy to find common ground with someone you’ve just met, let alone someone from another state or country, sharing a meal can be a catalyst for meaningful interactions. 

Through my experiences with the NMGZ Community, I’ve made connections across the U.S., as well as in Peru, Poland, and the Czech Republic. As my network continues to expand, I hope to embark on a food and travel journey, perhaps Somebody Feed Lauren.