In this sizzling season five finale(ish), Michael and Sylvain dig into food trends, politics, and smoked meats. They discuss Canada’s controversial supply management bill, the Competition Bureau’s lawsuit against DoorDash, and the disruptive influence of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic on McDonald's results and the fast food industry in general. Then, it’s a double feature with Daniel Vaughn, Texas Monthly’s Barbecue Editor, sharing insights on the legendary Top 50 BBQ Joints list, and Ransom Hawley, CEO of Caddle, who brings fresh data on back-to-school shopping behavior. Finally, Sylvain talks about the top stories of the season, and what stories we'll be watching over the summer. Don't forget to tune in all summer for fresh, new interviews all summer! We'll be back on the mic together late August.
The Food Professor Podcast closes out its fifth season (sort of) with a sizzling, two-guest double feature and a feast of food industry insights.
Co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois kick things off with a robust news round-up, starting with the Competition Bureau’s lawsuit against DoorDash. The case alleges deceptive pricing practices that could set a major precedent in Canada’s rapidly evolving food delivery sector. Next up is a conversation about GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, and their surprising ripple effects across the food and restaurant industries. With major players like McDonald’s flagging GLP-1’s impact on consumer demand, the hosts unpack how appetite suppression could force chains to rethink menus and marketing.
Turning to politics, the duo dives into the return of Bill C-202, which aims to legislate permanent protection for supply-managed sectors like dairy. Sylvain, fresh from testifying before Senate, challenges the notion that legislation ensures economic security, arguing that this approach stifles innovation and shrinks global opportunities for Canada’s dairy sector. The conversation highlights deeper questions about food affordability, trade readiness, and long-term resilience in Canadian agriculture.
The episode then shifts to the guest segment, welcoming Daniel Vaughn, Texas Monthly’s Barbecue Editor and the man behind the publication’s iconic “Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas” list. Daniel shares his personal journey from Ohio to Texas BBQ fanatic, reveals the meticulous tasting process behind the prestigious list, and highlights innovations shaping the future of craft barbecue—from smoked lamb to Vietnamese fusion. He also reflects on the human side of the industry, including stories of pitmasters overcoming illness, personal loss, and economic challenges, all while pursuing culinary greatness.
Wrapping the episode, Ransom Hawley, CEO of Caddle and presenting sponsor of the podcast, joins to share exclusive insights from a new back-to-school consumer study. He reveals that two-thirds of Canadian parents begin planning in late spring, and that private-label grocery products are increasingly popular—especially among families with younger children. He discusses emotional purchase behavior, the importance of online research, and how grocers and retailers can tailor promotions for maximum impact.
With bold opinions, brisket, and back-to-school tips, this finale serves up equal parts smoke and strategy.