Everybody Eats: A movement - Season 1: Episode 1 - The origins of F.A.R.M. Cafe with Shelly Wilson

Welcome to the first episode of Everybody Eats - A Movement, a podcast that explores the intersection of good food and social change. Join host Renee Boughman, a former fine dining chef turned nonprofit leader, as she dives into the inspiring story of Community Cafes where everyone is welcome, and meals are served with dignity, regardless of ability to pay. Discover how a simple question - "Why isn't quality food available to everyone?" - sparked a movement that challenges traditional notions of charity and dignity. Tune in to hear the heartwarming and candid stories behind a cafe that proves everybody deserves a seat at the table.

 

 

Renee Boughman

 

Renee Boughman is one of the founders and the current Director of Community Engagement at F.A.R.M. Cafe in Boone, North Carolina, a nonprofit, pay-what-you-can restaurant dedicated to serving high-quality, locally sourced meals to all, regardless of means. With over 35 years of experience in food service, Renee holds a Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from Asheville Buncombe Technical College and a Master’s Degree in History from Appalachian State University.

Since opening F.A.R.M. Cafe in May 2012, Renee has been a driving force behind its mission, first serving as Executive Director and Chef before transitioning to her current role in November 2022. Her leadership and compassion have made the cafe a cornerstone of community support, addressing food insecurity and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone who walks through its doors.

 

Shelly Wilson

In this first episode, Renee chats with her longtime friend and collaborator, Rev. Dr. Shelly Wilson, to reflect on the origins of Farm Cafe, the challenges they faced, and the dream that sparked a movement. From the early days of brainstorming over community needs to the transformative power of nourishment—both physical and spiritual—this conversation highlights how food can bring people together and create lasting change. 

Shelly completed a Master of Religious Education at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC, a Master of Theology at Duke Divinity School with a focus on homiletics (preaching), and a Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC with a concentration in spiritual formation. She also has a degree in Nursing and is a Registered Nurse with a particular interest in geriatric and faith-based nursing.

Shelly believes in and practices collaborative leadership and loves working with congregations to serve the community in just and inclusive ways.

 

Produced by 

Directed by Beth Davison

Engineerd by Sully Styles

Edited by Sully Styles & Beth Davison

Podcast theme music by Adam Summey

Original Music by Sully Styles

Logo Design by Yakira Gurganus

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