A reflection from Tia Glave, Catalyst Co-Founder
The food industry is at a crossroads.
With shrinking labor pools, rising costs, and constant pressure to do more with less, 2026 isn’t going to reward survival-mode leadership.
It will demand something better.
Food leaders who create trust on purpose. Who think beyond their own to-do lists. Who build cultures where people and performance grow together.
That kind of leadership doesn’t just happen. It happens through leadership systems that...
If your daily stand-up is just a status update, you’re missing the point.
Because in food leadership, the way you use those 15 minutes reveals everything about how your culture works—or doesn’t.
👀 What You’re Really Communicating
Most leaders don’t realize it, but rhythms shape reality.
When your team shows up every day to “report out,” here’s what they’re learning:
- Speak fast, don’t ask questions
- We’re here to perform, not connect
- Leadership = efficiency, not support
That might not b...
Lately, it feels like uncertainty is everywhere. DEI programs are being rolled back, immigration enforcement is creating fear in communities, and for many people, the future feels shaky at best. You may not see it outright, but people around you—your colleagues, team members, even friends—are carrying a lot right now.
As leaders, we can’t control everything happening in the world, but we can control how we show up. And in times like these, small moments of kindness and connection matter more th...
At Catalyst Food Leaders, we believe that leadership is about more than just skills—it’s about impact. That’s why we are proud to support Black Professionals in Food Safety & Quality, a professional group founded by our co-founder, Tia, to create a much-needed space for Black professionals in this critical industry.
Why This Group Exists
Food safety and quality are essential to public health and business success, yet representation in this field has long lacked diversity. Black professionals o...
🌟 Get ready for a groundbreaking episode of "Real Talk Food Safety with Jill & Tia" as we shine a spotlight on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the dynamic world of the food and beverage industry. Joining us is a stellar panel of experts: Damarys Del Castillo of Sigma, Jason Brill of QA and Food Safety Magazine, Larry Keener of International Product Safety Consultants, and Sarah Reyes of Taylor Farms. Each brings a unique perspective and wealth of experience to the discussion.
🍽️ In t...
🌟 Brace yourselves for an extraordinary episode of "Real Talk Food Safety with Jill & Tia" as we welcome a trailblazing leader in the food safety realm, Kara Mikkelson of ChemStation, to the virtual stage! Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Kara stands as a beacon of innovation and unparalleled support in the food safety and sanitation space. Join us for an enlightening discussion as Kara shares her insights into the evolving landscape of food safety, sanitation, and women in science....
Everyone's experience is different. While we may encounter many shared experiences, it's important to remember: Your People Aren't Where You're At. Whether we're talking about direct reports, collaboration teams, or any body, we guarantee, you're in different stages and places. Listen in for Catalyt's perspectives and tips!
Learn more in THIS episode of Real Talk Food Safety with Tia & Jill.
Ensuring food safety culture is inclusive, proactive and people-focused takes intention. It’s about building relationships and spaces that encourage people to bring their whole-selves to work. That’s the magic that makes food safety culture! Whether you’re just starting or you’re immersed in building safe spaces, you won’t want to miss the three pillars of belonging and how individuals, teams and organizations each play a role.
Learn more in THIS episode of Real Talk Food Safety with Tia ...
