Foodie and the Beast - April 26, 2026

This week’s Foodie & The Beast? Packed. And I mean packed with smart conversation and a reminder that in this industry, it’s all about passion and people.

We kicked things off with Dr. Linda Boyd, who came in with exactly what so many small business owners need right now: real talk and real tools. With the 2026 POWERUP DC Small Business Summit & Expo kicking off May 5, she shared how businesses can do more than just survive, they can actually thrive.

From there, we headed straight to the plate with Ben Assaraf and Zai Tajzaiin of Dalia’s Falafel and if you haven’t been yet, consider this your nudge. What started as a neighborhood spot has turned into a go-to for Middle Eastern comfort food done right. And beyond the falafel they’re thinking about sourcing, quality, and the difference between local farms and big ag, something we should all be paying more attention to when we dine out.

Tim Rowley also joined us, bringing a bit of Leesburg into the studio. As co-owner of The Wine Kitchen, he’s been part of the DMV dining scene for years, with a menu that leans Italian and stays seasonal. It’s the kind of place that quietly gets it right.

And then, strawberries. Because the season is short, and when they’re here, you go pick them! Harriet Wegmeyer of Wegmeyer Farms joined us to talk about the 3rd Annual Lincoln Strawberry Festival, those beautiful berries, yes, but also a community-driven event supporting local causes and scholarships. Sweet in every sense of the word.

We always have drinks. This week, it’s tequila! Nelson Benavides and Antonio Fonseca joined us with Mosto Tequila, a Mexican-owned brand rooted in family tradition, and estate-grown agave from Los Altos de Jalisco. Not just any tequila, this is about craftsmanship and knowing exactly what’s in your glass.

Foodie & The Beast: A show that celebrates small business, thoughtful sourcing, and the people behind it all.

Catch the full episode, this one’s worth your time. Listen to the full episode here.