BEYOND THE PLATE WITH CAROL

Ken Sheldon, better known as Fred Marple of Frost Heaves, joins me for a conversation filled with laughter, storytelling, and pure New Hampshire charm. From small-town humor to big-hearted lessons, this episode celebrates community, kindness, and his newest book, “Utter Nonsense.”

Sip Woodod joins me to share the journey from washing dishes to leading three local favorites: USA Chicken & Biscuit, The Halal Spot, and Rumi Kabob House. We talk resilience, family, faith, flavors, and what it really takes to keep guests coming back!

For the first time ever, I took Beyond the Plate with Carol on the road to the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival and I got to chat with Nicki Courtois, owner of Lupe’s 55 Cantina!Nicki brings big energy, bold flavors, and serious heart to everything at Lupe’s. With creative dishes like her street tacos - she’s built a place that locals and tourist can’t stop talking about!!This episode is all about passion for food, building community, and what it takes to keep things cooking on Hampton Beach.

Step inside 815 Cocktails & Provisions with co-owners Sarah Maillet and Ryan McCabe. They’ve built more than a restaurant — it’s a space where great food, creative drinks, and genuine hospitality come together beautifully.

This week’s episode is with Jeff Hastings — a true storyteller behind the lens! His eye for detail and heart for people are what make his work so special. We talked about what keeps him inspired, the power of community, and the importance of capturing life as it happens. Such a thoughtful, inspiring chat!

I sat down with Sue Pappalardo, the heartbeat of Aunty’s Italian Kitchen. We talk growing up in an Italian home, learning to cook from her dad, and why she insists on scratch sauce, hand-pounded cutlets, and doing things the right way.If you love stories about grit, family, and food that sells out because it’s made with care—this one’s for you.

This episode features Chelsea Stoddard, the creative force behind Queen City Cupcakes. We talk about how her shop came to life, the joy of dreaming up new flavors, and the everyday fun that comes with running a business. It’s lighthearted, it’s inspiring, and it’s guaranteed to make you smile.

It all starts with KC’s Rib Shack: a barbecue joint born from weekend cookouts that became a true New Hampshire landmark. Over the years, the space has grown and transformed, adding unique touches like a tiki bar, beautiful Barn, and a thriving catering arm. And now, the latest chapter unfolds with Rock N Roll Meatballs — a bold new take mixing music, meatball flights, and plenty of flavor!

Join me for a conversation with Chef Chris Noble as we look back on how he got started, the lessons learned along the way, and what it means to cook from the heart. We also talk about his latest chapter at Figaro’s and how he’s bringing his own style and passion to the menu.

In this episode, I chatted with Phil Pelletier, the flavor mastermind behind Smokin’ Tin Roof. We talked about the leap from IT to food entrepreneur, the art of creating sauces that wow your taste buds, and the joy of seeing customers come back for more. A fun, flavorful journey that goes well BEYOND the plate.