Most people think a career in baking means spending your life inside a kitchen—but today’s guest proves the industry is far bigger, more innovative, and more full of possibility than most bakers ever imagine. In this episode, Kimberly sits down with Kelly DeFusco, a Principal Bakery Scientist at Tastepoint by IFF with 34 years in the flavor industry. Kelly’s journey started with homemade 3D birthday cakes, a family restaurant, and a home economics degree, before one unexpected phone call laun...
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Most people think a career in baking means spending your life inside a kitchen—but today’s guest proves the industry is far bigger, more innovative, and more full of possibility than most bakers ever imagine. In this episode, Kimberly sits down with Kelly DeFusco, a Principal Bakery Scientist at Tastepoint by IFF with 34 years in the flavor industry. Kelly’s journey started with homemade 3D birthday cakes, a family restaurant, and a home economics degree, before one unexpected phone call laun...
E16: From Fine Dining to Cookie Empire | The Perfect Rise Podcast
The Perfect Rise: Conversations with RBA
43 minutes
3 months ago
E16: From Fine Dining to Cookie Empire | The Perfect Rise Podcast
What happens when a fine dining pastry chef faces a career-ending injury? For Tracy Mattson, it became the spark that launched Cookie Take a Bite—a boutique cookie brand built on elevated flavors, thoughtful presentation, and a deep commitment to local partnerships. In this episode of The Perfect Rise, host Kimberly Houston sits down with Tracy to unpack her inspiring journey: • How six weeks on the couch turned into the foundation for a thriving bakery. • The leap from farmers markets to b...
The Perfect Rise: Conversations with RBA
Most people think a career in baking means spending your life inside a kitchen—but today’s guest proves the industry is far bigger, more innovative, and more full of possibility than most bakers ever imagine. In this episode, Kimberly sits down with Kelly DeFusco, a Principal Bakery Scientist at Tastepoint by IFF with 34 years in the flavor industry. Kelly’s journey started with homemade 3D birthday cakes, a family restaurant, and a home economics degree, before one unexpected phone call laun...
