How can school cafeterias spark innovation, build community, and change the way students see nutrition? In this episode of the Next Up Podcast, we're live at Ignite 2025 and leaders in school nutrition share stories of creativity and passion that are transforming mealtime in schools.The conversation sponsored by AmTab, explores hydroponic gardens, charcuterie-style bento boxes, culturally inspired menus, and modern cafeteria redesigns that make meals exciting, healthy, and community-focused. Lacy Willey, Alex Hallmark, and Conor Doyle reflect on the latest trends in student preferences, the misconceptions that still surround school meals, and the importance of marketing and communication in reshaping public perception. They also share what the future of school nutrition could look like if money were no object.Listeners will hear why engaging students and families in menu planning makes such a difference, how cafeteria environments impact participation and pride, and what it takes to introduce global flavors into everyday menus. The discussion also asks big questions: What innovative practices are reshaping the way students experience school meals? How does cafeteria design influence student engagement? Why do misconceptions about school nutrition persist? What role does marketing and storytelling play in building community support? And if resources were unlimited, how would school leaders reimagine the future of food in schools?===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/lacywilley/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hallmark-ms-rn-rdn-b794869a/https://www.linkedin.com/in/conor-doyle1/https://www.linkedin.com/company/amtab-manufacturing-corporation/https://www.amtab.com/===========================Connect with us! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-gordon/IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Celebrating Community and Innovation03:44 Innovative Practices in School Nutrition08:40 Trends and Preferences in Student Meals14:40 Future Directions in School Nutrition21:32 Perceptions of School Meals and Their Impact
