Discover the Power of Going Rogue and Making a Difference! In this vibrant, uplifting episode of "Going Rogue 2.0," host Melissa Myers sits down with the inspiring Chef Jenna Arcidiacono—aka Chef Jenna—owner of Amore Trattoria Italiana and founder of the heartwarming nonprofit Food Hugs. From bold acts of generosity to living life authentically (think: hot pink cars and hair!), Jenna shares her journey from art student to renowned restaurateur and community champion.
Hear how Jenna and her team turned challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic into opportunities to give back, pivoting their business for survival while launching creative community support projects like Food Hugs and Tip Back Thursdays (including a viral surprise that changed a server’s life!). The conversation is packed with laughter, practical wisdom, and actionable ideas about leadership, going rogue, living boldly, and building a kinder world—Italian food and travel adventures included!
Plus, get the inside scoop on exclusive behind-the-scenes stories (what’s it really like running a family restaurant?), Chef Jenna’s legendary 11-layer lasagna, upcoming women-centered community events, and her immersive foodie tours of Italy that sell out in minutes.
Ready for a shot of energy, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart? Tune in for contagious positivity—and find out how you can join the movement for more Food Hugs in your own community.
Connect with Jenna and everything she is doing!
Food Hugs
https://foodhugs.org/
Amore
https://amoretrattoriaitaliana.com/
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/jenna.arcidiacono/
https://www.facebook.com/AmoreTrattoriaItaliana
Insta
https://www.instagram.com/amoretrattoriaitaliana/
Linked In
Food Hugs https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-arcidiacono-b1966b22/
Amore https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-arcidiacono-29710822/
TOPIC TIMESTAMPS:
00:09:50 – Innovating During COVID: How Amore became a drive-thru, the birth of Food Hugs, and nonprofit meal deliveries that lift a community.
00:14:07 – Tip Back Thursdays & Viral Generosity: The story behind the $72,000 in surprise server tips and the reaction that melted 9 million hearts.
00:25:01 – The Proper Way to Say "Bruschetta": Chef Jenna settles the Italian food pronunciation debate and reveals the secrets behind her famous lasagna.
00:29:10 – Life-Changing Italy Food Tours: How Chef Jenna curates culinary adventures abroad, plus travel tips and how to snag a future spot.
00:36:27 – A Surprise Gift: Melissa reveals Food Hugs as her nonprofit of the year, with all book proceeds to benefit Jenna’s cause.
Don’t miss this episode—full of practical inspiration for anyone who wants to live boldly, give generously, and create a little more magic (and glitter!) wherever they go. Watch now on YouTube!
Need a dynamic speaker or facilitator? Check out Melissa’s Speaker One Sheet:
https://www.canva.com/design/DAFH0-d2...
Proceeds from Going Rogue book sales support nonprofits benefiting women. Grab your copy:
https://goingrogue.askmelissamyers.com/
https://mmg-wealth.com/
Financial Trendsetters (book): https://amzn.to/3X0Mwrj
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