Shows
Sensing Up40 Years of Dilmah: A Tea Story from Sri LankaValerie Henbest welcomes Dilhan Fernando, CEO of Sri Lanka’s iconic Dilmah Tea, to reflect on 40 years of family-led innovation and integrity in the global tea industry. From his father's pioneering legacy to adapting for future generations, Dilhan shares the sensory journey of tea, the challenges of climate change and how ethical business can drive meaningful impact.2025-07-0328 min
Sensing UpActress to Entrepreneur: Tori Dixon-WhittleFrom actress to entrepreneur, Tori Dixon-Whittle has built a life defined by creativity, resilience and reinvention. In this episode of Sensing Up, she joins host Valerie Henbest to share her extraordinary journey—from the stage to hospitality, design and now writing. With honesty and energy, Tori reflects on motherhood, building businesses and the art of turning life’s chaos into purpose.2025-04-241h 11
RencontresSmelly Cheese : une masterclass pour marier les mets franco-australiensRencontre avec Valérie Henbest, la fondatrice de Smelly Cheese, une fromagerie basée dans le marché iconique d’Adelaïde. Elle organise des masterclass pour apprendre à marier les boissons et les fromages. Notamment à Paris le 21 mai, avec Laurent Dubois, une collaboration 100% franco-australienne.2025-04-1509 min
SBS French - SBS en françaisSmelly Cheese : une masterclass pour marier les mets franco-australiensRencontre avec Valérie Henbest, la fondatrice de Smelly Cheese, une fromagerie basée dans le marché iconique d’Adelaïde. Elle organise des masterclass pour apprendre à marier les boissons et les fromages. Notamment à Paris le 21 mai, avec Laurent Dubois, une collaboration 100% franco-australienne.2025-04-1509 min
Sensing UpThe Rebel Chef of Africola with Duncan WelgemoedDuncan Welgemoed is not your average chef. A rule-breaker with a passion for bold flavours, he’s worked in Michelin-starred kitchens, reinvented Adelaide’s dining scene and cooked for rockstars. In this episode, Valerie sits down with Duncan to uncover his journey from South Africa to the UK and ultimately, to Africola. From his early days in high-pressure kitchens to shaping South Australia’s food culture, this conversation is full of energy, insight and a little bit of chaos - just like his food.2025-03-2438 min
Sensing UpTasting Australia with Karena ArmstrongAward-winning chef and restaurateur Karena Armstrong has spent over a decade celebrating South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula through her food. As co-owner of The Salopian Inn and co-director of Tasting Australia, she champions the three Ps—place, produce and people—while crafting fiercely local, seasonal cuisine. In this episode, Valerie explores Karena’s food journey - from working with industry icons to shaping one of the state’s most respected dining experiences.2025-02-2740 min
Sensing UpThe Father of Fusion with Cheong LiewRenowned as the Father of Fusion Cuisine, Cheong Liew has shaped contemporary Australian food with his bold flavours and cultural storytelling. In this episode, Valerie Henbest delves into Liew’s journey—from his Malaysian roots to pioneering fusion cuisine in Australia. Discover how a self-taught chef blended Greek, Malaysian, and European influences to redefine the culinary landscape.2025-02-131h 03
Sensing UpSeason 2 HighlightsJoin host Valerie Henbest, renowned cheese expert and owner of the Smelly Cheese Shop - in the famous Adelaide Central Market - for a curated selection of Season 2's most compelling moments. A recipient of the French National Order of Agricultural Merit Award, Valerie brings her extensive expertise in cheese importation and aging to these insightful discussions with industry pioneers and artisanal producers.2025-01-2127 min
Sensing UpForaging and Flavour in Adelaide Hills with Kane PollardJoin Valerie Henbest as she explores the Adelaide Hills with renowned chef Kane Pollard. From foraging unique botanicals to mastering century-old cooking methods, Kane shares his journey in sustainability and seasonal cooking at Ondeen and Tasting Australia.2024-12-2334 min
Sensing UpForaging and Flavour in Adelaide Hills with Kane PollardJoin Valerie Henbest as she explores the Adelaide Hills with renowned chef Kane Pollard. From foraging unique botanicals to mastering century-old cooking methods, Kane shares his journey in sustainability and seasonal cooking at Ondeen and Tasting Australia.2024-12-1934 min
Sensing UpInsights From French Ambassador Pierre-André ImbertStep into a world of wine, cheese and culture with Pierre-André Imbert - French Ambassador to Australia. The episode today, toasts the 100th anniversary of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine and the unique ties between French and Australian terroirs and traditions. 2024-12-0422 min
Sensing UpThe Magic of Berthillon Ice Cream with Muriel DelpuechTravel back to the origins of Paris’s legendary Berthillon ice cream with Muriel Delpuech. Discover the secrets behind the family business that’s been enchanting taste buds since 1954. From creamy classics to vibrant fruit sorbets, learn how Berthillon continues to craft some of the world’s best ice creams.2024-11-1927 min
Sensing UpMurray's Cheese and NYC with Elizabeth ChubbuckJoin Valerie Henbest in New York City for an inspiring conversation with Elizabeth Chubbuck, Chief Strategy Officer at Murray's Cheese. From her rural Illinois roots to shaping strategies for one of NYC’s most iconic cheese institutions, Elizabeth shares her unique journey and passion for food, language, and culture.2024-11-0556 min
Sensing UpFromagerie Magic: Parisian Cheese with Virginie BoularouahStep into Parisian paradise with Virginie Boularouah, a third-generation cheesemonger. Learn how Virginie’s dedication to raw milk, seasonal production, and animal welfare shapes her two beloved shops in Montmartre. Dive into a conversation that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and the timeless art of cheese making in France.2024-10-1535 min
Sensing UpS2E8: Tasmanian Roots, Parisian Views: Cooking At The Australian Embassy with Katherine WitbreukToday, Valerie transports us to the Australian Embassy in Paris for a captivating conversation with Katherine Witbreuk. Katherine, a Tasmania-born chef with Dutch heritage, shares her journey - from growing up with Dutch comfort food to her international experiences in Thai, Middle Eastern, and modern Australian cuisine. Katherine also provides a rare glimpse into her life at the embassy, where she enjoys views of the Eiffel Tower while cooking for dignitaries and diplomats. Tune in to explore the art of blending cultures through food, and hear how Katherine found her calling in the kitchen.2024-10-0233 min
Sensing UpEscape to Kangaroo Island Paradise with Karin GreensladeIn this episode of Sensing Up, Valerie takes us to the breathtaking Kangaroo Island - a haven for food lovers and home to fascinating history and pristine wildlife. Valerie chats with Karin Greenslade, owner of Sea Dragon Lodge, about her journey from Germany to owning a stunning property near the island's lighthouse. Discover how Karin’s hospitality background and love for food - including the unique Flammekueche - bring a fresh touch to the island. Plus, dive into the island’s unique offerings—from Ligurian bees to award-winning spirits.2024-09-1739 min
Sensing UpSweet Success with Josefin Zernell on Mörk ChocolateValerie travels to Melbourne to meet with Josefin Zernell, the co-founder of Mörk Chocolate. Together, they dive into their journey creating Australia's first specialty hot chocolate brand - blending Swedish heritage with Melbourne's vibrant coffee culture. From Josefin's passion for chocolate to the brand's emphasis on traceability and unique origins, discover how Mörk Chocolate is shaping Australia's chocolate scene.2024-09-0323 min
Sensing UpBrewing Positive Change with Jeremy HulsdunkIn this episode, Valerie Henbest sits down with Jeremy Hulsdunk, one of the key figures behind Five Senses Coffee. Fresh from the Good Food and Wine Show in Perth, Jeremy shares the inspiring journey of how Five Senses was born out of a passion for coffee and a commitment to positively impacting the people it touches. From his beginnings in WA to becoming a certified Q Grader and multi-award-winning barista, Jeremy discusses the evolution of coffee culture in Australia, the story behind Five Senses, and what makes their approach to coffee so unique.2024-08-2531 min
Sensing UpTasmanian Taste Revolution with Daniel LeesongIn the episode today, Valerie travels to Tasmania - a food lover’s paradise - to chat with Daniel Leesong. Discover how Daniel, originally from Adelaide and with a corporate career in Canberra, made a bold leap into the world of artisanal cheese, chocolate, and wine with his wife Melanie. From planting strawberries to winning prestigious cheese awards, Daniel shares the highs and lows of transforming a dream into reality. Tune in to explore the unique flavors of Tasmania, the challenges of starting multiple food businesses simultaneously, and the passion that drives the Leesongs' successful venture. 2024-08-0826 min
Sensing UpAromas Of The Adelaide Hills with Rose KentishThis week, Valerie chats with Rose Kentish, a renowned South Australian distiller and winemaker. Discover Rose’s journey from her upbringing on a farm near Mount Gambier to becoming a celebrated winemaker in McLaren Vale. Learn about her adventures in France, her passion for premium produce, and the fusion of creativity and chemistry in her craft. Tune in for an engaging conversation about life, family, and the art of distilling.2024-07-1837 min
Sensing UpExploring Cheese Cultures with Gaëtan ChaponToday, Valerie interviews Gaëtan Chapon, General Manager at Long Paddock Cheese. Gaetan shares his journey from France to Australia and dives into the contrasts between French and Australian cheese-making. He reflects on his childhood food experiences, the evolution of Australia's food culture and the significance of tradition in food. Discover insights on raw milk, cheese awards and the Australian palate's adaptation to diverse flavors. Join us as Gaetan reveals his unique perspective on the future of cheese-making. 2024-07-0336 min
Sensing UpExploring the Flavours of Life with Maeve O'MearaIn this episode, Valerie sits down with award-winning author, journalist and Food Safari host, Maeve O'Meara. They explore Maeve's lifelong passion for food, rooted in her Irish-Australian heritage and enriched by her global adventures. Maeve shares some of her early food memories, the evolution of Australian cuisine and her experiences as a journalist traveling the world. Listen to heartwarming stories of family, tradition and the unifying power of food that bridges cultures and generations.2024-06-1839 min
Sensing UpSeason 1 Wrap UpJoin us for the season one finale of Sensing Up! Valerie reflects on a remarkable journey featuring passionate artisans and their unique crafts - and shares many behind-the-scenes highlights of the season. Enjoy this wrap of her sensory adventure, revisiting extraordinary experiences and inspiring stories. Perfect for lovers of cheese, wine, chocolate, culture, and so much more. 2024-05-2813 min
Sensing UpSavouring Tradition with Juan FigueroaWelcome to Sensing Up, where we explore the food world through our senses. Today, at the Salon du Fromage in Paris, we're joined by Juan Figueroa - a master of Spanish cheese. From the lineage of the Countess of Romanones, Juan's passion for crafting exceptional cheeses is rooted in tradition and heritage. Join us as we tune in to every sense, ready to embark on a sensory journey through flavours and aromas with Juan Figueroa.2024-04-2329 min
Sensing UpCheese Royalty: Inside Affinage with Jean-Charles ArnaudToday we're at the heart of all things cheese - the Salon du Fromage in Paris - and joining us is none other than Jean-Charles Arnaud, a true titan of the industry. Jean-Charles Arnaud, the esteemed president of Arnaud-Juraflore cheese factories, brings a rich heritage to the table, with his family's cheese business tracing its roots back to the early 20th century. A connoisseur of all things cheese, John-Charles stands as a symbol of excellence in affinage and has also held the prestigious position of President of the National Institute of Origin and Quality (INAO) for many y...2024-03-1233 min
Sensing UpCheese Artistry with Laurent DuboisWelcome back to Sensing Up! Our guest today, Laurent Dubois - a Meilleur Ouvrier de France since 2000 - is renowned for his exceptional cheese shops, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois. People from far and wide queue for his unique and edible works of art. Don't miss this delicious episode, as Laurent shares the art of crafting exquisite cheese and the secrets behind his success.2024-02-2832 min
Sensing UpS1E8: Blending Wine History and Innovation with Dan CowardToday on Sensing Up, we're joined by the incredible wine professional, Dan Coward from Alkina Wine Estates. Dan has led an exciting wine journey that includes Alkina's award of the 2022 Innovative Winery of the Year. Known for his personable nature, Dan's storytelling prowess adds an extra layer to his charm. Talking wine with him today is a journey through unexpected places and tales. His talent for this may come from his formative education in modern history at Oxford University. Join us as we uncover some of the fascinating intersections between history and winemaking a...2024-01-3139 min
Sensing UpCheese, Wine and History: Parisian Delights with Thibaud DupinIn this episode, Valerie is joined by Thibaud Dupin from La Fromagerie Du Louvre. Thibaud shares insights into his role and reminisces about his time in Australia, where he worked at the popular Melbourne venue, Milk The Cow. Explore the fascinating connection between wine and cheese, as Thibaud's passion for raw and authentic products unfolds. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this episode promises a sensory journey through history, culture, and culinary delights in the heart of Paris.2023-12-1324 min
Sensing UpThe World's Best Cheese: Gruyere with Denis KaserIn this of Sensing Up, Valerie engages in a conversation with Denis Kaser, the head of international marketing for Le Gruyère AOP. Both currently in Brisbane, Valerie has just concluded a series of cheese masterclasses, featuring the renowned Swiss cheese, Gruyere, paired with delightful chocolates. Denis, who has dedicated the last 5 years to the Gruyere consortium, shares his journey from the corporate world to advocating for this ancient and traditional cheese worldwide. As Gruyere was crowned the World’s Best Cheese at the World Cheese Awards last year, Denis takes us behind the scenes, shed...2023-11-2747 min
Sensing UpAdelaide Hills Wine Artisan: Michael Downer (Murdoch Hill Wines)In this episode, Valerie is joined by Michael Downer, an award-winning young winemaker and co-host of her masterclasses. Discover Michael's journey from winning the Young Gun of the Wine Award in 2017 to becoming Head Winemaker of Murdoch Hill Wines. Michael challenges the norm by exploring cooler expressions in the Adelaide Hills, shaping his cutting-edge Artisan Series wines. Tune in for a sensory experience like no other. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a novice, this episode promises to tantalise your taste buds and ignite your passion for wine.2023-11-1448 min
Sensing UpChampagne's Rich History and The Tradition of Louis Roederer with Jean de CastelnauExplore the regal world of Champagne with Jean de Castelnau, export manager for the historic Champagne House, Maison Louis Roederer. Founded in 1776, this family-owned house has crafted fine wines for over two centuries. Valerie delves into Champagne's rich history, culture, and traditions with Jean. From the iconic Prestige Vintage Cuvée, Cristal, commissioned by the Tsar of Russia in 1876, to Cellar Master Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon's commitment to sustainable viticulture, Roederer preserves Champagne traditions with care. Enjoy this episode as they uncork the essence of Champagne! “Waiting, patience, questioning nourish creation, reveal it and subl...2023-11-0126 min
Sensing UpCrafting Cheese Tradition with Jules Mons of Maison MonsComing to you from the tiny Italian town of Bra - in Piemonte - we dive back into the timeless world of cheese, celebrated at Slow Food's biennial event. It's a cheese lover's paradise. Slow Food cherishes local food cultures, opposes fast food, and rekindles our connection with food. Our guest today, Jules Mons - a prominent figure in the cheese world - represents the third generation of the Maison Mons. His uncle, Hervé Mons - a renowned affineur and MOF (‘Meilleur Ouvrier de France’ or ‘Best Craftsman of France’) - guided Valerie in her early cheese endeavours...2023-10-1627 min
Sensing UpBecome A True Chocolate Aficionado With The Help Of Vicki From Adixions Luxe ChocolateGood Quality Chocolate can be appreciated in the same way as wine and coffee. In this episode of Sensing Up, Valerie sits with Vicki Papazaharias, founder of Adixions Luxe Chocolate. Vicki's passion for premium, indulgent chocolate began as a sweet obsession as a child. She has since travelled to Melbourne and Paris to hone her skills. Today she is a dedicated chocolatier working from her studio in Adelaide, as passionate as ever about creating unforgettable, decadent experiences with chocolate. So next time you are munching on a piece of chocolate take ti...2023-10-1026 min
Sensing UpCultivating Essence - From Banker to Cheese Artisan with Kym Masters of Section28In this episode of Sensing Up, Valerie sits down with Kym Masters, the Founder of Section28. Kym's passion for cheese and his desire to translate regional flavours is evident throughout the episode. His dedication to making a difference in the Adelaide cheese market has undeniably paid off - after a remarkable career transition from banking to artisan cheese. The episode explores cheese as a vehicle with a language of its own. Kym and Valerie discuss how it can be a means of communication, introducing new vocabulary and ideas to the palate. Listeners are i...2023-09-1835 min
Sensing UpSensing Up TrailerHello and welcome to Sensing Up, a podcast you need to listen to with your 5 senses! My name is Valerie Henbest. I am French. I am Australian. I am on a mission to discover more about the senses and how they promote pleasure once you engage them and listen to them more carefully. Each episode will give you a reason to listen, look, smell, touch and taste more effectively. Special guests will share their own “Madeleine de Proust” moment - the memory they conjure up from a little cake, a special perfume, a piece...2023-08-1401 min
The World Awaits: travel tales to inspire your wanderlustEP 3 Rebuilding a luxury lodge on Kangaroo Island after a bushfire & touring Paris with a French cheesemongerWe're off to Paris and Australia's Kangaroo Island!Hayley Baillie, co-founder of Baillie Lodges, one of Australia's premier portfolios of luxury properties, talks to us about its flagship property, the crown on Kangaroo Island, Southern Ocean Lodge, which was completely destroyed by bushfire three years ago, and the painstaking efforts that have gone into rebuilding this South Australian icon. https://baillielodges.com.au/French cheesemonger Valerie Henbest dials in from Paris. The Normandy-born owner of the Smelly Cheese Co in Adelaide’s Central Market talks to us about where to find, and eat, the best cheese in Pa...2023-06-1438 min
FolksalertINTERVIEW: Valerie Henbest - Founder Of The Smelly Cheese Co. Talking Cheese!Born and bred in Normandie, France, Valérie Henbest made the ultimate life change by moving to Australia over 20 years ago. Through immersing herself in the Australian food culture Valerie wanted to bring together the best of both the ‘old world’ style of cheese making and consumption and the burgeoning Australian industry.
Every cheese has a story and Valerie brings those stories to life with her wonderful was of telling the back story, because of her background in films she is able to masterful capture your imaginations.
Host: Keko www.Instagram.com/talktokeko
Guest...2023-02-2749 min
AgriAdventuresValerie Hanbest interview - The Smelly Cheese Shop - Adelaide South AustraliaIn this episode of AgriAdventures we will speak with Valerie Henbest from The Smelly cheese shop in Adelaide central market, an episode all cheeses and passion for good food and wine.
On AgriAdventures social, podcasts and Radio Italia Uno Adelaide.
Do not miss it!2021-05-2325 min