Given the Irresistible popularity of food networks, competition shows and mass media centered around food, Ariel D. Smith as a fan noticed the under representation of Black Food Truck owners and Black Chefs in general in the media space. Her fandom eventually became a passion pursuit and a resolve.
Where there were no others highlighting these businesses in depth, Ariel took it upon herself to be a change agent.
Her popular and critically acclaimed podcast: The Food Truck Scholar podcast now highlights food entrepreneurs of all types, with different backgrounds and ethnicities at full scale.
The Food Truck Scholar podcast officially launched in 2019, hit the ground running, and has become a fan favorite. The podcast has listeners in over 58 Countries and has been downloaded over 15,000 times. It’s partnered with Black-owned brands Like EatOkra App and Pro Food Maker Podcast to bring content to larger audiences. It’s hosted three Food Network contestants and has been rated #1 Food Truck Podcast for two years in a row.
“I realized if I waited for someone else to create a space for me to do what I want, I would be waiting forever.”
Smith noted the importance of her cause in an interview: “I believe it’s important we see all the different people and backgrounds that a food trucker can come from. Especially for African Americans, Representation matters. That’s why my podcast centers around storytelling because I want you to know the owners AND try their food.”
“When it comes to the food truck industry, It’s just as hard as a restaurant. It’s not an overnight success or a get rich quick situation. Food truckers put in tons of blood, sweat, and tears. After interviewing over 50 across the country, that’s a consistent thing –it takes work!” Smith shared.
In regards to the success of the podcast, Smith attributes it to the understanding that it’s about uplifting others beyond herself.
“Ultimately, I would love to create TV shows showcasing Black food entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs in general.” she noted. Throughout aiming for her goal, the enthusiastic fan turned host realized that it was up to her to create her own lane.
“At first, I thought once I finished my degree I could be discovered by a network and highlight them with a show, but I realized if I waited for someone else to create a space for me to do what I want, I would be waiting forever.”
The impact that the show has made so far is not lost on Ariel as a creator, who stated that she’s proud of being blessed to build a brand that others find useful. “It warms my heart each time a guest or listener says how much the show means to them.”
More information about The Food Truck Scholar Podcast and where it can be streamed can be found at www.thefoodtruckscholar.com, The Food Truck Scholar YouTube Channel and on Instagram: @TheFoodTruckScholar
