This week Cutting the Curd goes South of the border, down Mexico way with guest Carlos Yescas who is a cheese activist, cheese consultant and writes the popular blog Lactrography. From his work at United Nations to his efforts to help Mexican cheese makers create collective trademark style of cheese, learn how Carlos is utilizing social media to bring better welfare to Mexican cheesemakers and trying to create national Ministry of Cheese. This episode is sponsored by Hearst Ranch.

This week on The Farm Report, Erin talks policy with Carmine Rivetti of United Way of NYC & Carlos Rodriguez of Food Bank For NYC. Tune in to learn more about the constant steps being taken to feed New Yorkers in need and help families through these challenging economic times. Learn more about how programs like food stamps and WIC play into the equation and what's in store for the future of food security in our city. This episode was sponsored by Hearst Ranch.

This week on Cutting the Curd, Diane Stemple is joined in the studio by two newly graduated Certified Cheese Professionals, Amy Thompson and Elena Santogade. Amy Thompson is the head cheesemonger at Lucy's Whey in the Chelsea Market, and Elena Santogade is the head cheesemonger at Beecher's Handmade Cheese. Hear how Amy and Elena studied for the certification exam, and learn about the different subjects that are on the test. How has passing the exam furthered their careers in cheese? Later, hear Amy and Elena's cheese suggestions for the Thanksgiving dinner table! Hear what cheeses are ideal for cooking, for dessert, and as appetizers! This episode has been brought to you by S. Wallace Edwards & Sons.

"My advice to anyone who is taking the exam this year would be to really relate it back to the reality of being a cheese professional- to relate everything back in the body of knowledge to your daily work." [14:30]

-- Elena Santogade on Cutting the Curd