In this episode of Fresh Take with IDDBA, host Kat Shanahan welcomes back Heather Prach, former VP of Education and Industry Relations at IDDBA, for a conversation that is equal parts reflective, fun, and forward-looking.
Heather shares behind-the-scenes stories from What’s in Store Live, including the now-legendary scorpion tasting that had the trade show floor buzzing, and explains why curiosity, surprise, and word-of-mouth moments matter so much when designing live experiences. From igniting conversation across a show floor to thinking differently about protein trends and consumer engagement, this episode offers insight into how memorable experiences are built on purpose.
As Heather prepares for her next chapter, she also reflects on what made her time at IDDBA meaningful, the power of a team that knows how to “play,” and why the stories people carry home matter just as much as what’s on display.
We think you’ll enjoy this thoughtful and entertaining send-off, full of lessons on leadership, creativity, and connection.
Want to be a guest on the podcast or learn more about IDDBA? Reach out to us at education@iddba.org.
To learn more about IDDBA and becoming a member, head here: https://www.iddba.org/membership/join-iddba/membership
To see What's in Store Live at #IDDBA2026, head here: https://www.iddba.org/register
Former VP of Education & Industry Relations
VP of Marketing & Membership
Good vs. Great: Crafting a Better Pretzel with John Stefanik (Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Ditsch USA)
In this episode of Fresh Take with IDDBA (What’s in Store), Heather Prach, VP of Education and Industry Relations at IDDBA, sits down with John Stefanik, VP of Sales & Marketing at Ditsch USA, for a lively conversation about pretzel craft, category innovation, and what’s next for bakery.
How Leadership Development Pays Off with Steve Asp (Meat & Seafood Category Manager, Lunds & Byerlys) and Ellen Coatney (Education Coordinator, IDDBA)
In this episode of Fresh Take with IDDBA (Test Kitchen), host Kat Shanahan (VP, Marketing & Membership, IDDBA) sits down with Steve Asp (Meat & Seafood Category Manager, Lunds & Byerly’s) and Ellen Coatney (Education Coordinator, IDDBA) to unpack how leadership development translates into better communication, stronger teams, and real results on the job.