Aired on March 1, 2026

• Cooking Classes, Multi-disciplinary, Nutrition

For 16 years, Chef Arlena Strode deferred her dreams of running her own kids cooking school as she traveled with her military husband. Now he’s retired and they’ve put down roots in Chatham County NC — where the proliferation of farms, lots of fresh food, and a concern for food stability caught Arlena’s attention. Strode has renovated a house in downtown Pittsboro with lots of light, bright colors, and long tables ready for classes and camps. Chef Strode blends lessons on history, culture, geography, and science to teach kids and build their confidence while developing their palates. Listen in and meet our guest:

Chef Arlena Strode is a culinary education expert and the founder of the Children’s Culinary Institute. With a passion for nurturing young talents, she established the institute to inspire children to explore the art of cooking. Her award-winning curriculum is taught in over a dozen places worldwide, and she is the author of five amazing children’s biographies about chefs in history who changed our culinary world. Chef Arlena’s innovative approach combines interactive, hands-on experiences with a strong emphasis on education and creativity. Under her leadership, the institute continues to cultivate the next generation of chefs and food enthusiasts.

“On The Porch” is hosted by Randolph ”Randy” Voller. He is also the publisher of Chatham County Line. Randy welcomes guests to the show who are from the communities of art, academia, business, and politics for friendly and informative conversations. “On The Porch” airs every Sunday at 6AM and is repeated at 11 AM, 6 PM and 9 PM on WCHL-FM 97.9. The show also streams on ChapelBoro.com, Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Current and previous shows of “On The Porch” are posted as on-demand, ad-free podcasts at ChapelBoro.com, Spotify and Apple Podcasts
To be a guest on the show or send us a comment, email: ontheporch@wchl.com