School nutrition is having a moment—and not always for the right reasons.

After more than 13 years working in this industry, I’ve learned that school nutrition is one of the most misunderstood parts of the entire school system.

Recently, someone in one of my sessions asked me a question I haven’t stopped thinking about:

“What is it going to take to change the perception of school nutrition and the work that we do?”

My answer probably wasn’t what she expected.

We have to change the way we show up.

In Episode 65 of Ash to Dusk, I’m having a conversation directly with my school nutrition people—but I also want parents, educators, administrators and anyone who has ever had an opinion about school lunch to hear this one.

Because there is so much happening behind that tray that most people will never see.

We talk about what it actually takes to operate a school nutrition program, the financial and staffing pressures teams are facing, why the “lunch lady” stereotype still matters, and why the way we communicate, dress, serve food and tell our stories shapes how people perceive this profession.

I also revisit my conversation with Amanda O’Dell, the Lunch Lady Ninja, and the moment she refused to play into the stereotypical “lunch lady” character producers wanted for American Ninja Warrior—even knowing it could cost her airtime.

That decision has stayed with me.

Because changing perception doesn’t happen because one person launches the perfect campaign.

It happens when one person here, another person there, and eventually thousands of people decide:

I’m going to show up differently.

I’m going to tell the stories happening behind the scenes.

I’m going to speak proudly about this profession.

I’m going to make the food look like something I would want to eat.

I’m going to communicate professionally.

I’m going to take a seat at the table instead of waiting to be invited.

And most importantly, I’m going to believe that this work matters.

This isn’t about pretending school nutrition doesn’t have challenges. We do.

It’s about remembering why we are doing the work in the first place—and helping other people understand it too.

If you work in school nutrition, this episode is for you.

I see you. I know how hard you work. And I’m proud to walk alongside you.

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY

Website:
ashleymorena.com

Write to me:
Ashley Morena
PO Box 457
Green, Ohio 44232

Watch Ash to Dusk on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

If this episode makes you think of another school nutrition professional who needs to hear it, send it to them.