Cultural Ambassador.
Educator.
Storyteller.
"Our stories are born to be told. They make us who we are. Embrace them, share them and allow them to empower you and those around you". - Lori McCarthy
Below you will see the work I have created, developed and presented. You will see the wonderful people and organizations I have had the privilege to work with. This will give you a good idea of what I do, but it’s more important to me, that you understand why I do the work I do.
At it’s heart, my work is storytelling. Stories collected and retold, stories of integrity, authenticity and my unwavering, non-negotiable commitment to tell the real stories of Newfoundland & Labrador. Those stories that live deep in my soul and in the souls of those around me. Sometimes uncomfortable and always told with truth so we evoke conversations and bring meaning to my home.
I believe that our living and evolving culture has a role to play side by side. They are of the past, present and our future, from where we were, to where we are and where we are going.
These stories are here to make sure our cultural roots stay strong for the next generations. I want my children and their children to love and appreciate the gifts this land has given us. Our stories, our food, art and cra our whole way of life— they're all worth passing down. They're part of who we are, where we've been, and where we're going.
Lori McCarthy
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Lori McCarthy identifies fiercely as a Newfoundlander, which means more than just geographical location of birth to her. Her passion for the land is matched only by her passion for food culture. Deeply rooted here, the skilled chef and outdoorswoman is guided by a sense of responsibility to place. The ethics of conservation and sustainability inform her every move, and she is as serious about protecting Newfoundland culture, resources and food ways as she is about sharing them.
To be an innovative chef, forager, hunter, educator , and enthusiastic outdoorsperson is less unusual amongst Newfoundlanders than you might think. The provinces culture is based on the values of resourcefulness and working with what the land provides. But Lori has made it her life, becoming a leader and advocate in a back to the land approach where traditional food culture is central. She's committed to keeping the wild game and foods of this province on our plates for generations to come, and passing on the pride she learned at her own mother’s knee to her own children who will inherit this islands abundant bounty.
Cultural Ambassador, Educator & Storyteller
Cultural Ambassador
Lori McCarthy is a passionate cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and celebrating the food traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador through her company, Food Culture Place. With a deep-rooted love for her homeland, Lori works to honor the region’s rich culinary heritage, from wild foraging and traditional food practices to the stories and skills passed down through generations. Her work is a tribute to the land, the people, and the vibrant culture that define Newfoundland and Labrador, inspiring others to connect more deeply with their own roots and the natural world around them.
Speaker
Lori McCarthy is an inspiring keynote speaker, TED presenter, and cultural connector dedicated to bridging cultural gaps, cultivating stronger communities, and creating a sense of belonging wherever you are. Drawing on her deep-rooted passion for cultural heritage, sustainability, and connection, Lori delivers captivating talks that leave audiences motivated and equipped with actionable insights. Whether sharing stories of Newfoundland’s traditions or exploring the transformative power of community, Lori inspires a renewed sense of purpose and connection in every audience she engages.
Cultural Consulting & Program Development
Cultural Consulting / Storytelling /Experiencial Development
Lori is available to create and develop programming to custom suit your organization or business. This experiential development programming is for those who have a passion to share their own cultural stories, develop a pride in these stories and learn to pass them on. Her passion for sharing culture through food storytelling is matched with her desire to demonstrate and share her entrepreneurial excellence. Lori is a consultant with the CBDC and your consulting may be eligible for funding.
“McCarthy is skilled at reconnecting visitors to the past. Food isn't just something you eat in Newfoundland; it tells a story. The story is of hard work and perseverance. It’s not just making do with what you have, but making a delicious life out of it..”
Lori is a Newfoundland cultural food storyteller. Her experiences are personal, relatable and meant to awaken curiosity, learn, and try out new things… Her passion for sharing culture through food storytelling is matched with her desire to demonstrate and share her entrepreneurial excellence.”
— Celes Davar - Earth Rhythms
Photographer: Johnathan Randell Smith