- This event has passed.
LGBTQIA+ In-Person Meeting
- Mondays at 12PM MST
This meeting is hosted from Denver, CO. All are welcome, no matter where you live or work.
Our goal is to foster community, share resources, and amplify LGBTQIA+ voices in food/beverage/hospitality.
Location: Hybrid | join us on Zoom or in person at Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake
Whether you’re a chef, industry writer, barista, bartender, server, brewer, or part of the broader food/beverage/hospitality industry, this space is for you.
**Facilitators are subject to change, but every meeting will always include two ExPOS-trained and certified facilitators.**
ExPOS/Host
Kai Malm
He/They
With nearly two decades in the industry… and counting, I am still here working as a bartender and hospitality manager. There are pros and cons of the industry and making connections and building relationships keeps me here, even when it’s tough. As a trans and queer male, I was drawn to CHOW’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive space while improving lives of us in the industry, both past and present. Throughout my life, even since a teen, I’ve faced significant mental health challenges that have taught me resilience, empathy and the importance of support.
ExPOS/Host
Vanessa Parish
She/Her
Hi! I’m Vanessa Parish (she/her), a queer, Black, and Indigenous food industry professional with over 15 years of experience as a Private Pastry Chef, Project Manager Consultant, and Food-Based Nonprofit Leader. I joined CHOW to help create spaces of care, healing, and solidarity for those navigating the unique challenges of this industry. As someone living with bipolar disorder and a permanent physical disability caused by this work, I know firsthand how isolating it can be to keep going without support. I’m here to be part of a community that centers wellness, dignity, and collective strength.
