"It is time for the reckoning for the sugar industry, which is another massive industry that is cloaked in secrecy,  that has manipulated the science of what we know about sugar."

Award-winning journalist Celeste Headlee delves into the secretive multi-billion-dollar world of the sugar industry in her latest podcast "Big Sugar." Join her Beyond the Mic with Sean Dillon as she uncovers hidden truths and the impact of big sugar on our lives. Celeste pulls back the curtain on this powerful industry including one story that will amaze you. Get your coffee ready and listen to Celeste Headlee sweeten this story of "Big Sugar" in this Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Celeste:

We’re joined on the Starline by a storyteller, award-winning journalist, author, speaker, and musician on the hunt for the big story. Her latest podcast for you to binge is “Big Sugar”. We welcome from Maryland, friend of the program Celeste Headlee.

Celeste, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Last time we talked it was about 50 year old cold cases. But you’re back to talk about sugar. Why is the secretive multi-billion-dollar industry now in your crosshairs?

You have 9 episodes to break down an industry that has alliances, associations and special interest groups trying to keep something from the public. How has “Big Sugar” accomplished pulling back the curtain on the industry that few people know a lot about?

Between $2.4 and $4 billion dollar in subsidies are paid out to the processors. Will the examination of big sugar potentially affect the farm bill?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Have the way you drink your morning coffee changed since you did this program?

2. Last opera performance of yours was of what piece?

3. Best thing on the menu at the Stanford Grill in Rockville?

4. You’ve talked on “Ten Ways to Have Better Conversations” what’s #11?

5. Favorite podcast that isn’t yours?

6. Of immigrant labor, visas, health care, the environment, which is the biggest issue that media isn’t talking enough about these days?

7. You said once “you must have the integrity to stand by your reporting”. What was the topic of a story someone wanted you to write but the facts didn’t match up?

8. A newspaper in Kansas was raided. What’s your one sentence answer on solving the current attack on journalism?

One Big Question:

You have talked to the Jamaican sugar cutters and their stories changed your life and your soul forever. What’s the message you want to get out with “Big Sugar”?

The Wrap:

She loves baby back ribs, a good cup of Vietnamese coffee and wants you to listen to “Big Sugar”. Celeste Headlee, thanks for taking the time to talk to us again.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.