Hi, I’m Molly.

Culinary Producer, Molly Shanks

I produce culinary content that connects, inspires, and increases your appetite for more.

A bit about me

I’m a storyteller at heart, covering topics ranging from culinary, to health and wellness, to travel, and everything in between.

I’ve interviewed migrant workers in hot Ohio fields, and filmed the most decorated gymnast in history waltzing across the Dancing with the Stars ballroom.

I worked closely with the James Beard Foundation, amplifying the voices of chefs, restaurateurs, and purveyors demonstrating the power of good food for good. And I’ve honed in on the exciting, dynamic, and ever-changing culinary world, which brings us to today.

Food has the power to inspire. Nourish. Heal. It's purposeful and primal. As visceral as it gets. And it can help tell one hell of a story.

What story do you want to tell?

Producer, Behind the Scene, Television, Culinary, Tu David Phu, Top Chef

  • 5 Emmy Nominations

    Chicago’s Best on WGN-TV

  • 13+ Years Experience

    Broadcast, virtual, and digital production

  • 1 James Beard Media Nomination

    2019 Best TV/Online Special for Tastebuds: Chefsgiving

Watch my work

Chewing the Fat with Chef Edward Lee

Working alongside Ed Lee, I produced this YouTube series, capturing candid and occasionally controversial conversations with chefs and those in the media.

Watch an Episode

Sounds from the Kitchen presented by Mark Levinson

I developed and produced a digital series for the luxury audio brand, Mark Levinson, working with award-winning chefs to underscore the similarities between music and cooking.

Watch an Episode

Stories of Resilience and Leadership presented by The James Beard Foundation

When COVID-19 brought the culinary industry to its knees, we pivoted from a glitzy awards show to a series highlighting industry heroes.

Watch an Episode

Gregory Gourdet Recipe
Mashama Bailey The Gray
Karen Akunowicz
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Hear what people are saying

"Molly ranks at the top for production value, communication and efficiency. She is a natural storyteller who has a passion for doing things the right way. It is always an honor to work with her."

Edward Lee - Award-Winning Author and Chef

FAQ

Producer, Behind the Scene, Television, Culinary, Geoffrey Zakarian, Harry & David

  • No - I’ve produced content for ESPN, Adidas, Under Armour, KPMG, and a number of pharmaceutical companies (just to name a few!).

    I’ve also produced network TV, including Dancing with the Stars and Jay Leno’s Garage.

    And for two years, I produced a health and lifestyle show for WGN-TV, called Living Healthy Chicago.

  • I’m your one stop shop for all production needs: development, budgeting, hiring crew and talent, on-site production, and post-production oversight. Only need one or two of the services listed above? No problem.

  • Pricing is based on both the project's scope and your desired timeline. We’ll discuss your parameters and you’ll have final approval before any work begins.

  • Drop me a line on my contact page!