Championing Creativity Behind the Camera: A Conversation with Gusto’s Head of Production

With 25 years of experience in television, Keren Jackman brings creativity and heart to her role as Head of Production at Gusto TV. Known for her sharp eye for talent and her passion for storytelling, she oversees the development of hundreds of hours of food content each year. In this exclusive Q&A, Keren shares her insights audience connection, the evolution of food television, and what’s coming next for Gusto TV.

What first pulled you into the television industry?
Keren Jackman: Storytelling. Television has this incredible ability to make ideas feel accessible, entertaining, and meaningful all at once. I’ve always been fascinated by people, culture, and human connection—and that’s at the heart of what we do at Gusto. Food television is never just about the recipes; it’s about the stories simmering beneath them.

What do you love most about your job—and what’s the part you could live without?
KJ: My favorite part is that moment when a rough concept suddenly takes shape—a host, a tone, a format—and you can feel it click. Watching something evolve from an idea into a finished show is endlessly exciting. What I could happily lose? The marathon email chains. Creativity isn’t at its best in a 47-reply thread!

Where do your best show ideas usually come from?
KJ: Everywhere. A conversation with a chef, something trending online, or even a clever phrase someone drops casually at a dinner party. Inspiration often strikes in real-life moments.

What’s the most unexpected idea that turned into a great show?
KJ: Some of our strongest series began as ideas that felt a bit risky or unconventional concepts that didn’t fit neatly into the traditional “food show” box. Those are often the ones audiences love most because they feel fresh and surprising. Blitz! is a perfect example. It started as an offbeat concept, and we ended up producing more than 30 episodes with over 15 chefs. It’s still one of our top performers.

What makes someone a truly great TV host?
KJ: Authenticity. Audiences can tell instantly when someone is being themselves. A great host is knowledgeable, of course—but they’re also warm, curious, and generous with the viewer. You want to feel like you’re cooking with a friend who pours you a glass of wine and invites you into the moment.

How has your job evolved in a social-media-driven world where viewers consume content everywhere, all the time?
KJ: Today, we think beyond episodes—we think in ecosystems. A show must resonate on television, break through on social media, and live in short, scroll-stopping moments online. It’s made us sharper storytellers. We have to be nimble, adaptable, and thoughtful about how each idea translates across platforms.

What advice would you give to aspiring TV hosts who want to stand out?
KJ: Be yourself—and be very clear about what makes you unique. You don’t need to appeal to everyone. Lean into your perspective and let your genuine passion shine. Skills can be taught; presence can’t.

What can viewers look forward to from Gusto TV in 2026?
KJ: Bold ideas, new voices, and great stories. We’ve been developing some exciting projects that we can’t wait to share. We’re expanding creatively while staying true to Gusto’s core: food content that feels human, global, and joyful. Just wait—there’s a lot cooking!

From championing emerging talent to shaping some of Gusto TV’s most beloved series, Keren Jackman remains at the heart of what makes Gusto’s content so distinct: its curiosity, cultural depth, and genuine love of storytelling. With her team producing more than 100 episodes each year and a slate of new ideas on the horizon, 2026 promises to be one of Gusto’s most exciting and ambitious years yet.