Susan Stockton

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Title: Senior Vice President, Culinary Production

Year you started at FN: 1994

Path at FN: Freelance Food Stylist, Executive Chef in our Kitchens, now SVP Culinary Production

Culinary education/background: Discovered food as my third career after closing my Boston design firm of 10 years. Also owned catering company, garden store and was Art Director for foreign film importer. Moved to NYC and threw myself into Peter Kump's NY School of Cooking, Food Styling, Cooking in NY Restaurant and finally the then fledgling Food Network — and I just couldn't leave! I firmly believe that everything you learn along the way comes into play down the road.

Cuisine you're known for: Cakes, fresh mediterranean, plating

Favorite food: Tapas, burgers, grilled pizza

Food you won't go near: Uni — I think it's a textural thing

Culinary inspiration: Farmers' markets, travel, Julia Child, James Beard, Craig Claiborne and all the amazing chefs I've been privileged to work with here at Food Network

Favorite show: Iron Chef America

Do you prefer sweet foods or savory: Savory and salty. But once in a while, I simply must have chocolate cake

If you were a condiment, what would you be: Real Dijon mustard

Charities or organizations you work for/with: This past year, we partnered with Share Our Strength. I was so impressed by their work on the ground in New Orleans post Katrina. Their mission to end childhood hunger hits home for all of us in the Kitchens. Also, Heifer International.