By Accident, Choice, or Grace
A Live Podcast Picnic from The Evolved Network
JUST ROOTS FARM
2936 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
2936 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
Saturday,
July 25, 2026
2–4:15 PM
By Accident, Choice, or Grace is a live podcast experience exploring the people, relationships, and moments that shape the way we care for one another. Set among the gardens of Just Roots Farm, the afternoon brings together chefs, educators, growers, and community leaders for a conversation about food, identity, and connection.
Your ticket includes the live podcast recording, audience Q&A, chef tastings, and an afternoon to gather, reflect, and share a meal on the farm. Every ticket purchased helps sustain The Evolved Network's programming at William Ray Elementary School and National Teachers Academy.
Your ticket includes the live podcast recording, audience Q&A, chef tastings, and an afternoon to gather, reflect, and share a meal on the farm. Every ticket purchased helps sustain The Evolved Network's programming at William Ray Elementary School and National Teachers Academy.
What to Expect
- VIP Farm Tour1:30–2:00 PM
VIP guests are invited to enjoy a guided champagne tour of Just Roots Farm before the event begins. - Live Conversation2:15–3:00 PM
Join us for a live recording of By Accident, Choice, or Grace featuring chefs, educators, growers, and community leaders.
- Audience Q&A3:00–3:15 PM
Ask questions and continue the conversation with our panelists. - Gather Around the Table3:15–4:15 PM
Enjoy seasonal chef tastings, explore the farm, and connect with fellow guests over food and conversation.
Who's in the Conversation
Every episode of By Accident, Choice, or Grace explores the relationships, experiences, and moments that shape the way we care for one another. This live conversation brings together chefs, educators, growers, and community leaders whose work offers different perspectives on food, care, community, and belonging.
Continue the conversation.
Each panelist has been featured on the podcast. Explore their conversations before joining us on the farm.
→ Listen to the Podcast
Continue the conversation.
Each panelist has been featured on the podcast. Explore their conversations before joining us on the farm.
→ Listen to the Podcast
- SELMA SIMSLead Grower, Executive Director, Gardeneers
- ALEX DESOBRO QUINNExecutive Director,
Pilot Light Grill - SARAH STEGNEEChef, Owner,
Prairie Grass Cafe,
Co-Founder - Chicago Chefs Cook, Green City Market, Women’s Chef Exchange - NICK DAVISLocal Farmer Organizer
- JESSYCA DUDLEYFounder and CEO of Bold Ventures
- ANNA ERICKSONTeacher, William Ray Elementary School
- SEBASTIAN WHITEFounder & Executive Director, The Evolved Network
The Meal
At The Evolved Network, we believe a meal carries a conversation further than words alone.
Following the live recording, guests will enjoy a collection of seasonal tastings prepared by chefs whose work reflects the generosity, creativity, and care at the heart of this gathering. It's an opportunity to slow down, meet someone new, and continue exploring the ideas shared during the conversation—this time around the table.
Following the live recording, guests will enjoy a collection of seasonal tastings prepared by chefs whose work reflects the generosity, creativity, and care at the heart of this gathering. It's an opportunity to slow down, meet someone new, and continue exploring the ideas shared during the conversation—this time around the table.
- TIGIST REDA
Demera - ARSHIYA FARHEEN
VerzanayJames Beard Award Semifinalist - CHRISTINE CIKOWSKI
Honey Butter Fried Chicken - SANDRA HOLL
Floriole - SARAH STEGNER
Prairie Grass Cafe2 x James Beard Award Winner - SEBASTIAN WHITE
Evolved Kitchen and Garden
Join Us on the Farm
Spend an afternoon in conversation with Chicago's most thoughtful chefs, educators, growers, and community leaders.
Conversation.
Community.
Care.
Conversation.
Community.
Care.