Food Innovation, Risk & Resilience with David Rabe

Food Origins Podcast 75

SHOW NOTES

David is the founder of Kairos, a premium seasonings and provisions company built around the belief that the best moments in life happen around food, fire, and good people.


What started as a pursuit of adventure turned into a lifelong obsession with quality. From learning how to hunt and becoming successful in the field, to chasing surf around the world, getting lost deep in Mexico on dirt bikes, and spending countless days in the mountains, David’s life has always been driven by the search. The search for experience, challenge, and ultimately meaning.

That pursuit eventually led him to the kitchen.

After years of sourcing his own meat and developing a deep respect for the animals harvested, David became frustrated with the low quality ingredients and fillers found in most seasonings. He believed that good food, especially food that honors the hunt and the people gathered around the table, deserved better. That idea became the foundation for Kairos.

Inspired by the Greek word “Kairos,” meaning a critical or meaningful moment in time, the brand was built on the idea that some of life’s most memorable experiences happen over shared meals with family and friends. Today, Kairos focuses on sourcing exceptional ingredients and creating thoughtful formulations designed to elevate the everyday moments people remember forever.

Outside of Kairos, David works as an engineer, balancing technical problem solving with a life rooted in adventure, storytelling, and the outdoors. Whether he’s cooking over a fire, chasing swell, exploring backroads, or sharing a meal after a long day outside, the mission remains the same. Pursue the search and bring people together around something real.

https://craftedbykairos.com

https://bendsauce.com


Show Notes & Links:

Alex at Firecracker Farm https://firecracker.farm

Craft hot salt and pepper products built around Carolina Reaper, Trinidad Scorpion, and Ghost peppers with a focus on flavor-forward heat.

Steve Rinella https://www.themeateater.com

Hunter, outdoorsman, author, and founder of MeatEater known for blending conservation, food, and storytelling.

Jack Arnold Burnt End https://burntend.com

BBQ and seasoning brand centered around bold smoke flavor, fire-driven cooking, and barbecue culture. ([BURNT END][2])

Pete Roberts Origin https://originmaine.com

Founder of Origin USA, building American-made apparel, boots, nutrition, and jiu-jitsu gear through domestic manufacturing.

Remi Warren https://www.remiwarren.com

Backcountry hunter, guide, writer, and podcast host focused on hunting, conservation, and wilderness living.

Mama Teav’s https://mamateavs.com

Cambodian-inspired chili crisp and pantry brand rooted in family recipes, heritage, and bold Southeast Asian flavors.

Leatherman Tool Group https://www.leatherman.com

Iconic American multi-tool company founded by Tim Leatherman, known for durable tools built for outdoor, trade, and everyday carry use.


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Listen to this episode on:

YouTube – (https://www.youtube.com/@foodoriginspodcast)

Apple Podcasts – (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/food-origins-podcast/id1617340639)

Spotify – (https://open.spotify.com/show/0Dq6v5L9AM3hJ0f2Vnm2iY)

Official Website – (https://www.foodoriginspodcast.com)

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Sponsored by FireCracker Farm

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Get the NEW YUZU Hot Salt inspired by Dave Sands of Food Origins Podcast

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A Food Origins Podcast Production Original music by Ulisses Bella of Ozomatli

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