The MaD Team
"I am striving to be a Difference Maker. I want to Make-A-Difference on your food & remind folks to Make-A-Difference in life" - The MattDad
I am a trained Chef (Johnson & Wales University), Social media Influencer, and Cooking Instructor. I developed several seasoning blends during my time in the restaurant business and as a traveling Chef for SYSCO. In 2017, I began teaching cooking classes in Virginia Beach and making outdoor cooking videos which spiraled into a strong social media presence. I am known as The MattDad. I'm passionate about helping folks cook better food so that families come together around the kitchen table again. I strive to be a strong father figure to my four children, a compassionate husband to my wife of 30 years, and to influence folks to do their part in being the best they can be.
Make-A-Difference! This is what MaD stands for.
I hope you enjoy my seasonings, cooking videos, and recipes. Most importantly, I hope when you see that little MaD Seasoning label on your counter it encourages you to be your best in life and Make-A-Difference!
Stay MaD Ya'll!
- The Mattdad
"Don't be shy, let it fly" - Riley Starcher
Chef Riley is my son and "Go-to" business partner. He has worked as a line cook in many prominent restaurants in the Tidewater area. In 2020, he began working exclusively with the MaD Team. He is the Sous Chef for our Cooking Classes and Special Events. He assists with sales, social media, and our MaD $ Maker Fundraiser. You will see him cooking up some MaD Tastings during Farmer's Markets, Festivals, and Shows. He is a vital part of our operations. In his downtime, you can find him on the mat, the wrestling mat that is. In High School, he was a 2 x State Champion Wrestler and is now one of the assistant coaches for his old wrestling team. His calm demeanor, past experience, leadership skills, and words of encouragement allow Riley to Make-A-Difference in this world.
(From left to right: The Mattdad, Ruby, Mia, Riley, Anna, Rhonda)
The Starcher Family
I married my best friend and High School sweetheart...and then there were 6! Family is our greatest accomplishment. It means everything to us. This crew can be crazy and loud but we love hard and strive to do our part to Make-A-Difference in this world. Mia is a Mom and Photographer, Riley is a Chef and Wrestling Coach, Ruby is a Muralist and self employed business-owner (Wuby's Wings) and Anna is a Teacher. Every person you see in this picture has played an intricate part in making our MaD business thrive.
We are so blessed and thankful to YOU for supporting our business and for doing your part to Make-A-Difference in this world!