Forget the Cheese Log—Here’s the Real Recipe for Holiday Harmony!

Ah, the holidays. A season of joy, togetherness, and … trying to act thrilled about yet another cheese log from Uncle Larry. But for many, the hardest part isn’t the questionable gift exchange—it’s navigating those uncomfortable conversations that bubble up like your aunt’s mystery casserole.

Meet Joseph Poole, a Rollins College student leader and longtime Pledge supporter who’s stirring things up in the best way possible. Joseph’s Breaking Bread initiative brings people from all walks of life to the table—literally—to share meals, swap stories, and tackle tough topics without flipping the metaphorical table.

The secret? Breads, spreads, and a healthy serving of empathy. “It’s hard to stay mad at someone handing you a cookie,” Joseph says. With over 200 members and counting, Breaking Bread is proof that a little mint tea and a lot of heart can go a long way.

🎥 Check out this week’s video to see how Joseph is turning meals into meaningful moments.

🍽 Plus, here are 3 tips for keeping the peace this season:

1.    Before you break bread, break the ice: Start with light, food-based topics to ease into deeper conversations.

2.    Cookies over conflict: Offer something sweet—it’s amazing what a brownie can do for diplomacy.

3.    Listen to understand, not to respond: Look for common ground, even if it’s just the stuffing recipe.

This holiday season, let’s take a page from Joseph’s book. Instead of dodging tough conversations, why not meet them with kindness, curiosity, and maybe a plate of cookies?