Stay ConnectedGrandma’s Silver explores the culture of everyday life, from design and interiors to food, tradition, and the rituals that shape how we live.
Hosted by Allie Kochinsky, each episode features thoughtful, approachable conversations with designers, historians, and tastemakers, uncovering the meaning behind timeless style and enduring traditions.
New episodes every Wednesday.
Copyright: © Copyright Allie Kochinsky
Step into the world of Southern elegance and timeless interiors with acclaimed designer Eric Ross on this episode of Grandma’s Silver. Eric shares his design philosophy, blending classic sophistication with modern touches, and reflects on the experiences and influences that shaped his creative vision.
Beyond design, Eric discusses his dedication to mentorship, sharing insights from the workshops he and his wife host to cultivate the next generation of designers and foster collaboration within the creative community.
Whether you’re a design enthusiast, aspiring decorator, or lover of Southern style, this episode offers inspiration, professional insight, and a look at how tradition, creativity, and mentorship intersect in the world of interior design.
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Sink your teeth into the rich history of American barbecue with culinary historians John Reed and Jim Auchmutey on this episode of Grandma’s Silver. From family-owned joints to regional specialties, they share the stories, techniques, and traditions that have shaped this beloved culinary art over the decades.
Discover how barbecue reflects culture, community, and heritage, and hear personal anecdotes that bring the flavors and history to life. Perfect for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about America’s culinary roots.
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In this episode, I sit down with interior designer Kara Cox to explore her journey into the world of interior design and her distinctive approach to creating timeless, elegant spaces. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Kara's work beautifully blends Southern charm with modern sophistication.
We delve into her philosophy on creating warm, inviting homes that reflect personal stories and heritage. Kara shares insights from her background in the world of furniture, discussing how it has influenced her overall approach to interiors.
Kara also offers tips on summer entertaining, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that are beautiful, functional, and fun.
Join us for this inspiring conversation filled with insights on design, entertaining, and the enduring appeal of a classic aesthetic.
Visit Kara's website here.
Follow her on Instagram.
If you enjoy Grandma’s Silver, follow the podcast and share this episode with a friend who loves heritage, design, and timeless living.
In this episode of Grandma’s Silver, Allie Kochinsky sits down with Ellen Reede, a distinguished set decorator for Apple TV+’s Palm Royale, to explore the art and craft of set design. Ellen shares behind-the-scenes insights, revealing how she transforms scripts into immersive visual worlds. Listeners will hear about her creative process, career journey, and the inspiration behind Palm Royale’s stunning sets.This conversation is perfect for design enthusiasts, film lovers, and anyone curious about the intersection of storytelling and aesthetics, offering a peek into the meticulous work that brings fictional worlds to life.
Key Topics Discussed
• The art of set decoration and its role in storytelling
• Behind-the-scenes insights from Palm Royale
• Inspiration and design process for creating immersive sets
• Ellen’s career journey and highlights from her work in film and television
• How set design combines aesthetics, narrative, and practical considerations
Check Ellens' work out here.
Instagram
***I would like to disclaim that, in the introduction for Ellen, I mistakenly titled her a "Set Designer", when her title is that of "Set Decorator". Apologies for the oversight!
If you enjoy Grandma’s Silver, follow the podcast and share this episode with a friend who loves heritage, design, and timeless living.
In this bonus episode of Grandma’s Silver, Allie Kochinsky chats with Marla Sanford and Bill Richards, co-chairs of Nantucket by Design 2024 (July 15–18). They explore the rich history, charm, and unique style of Nantucket, sharing what makes the island a beloved destination. Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the Nantucket by Design event, including special experiences, curated tours, and design highlights that celebrate both the island’s storied past and contemporary creativity. This conversation is perfect for lovers of heritage-inspired design, historic destinations, and thoughtfully curated events.
Key Topics Discussed
• The history and appeal of Nantucket as a design and cultural destination
• Behind-the-scenes insights on Nantucket by Design 2024
• Unique experiences planned for attendees, including tours and special events
• Celebrating the intersection of historic preservation and contemporary design
• Tips and inspiration for enjoying Nantucket’s charm, both past and present
Visit the Nantucket by Design page here.
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To learn more about the Nantucket Historical Association, click here.
Interested in the Youtube page Bill mentioned? Here you go!
Follow the event on social media.
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Get to know Marla and Bill more:
In this episode of Grandma’s Silver, Allie Kochinsky sits down with Marguerite Adzick, founder of Addison Bay, a brand blending fashion, function, and timeless design for the modern woman. Marguerite shares the inspiration behind her versatile activewear, designed to move seamlessly from workout to weekend, while maintaining a classically inspired aesthetic. Listeners will hear about her entrepreneurial journey, insights on building a brand that resonates today, and her approach to combining style, comfort, and practicality. This conversation is perfect for anyone interested in fashion, design, and the art of creating products that balance beauty with everyday functionality.
Key Topics Discussed
• The founding story of Addison Bay
• Designing versatile activewear with a timeless aesthetic
• Marguerite’s entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned
• The intersection of style, function, and practicality in fashion
• Tips for blending classic design principles into modern wardrobes
Visit the website here.
Follow AB on Instagram!
If you enjoy Grandma’s Silver, follow the podcast and share this episode with a friend who loves heritage, design, and timeless living.
In this episode of Grandma's Silver, we take you on an enchanting journey through Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, the historic home of the late Marjorie Merriweather Post. Join me for a conversation with Wilfried Zeisler, Hillwood's chief curator and deputy director, about the estate's rich history, the fascinating life of its former owner, and the property's exquisite gardens.
Discover how Hillwood continues to captivate visitors today with its stunning exhibits and unique visitor experiences. Tune in to learn about their latest exhibit and the legacy of one of America's most influential heiresses.
Learn more about Marjorie Merriweather Post:
Step inside the world of Mario Buatta, the legendary “Prince of Chintz,” with design historian Emily Evans Eerdmans in this episode of Grandma’s Silver. Emily shares untold stories from Buatta’s estate, offering a rare glimpse into his personal and professional life and revealing how his signature style has influenced generations of interior designers.
Explore the principles of maximalism, grandmillennial interiors, and timeless design, and gain insight into Emily’s own approach to historical research and design interpretation. This conversation blends storytelling, history, and practical design inspiration, perfect for anyone fascinated by iconic interiors, classic style, and heritage-inspired homes.
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In this episode of Grandma’s Silver, Allie Kochinsky sits down with Kayla Hoey, Public Relations Manager at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina. Together, they explore the plantation’s rich history, stunning gardens, and ecological significance, sharing the stories that make it a treasured destination in the Lowcountry. Listeners will learn about the preservation efforts, seasonal programs, and events that showcase Magnolia’s charm, and gain insight into the care and dedication required to protect both its cultural and natural heritage. This episode is perfect for lovers of history, gardens, and timeless Southern elegance.
Key Topics Discussed
• The history and cultural significance of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
• Highlights of the gardens, wildlife, and natural beauty
• Preservation efforts and programs for visitors
• Seasonal events and experiences that bring Magnolia to life
• The importance of stewardship and public engagement in historic destinations
Visit the website here!
If you enjoy Grandma’s Silver, follow the podcast and share this episode with a friend who loves heritage, design, and timeless living.
In this episode of Grandma’s Silver, Allie Kochinsky sits down with Liz Eichholtz, co-founder of Weezie Towels, to explore the story behind the luxury bath linen brand and the vision that drives its success. Liz shares her journey from graphic design to entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind creating a high-quality, design-forward brand, and how she and her team are redefining luxury in everyday home essentials. Listeners will gain insights into building a brand rooted in storytelling, design, and meticulous attention to quality, perfect for anyone interested in home style, innovative design, and heritage-inspired luxury.
Key Topics Discussed
• The founding story of Weezie Towels
• Liz’s career journey from graphic design to entrepreneurship
• Redefining luxury in bath linens and everyday home essentials
• The role of storytelling, design, and quality in building a brand
• Tips for balancing creativity, vision, and business
Find their shop here.
Follow the brand's Instagram here.
Follow the brand's TikTok here.
Connect with Liz on Instagram.
If you enjoy Grandma’s Silver, follow the podcast and share this episode with a friend who loves heritage, design, and timeless living.
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