From Hip Hop Artist to Cheesemonger: The Adam Moskowitz Story

Adam Moskowitz, a former hip hop artist, is deeply immersed in the world of cheese, the art of making it, and the culture that surrounds it. His journey from one realm to the other is a fascinating exploration of pursuing one's passion and finding unexpected success.

The Early Years

Adam's early career did not start with cheese. He made his in the tech field and also pursued his passion for music. This phase of his life, though not directly related to his current profession, laid the groundwork for his future success.

“I guess technically i was born into cheese. My grandfather and father were both in the cheese business, but i never ever thought i would follow them into the business. Instead, i made my way to the internet and worked at yahoo when people thought it was a chocolate drink. After a solid run on the internet, i decided to try and make it as a hip hop artist. But i was 30 years old, and not that talented, so at 32 i was lost and confused about what to make of my life. Oddly, my father kept showing up at my gigs, so i asked him for a job, even though i didn't really want to work in cheese. He told me no because he was in the process of selling his business. So that choice was easy. Meanwhile, my grandfather passed away and so i decided to take a job as a cheesemonger to learn about cheese. It was one of the greatest jobs i have ever had. I simply fell in love with cheese. About six months into being a cheesemonger my father informed me that the deal he was trying to close fell thru and asked me if i want to buy his company. that was 2007. So earnestly, i have been working in the cheese business for 15 years.”

The Cheesemonger Invitational

One of the key moments in Adam's journey was the creation of The Cheesemonger Invitational. This event, which Adam launched, has become an annual celebration of cheese. It's a unique blend of a cheese festival and a networking event for the industry. The success of this event has been instrumental in promoting the culture of cheese, and it has helped many small cheesemakers and mongers gain recognition.

“My crowning achievement is starting The Cheesemonger Invitational and my favorite time of the year is when we are fully immersed in producing the event. Oh, and for the first time in ten years, I just led Team USA to its best finish of 2nd place at the international cheesemonger contest called Mondial Du Fromage. that was epic.”

The Maker to Monger Products

Another pivotal moment was the launch of Maker to Monger, a line of unique, artisanal cheeses. These products, with their distinct flavors and textures, have been a hit among cheese enthusiasts. They are a testament to Adam's passion for cheese and his drive to provide the best products to his customers.

“I am really proud of the work we have done as Maker to Monger launching products like Challerhocker, Alp Blossom and OG Kristal. Whenever I visit my cheesemaking partners, I am building amazing memories, but seeing alpage gruyere for the first time is probably my favorite memory. Also, visiting my partner Jumi for the first time for I think what they are doing is next level amazing.”

The Cheesemonger Avatar: Parmigiano Reggiano

Adam's cheese avatar, Parmigiano Reggiano, represents his own personality. This hard, grainy cheese, with its strong, nutty flavor, is a favorite among many. It's a versatile cheese that can be grated over pasta, added to soups, or enjoyed on its own. This cheese avatar reflects Adam's own versatility and his ability to adapt to different situations.

“I’m like Parmigiano Reggiano because I am a work horse, you can always count on me and I aim to never disappoint.”

Current Projects

Adam is currently working on some exciting projects. He's exploring the use of solar panels on the roof of his warehouse, which would not only reduce his energy costs but also make his operations more sustainable. He's also in the process of rebranding Columbia Cheese to Maker To Monger, a change that will reflect the company's evolution and its new focus on artisanal cheese.

Closing Thoughts

Adam's journey from hip hop artist to cheesemonger is a testament to the power of following your passion. It's a reminder that life is a journey, and it's never too late to change course. Adam's story inspires us to pursue our dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

So, the next time you enjoy a delicious piece of cheese, take a moment to appreciate the journey of the cheesemonger. It's a story of passion, transformation, and unexpected success.

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