Promotional graphic for the “BirdTalk” MSU Denver podcast, featuring the Denver skyline in blue tones on the left and a seated figure in a thoughtful pose on the right. Text reads: “BirdTalk: An MSU Denver Podcast about Alumni Careers and Lives, hosted by Jamie Hurst ’21,” with the MSU Denver logo in the top right. A banner along the bottom says, “Episode 32: Chennelle Diong ’16.”
Promotional graphic for the “BirdTalk” MSU Denver podcast, featuring the Denver skyline in blue tones on the left and a seated figure in a thoughtful pose on the right. Text reads: “BirdTalk: An MSU Denver Podcast about Alumni Careers and Lives, hosted by Jamie Hurst ’21,” with the MSU Denver logo in the top right. A banner along the bottom says, “Episode 32: Chennelle Diong ’16.”

The MSU Denver Alumni Association is proud to feature Chennelle Diong (’16), co-founder of Good Love Foods, in the latest episode of Bird Talk, the university’s alumni podcast celebrating Roadrunners who are making an impact in their industries and communities.

Hosted by Jamie Hurst, the episode explores Diong’s path from a nontraditional student in MSU Denver’s School of Hospitality to an award-winning entrepreneur leading a rapidly growing gluten-free food company. Raised in a Filipino-American household where food was central to connection and care, Diong was inspired to launch Good Love Foods after her husband was diagnosed with celiac disease. What began as a personal mission evolved into a purpose-driven brand focused on safety, quality, and inclusion.

Reflecting on her journey, Diong shared, “I never imagined that a personal challenge in my own kitchen would turn into a company that touches people across the country. MSU Denver gave me the confidence to take risks, follow my passion, and keep learning every step of the way.”

During the conversation, Diong reflects on how her time at MSU Denver shaped her confidence, curiosity, and willingness to take risks. She shares insights from studying abroad, working in hospitality and events, and later earning her MBA—experiences that helped prepare her for entrepreneurship and leadership. Listeners also hear candid reflections on launching a company during the COVID-19 pandemic, winning the Denver Startup Week Pitch Competition, and the intense growth that followed her 2025 appearance on Shark Tank.

The episode offers an honest look at the realities behind success, including the challenges of scaling a handmade food product, meeting overwhelming demand, and staying grounded in a company’s “why.” Diong’s story exemplifies the Roadrunner spirit — resilient, resourceful, and driven by purpose.

The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and here.

BirdTalk is MSU Denver’s official alumni podcast, sharing the stories of Roadrunners making their mark across industries and around the globe. For more information on BirdTalk or to listen to the episode, visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/alumni/birdtalk/