Episodes

  • Episode 4: Disco Night Bites (1978): Donna Summer, “Last Dance,” Osko’s Disco & LA’s Legendary Late-Night Scene

    Episode 4: Disco Night Bites (1978): Donna Summer, “Last Dance,” Osko’s Disco & LA’s Legendary Late-Night Scene
    Jun 27 2026

    Step back into May 1978 at the height of disco fever as Groovy Eats explores Donna Summer’s iconic hit “Last Dance” from the cult classic film Thank God It's Friday. In this episode, Kristen Hess takes listeners inside the legendary nightlife of Los Angeles’ Restaurant Row, Osko’s disco club, and tiki hotspot The Islander—where glowing Midori Sours, PuPu Platters, + Crab Rangoon with Plum Sauce fueled the after-hours crowd.

    Discover the history behind Donna Summer’s rise as the Queen of Disco, the cultural impact of “Last Dance,” the Studio 54 Midori cocktail craze, and the late night bites of the 70s LA nightlife scene that defined an era.

    🎧 In this episode:• Donna Summer, her impact on disco + history• Thank God It’s Friday movie + "Last Dance" hit song story• Osko’s disco + 1970s LA Restaurant Row nostalgia• Midori Sour recipe + Crab Rangoon with Plum Sauce recipe• Spotify + YouTube disco playlists • Printable recipes + behind-the-scenes photos/videos

    Chapters/Timestamps

    00:00 Opening Theme

    01:18 Welcome to Groovy Eats

    02:11 Stepping Back to May 1978

    03:00 Donna Summer, "Last Dance" & Thank God It's Friday

    05:20 Donna Summer: The Queen of Disco

    06:40 Restaurant Row & Osko's Disco

    08:45 The Midori Sour & Studio 54

    10:05 Crab Rangoon, Pu Pu Platters & The Islander

    11:53 Tiki Bars, Late-Night Bites & LA Nightlife

    13:10 My 1978 Memories: Roller Skating, Disco & Simpler Times

    15:01 Watch the YouTube Cooking Episode

    16:00 Blog, Recipes, Spotify Playlist & Substack

    17:38 Closing Thoughts

    19:20 Outro

    Key Topics

    • Donna Summer's influence on dance music
    • The innovation behind 'I Feel Love'
    • Genre blending: disco, soul, rock, electronic, pop
    • The cultural impact of disco music
    • Brian Eno's praise for Donna Summer
    • The evolution of club music over 15 years

    Key Takeaways

    • Donna Summer redefined what dance music could be.
    • 'I Feel Love' predicted the future of electronic music.
    • Donna's ability to blend multiple genres set her apart.
    • Her music influenced countless artists and genres.
    • Brian Eno called her single a game-changer.

    👉 Watch the Groovy Eats cooking video on YouTube - stay tuned, drops soon!👉 Read the full blog post on TheArtfulGourmet.com👉 Read the Substack essay with more photos, clips, and stories from the disco era

    What song instantly transports you back to another time and place?

    And if you could spend one night in 1978—would you be on the dance floor at Osko's, sipping a Midori Sour at The Islander, or roller skating to disco music in your living room?

    I'd love to hear your memories in the comments.

    Groovy Eats: Cooking Through the Decades, One Groove at a Time.

    Tags:

    Donna Summer, Last Dance, Thank God It’s Friday, 1978 Disco, Osko’s Disco, Restaurant Row Los Angeles, Studio 54, Midori Sour Recipe, Crab Rangoon Recipe, Coconut Shrimp, Disco Food, 70s Nostalgia, Groovy Eats, Retro Cocktails, Disco Music History, The Islander Restaurant, Donna Summer Podcast
    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
  • #UNFILTERED Ep5 | The Power of Reinvention: Tales of a Wine Innovator + Entrepreneur

    #UNFILTERED Ep5 | The Power of Reinvention: Tales of a Wine Innovator + Entrepreneur
    Jun 9 2026
    In this episode of #UNFILTERED on The Artful Gourmet Podcast, Host Kristen Hess dives deep into the extraordinary journey of Matthew Ackland, a man who’s built an empire of resilience, reinvention, and storytelling through luxury branding, wine, and life itself. This episode is a call to all entrepreneurs, creatives, and dreamers: your true strength lies in how you shape yourself through adversity and authenticity.Key Topics:​How Matthew’s roots in luxury branding and international advisory shaped his understanding of high-end experiences​The pivotal moment when wine transcended product — becoming a vessel for emotion and storytelling​The emotional and philosophical journey behind the creation of Two Tuxedos, a vegan Sauvignon Blanc inspired by cats and charitability​The raw truth of entrepreneurship during crises — tariffs, climate, the pandemic, and resilience​The unique philosophy of blending luxury with accessibility without losing integrity​The significance of animals Morris and Tora in Matthew’s branding and personal healing​How veganism and sustainability influence modern winemaking and brand philosophy​Lessons learned from fencing, discipline, and the importance of mental fortitude in business​The upcoming charity event, The Final Pour, blending wine, giving back, and community connectionChapters/Timestamps00:00 - Introduction​Welcome and episode overview​Introduction to Matthew Ackland and his journey00:10 - Luxury Branding to Wine​Matthew’s transition from luxury branding to the wine industry​Key influences and inspirations01:02 - Wine as an Emotional Journey​How wine became more than just a product​The storytelling aspect of winemaking02:30 - Creation of Two Tuxedos​The inspiration behind the vegan Sauvignon Blanc​The role of cats and charity in the brand03:45 - Entrepreneurship During Crises​Challenges faced during tariffs, climate issues, and the pandemic​Strategies for resilience and adaptation05:00 - Branding with Morris & Tora​Emotional connections and personal healing through branding​The significance of animals in Matthew’s life06:15 - Luxury Meets Accessibility​Balancing high-end branding with accessibility​Maintaining integrity in brand philosophy07:30 - Vegan Winemaking​Innovations and ethics in sustainable winemaking​Environmental impacts and brand philosophy09:00 - Lessons from Fencing​Discipline and mental fortitude in business​How fencing influenced Matthew’s entrepreneurial journey10:45 - Community and Resilience​The role of faith and community in business success​Building mental resilience12:00 - Two Tuxedos​Details about the brand and upcoming events​How it supports animal welfare and community connection13:30 - Conclusion and Reinvention​The importance of passion, persistence, and authenticity​Closing thoughts and call to actionIf you're ready to lean into your own reinvention and craft a life—professionally and personally—that resonates authentic strength, this episode is your blueprint. Cheers to resilience, to growth, and to stories worth sharing.What does reinvention mean to you, and how have you embraced change in your personal or professional life? Share your story below!And if you enjoyed listening/watching this episode of #UNFILTERED, please give us a like, rating, subscribe + share The Artful Gourmet Podcast, that helps the show grow and keeps us able to create more inspiring, delicious content!Resources & Links:​Two Tuxedos WineConnect with Matthew:​LinkedIn​Instagram​MA Selections Private AdvisoryConnect with Kristen:​Artful Gourmet​Artful Gourmet Instagram​Food Styling/Photography Portfolio​Artful Gourmet Substack#WineInnovation #LuxuryBranding #Vegan #Winemaking #EntrepreneurialResilience #Sustainable #Wine #MatthewAckland #TwoTuxedosWine #CharityEvents #ArtfulGourmet #TheArtfulGourmetPodcast #KristenHess #FoodAndWine #Entrepreneurship #WineAndSpirits #Sustainability #PersonalDevelopment #Branding #Marketing #NYC #FoodPodcasts #WinePodcasts #Success
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
  • UNFILTERED Ep4 | Inside the Mind of Victoria Granof: Food Styling, Fashion, Art & Storytelling

    UNFILTERED Ep4 | Inside the Mind of Victoria Granof: Food Styling, Fashion, Art & Storytelling
    May 22 2026
    In this episode of #UNFILTERED, host Kristen Hess sits down with legendary food stylist, creative director, author, and visual storyteller Victoria Granof for an inspiring conversation about creativity, branding, food as art, and building a lasting career in an ever-evolving industry.A James Beard Award finalist, Cordon Bleu-trained chef, and one of Cherry Bombe’s 100 Most Inspiring Women in Food, Victoria’s visionary work has shaped iconic campaigns for brands including Vogue, Calvin Klein, Nespresso, Grey Goose, Banana Republic, Coca-Cola, and Häagen-Dazs.From collaborating with legendary photographer Irving Penn to creating edible art installations and cinematic food imagery, Victoria shares the creative philosophy behind her extraordinary career and how she continues to stay inspired after decades at the top of the industry.Key Topics:​Food styling as emotional storytelling​The intersection of fashion, luxury, art, and food​Building an authentic creative voice​Working in New York and Los Angeles​Branding, aesthetics, and visual identity​Creative longevity and reinvention​Staying inspired in today’s fast-moving content worldSound Bites“Food can be art, edible or not.” — Victoria Granof“I fight for imperfect, rebellious food images.” — Victoria Granof“Building a life-size Marie Antoinette out of candy.” — Victoria GranofChapters / Timestamps00:00 — Introduction to Victoria Granof02:43 — The Journey into Food Styling07:13 — Visual Arts, Emotion & Storytelling Through Food10:03 — The Philosophy of Imperfection & “Rebellious” Food Imagery12:47 — Client Relationships, Branding & Creative Direction20:43 — Therapeutic Baking, Community & Human Connection24:11 — Creative Inspirations, Candy Sculptures & Unique Projects28:10 — The Evolution of Food Styling & Industry Changes32:46 — Navigating the Digital Landscape, Social Media & AI35:29 — Starting Over, Reinvention & Lessons from the Past42:08 — Personal Reflections, Music, Soundtracks & Culinary Dreams45:40 — Final Thoughts/ClosingIf you love food media, photography, fashion, advertising, editorial storytelling, creative direction, or simply hearing how visionary careers are built — this conversation is for you.Watch episode on Substack and read storyWatch the episode on YouTubeWatch/Listen to the episode on SpotifyListen now on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio✨ If you enjoyed this episode of UNFILTERED, please:​Follow, rate and subscribe to The Artful Gourmet Podcast so you never miss an episode​Leave a rating and review to help more listeners discover the show​Share this episode with fellow creatives, food stylists, photographers, chefs, designers, and storytellersFollow Victoria:​Visit Victoria Granof Studio to view her portfolio, creative projects, books, and visual storytelling work​Explore her directing and motion work at Taste in Motion – Victoria Granof​Follow her on Instagram @victoriagranof for daily inspiration, food imagery, creative insights, and behind-the-scenes moments​Subscribe to Delicious Tangents on Substack for essays, storytelling, recipes, creative reflections, and more​Listen to the BEKNEADY Podcast hosted by Victoria​Learn visual storytelling and food styling through her course The Hungry Eye​Book creative mentorship and guidance through Victoria Granof CoachingFollow Kristen:​The Artful Gourmet Blog​The Artful Gourmet YouTube Channel​The Artful Gourmet Substack​Kristen Hess Portfolio​Instagram @theartfulgourmet​Book a Call w/ Kristen #UNFILTEREDPodcast #VictoriaGranof #FoodStyling #FoodPhotography #CreativeDirector #VisualStorytelling #ArtfulGourmet #KristenHess #LuxuryBranding #EditorialPhotography #FoodMedia #CreativeCareers #WomenInFood #FoodAsArt #Storytelling #CreativeInspiration #PodcastInterview #FoodCulture #CreativeEntrepreneur #CherryBombe #LuxuryLifestyle #PhotographyPodcast #CreativeJourney #ArtDirection #NYCCreatives #TheArtfulGourmetPodcast
    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • #UNFILTERED Ep3 | The Secret Reason You’re Stuck: Internal Resistance, Habits & Self-Sabotage w/ Kam Knight

    #UNFILTERED Ep3 | The Secret Reason You’re Stuck: Internal Resistance, Habits & Self-Sabotage w/ Kam Knight
    May 15 2026
    In this powerful episode of UNFILTERED on The Artful Gourmet Podcast, Kristen Hess sits down with author, speaker, coach, and world traveler Kam Knight to unpack one of the biggest hidden forces standing between us and the life we want: Internal Resistance.Why do we procrastinate even when we want to succeed? Why do we stay stuck in jobs, relationships, habits, and comfort zones that no longer serve us? Why do we sabotage our own progress without even realizing it?Kam Knight shares the groundbreaking psychology behind internal resistance — the subconscious force that quietly blocks action, fuels procrastination, creates self-sabotage, and keeps us trapped in cycles of fear, perfectionism, overthinking, and comfort. Together, Kristen and Kam dive deep into the hidden mental patterns influencing our careers, relationships, creativity, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.From procrastinating major life moves to fear of judgment, people-pleasing, perfectionism, comfort zones, habits, and the psychology behind why we avoid the things we truly want most — this conversation is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable takeaways.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, unmotivated, or frustrated by your inability to follow through on your goals, this episode will completely change how you view productivity, mindset, and success.🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:What “internal resistance” really isWhy motivation alone doesn’t workThe psychology behind procrastination and self-sabotageHow habits and comfort zones secretly control behaviorWhy perfectionism and overplanning keep people stuckThe hidden connection between fear, people-pleasing, and successHow subconscious resistance affects entrepreneurs and creativesWhy some people thrive on last-minute pressurePractical ways to recognize and overcome resistanceKam also shares insights from his coaching program Conquer Resistance, his journey from accountant to bestselling author, and the mindset shifts that helped him push beyond fear and transform his life.If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and finally understand what’s been holding you back subconsciously, this episode is a must-listen.✨ Listen now and start uncovering the hidden resistance sabotaging your success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cam Knight and Internal Resistance03:06 Understanding Internal Resistance and Procrastination05:33 The Psychology Behind Procrastination08:36 The Role of Beliefs and Habits in Resistance10:53 Core Needs and Their Impact on Resistance13:43 The Tricks of Resistance and Their Effects16:29 Social Influences and Resistance19:10 Criticism and Its Connection to Resistance24:42 Procrastination Sabotage: The Hidden Barrier to Success26:31 The Comfort Zone: Why We Resist Change28:17 From Accountant to Author: Embracing the Writing Journey33:06 Pushing Limits: The Role of Adventure in Overcoming Resistance37:15 The Entrepreneurial Struggle: Balancing Comfort and Growth39:49 Conquering Resistance: Tools for Personal Growth47:06 lifestyle-intro-low-short.wav🌎 Follow Kam KnightLearn more about Kam Knight, his mindset / motivational books, + get 20% OFF of his Conquer Resistance program with my code KRISTEN20Email: coach@kamknight.comSocials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTokFollow Kristen 🎧 Follow The Artful Gourmet Podcast for more inspiring conversations on creativity, entrepreneurship, mindset, food, media, and personal growth.⭐ Leave a review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to help more listeners discover the show.🎥 The Artful Gourmet YouTube Channel📺 Watch Kristen in Women in Power TV Show on Inside Success Networks📩 Contact Kristen or book a Free Intro Call Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Threads | Substack | Twitter/X | Book a Photoshoot#InternalResistance #Procrastination #Mindset #Success #Entrepreneur #Motivation #UNFILTERED #TheArtfulGourmetPodcast #KamKnight #KristenHess #psychology
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Women in Power TV: Featuring Kristen Hess | The Artful Gourmet Story

    Women in Power TV: Featuring Kristen Hess | The Artful Gourmet Story
    May 9 2026

    Kristen Hess, founder of The Artful Gourmet, joins Women in Power TV show on Inside Success Network to discuss food styling, photography, podcasting, creative entrepreneurship, and building a multimedia lifestyle brand. Watch this inspiring streaming television interview about creativity, reinvention, storytelling, and turning passion into purpose.


    📺 Watch the full TV episode on Inside Success Network:Women in Power Episode

    🌐 Visit: The Artful Gourmet

    📸 View Food Styling / Photography Portfolio


    Key Takeaways

    • ​Building a successful creative brand from scratch
    • ​Transitioning from advertising into food media and entrepreneurship
    • ​The evolution of The Artful Gourmet brand
    • ​Food styling and photography as storytelling tools
    • ​Reinvention, resilience, and creative confidence
    • ​Expanding into podcasting, TV, and multimedia content creation


    Timestamps / Chapters

    00:00 – Intro + Welcome

    01:12 – Meet Kristen Hess & The Artful Gourmet

    03:40 – From Advertising to Entrepreneurship

    07:18 – Discovering Food Styling & Photography

    11:05 – Building a Multimedia Brand15:42 – Podcasting, Storytelling & Creative Content

    19:10 – Advice for Creatives & Entrepreneurs

    22:30 – Women in Power Closing Thoughts

    24:00 – Where to Follow & Watch More


    🎙 LISTEN + WATCH THE ARTFUL GOURMET PODCAST:

    🍎 Apple Podcasts

    🎧 Spotify

    📻 Amazon Music

    ❤️ iHeartRadio


    🌐 More content, recipes, podcast episodes & creative inspiration:The Artful Gourmet Substack


    ✨ Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE with fellow creatives and entrepreneurs!


    #WomenInPower #KristenHess #TheArtfulGourmet #FoodStylist #FoodPhotographer #CreativeEntrepreneur #PodcastHost #ContentCreator #WomenInBusiness #FoodPhotography #PersonalBranding #InsideSuccessNetwork #CreativeBusiness #YouTubePodcast #FoodMedia
    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • Ep22 | Going Analogue: Slowing Down, Unplugging & Finding Meaning Through Food, Music & Memory

    Ep22 | Going Analogue: Slowing Down, Unplugging & Finding Meaning Through Food, Music & Memory
    Apr 25 2026
    There’s a quiet shift happening—and you can feel it.People are stepping away from the noise, putting their phones down, and choosing something slower, more intentional, and more real. Film cameras. Vinyl records. Long dinners. Road trips. Conversations that don’t get interrupted.In this episode of Groovy Eats, Kristen Hess explores the rise of “going analogue” and why so many of us are craving a return to presence, connection, and meaningful, real-life experiences.Through personal stories, nostalgic memories, and the inspiration behind her Groovy Eats series, Kristen shares how food and music became her way of holding onto what matters most—family, friendship, and the simple moments that stay with us long after they pass.This episode also weaves in stories and callbacks from:• 1972 – A soulful Valentine’s dinner inspired by Al Green• 1975 – The laid-back California sound of Eagles• 1978 – A nostalgic look back at childhood, road trips, and “Baby Come Back” by PlayerIf you’ve been feeling the pull to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with what truly matters—this episode is your invitation to do exactly that.✨ Put on a favorite song🍝 Cook something simple🥂 Gather with people you loveAnd remember what it feels like to be fully present.Key TakeawaysThe power of nostalgia resets our relationship with time: Nostalgia isn't about escaping the present; it's a mental compass that reconnects us with what truly matters—simple, sensory experiences rooted in past moments. Believing this shifts your focus: you start prioritizing meaningful experiences over chasing the next digital update. It’s a call to action—use past memories to ground your present priorities. Nostalgia isn't about escaping the present; it's a mental compass that reconnects us with what truly matters—simple, sensory experiences rooted in past moments.Believing this shifts your focus: you start prioritizing meaningful experiences over chasing the next digital update. It’s a call to action—use past memories to ground your present priorities.Imagine intentionally recreating a childhood dinner or playlist, not just for emotion, but to rewire your sense of time and presence. Approach nostalgia as a tool to realign your values and deepen your engagement with life.The idea: Nostalgia isn't about escaping the present; it's a mental compass that reconnects us with what truly matters—simple, sensory experiences rooted in past moments.Why it matters: Believing this shifts your focus: you start prioritizing meaningful experiences over chasing the next digital update. It’s a call to action—use past memories to ground your present priorities.In practice: Imagine intentionally recreating a childhood dinner or playlist, not just for emotion, but to rewire your sense of time and presence. Approach nostalgia as a tool to realign your values and deepen your engagement with life.Sound Bites"Moving back to New York soon""Create memories over metrics""Disco Night Bites coming soon"Timestamps00:00 The Shift Towards Analog Living01:54 Nostalgia as a Compass03:21 Groovy Eats: A Culinary Time Machine06:07 The Power of Food and Music08:24 Storytelling Through Cooking11:07 Unplugging from the Digital World13:28 The Future of Groovy Eats16:02 Balancing Digital and Real Life18:24 Reclaiming Presence and Memory20:39 Closing Thoughts on ConnectionTell me in the comments below ---> What’s one small way you’ve been slowing down or unplugging lately?🔗 Links + Callouts 🎥 Watch Groovy Eats on YouTube🎧 Listen to past episodes of the podcast 📝 Read past Groovy Eats stories + get the recipes 📖 Subscribe to Groovy Eats on Substack✨ Coming next: Donna Summer – “Last Dance” | Disco Nights & Late Night Bites - drops in May stay tuned!#SlowLiving #GoingAnalog #Nostalgia #FoodAndMusic#GroovyEats #ArtfulGourmet #RetroLifestyle #Unplug#MindfulLiving #FoodPodcast #StorytellingPodcast#VintageVibes #70sMusic #FoodMemories #IntentionalLiving
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • #UNFILTERED Ep2 | Maria Costanzo Palmer on Truth, Healing & Writing “On the Rocks”

    #UNFILTERED Ep2 | Maria Costanzo Palmer on Truth, Healing & Writing “On the Rocks”
    Apr 17 2026
    What does it really mean to tell the truth—especially when it’s your own story?In this episode of #UNFILTERED, I sit down with Maria Costanzo Palmer—author, journalist, and speaker whose work lives at the intersection of vulnerability, identity, and transformation.We dive into her memoir "On the Rocks", unpacking the emotional layers behind major unexpected life changes, family dynamics, and personal healing. Maria shares what it took to write something so deeply personal, how storytelling can become a powerful tool for growth, and why owning your voice matters more than ever.We also explore her work in media, her local cooking class events, and what’s next—including a new book and documentary currently in the works.This conversation is honest, raw, and deeply human—just the way we like it.Key Takeaways​Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for healing​The journey from journalist to author to filmmaker​The emotional reality behind writing a memoir​How addiction and family dynamics shape identity​The courage it takes to share your truth publicly​The connection between food, memory, and personal history​What it really means to live “unfiltered”​How Maria is expanding her story into a second book, a new TV documentary + next steps in her careerSound Bites"Gratitude for everything that happened to me""Our roots and family stories shape who we are""Storytelling is a powerful form of healing"Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Kristen Hess and Maria Palmer01:21 Maria Palmer's Background and Journey into Writing03:36 Family Roots and the Restaurant in McKees Rocks04:56 Life-Changing Moments and Moving to Los Angeles06:39 Documenting Family History and Confronting the Past09:10 Healing Through Storytelling and Family Connections11:37 Reuniting Family Through Food and Shared Memories13:48 The Book Project: Writing in Multiple Voices18:46 The Documentary Series: Production and Future Plans26:00 Writing Challenges and Lessons Learned32:40 Balancing Control and Collaboration in Creative Projects45:16 Final Thoughts and Unfiltered Life LessonsTune In🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, Substack & iHeartRadio 📺 Watch the video on YouTube 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Q+AWhat’s one truth you’ve learned the hard way?We'd love to hear your comments about this episode below!Guest Links (Maria C. Palmer)WebsiteFacebookTwitterInstagramMaria Palmer’s Book ‘On the Rocks’Venture Road PicturesFollow Kristen Hess | Artful GourmetLinkTree: https://linktr.ee/theartfulgourmetPortfolio: www.kristen-hess.comBlog: www.theartfulgourmet.comSubstack: https://artfulgourmet.substack.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klhinnycTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiegirl87---Maria Costanzo Palmer, On the Rocks book, addiction recovery stories, memoir interview podcast, storytelling healing, author interviews 2026, food culture storytelling, UNFILTERED podcast, Kristen Hess podcast, personal growth stories, women authors podcast, documentary storytelling, creative entrepreneurs podcast
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Episode 21 | Finding Your Tribe: How Food, Creativity & Connection Bring Us Back to Ourselves

    Episode 21 | Finding Your Tribe: How Food, Creativity & Connection Bring Us Back to Ourselves
    Mar 29 2026
    What happens when a group of strangers—connected only through writing, food, and creativity—come together in one place?In this deeply personal episode of The Artful Gourmet Podcast, Kristen shares the story of a magical weekend retreat in the Pocono Mountains, where food writers, chefs, photographers, and storytellers gathered… and left as something much more than strangers.Through shared meals, late-night conversations, and collaborative cooking, this experience became a powerful reminder of what it truly means to find your tribe—and how connection fuels creativity in ways nothing else can.From an unforgettable Indian street food feast to spontaneous moments of laughter, music, and creative breakthroughs, this episode explores how food creates space for deeper connection—and why building a creative life you love starts with the people you surround yourself with.If you’ve ever felt disconnected, creatively stuck, or like something was missing… this one will hit home.Key TopicsFusion cuisine and street food themeBuilding bonds through shared cooking experiencesRecipe development: mini curried spinach and queso pot piesKey TakeawaysWhy food is one of the fastest ways to build connection and trustHow shared creative spaces dissolve isolation and spark inspirationThe difference between networking vs. true creative communityWhy finding your “tribe” is essential for building a creative lifeTimestamps00:00 – A moment that changes everything: the magic of connection00:00:39 – Today’s theme: finding your tribe00:01:00 – The Pocono Mountains retreat experience begins 00:01:28 – How food turns strangers into friends00:02:41 – The kitchen becomes the heart of the house00:03:08 – The magic of unplanned kitchen moments00:03:39 – Why shared meals are about more than food00:03:48 – Cooking in teams: the retreat structure00:04:22 – What cooking reveals about people00:05:05 – Communal dining + sharing dishes00:05:28 – The Indian street food feast (highlight moment)00:06:18 – Kristen’s mini curried spinach & queso pot pies00:07:03 – Forming real friendships + creative bonds00:07:16 – The inspiration behind the featured recipe00:08:21 – Reflection: why this experience worked00:09:01 – Why food creates deeper conversations00:09:23 – The unexpected professional impact00:10:03 – Creative validation and shared purpose00:10:14 – Why you can’t build a creative life alone00:10:39 – Moments that shifted Kristen’s perspective00:11:10 – Rediscovering a lost part of herself00:12:00 – The pull back to New York + creative energy00:12:20 – The core message: find your people00:13:07 – Shoutouts + gratitude to the group00:13:35 – Where to find the blog, recipe & Substack00:14:21 – Final thoughts + listener reflection question00:14:47 – OutroClosing Q+AI'd love to know in the comments below: Have you found your tribe yet? What does it look like for you?Want the full story and photos and recipe from this episode?👉 Read the companion Substack essay👉 Download the Mini Curried Spinach & Queso Pot Pies recipeIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, give us a rating, and subscribe - that just helps the show grow!And A Shoutout to my new 'Tribe' and amazing Host of this event - Jenn Sharp, make sure to follow them on Substack and get inspired by this talented group of food writer, chefs, photographers and storytellers!Debbie Dale Blackwell, Mindy Crosato, Anne-Marie Pietersma, Betty Williams, Kerry Faber, CulinUrsa — Elizabeth Baer, Annada D. Rathi (& her husband Dinesh), Lori Olson White, Janet Mary Cobb, Elizabeth Pizzinato, Rebecca Blackwell, Kristen Hess, Marjory Pilley, Sarah Pilley, Emily Pilley, Anne Blackwell, Alex_Sharp, Dianne Jacob, Colton SharpKeywords#FindingYourTribe #CreativeCommunity #FoodStorytelling #ArtfulGourmet #CreativeLife #FoodPodcast #WomenInBusiness #ContentCreatorLife #SubstackWriters #FoodPhotography #CreativeEntrepreneur #PodcastLife #FoodCulture #ConnectionMatters
    Show More Show Less
    15 mins