Cooking Your Way Through Life

In this episode of Cooking Your Way Through Life, I sit down with Tinesha Tutt for an honest and thoughtful conversation about self-love — what it really means, how it shows up differently for everyone, and why it’s never a one-size-fits-all journey. We talk openly about how we each arrived at the place we’re in today, the challenges we faced along the way, and how growth often comes from uncomfortable moments rather than perfect ones. This episode is about redefining self-love beyond trends, affirmations, or surface-level thinking, and grounding it in real life. The food portion of the episode focuses on intention — making yourself a meal you truly love. I walk you through four simple steps to build a self-love meal at home, using food as a way to reconnect, slow down, and take care of yourself in a meaningful way. All episodes of the podcast are now available again on all streaming platforms, as well as on YouTube. About the Guest:Tinesha Tutt is a Broker Associate licensed in Florida and Georgia, a community engager, and an event curator who is passionate about connection, growth, and showing up authentically in every space she occupies. Follow Tinesha:Instagram: @tineshatuttTikTok: @tineshatuttFacebook: Tinesha TuttYouTube: Tinesha Tutt, RealtorWebsite: https://tineshatutt.com  

In this episode of Cooking Your Way Through Life, we’re talking about Adaptability — in the kitchen and in life. I break down four key lessons adaptability has taught me through cooking: learning to adjust to your surroundings and the things you can’t control, why waiting for the “perfect time” only holds you back, how perseverance matters more than perfection, and why the ability to adapt is essential for growth and survival. I also share a real-life story from my time as a personal chef — including a moment when a client and I didn’t see eye to eye because I didn’t adapt the way they wanted. It’s an honest look at how flexibility, communication, and humility play just as big a role as skill. To wrap things up, I give you a simple challenge: try a new recipe this week or substitute an ingredient you normally wouldn’t. Growth starts when you’re willing to adjust. Because whether it’s food or life — if you can’t adapt, you don’t move forward.

Friendships aren’t always easy — but the ones that last are always worth it. In this episode of Cooking Your Way Through Life, I’m joined by my longtime friend Ayla. We’ve been friends since first grade, and this conversation reflects what it truly looks like to grow with someone over time. Life changes, priorities shift, and friendships evolve — but real bonds adapt instead of breaking. We talk openly about vulnerability, growth, and maintaining meaningful friendships through different seasons of life. This episode is a reminder that time doesn’t weaken genuine friendships — it strengthens them. On the food side, we dive into potluck culture — the do’s and don’ts of bringing food to a potluck. We break down the four most common potluck dishes and how to improve them so you’re not stuck bringing the item nobody wants to touch. This episode is equal parts heart, laughter, and real-life connection. Guest: AylaCT / Nuclear Medicine TechnologistMom of twoNight-shift warrior with a soft heart and a strong mind Follow Ayla:Twitter: https://twitter.com/MAGIXRX06Instagram: https://instagram.com/COUNTRYKANE88TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@SUGARBAKER

Setbacks happen — in life, in business, and even in the kitchen. In this episode of Cooking Your Way Through Life, I talk honestly about navigating setbacks when things don’t go as planned. Whether a setback is personal, professional, or financial, we all eventually face the same decision: adapt, pivot, or let go and move forward. I share real-life perspective on how setbacks can cost more than effort — they often cost time — and why knowing when to restart instead of forcing a fix can save you from deeper frustration. On the culinary side, we explore setbacks in the kitchen. Some recipes can be saved, while others simply can’t — and learning when to start over is just as important as knowing how to fix a mistake. From broken sauces to recipes that go too far, the kitchen offers constant lessons on resilience and decision-making. This episode is about reframing setbacks not as failures, but as moments that teach us how to adjust and keep going.

Patience isn’t passive — it’s intentional, active, and often tested when progress feels slow. In this episode of Cooking Your Way Through Life, I’m joined by OG for a grounded conversation about patience in both life and the kitchen. We talk about how patience shows up when you’re building something meaningful and why comparing your journey to someone else’s only creates unnecessary pressure. On the culinary side, we focus on risotto — a dish that demands attention, restraint, and trust in the process. I break down my four pillars of making great risotto, and how each one directly connects to patience. You can’t rush it, you can’t skip steps, and you can’t force results — the dish tells you when it’s ready. We also dive into the idea that your journey is yours alone. Timing looks different for everyone, and being patient with your own path is just as important as putting in the work. This episode is for anyone who feels like they’re behind, waiting, or questioning their pace — a reminder that patience isn’t wasted time, and growth doesn’t happen on anyone else’s schedule Guest: OG Music producer and world-traveling professional musician who has worked with artists including Bryson Tiller, Elhae, Masego, Xavier Omar, T.I., John Legend, Trippie Redd, and more. Follow OG:Instagram: https://instagram.com/OGTha3Facebook: Oliver Grose III