Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Podcast

In this final Weekly Intention episode of 2025, Nicki invites you into a simple but transformative practice for the holiday season and the months ahead: opening to delight.Nicki reflects on how awe can arise in the most ordinary places—a cut grapefruit, the smell of spiced coffee, a quiet childhood memory beneath the Christmas tree. Even on tired, imperfect days, these tiny moments of delight can shift our energy and reconnect us to what’s sacred in daily life.In this episode, Nicki explores:-What it means to “open to delight”-How small, ordinary moments can become sources of awe-Why naming delight helps us feel more of it-How this practice can support us through both joy and heaviness-The difference between “I will” and “I am” in setting intentions-A gentle invitation to carry this practice into your kitchen and your daysThis is the last episode of the year and a beautiful way to center yourself as we enter the holidays and prepare for a new season. The podcast will return in March 2026 with fresh Weekly Intentions and brand-new interviews.LINKS* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Join Nicki for a weekend retreat at Kripalu! (Feb 27-Mar 1, 2026): https://kripalu.org/experiences/mind-body-spirit-food-cooking-spiritual-practice* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Book a 1-on-1 session with Nicki: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/coaching-and-cooking-sessions This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s conversation felt like a deep exhale. Nicki sits down with breathwork teacher and writer Ashley Neese, author of How to Breathe and Permission to Rest, and publisher of The Deeper Call newsletter. Together they explore what it really means to rest—beyond sleep—and how to work with your nervous system, not against it.Ashley shares the neurobiological and emotional benefits of rest, why slowing down can feel uncomfortable at first, and how to cultivate micro-practices that soften urgency in daily life—at the stove, with our kids, and especially through the holidays. They also talk about boundaries, the power of the pause, and how lowering our standards (on purpose) can bring more ease and connection into the season.Listen in for:• Rest vs. sleep—and why “down-regulating” isn’t the same as crashing• The urgency trap and how to unwind it• Small, real-life practices for nervous system regulation• Parenting, food, and letting the kitchen be restful• How to bring more calm and intention to the holidaysLinks and resources mentioned in the show:* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Ashley’s website: https://www.ashleyneese.com/* Ashley’s newsletter: https://thedeepercall.substack.com/* Ashley’s book, Permission to Rest: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781984860743* Nicki's podcast episode about the nervous system with Samantha Fulton: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/our-nervous-systems-and-food This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s intention episode, Nicki explores what it means to be simple—not to simplify our lives through action, but to embody a state of simplicity itself. She reflects on why slowing down can feel harder than staying busy, how our nervous systems get swept into the collective pace of the season, and why embracing simplicity—especially now—can feel both radical and deeply nourishing. She shares how this intention can show up in daily life, in the kitchen, in holiday baking, and in the way we inhabit our bodies.You’ll hear about:The difference between simplifying and being simpleHow nature models the kind of rest and shedding we’re being called intoSimple rituals and foods that help us feel clear, rooted, and presentHow this intention can transform cooking into a more joyful, embodied practiceAn invitation to drop your metaphorical “leaves” and return to yourself each dayWe’re approaching the winter solstice—the darkest day of the year—and there’s no better time to release what you don’t need, settle your energy, and feel the light that comes from being your simplest, truest self.Resources & Links:* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Join Nicki for a weekend retreat at Kripalu! (Feb 27-Mar 1, 2026): https://kripalu.org/experiences/mind-body-spirit-food-cooking-spiritual-practice* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Book a 1-on-1 session with Nicki: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/coaching-and-cooking-sessions This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

In this cozy, holiday-ready episode, Nicki sits down with cookbook author and entertaining pro Dan Pelosi to talk about what it really takes to host with joy—without burning out. Dan shares how his Italian American upbringing shaped his love of feeding people, how he protects the joy in his work as a food creator, and the simple mindset shifts and rituals that make gatherings feel more spacious, present, and fun.Links:* Get Dan's Pignoli Cookie Recipe (and win a copy of his book!): https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/dan-pelosi* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Dan’s website: https://danpelosi.com/* Find Dan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grossypelosi/* Order Dan’s new book, Let’s Party: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781454956785* Nicki's Date Caramel Turtle Cookies: https://fromscratchfast.com/the-best-vegan-chocolate-turtles/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

This is the episode that almost didn’t happen. After a day of endless tech glitches and an overflowing to-do list, Nicki found herself gripping tightly to her plans—until she finally decided to let go.In this short “Weekly Intention” transmission, Nicki explores what it really means to release control, soften perfectionism, and surrender to what is. Through stories from her kitchen and life, she reminds us that letting go doesn’t have to mean giving up—it can simply be setting something down so we can breathe again.Take a deep breath, press play, and join her in this week’s intention: I will let go.Links:* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Join Nicki for a weekend retreat at Kripalu! (Feb 27-Mar 1, 2026): https://kripalu.org/experiences/mind-body-spirit-food-cooking-spiritual-practice* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Book a 1-on-1 session with Nicki: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/coaching-and-cooking-sessions* Gochujang Salmon Bowls: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/gochujang-salmon-bowls This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s episode weaves together two different threads: how we can eat meat more sustainably (and joyfully) and how we can live in a way that feels more sustainable to our nervous systems.Nicki is joined by butcher-turned-writer Steve Sabicer, creator of the newsletter Enlightened Omnivore. Steve shares his winding path from PBS-obsessed latchkey kid to running an artisanal whole-animal butcher shop, and what he’s learned about sourcing and cooking meat in ways that support both flavor and the planet.They explore what “better meat” actually means in practice, the truth about grass-finished and pasture-raised systems, how regenerative agriculture can help rebuild soil, and simple, budget-friendly ways to reduce food waste at home.The conversation then shifts to sustainability in life as well as in food. Steve explains how he uses the Indigenous Medicine Wheel as a compass for balance—mind, body, spirit, and heart—and shares the small, seasonal rituals his family practices throughout the year.LINKS AND RESOURCES * Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Steve’s newsletter, Enlightened Omnivore: https://enlightenedomnivore.substack.com/* One Bowl French Green Salad: https://fromscratchfast.com/quick-green-salad/* My podcast conversation with Liz Carlisle: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/regenerative-farming-climate-change* Marbled Meat Shop: https://marbledmeatshop.com/* Georgia regenerative farmer Will Harris: https://whiteoakpastures.com/pages/our-team* Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food Industry, by Austin Frerick: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781642834444* Steve’s Medicine Wheel Newsletter* The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom, by Don Miguel Ruiz: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781878424310* The Medicine Bag: Shamanic Rituals & Ceremonies for Personal Transformation, by Don Miguel Ruiz: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781938289873 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Feeling scattered or overwhelmed lately? You’re not alone. In this short grounding episode, Nicki Sizemore shares how to reconnect to calm and balance through mindful cooking, breath, and presence. Inspired by her talk with author Robyn Moreno, she explores how simple rituals—and earthy, seasonal foods—can help us feel steady and supported, even in busy seasons of life.✨ This week’s intention: I will feel rooted.LINKS:* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/weekly-intention-5* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Book a 1-on-1 session with Nicki: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/coaching-and-cooking-sessions* Join Nicki for a weekend retreat at Kripalu! (Feb 27-Mar 1, 2026): https://kripalu.org/experiences/mind-body-spirit-food-cooking-spiritual-practice* Podcast conversation with Robyn Moreno: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/robyn-moreno This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Writer and curanderismo practitioner Robyn Moreno joins me to talk about healing, the kitchen, and what it means to get rooted when life feels “slippery slick.” Robyn shares her journey from being a high-level executive to embracing curanderismo—a traditional Mexican practice of caring for oneself and others.We explore how perfectionism and ambition can sneak into healing, the meaning of susto (those old shocks that live in the body) and ser (the inner knowing that guides us home). Robyn also opens up about her relationship with the kitchen, grief, and reconnection to lineage—and she shares practical ways to find steadiness and rootedness in our daily lives.I left this conversation feeling deeply nourished. I hope it feeds you too. 🌿LINKS* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Robyn’s book, Get Rooted: Reclaim Your Soul, Serenity & Sisterhood Through the Healing Medicine of the Grandmothers: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9780306926273* Robyn’s website: https://www.robynmoreno.com/* Find Robyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynnmoreno/* Woman Who Glows in the Dark, by Elena Avila (mentioned by Robyn): https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781585420223* My podcast conversation with Meggan Watterson: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/meggan-watterson This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Weekly Intention: I Will Find Freedom in StructureThis week’s intention explores the paradoxical relationship between freedom and structure. Nicki reflects on how true spaciousness often arises within boundaries—the same way a recipe, a menu plan, or a daily ritual can create room for ease and flow in the kitchen and beyond.Tune in to explore how structure can become a sacred container for freedom, creativity, and presence.What does freedom feel like to you? And where might you find it this week? I’d love to hear in the newsletter comments.LINKS:* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/weekly-intention-4* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Book a 1-on-1 session with Nicki: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/coaching-and-cooking-sessions* Join Nicki for a weekend retreat at Kripalu! (Feb 27-Mar 1, 2026): https://kripalu.org/experiences/mind-body-spirit-food-cooking-spiritual-practice* Podcast conversation with Maggie Hoffman: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/maggie-hoffman This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Feeling uninspired in the kitchen? You’re not alone.In this episode, I talk with Maggie Hoffman—host of The Dinner Plan podcast and newsletter—about cooking burnout and how to rekindle joy in the kitchen. We explore simple structures that support creativity, ways to tune into what you actually want to eat, and how to plan meals that feel nourishing rather than stressful. Maggie shares practical tips and mindset shifts to help you bring more ease, flexibility, and pleasure back to your cooking routine. I loved this conversation and hope you will too!LINKS:* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Maggie’s Newsletter & Podcast: https://thedinnerplan.substack.com/* Find Maggie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggiejhoffman/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s intention feels both simple and wildly challenging: I will nourish myself first.We’re taught that putting ourselves first is selfish, even wrong. But as I’ve been reminded again and again, when I fill my own cup—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—what flows out into the world is more authentic, more generous, and far less effortful. Nourishment from the inside radiates outward.In this episode, I share how I’m practicing this in small but powerful ways. These moments may seem small, but they ripple out in big ways.So this week I invite you to ask yourself: What does it look like to nourish yourself first? Remember, we’re the only ones that can give ourselves what we truly need. It starts with us.LINKS:* Pre-Order Nicki’s new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/weekly-intention-3* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Podcast episode with Meggan Watterson: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/meggan-watterson This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s podcast might be the most powerful one yet. ✨ I sit down with feminist theologian + bestselling author Meggan Watterson to talk about embodiment, rage, and the radical nourishment of the early Christ movement.What struck me most is how Meggan reframes personal power—not as dominance, but as the courage to embody our truth. We also talk about rage, not as something to suppress, but as critical information guiding us toward love.And then there’s nourishment. The early Christ followers gathered in small supper clubs—not to proselytize dogma, but to break bread, feed one another, and create spaces of safety and belonging. Their focus was on sustenance, both physical and spiritual.This kind of communion, Meggan reminds us, creates an alchemy that fuels imagination and creativity, helping us step into the world as our truest selves—and as agents of change. This episode is truly soul food—fuel for imagination, creativity, and stepping into your own power. Related conversations:* The History of the Patriarchy with Elise Loehnen: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/the-sin-of-gluttony-with-elise-loehnen*Finding Grounding within Our Bodies with Abigail Rose Clarke: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/abigail-rose-clarke-2Episode Links* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Meggan’s Newsletter: https://megganwatterson.substack.com/* Meggan’s website: https://www.megganwatterson.com/* Find Meggan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megganwatterson/* Order Meggan’s new book: https://amzn.to/4mwpGRZ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

I’m back with another Weekly Intention audio transmission—short little episodes where I share what’s on my heart in real time, and how we can bring gentle focus into our days, both in the kitchen and beyond. This week, the message that came through (loud and clear!) was I will slow down.Slowing down doesn’t always mean moving like a turtle. Sometimes it’s simply a shift in presence. That’s what I explore in this week’s episode—how slowing down can actually help us connect more deeply, whether we’re cooking, walking, or simply moving through our day. This week, I invite you to try it for yourself. Post a note on the fridge as a reminder: I will slow down. See what happens when you bring the intention into your cooking—or into your life.LINKS:* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

If you’ve been struggling with figuring out what to cook for yourself, weeknight family dinners, or even just packing school lunches, this episode is for you. I’m joined by cookbook author and journalist Georgia Freedman, whose writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, Afar, Martha Stewart Living, and more. Her latest book, Snacking Dinners (Hardie Grant, 2025), came out earlier this year.In our conversation, Georgia and I cover a lot of ground—from the practical (getting dinner on the table in under 20 minutes) to the soulful (how to bring more intention into the way we feed ourselves). She shares her favorite pantry staples, her go-to tricks for cooking just for yourself (spoiler: you don’t even need pots or pans to make it feel special), and her wisdom on feeding kids, with all the little victories and struggles along the way.We even venture into school lunch territory, trading ideas and inspiration that might just make the daily packing routine feel lighter.✨ Don’t miss the extras: Georgia shares her delicious (and easy) Tuna Hand Roll Recipe below in this week's newsletter - linked below!LINKS* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Georgia's Tuna Hand Roll Recipe: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/georgia-freedman* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Georgia’s Book, Snacking Dinners: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781958417706* Georgia’s newsletter: https://www.snackingdinners.com/* Find Georgia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgiafreedman/* Nicki’s book, Build-a-Bowl: https://bookshop.org/a/114665/9781612129907* Spicy Salmon Rolls/Wraps: https://fromscratchfast.com/spicy-salmon-sushi-burritos/* Spicy Salmon Rice Bowls: https://fromscratchfast.com/spicy-salmon-rice-bowls-with-tamari-sesame-sauce/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

I’m so excited to share something new with you today: my Weekly Intention series. On the weeks in between guest conversations, I’ll be offering short, heart-led audio episodes—little transmissions, really—meant to give you a gentle focus for the days ahead.This week’s intention is one I return to often: I will invite ease.Not “make it easy,” but rather, bring a sense of ease into whatever you’re doing—whether you’re whisking soup, baking a layered cake, or simply moving through your day. It’s about perspective, not shortcuts. When we invite ease, our breath deepens, our nervous system softens, and even the simplest kitchen movements—pinching salt, stirring a pot—can carry a sense of grace.LINKS:* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I sit down with Jenn Tilton, The Channeled Baker—an intuitive chef and medium who blends nearly twenty years of culinary experience with spirit connection. We talk about the energy of food, how intention and grounding can transform the way we cook, and a simple practice you can use to sense which foods feel energizing (and which may feel heavy).Jenn also does a channeled reading for me using my blueberry almond galette recipe—and the messages she shared were spot-on. This conversation opened me in profound ways, and I have no doubt it will open something for you, too.Links:* Pre-Order Nicki's new book: https://fromscratchfast.com/nicki-sizemore/* Get the Blueberry Almond Galette Recipe: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/jenn-tilton* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Jenn’s website: https://www.channeledbaker.com/* Jenn’s newsletter: https://thechanneledkitchen.substack.com/* Find Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechanneledbaker/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I chat with cookbook author and recipe developer Alexis deBoschnek, whose work has appeared in Bon Appétit, The Kitchn, and more. Her new book, Nights and Weekends: Recipes That Make the Most of Your Time, is out this August!We talk about effortless summer entertaining, from menu planning to prep tips and serving ideas. Alexis shares how to throw fun gatherings—whether it’s a barbecue, dinner with in-laws, or a 4th of July party—with less stress and more joy. Her practical tips will inspire you to make your summer hosting more relaxed and enjoyable.LINKS* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Alexis’s website: https://www.alexisdeboschnek.com/* Alexis’s newsletter: https://alexisdeboschnek.substack.com/* Pre-Order Alexis’s new book, Nights and Weekends: https://amzn.to/43YRasb* Find Alexis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexisdeboschnek/* Podcast mentioned with Kiano Moju: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/kiano-moju This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

If you’re looking for summer cooking inspiration, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m joined by Kiano Moju, a Kenyan-Nigerian American chef and author of AfriCali—named one of the best cookbooks of 2024 by The New York Times, Bon Appétit, and The Los Angeles Times. I’ve already tagged so many recipes from her book, including her Cauliflower Bhajias, and she’s shared the recipe in the newsletter - linked below!Kiano talks about her approach to cooking—rooted in simplicity and bold flavors. She weaves together the Kenyan, Nigerian, and American flavors she grew up with in a way that’s deeply personal yet totally accessible. We get into summer cooking, and she shares two game-changing tips that will bring more ease and flavor to your meals (with hardly any effort). These are going to transform your summer table.We also dive into the idea of thriving—a theme I’ve been exploring throughout the season. Kiano shares a simple shift she made that brought more joy and ease into her work life. It’s a beautiful reminder that thriving isn’t always about big changes; often, it’s the smallest adjustments that make the biggest difference.Episode Links:* Cauliflower Bhajias (from Kiano’s book): https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/kiano-moju* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Kiano’s website: https://www.kianomoju.com/* Kiano’s book, AfriCali: https://amzn.to/45BGXED* Find Kiano on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kianomoju/* Podcast episode mentioned with Zaynab Issa: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/zaynab-issa* Podcast episode mentioned about the science of thriving: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/renee-moorefield* My personal reflections on thriving: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/what-cooking-taught-me-about-purpose This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

Today I’m switching seats and sharing an interview about me — hosted by Renee Moorefield, CEO of Wisdom Works and a brilliant leader in the science of thriving.We talk about my journey as a food writer, what it means to truly thrive, and how cooking can foster deep inner connection. I also open up about purpose, reciprocity, and how my definition of success has completely shifted over the years. It’s personal, heartfelt, and a little tearful at the end. I hope it resonates with you.LINKS:* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* My interview with Renee about the science of thriving: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/renee-moorefield* My intentional cooking/eating practice (BESTT): https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/grilled-wedge-steak-salad* Renee’s newsletter: https://www.wisdom-works.com/nourishing-leadership-from-the-inside-out/?mc_cid=b3975ff80f&mc_eid=2345c22827* Renee’s website: https://www.wisdom-works.com/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode I speak with cookbook author, recipe developer and content creator Zaynab Issa, all about the power of PURPOSE in the kitchen. Zaynab worked as a food editor at Bon Appétit magazine, is a current contributor to New York Times Cooking, and is the author of the new book, Third Culture Cooking: Classic Recipes for a New Generation.We explore how cooking can become a powerful place to find ourselves and to discover our unique preferences and aesthetic. Zaynab also shares her philosophy around beauty in life and in the kitchen, and how it can enrich the experience of eating, even if (or maybe especially if) we’re just cooking for ourselves. She shares her tips for creating beauty on the plate, from food styling tips, to how she chooses vessels, to tips for arranging the table. Be sure to hop over to the newsletter to get Zaynab's recipe for Tandoori Tacos (link below)!LINKS* Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD Newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/*Get Zaynab's recipe for Tandoori Tacos: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/p/zaynab-issa* Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore* Zaynab’s website: https://www.zaynabissa.com/* Find Zaynab on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaynab_issa/* Zaynab’s book: https://amzn.to/43eeuTI This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/subscribe