A Chef De Cuisine’s Life’s Ingredients: Detour, Trust, and Relationship
Initially, the kitchen at Lottē Wichita, Kansas, struck me as pure culinary chaos, filled with the loud call-and-response of the chef and his cooks. Yet, upon closer observation, I realized that the precise choreography, managed by Chef de Cuisine Zakk, wasn’t a result of shouting or rigid rules. This remarkable uniformity and cohesion led me, […]
Lessons from the Pit: A Cook’s Life and Craft
I recently met a pit master/cook whose life story is as rich and layered as the food he prepares. He isn’t just a cook; he’s a true artist, and the lessons he’s learned from life and the kitchen are one and the same. His cooking journey began with his grandmother, an “old school” woman he […]
The Soul of Ocho Rios: Redefining connection in Jamaica
There are few places that change you on a deeper level. For me, one of those places was Ocho Rios, Jamaica. I’m not talking about the beautiful blue water or the relaxing environment. I’m talking about a profound, internal change, a self-discovery that goes beyond the physical materialistic world we are used to. This shift […]
The Master Who Appeared When I Was Ready: A Lesson in Patience, Attitude, and Shared Humanity
It’s often said that when the student is ready, the “master” will appear. As a lifelong student of life and human experience, I can say from personal encounters that this statement holds profound truth. Through curiosity and humble inquiry in my interactions, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many such “masters.” These encounters consistently reaffirm […]
Dreams on the Sands: Children of Elmina, Ghana.
Dreams can take root in the most unexpected places, that place can be a powerful form of practice, a collective passion and early dedication which becomes a vital ingredients in the journey towards realizing grand aspirations. For the community of Elmina, the beach is filled with life far beyond fishing. It’s a vibrant hub, a natural playground where the boundless energy […]