15/09/2026
I live in my head most of the time, and I try to write to get out of it.
I am writing about the fact that as both a creative and an operator in this industry that I love wholeheartedly, there have been countless days when I’ve wondered if I’m really cut out for this.
Just when I think I’ve finally figured something out, taken a major step forward, I can take a few days away from work and somehow feel like I’m back at square one.
I can see why people think it’s glamorous work when it’s quite far from it. As an operator trying to figure it out, there’s the constant hum of cash flow issues, sleepless nights, crying alone in the car to Moony, questioning whether I’m the right leader - and then there’s the creative who keeps putting pieces of herself out into the world, wondering if people will like them.
Just a human being stitched together with hope, love for the work, and purpose.
In this world of uncertainty, where AI seems to cast a dark cloud over humanity, I feel incredibly blessed for encounters like this - an interview that wasn’t really an interview. To experience in real time a human being sharing right there and then all the emotions she felt going through the dinner we created with care, intention and memories.
One of the best joys in life as a chef is creating something that another person can feel too. I think I lost it when she said, “If geography were someone’s hated subject, you’re their favorite teacher. Because you made the map something that can be tasted. Something that can be real”
I wasn’t asked questions. I simply sat and listened to how she experienced the dinner.
And sometimes, that’s all the reminder I need to keep going.
Thank you for this live review ❤️ Paulina