The Mediterranean diet is a great first step toward a healthier lifestyle, but what the heck is it? It's the ease of cooking lighter summer meals, using fresh seasonal produce, and incorporating healthy fats and lean proteins, plus so much more. 

We're making food an event by inviting friends and savoring meals, the benefits of including physical activity, and promoting joy in the kitchen. 

Remember back in the day when tv shows would declare a "very special episode"? Well this week, I'm declaring it too, as I convince my brilliant sister-in-law, Laura Van Bloem, to join me on the podcast to talk all things non-profit marketing.

Laura shares her insights on the importance of storytelling and impact communication for successful nonprofit fundraising. We get into hybrid work culture, fractional employment, and the transitions women experience as our children leave home. You'll find practical advice for nonprofits and service businesses on effective marketing strategies, and a great conversation about being a mid-life woman in today's world.

And be sure to visit EmptyNestKitchen.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter filled with super practical cooking advice and free resources.

Practical money-saving tips for grocery shopping are a must-have in today's world, particularly for empty nesters. In this episode, you'll find helpful tips and tricks for shopping smart for your own Empty Nest Kitchen. You can save money while still enjoying good food and reducing waste.

And be sure to visit EmptyNestKitchen.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter filled with super practical cooking advice and free resources.

Let's celebrate the arrival of spring by digging into a variety of spring veggies and herbs, including artichokes, asparagus, and fresh chives. You'll hear tips on how to prepare and cook these ingredients, with a bit of practical advice.

And be sure to visit EmptyNestKitchen.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter filled with super practical cooking advice and free resources.

Looking for inspiration? Meet Natalie Gibson, Home renovator, empty nester, and independent educational consultant. We're discussing Natalie’s journey into buying and renovating a fixer-upper home in downtown Frederick, Maryland, and her professional pivot into educational consulting. Natalie shares her experiences with her family, the importance of female friendships, and finding a support network during life's transitions. 

And be sure to visit EmptyNestKitchen.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter filled with super practical cooking advice and free resources.

Get ready to learn the tips and tricks for efficiently freezing meals tailored for empty nesters. You can simplify meal prep and avoid repetitive meals, and still have great food!

We're talking about the science of freezing, selecting appropriate containers, proper cooling techniques, and foods to avoid freezing, as well as proper portioning and labeling for convenience and food safety.

And be sure to visit EmptyNestKitchen.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter filled with super practical cooking advice and free resources.

Meet Alicia Feuer, the organizer behind Frederick County's innovative Farm to School program. They discuss the broader scope of the program, which aims to improve public health by promoting local food consumption and supporting local farmers. Addressing food insecurity and chronic diseases, Alicia shares the joys and challenges of her work, including collaborations with Spanish-speaking communities and organizing engaging hands-on learning experiences. We also highlight an upcoming fundraiser—an online cooking class featuring Michelin-star experienced chef Drew Allen, set to help raise much-needed funds due to a hiccup with USDA grant reimbursement. Additionally, Alicia shares her background in food science, public health, and her deep-rooted passion for farming.

In this episode, Jennifer Peterson from Metamorphosis Life Counseling recounts her transformation from a successful real estate professional to licensed mental health counselor and sober coach. She shares her personal journey to sobriety, including the pivotal moment that led her to embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. Jennifer discusses how she now empowers women to explore life without alcohol, offering coaching and counseling that focus on mindfulness, breaking the guilt-shame cycle, and addressing the underlying anxieties and stresses that lead to substance use. Throughout the conversation, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of self-love, setting boundaries, and finding authentic joy and purpose.

In this episode, we're diving into the essentials of creating a Mediterranean-inspired pantry designed for ease and convenience. Say hello to 'The Magnificent Seven', categories of pantry items that can help you easily prepare meals. You'll find tips on sourcing and storing these items properly, recommended brands and specific types, and delicious meal ideas. Perfect for those looking to simplify their cooking routine while adding a touch of Mediterranean flair.

A broken furnace during the coldest day of the year? It's time to dig out the blankies and snuggle in for choosing a positive outlook, even when your toes are cold. So much changes when you make the shift from constant complaining to finding gratitude, and this mini episode guides you through walking the walk.

Have you ever heard of a Daily Money Manager? Meet Emily Lutz, owner of Liberty Paperwork Solutions! Emily shares her journey of becoming a daily money manager, a profession that involves handling clients' administrative chores like bill payments and financial tracking. 

Ever considered teaching recreational classes? Whether it’s cooking, crafting, or even teaching Excel, you'll learn how to identify your zone of genius, research the competition, plan and structure your class, the importance of hospitality, and deciding between private and public classes. You'll also get a little bonus on the possibilities and advantages of offering online classes. 

Let's talk New Year's resolutions and why, just maybe, we're ready to say so long sweetheart! In this bite-sized episode, it's time to embrace who we are...the awesomeness that is us. We're leaning into self-love and authenticity, knowing that the best resolution is to accept and care for ourselves. Now let's get started!

Let's dive into butter—the best ingredient to elevate your baking game. We'll explore why different types of butter vary in price and quality, talk about making your own butter, including cultured butter, and discuss practical tips for using butter in holiday baking. Perfect for anyone prepping for a festive baking spree, tune in to understand how to choose and use butter to its fullest potential.