Hi, I’m Paula Mohammed, welcome to my podcast: In My Kitchen with Paula. This podcast is a gathering place for culinary adventurers who love to travel. Here’s a little about me… My parents came from very different backgrounds, so I grew up with cultural influences from Pakistan, Japan, Italy, and New Zealand. In our family kitchen, the different traditions, recipes, and stories mingled together to create meals that were fun, inspiring, and memorable. This inspired a love of travel and cookin ...
…
continue reading
Paula Mohammed Podcasts
The Taste of Place podcast is where we share inspiring stories from chefs, artisanal producers, and others who are working to preserve culinary culture and heritage. Join us as we meet and learn from these inspiring leaders in our field. Whether you are a seasoned professional, an entrepreneur, or a consumer with an interest in culinary culture and heritage, our podcast series will inspire everyone. Hosted by the World Food Travel Association's Executive Director Erik Wolf.
…
continue reading
Welcome to The Empty Nest Kitchen with Christine Van Bloem, where we're finding fun in the kitchen and navigating life after the kids have flown the coop. Join Christine around her kitchen table as we delve into insightful conversations with fellow empty nest women about navigating careers, side hustles, and the joys of food and cooking. Whether you're embarking on a new chapter or seeking inspiration for your next culinary adventure, tune in for stories, tips, and laughter from women just l ...
…
continue reading
Led by James Naughtie, a group of readers talk to acclaimed authors about their best-known novels
…
continue reading

1
Cooking, Culture, and Connection with Paula Mohammed
40:46
40:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:46This week, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Paula Mohammed from In My Kitchen with Paula. Paula and I share a love of good food, connection, and exploring different cultures. Paula told me all about how she started In My Kitchen back in 2018 to bring people together and celebrate traditional recipes. We also talked about her podcast…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 79. Paula Mohammed - Peace Through Food
42:36
42:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:36In this episode of the Taste of Place Podcast, we sit down with Paula Mohammed – podcaster, cultural explorer, and founder of In My Kitchen. Paula’s story begins with a unique multicultural upbringing as the daughter of a Pakistani father and mother from New Zealand with Māori heritage, raised in both Canada and New Zealand. She shares how a childh…
…
continue reading

1
Journey Through Moroccan Flavours with Siham Lahmine
1:09:31
1:09:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:31Have you ever been invited to “eat from your triangle”? In this episode I sit down with Moroccan culinary expert and guide Siham Lahmine to explore the real Morocco—the one you taste and sit inside. From family kitchens in Fez to late-night medina vibes during Ramadan, Siham shares how hospitality, daily rhythms, and regional dishes reveal the coun…
…
continue reading
Led by presenter, James Naughtie, the writer John Niven speaks to Radio 4's Bookclub programme about his 2008 novel, Kill Your Friends, which is a darkly comic satire of the UK music industry, as told through the perspective of the sadistic, Steven Stelfox, an A&R executive (Artists and Repertoire) for a London record label. The year is 1997, the h…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 80. Ximena Velasco - Mexico Beyond the Myths
28:40
28:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:40In this episode of the Taste of Place Podcast, we sit down with Ximena Velasco, founder of the ¡Qué Gusto! festival in France. Originally from Mexico, Ximena has dedicated the past decade to changing perceptions of Mexican food abroad, proving that it is far more than fajitas or chili con carne. She shares her journey from working with Atout France…
…
continue reading

1
The Empty Nest Reset: Finding Your Fall Kitchen Rhythm
15:57
15:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:57As the seasons change, it's time to reset your kitchen and life for fall. This week you'll find practical tips for getting back into a cooking rhythm. From pantry refreshes and meal planning to setting routines and embracing small wins, this episode is packed with advice to help you enjoy cooking again. It also touches on mindset practices to make …
…
continue reading
Presented by James Naughtie, Radio 4's Bookclub, speaks to the writer Paula Hawkins about her debut thriller The Girl On The Train. The book was published by Doubleday in 2015 to great acclaim and has sold millions of copies. Told in the first-person the novel's protagonist is Rachel Watson, a 33-year-old divorcee with addiction issues. The book wa…
…
continue reading
Let's talk about the importance of eating seasonally and locally! From making simple no-cook sauces to grilling the perfect seasonal vegetables, you'll find insights to make your kitchen a place of joy and discovery. 00:00 Welcome to the Empty Nest Kitchen 00:25 Seasonal Cooking: A Journey Through Summer 01:17 The Importance of Eating Seasonally 01…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 78. Paule-Odile Beke - From Abidjan to London
39:06
39:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:06Chapters 00:38 – Childhood in Ivory Coast and street food memories 03:14 – Turning passion into a chef’s career 04:55 – Defining Afro-fusion cuisine 06:55 – Life between Paris and London 11:33 – MasterChef experience and lessons learned 17:19 – Impact of the show on career and clients 19:19 – Advice for young chefs: resilience, teamwork, and passio…
…
continue reading
Join me in the Empty Nest Kitchen as I share expert tips and techniques for cooking with garlic. From selecting the perfect garlic bulbs to using raw and roasted garlic in various dishes, we'll covers it all. Learn how to store garlic properly, the benefits of different garlic forms, and even get a sneak peek into my mini course 'Just Add Sauce'. D…
…
continue reading
Let's dive into the excitement of fig season with a joyful celebration of fresh figs. From tips on selecting the perfect figs at the store to storing them properly, you'll learn how to make the most of these delicate fruits. Discover a variety of delicious ways to enjoy figs, including making fig jam, pairing them with cheese, creating a fig salad,…
…
continue reading

1
Small Bites: Summer Sauces, Big Flavors, No Stove Required
12:36
12:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:36Find fun and creative way to enhance summer meals with no-cook sauces in your Empty Nest Kitchen. Christine shares her tips and tricks on making flavorful sauces without turning on the stove, perfect for the hot summer months. You'll learn a simple framework using fats, acids, and flavor enhancers like fresh herbs. Christine also introduces her new…
…
continue reading
Presented by James Naughtie, BBC Radio 4's Bookclub, speaks to the award-winning writer Kit de Waal about her heart-rending debut novel, My Name Is Leon. Published in 2016 by Penguin it's the story of two brothers separated after one is adopted. The book, now taught on the curriculum in English schools, takes us back to 1980s Birmingham, and while …
…
continue reading

1
Small Bites Simply Peachy: The Sweet and The Savory
13:11
13:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:11In this episode of the Empty Nest Kitchen, cooking expert Christine Van Bloem shares her love for peaches and explores various ways to enjoy this summer fruit. From simple sliced peaches to gourmet salads and savory meat pairings, Christine provides detailed recipes and tips that highlight the natural sweetness and versatility of peaches. Learn abo…
…
continue reading
Let's explore fun and creative ways to cook with zucchini, a quintessential summer vegetable. From practical advice on picking the best zucchinis to three delightful (and easy!) recipes, your zucchini wishes are ready to become reality. Tune in to learn these simple yet delicious methods to make zucchini a hit in your kitchen. 00:00 Welcome to the …
…
continue reading

1
Made in Taiwan: A Culinary Legacy with Ivy Chen
50:32
50:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:32What if preserving a recipe was the key to preserving a culture? In this heartfelt and flavor-packed episode, I sit down with Ivy Chen—longtime cooking instructor, co-author of Made in Taiwan, and the force behind Ivy’s Kitchen in Taipei. You’ll hear about: 🍚 Why sticky rice dishes like oil rice are central to Taiwanese celebrations 🏮 The cultural …
…
continue reading

1
Small Bites: It's Corn! Making the Most of Summer's Best
14:34
14:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:34Let's dive into the world of corn. Get practical advice on choosing, storing, and cooking corn (keeping the husk on until right before consumption is important!). With tips for using corn in various dishes like salads and pancakes, and a unique microwave method for cooking, you'll find a delightful and informative guide to making the most out of fr…
…
continue reading

1
Not Your Butter Chicken: Exploring Cultural Heritage with Shiva Reddy
50:32
50:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:32What if the immigrant story you’ve heard is only half the truth? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Shiva Reddy—sommelier, food columnist for CBC Vancouver, and host of the acclaimed docuseries Not Your Butter Chicken. We talk about identity, heritage, and the power of food to connect us to our culture and the women who shaped it. Shiva sha…
…
continue reading

1
Small Bites: Summer Tomatoes (How to Choose, Use, and Store)
13:24
13:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:24Let's kick-off the summer cooking series 'Small Bites', focusing on short episodes under 15 minutes. Each week will highlight a different food or technique, starting with summer tomatoes, covering tips on choosing, using, and storing them for optimum flavor. 00:00 Introduction to Summer Cooking Series 00:57 Choosing the Perfect Summer Tomatoes 03:0…
…
continue reading
Presented by James Naughtie, Bookclub speaks to the award-winning writer, historian, and podcaster, Tom Holland, about his book Rubicon, which looks at the triumph and tragedy of the Roman Republic. Originally published in 2003, the book won the PEN Hessell-Tiltman prize for non-fiction, and it unravels the myths and realities of ancient Rome as it…
…
continue reading

1
Flavourful Bonds Part 4: What We Leave Behind
25:29
25:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:29What if you could supercharge your travel experiences, with just a little perspective? In this episode I wrap up the four-part series 'Flavourful Bonds' by delving into the character strengths of humility, gratitude, and legacy within the culinary traditions of Pakistan, Mexico, and Croatia. I share personal anecdotes, cultural insights, and practi…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 77. Sara England - Maple, Migration & Memory
36:07
36:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:07Episode Chapters 00:00 Journey to Nova Scotia 02:21 Exploring Pier 21 and Its Significance 04:59 The Intersection of Food and Immigration 07:46 Exhibit Highlights: Eat, Make, Share 10:00 Cultural Significance of Canadian Cuisine 12:25 The Role of Indigenous Foods 14:48 Coffin Ships and Historical Context 17:32 The Evolution of Canadian Culinary Ide…
…
continue reading

1
Flavourful Bonds Part 3: Resilience in the Ruptures
20:42
20:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:42How do food and culinary traditions reflect resilience, forgiveness, and hope? In this episode I look at the character strengths of forgiveness, hope and perspective through the lens of food in Pakistan and also Vietnam and Portugal. Three countries that have experienced upheaval and rupture. Through personal stories and culinary traditions I illus…
…
continue reading

1
Flavourful Bonds Part 2: Exploring Cultural Truths Through Cuisine
15:13
15:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:13How do honesty, integrity, and fairness shape our culinary adventures and deepen our connections across cultures? Join me in episode two of 'Flavourful Bonds' as I explore these character strengths through stories and culinary experiences from around the world. Learn how honesty varies in different cultures, the importance of culinary integrity in …
…
continue reading

1
Flavourful Bonds Part 1: Kindness Served Warm
34:52
34:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:52Haver you ever wondered how food can create deeper, meaningful relationships? In this first episode of our special four-part series, Flavourful Bonds, we delve into the VIA character strengths and how they manifest in different cultures. This week, we're kicking off with 'Kindness Served Warm' and exploring love, kindness, and gratitude through mem…
…
continue reading
Led by presenter James Naughtie, the writer Joanne Harris takes questions from a BBC Bookclub audience on her best-selling novel, Chocolat. Published in 1999, the book follows the character of Vianne Rocher, a chocolate-maker and sometime witch, who arrives in the village of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes with her six-year-old daughter Anouk at the beginni…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 76. Siham Lahmine - Morocco by Hand and Heart
43:42
43:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:42Local Connection is Key: Siham emphasizes the importance of involving local people and communities in creating authentic travel experiences that reflect Morocco’s true culture. More than Sightseeing: Her tours focus on immersive, hands-on experiences—such as cooking classes, tea ceremonies, and visits with local producers—that tell the story of Mor…
…
continue reading

1
Whip Up Wellbeing: Character Strengths in Action (Part 2)
22:35
22:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:35What if your best travel companion isn’t your passport—but your personality? In this solo episode, host Paula Mohammed continues the conversation on character strengths—those deeply personal yet often overlooked qualities that shape how we connect, cook, and travel. Building on episode 33, Paula explores how our signature strengths like curiosity, …
…
continue reading

1
Whip Up Wellbeing: Character Strengths in Action (Part 1)
14:27
14:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:27Ever wondered what makes you truly shine? In this episode we go on an exciting journey to discover our unique character strengths using the VIA Character Strengths framework. Developed by positive psychologists Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson, this framework identifies 24 universal strengths that help individuals not just get by, but truly…
…
continue reading

1
From MasterChef to World Traveler: Michael Motamedi's Culinary Quest
1:03:25
1:03:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:25What if the best way to experience the world was to live in it—one month at a time? In this episode, we meet Michael Motamedi: former MasterChef Canada contestant, marketer-turned-full-time traveler, and passionate culinary explorer. For the past three years, Michael has been traveling the globe with his wife and young daughter—living in one city a…
…
continue reading

1
Mediterranean Moments: Delicious Simplicity in Midlife Cooking
15:27
15:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:27The 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 ac…
…
continue reading

1
Culinary Activism: Anna Voloshyna's Journey from Ukraine to California
49:53
49:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:53What does it mean to fight a war—with food? In this episode, we meet Anna Voloshyna: chef, cookbook author, and passionate culinary activist. Born and raised in Ukraine and now based in California, Anna shares how her deep love of Ukrainian cuisine has become a powerful tool for cultural preservation and resistance amid war. From feeding soldiers o…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 75. Jamie Furniss - From Tunisia With Flavor
45:21
45:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:21Some of the points we discussed include: Jamie’s personal journey from Canada to Tunisia via a love of Arabic culture and music. The challenge of low global awareness of Tunisian food compared to Moroccan or Lebanese cuisine. Tunisia’s historical focus on beach and desert tourism, with limited support for culinary tourism. Creative food experiences…
…
continue reading
Led by presenter James Naughtie, a BBC Bookclub audience in Glasgow speaks to the author Natalie Haynes about her 2019 novel - A Thousand Ships - which retells the ancient Greek myths from a woman's perspective. Penelope, Clytemnestra, Andromache and Cassandra among others, all make appearances, but their stories are given a new voice and a fresh e…
…
continue reading

1
Culinary Time Travel: Sephardic Flavours and Tales with Hélène Jawhara Piñer
44:45
44:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:45What can food tell us about history, identity, and resilience? In this episode of In My Kitchen with Paula, I sit down with Hélène Jawhara Piñer — historian, professor, and author of Matzah and Flour — to explore the powerful stories behind Sephardic cuisine. With a PhD in medieval history and the history of food, Hélène shares how her research int…
…
continue reading

1
Empowering Nonprofits: The Marketing Magic of Laura Van Bloem
43:16
43:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:16Remember 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 nonprof…
…
continue reading

1
From Farms to Flavour: Exploring Heritage through Food with Selena Pellizzari
45:48
45:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:48What if your next meal could take you back in time—and across continents? In this episode, Paula reconnects with longtime friend and accomplished equestrian coach Selena Pellizzari, whose story weaves together family heritage, global exploration, and rich culinary traditions. From Ukrainian cabbage rolls to Italian minestrone, Selena shares how she…
…
continue reading
Did you know one of the simplest ways to boost your happiness might be sitting right at your dinner table? In this solo episode, I dive into a fascinating chapter of the World Happiness Report 2025 that explores something near and dear to my heart: the power of sharing meals. From the data to the dinner table, I’m connecting the dots between scienc…
…
continue reading

1
Smart Shopping for The Empty Nest Kitchen
20:26
20:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:26Practical 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. 00:00 Introduction and Current Market Overview 01:35 Smart S…
…
continue reading

1
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 3)
24:54
24:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:54Want to explore the world more meaningfully — one dish, one market, one moment at a time? In this final installment of my three-part series, I’m wrapping things up by sharing the simple framework I use to explore culture through the lens of food. It’s a method I unconsciously developed during my 22 years in event planning, and it’s become the secre…
…
continue reading
This month BBC Radio 4's Bookclub, presented by James Naughtie, speaks to the writer Michel Faber about his debut novel, Under the Skin. Published in the year 2000 by Canongate it went on to be shortlisted for the Whitbread Award that same year. The book follows the female protagonist of Isserley who roves the A9 in the Scottish Highlands looking t…
…
continue reading

1
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 2)
15:21
15:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:21Ever wonder how to create deeper connections through travel — and how food can be the key? In this special solo episode, I’m continuing a three-part series where I share my personal story, travel philosophy, and the principles that help me discover the world in a more meaningful way. This week, I’m diving into the power of micro-moments — those sma…
…
continue reading

1
Spring Veggie Vibes in The Empty Nest Kitchen
19:42
19:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:42Let'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 register for my free cooking class sponsored by AARP Maryland on April 5, where you'll learn to …
…
continue reading

1
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 1)
22:16
22:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:16Ever wonder how to create deeper connections through travel — and how food can be the key? In this special solo episode, I’m kicking off a three-part series where I share my personal story, travel philosophy, and the principles that help me discover the world in a more meaningful way. I’ll take you behind the scenes of my own culinary adventures, f…
…
continue reading

1
From Fixer Uppers to New Careers with Natalie Gipson
41:14
41:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:14Looking 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 o…
…
continue reading

1
The Spirit of Manaakitanga: Food, Family, and Friendship in New Zealand
34:04
34:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:04What does it really mean to care for others through food — and how does that shape who we are? In this episode, Paula takes us on a journey to New Zealand, where her earliest memories of generosity, gathering, and good food were formed. From fishing, harvesting for mussels on the beach to backyard hangi feasts and the comfort of warm pikelets, she …
…
continue reading

1
Empty Nest Freezer Magic: Tips for Smart Meal Prepping
17:22
17:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:22Learn essential 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'll talk the science of freezing, selecting appropriate containers, proper cooling techniques, and foods to avoid freezing, as well as proper portioning and labeling for conve…
…
continue reading

1
Exploring Goan Food and Culture with Lara Victoria
52:20
52:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:20Have you ever wondered what makes Goan cuisine so special? What if the secret ingredient isn’t just the spices, but the sun itself? In this episode, Paula sits down with Lara Victoria, a food and wine expert with deep roots in both Bombay and Goa. Lara shares her journey from pastry chef to sommelier, weaving in the rich cultural influences that ha…
…
continue reading

1
Championing Local Food and Public Health with Alysia Feuer
27:54
27:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:54Meet Alysia Feuer, who runs a program called Farm to School. Alysia discusses the expanded mission of farm to school initiatives to include broader public health objectives, focusing on local food access and nutritional education. They describe various collaborative activities such as cooking classes, hands-on learning experiences, and a veggie van…
…
continue reading
Highlights Arizona agriculture is a $31.9 billion industry. Yuma, Arizona is known as the lettuce capital of the U.S. Arizona produces high-quality durum wheat for pasta, which is exported to Italy, among other places. Agritopia Farms is a best practices model for urban agriculture. Education is key to connecting children with agriculture. Sustaina…
…
continue reading