We at Good Food Jobs talk a lot about passion. Sometimes it's the passion that comes from loving food, feeling connected to others through food, experiencing the positive effect that you can have on the world around you through food. Other times, we get a glimpse of the passion that stems from witnessing a small miracle, as PheOnix demonstrates. After all, food itself is the culmination of so many small miracles - growth, transformation, sensation - that make us who we are.
When did you know that you wanted to work in food?
I was strongly influenced by my Mother's recovery from cancer. When I was four years old my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Doctors informed her she had 3 months to live. With no hope for recovery and no option for chemo, my mother was sent home to die. With quality food, Spirit, and a loving-supportive community, she found healing and victory over cancer. When she returned to the doctor he could find no trace of cancer in her body; that day the doctor declared her a miracle. I walked with my mother on the healing journey and witnessed first hand the power of quality food and a loving, healthy community. Additionally, in 2007 I was seriously injured in a mountain biking accident. The neurologist said it would take 8 - 12 months to recover, adding " you're lucky to be alive." With the proper use of food, rest, TLC, and water I recovered in 4 months! The natural course of healing brought me to the raw vegan lifestyle. Everyone has to come to it on their own. I would bet the farm that had something to do with my recovery, that or I'm one of the x-men. The body knows what it needs to heal itself. Food is but a small part of nourishment.
How did you get your current good food job?
Most of my clients are referrals. However, I scout Good Food Jobs as well as Craigslist for prospects.
How did your previous work or life experience prepare you for a good food job?
I've always worked in and/or around food. Good Food Jobs connected me to the other food geek/chics in the North East. I love making "food friends."
What was the greatest obstacle you had to overcome in pursuing your Good Food Job dream?
As a consultant working with food and beverage start-ups, I've had my fair share of WTF (where's the food) moments. Although my clients keep me on my toes, especially my colorful clients, my greatest obstacle has always been Me. Some days I feel lost, and uninspired. When I feel like this I don't quit, I recharge and reconnect with the source of my inspiration. It's important to remember why you started. My mother is the reason I started. My ultimate goal in life is to be counted among those whose work on Earth mends the Hoop of the People (Tikkun Olam). Food is my inroad. Everyone eats, and has a food story. "Good food makes a sound and great food makes babies!" I love seeing someone tapping their foot or rocking their body as they consume a food or beverage product I had a hand in. Food has the power to positively impact every aspect of human existence?rad right!?
What can you identify as the greatest opportunities in food right now?
The soil! Bio-tech, designer nutrition, food waste, renewable energy, and food incubation business programs are all ways to apply your interest in food.
If you could be compensated for your work with something other than money, what would it be?
I'd like to receive 10 hectares Fertile farm land in Hawai'i or Ethiopia with Avocado trees. No avocado trees, no deal. Money isn't everything, avocados on the other hand . . .
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