Being Vulnerable, Sharing My Story, and Why Healthy Comfort Food Still Matters
Click here for the Pasta and Peas downloadable recipe.
When I decided to tell my story on the Plant Powered Collective Podcast, I felt both nervous and relieved. Vulnerability invites connection. It also asks us to release the myth that we need to be perfectly polished to be worthy of being seen. I learned that when I share where I struggled and how I found my footing again, women hear their own story too. That is how community forms. That is how change sticks.
Why I chose to share
I grew up a shy kid from a small town in Massachusetts. I took paths that felt less traveled because they helped me feel more like myself, but I did not always trust that instinct. I built wonderful careers, moved across the world, raised two amazing daughters, and navigated a big life transition. Through it all, one truth kept finding me. I feel better when I return to the plate and when I care for what is around the plate. Food, rest, movement, stress care, connection, and a low tox home. Simple foundations. Sharing that on the podcast felt like the most honest next step.
Vulnerability in real life
Being open about midlife changes and messy seasons does not make me less credible. It makes me more human. I have had weeks when my routine fell apart. I have felt the gap between what I know and what I do. Naming that out loud takes the shame out of it. Then we can focus on what works and move forward with intention.
Comfort food has a place
Comfort food can be healthy, satisfying, and aligned with your goals. It should steady you, not slow you down. One of my favorite examples is Pasta and Peas. It is warm, familiar, and fast on a busy night. It can also be nutrient dense when you build it with quality ingredients.
Why Pasta and Peas works
Peas add fiber, plant protein, and gentle sweetness that pairs well with herbs and garlic.
Extra virgin olive oil brings heart friendly fats and helps you absorb fat soluble nutrients from the herbs.
Toasted nuts add crunch, minerals, and staying power. Walnuts also add plant based omega 3s.
Herbs and garlic provide antioxidants and a bright, fresh flavor that keeps portions satisfying without needing heavy cream.
Simple method
Cook 1 cup of pasta. While it boils, blend a quick green sauce with 1 cup frozen peas, ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 garlic clove, a handful of toasted nuts, any herbs you have, plus salt and pepper. Toss the pasta with the sauce and a splash of hot pasta water until glossy. Add lemon if you like brightness. Finish with more herbs. Dinner is ready in the time it takes to boil water.
Make it fit your goals
Choose whole grain or legume pasta for more fiber and protein.
Use a little less oil and thin with pasta water for a lighter bowl.
Add baby spinach or arugula to the blender for extra greens.
Top with crispy soy marinated tofu or white beans for more protein.
Food is only part of the story
Comfort food supports you best when the rest of your life supports you too. Are you sleeping enough? Do you get sunlight and a short walk most days? Are you talking to people who lift you up? These habits work together. When one drops, the others can carry you until you are ready to rebuild.
I am here for the real life version of wellness. No perfection. Just steady progress, honest reflection, and simple food that loves you back.
Nourish Boldly. Live Vibrantly.
