10.1 Intro to "Cheese & Burritos"

Welcome to the debut introduction of “Cheese & Burritos,” an exclusive series for our valued subscribers! 

As a French California mama, I will take you on a ride through the fusion of French and Californian cultures. Each month, in addition to the unlocked Big Belly Breathing episodes, there will be new "Cheese & Burritos" content for our subscribers. Thank you for supporting me and my small business!

Discover how the timeless traditions of French cuisine and lifestyle blend seamlessly with the vibrant, innovative spirit of California. From my roots in the  French Alps to my life in San Francisco, I’ll share personal stories, family recipes, and tips on mindful living that celebrate the best of both worlds. 

Tune in to the next first full episode of “Cheese & Burritos” for my favorite molten cake and vinaigrette recipes, and to learn more about the French food flow of life. 

Transcript

Hello and Welcome to the introduction to my exclusive subscriber series of the Big Belly Breathing podcast- “Cheese & Burritos”! My name is Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely and you heard correctly: this title is because I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through the vibrant blend of French and Californian cultures.

As a French California mama, I’m excited to share the essence of mindful living through these two dynamic lenses. These episodes are exclusive nuggets for the paid subscribers, offering insights into how these cultures fuse to create a fulfilling lifestyle.

A bit about me: I was born and raised in San Francisco (outer Noe Valley and then the Sunset, or Parkside for those in the know), but my roots move past the fog belt as they are really a blend of Nor Cal and French Alpine charm (la Yaute!), with a little Hungarian spice thrown into the mix. My grand-parents built their home in a tiny ski resort village nestled in the French Alps, Samoens, and growing up with influences from both these unique locales has profoundly shaped my upbringing, identity, and life philosophies. City-Nature-City-Nature…..

San Francisco’s diversity and innovation, paired with the serene, cheese-loving life of the French Alps, offer the best balance. Abondance & Burritos forever! These influences beautifully complement each other, and I’m excited to share some treasures from both worlds.

In this special series, available exclusively to the subscribers, I will delve into a variety of themes that define this cultural fusion. From recipes that merge the timelessness of French cuisine with the freshness of California, to addressing your pressing questions about mindful living amidst these distinctive influences. I’ll explore topics such as family traditions, food culture, mindful parenting, traveling, and the art of finding balance in our modern lives while embracing timeless practices.

The inaugural episode is an exploration of the French way of eating, featuring recipes for two of my beloved dishes: my infamous chocolate molten cake. Thank you Christine! This fan favorite is something that I whip up in less than an hour start to finish and has been my go to for the past 20 years, to be followed by a classic vinaigrette that will elevate your salads to new heights in its goodness and simplicity. These recipes encapsulate the essence of French-California culinary synergy, inviting you to savor and share in the joy of these worlds.

Looking ahead, next month promises another culinary adventure as we roast a simple succulent chicken, bringing the rustic charm of French cuisine straight to your kitchen. I’ve been known to claim that I can speak with chickens while roasting them…perhaps more after a glass of wine, but…the point is that if you are not a chicken lover already, then there’s still time to join that love train. A roast chicken with potatoes, a big green salad, molten chocolate cake, and a glass of pét-nat—pure joy on a plate.

Each episode is crafted to inspire and empower you to cultivate mindfulness and joy, drawing from the rich traditions of French-California living. 

Thank you for joining “Cheese & Burritos”. I raise my glass to you and say TO BEAUTY!