Culturemap food editor and podcast host Eric Sandler really knows the way to my heart – talking about food! He has come up the ranks from a blogger to really making his mark as one of the most trusted food editors in the city. Heck, the state of Texas. We talk about how food service changed during the pandy with a shift towards safety protocols and outdoor dining and how the leaders in hospitality here in Houston really stepped up to help those that were out of work or furloughed. We discuss pet peeves in dining and go into detail about Eric’s take on why seemingly popular restaurants might fail. I also talk about “chef ego” and why I think it’s time to move away from “uppity” dining experiences. If you are at all into the food scene, wherever you are, this is the episode for you! Bon appetit.
In his role as CultureMap’s food editor, Eric keeps his fingers on the pulse of Houston’s dining world. From obscure taco trucks to elevated tasting menus, if a restaurant is serving tasty food, Eric will find it and share the news with CultureMap’s readers. He also hosts CultureMap’s weekly podcast “What’s Eric Eating.”
Eric is a native Houstonian. He lives in the Third Ward with dog Matzo.
Bianca Perez, aka “Yung Nihilist” has become a friend through MJ Corey and Marie from Between Two Salads,” and tbh I couldn’t be happier about it. I immediately was drawn to her incredibly straight forward attitude and her love of all things weird. I mean, I am definitely weird and I know I can be totally myself with Bianca. That is pretty much what happened during this episode. We both got baked and had a conversation and this was the result. The way this woman scours the internet to serve us the the absolute best memes and takes all the internet drams with a grain of salt is truly sensational. Oh, and she’s a total Ariana Grande stan, so there’s a discussion on that, too. Enjoy!
We’re all guilty of it: future tripping. Specifically, arriving at 30 to find yourself unmarried, alone and/or not having things entirely figured out. The great news? 30 is just the beginning. Enjoy this mini episode on how to choose JOY, even in the small moments, and how this leads to a fulfilling and rich life… even if you haven’t found your person yet.
Jovan “Jay” Woods tells us about his experience growing up with the skin condition, vitiligo. He’s channeled being “different” in such a beautiful way; by always showing up FOR himself, AS himself. Recently, he filmed a Facebook dating documentary series called “Dating Different” where Jay went on a date with Lene, a woman with alopecia. The series is fun and unique, and it helped showcase Jay’s blossoming modeling career, as well. How did the date end? Are they still dating? I find out in this episode! We also discuss our shared love of music and the upcoming World Vitiligo Day in June.
I know you’ll love this mini episode on how to process sadness as a separate emotion from anger and anxiety! I saw a meme that said “In order to your happiest self, you have to be a little bit delusional.” Let’s unpack that together while incorporating Ram Dass’s teachings about attachments and intrusive thoughts.
NYC’s self-proclaimed “Human Yelp,” Vanessa Pescetto, dishes on all things food (our love language) family, and entertainment! Let’s take a behind the scenes look with “Miss Foodie Vee,” growing up as a millenial in New York: finding all the best local spots, exploring the dating scene, and partying with the glitterati uptown! We also get into my online dating horror stories in this episode.
Born and raised in Brooklyn New York. Being that I’m a REAL New Yorker, I’ve been in all different industries. Started in fashion working with a bridal designer ended up being a personal shopper, going to fashion shows and events.
Worked and partied NYC’s nightlife, working doors and guest lists at the top bars and clubs from brooklyn to Manhattan. (club scene will never be the same again. It had its run)
Now I’m known as the foodie girl. Those who know me personally know i love my foods. Till this day I’m the go to person for food recommendations. Pretty much I’m the human Yelp lol. Which is why I started a little food blog on Instagram which is building up!
Other than eating delicious food and drinks, I love to travel. Traveling to me is very therapeutic especially being from Brooklyn NY gotta get out of here a few times a year so traveling is a must!!
My secret hidden trait is Singing and Dancing. I love to sing on the top of my lungs while driving on the highway haha. (I’ve always wanted to be a Singer or DJ) If the music is good I’m dancing no matter what!!
Living in NYC I always take advantage in going to the museums and galleries just spending hours in them. It’s one of my favorite things to do in the city. I love art and ALL types of art like photography, paintings, murals, street art, food art.
People call me “The queen of Brooklyn” I’d like to think I am but I know there’s beautiful queens everywhere! and everyone loves my “brooklyn accent” haha!
