​During my recent trip to New York City, I had the pleasure of discovering Georgian food and wine at Chama Mama in Chelsea. I highly recommend this restaurant if you ever find yourself in the Big Apple. Although I have been intrigued by the country and cuisine for years, it was my first time trying it and I regret not discovering it sooner!
So, it's not surprising that in recent years, Georgian cuisine and wine have gained a lot of popularity in the gastronomic world. Nestled in the Caucasus region between Europe and Asia, Georgia boasts a rich culinary heritage that has captivated the palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. From the delicious flavors of khachapuri to the complex notes of saperavi wine, Georgian food and wine have become a burgeoning trend in the global culinary scene.

​Khachapuri: The National Dish and a Cheese Lover’s Dream
Georgian cuisine reflects the country's diverse cultural influences, drawing inspiration from Persian, Turkish, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. One of the cornerstones of Georgian cuisine, and the national dish, is khachapuri, a delectable cheese-filled bread that comes in various regional variations. Adjarian khachapuri, shaped like a boat and topped with a gooey egg, is a beloved comfort food, while Imeretian khachapuri features a more simplistic round shape filled with a blend of cheeses. These iconic dishes exemplify the warmth and hospitality deeply ingrained in Georgian culinary culture. I had the Adjarian khachapuri at Chama Mama and can tell you I am craving it right now as I write this post!

Khinkali: Dumplings of Delight and Pkhali: A Symphony of Flavors
Another hallmark of Georgian cuisine is the lavish use of fresh herbs, spices, and aromatic ingredients. Traditional dishes like khinkali, dumplings filled with spiced meat or cheese, pkhali, a flavorful spread made from vegetables and nuts, showcase the vibrant flavors and textures that define Georgian cooking. The cuisine's emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients underscores its connection to the land and the agricultural traditions that have sustained Georgian communities for centuries.

Khinkali are a true testament to the country's culinary prowess. Made from twisted pieces of dough stuffed with savory fillings such as meat, cheese, or mushrooms, khinkali are a staple of Georgian cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. And remember, eating khinkali with your hands is not just encouraged—it's essential to fully appreciate the burst of flavors with every bite.
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Pkhali is made with fresh veggies like spinach, beets, or carrots, all finely chopped and mixed with aromatic herbs, garlic, and ground walnuts, then generously seasoned with zesty spices like fenugreek and coriander. It is served cold and garnished with pomegranate seeds to be enjoyed on warm bread or crackers.

​Lobio: A Celebration of Beans
In Georgian cuisine, beans reign supreme, and lobio showcases the versatility and ingenuity of this humble ingredient. Whether mashed into a flavorful paste with garlic, onions, and spices or simmered in a clay pot with fragrant herbs and vegetables, lobio delights the palate with its hearty textures and robust flavors. As Georgians embrace their agricultural heritage, expect to see more innovative twists on this traditional dish, highlighting the bounty of Georgia's fertile lands.

​Chakapuli: A Taste of Tradition
For a taste of Georgia's rich culinary history, look no further than chakapuli. This hearty soup, brimming with meats, herbs, and spices, embodies the essence of Georgian cuisine. Whether prepared with lamb, beef, or mushrooms, chakapuli showcases the abundance of locally sourced ingredients and regional variations found across the country. Each spoonful tells a story of Georgia's agricultural roots and culinary ingenuity.

Georgian Wine: A Timeless Tradition
No discussion of Georgian cuisine would be complete without mentioning their revered wine-making tradition, which dates back thousands of years. However, I believe it is best to dedicate a separate post to Georgian wines. Stay tuned

​The Vibrant World of Georgian Food Trends
Amidst Georgia's evolving culinary scene, where innovative chefs and winemakers redefine traditions while honoring the country's roots, one thing remains clear – its food is a true reflection of its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and unwavering hospitality. So, whether you're enjoying khachapuri in a bustling Tbilisi tavern or savoring lobio in the heart of the countryside, prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more. Georgia may be the last great undiscovered cuisine of Europe, but its culinary delights are rapidly gaining attention – and once you've tasted them, you'll understand why.

​Late last night, I watched the live stream of Cole Brauer crossing the finish line of the Global Solo Challenge. Many of you are probably just hearing about this 29-year-old woman as she has gained a lot of media attention. She is the first American woman to sail solo around the world, completing the daunting 26,000-nautical-mile race in 130 days on a 40-foot sailboat.

Cole has over 469K followers on Instagram – this author included. As an adventurer myself, I was drawn to her drive and determination, and I looked forward to my morning coffee and seeing her latest post.

I felt compelled to write this as her story can teach us a lot about being leaders and entrepreneurs and about managing our brands and social media.

It takes a team to succeed!
Despite this being the Solo Global Challenge, solo being the operative word, it was a team effort, and she genuinely knew this. "Shore Team Sunday" not only showcased posts dedicated to her support team but throughout the race, she continually acknowledged how important they were to the success of this journey.

As leaders, recognizing your team from the heart is not just a leadership gesture; it's the cornerstone of building a motivated and cohesive work environment. Genuine appreciation fosters a sense of value and inspires individuals to go above and beyond, ultimately fueling collective success.

If you believe in it, do it!
She didn’t grow up sailing, and in fact started sailing at the “late” age of 19 years old while attending college in Hawaii. In 2022, she had tried out for another competition, the Ocean Race, which is considered the pinnacle of professional ocean racing. Sailors in that race are highly trained, wear matching foul-weather gear, and have corporate sponsors. And most of them are men. Cole, who had sailed thousands of miles on high-performance ocean racing boats, felt she was ready to join their ranks. But after competing in trials in France, she was told she was “too short for the Southern Ocean” and was sent on her way. But this did not stop this 5-foot 1-inch powerhouse, from pursuing her dreams and goals.

As entrepreneurs, embracing your passion, believing in your dreams, and forging ahead despite challenges isn't just a recipe for success – it's the heartbeat of turning aspirations into reality. In the face of obstacles, unwavering determination becomes the compass that will guide you toward your goals.

The power of a smile and positivity.
On this incredible journey, her reports and updates often carried a heartfelt tone, reflecting the emotional ups and downs she navigated, from equipment breakages to setbacks and failures. However, her radiant spirit refused to let these challenges overshadow her light. Gratefully embracing every moment on Earth, she consistently shared her next post at sunrise, heralding a new day with the first light, infusing us with inspiration through her infectious smile and unwavering positivity.

As leaders, we're no strangers to tough situations and negativity, especially in these challenging times. Yet, choosing to lead with a sincere smile and unshakeable positivity, even when faced with setbacks and emotional lows, isn't just a leadership decision—it's a commitment that becomes ingrained in who you are. Authenticity isn't just about appearances; it's about letting positivity shine from your soul, seamlessly weaving resilience, and optimism into the very fabric of your leadership style, propelling your team towards unparalleled success.

Unleash the Power of Authenticity!
Her new sponsors had reservations about her bold social media experiment, and she got massive pushback, adding that it was vain, not important, and “We don’t want to pay for this.” She responded, “None of this is going to matter if the world can’t see it.” But unlike most professional sailors, she was decidedly human and authentic. Her posts included watching Netflix in her pajamas, doing her nails, and having dance parties. At first, even her social media manager pushed back at some of her posts, commenting, “In the beginning I looked at what she was doing, posting about washing her knickers in a bucket and I was like, ‘No! What are you doing?’” In Cole’s words, “If you treat people below you, people stop watching.” Further exemplified by the fact that she hasn’t been shy about letting people know that she lives out of her van as she moves around to where the boats go.

As brand ambassadors and social media managers, being real and upfront is crucial in today's landscape. Transparency isn't just a buzzword; it's the foundation for building trust between brands and consumers. When you share genuine insights about your brand, products, and how things work behind the scenes, it adds a human touch to every interaction. Being open, honest, and a little vulnerable helps your brand connect with people and build trust in a way that feels genuine and reliable.

As restauranteurs, consumers are hyper-aware of the world around them, and they expect the same from their restaurants. They crave authenticity, and restaurants that can deliver are winning their hearts (and stomachs). They want to know where their food comes from, how it’s prepared, and the values behind the business. This means clear labeling, responsible sourcing, and ethical practices are not just nice-to-haves but dealbreakers. Forget flashy gimmicks and obsessing over picture-perfect plating. Instead, dive into transparency, champion diversity, create impact, and embrace technology. 

Embrace the unexpected by unlocking the power within.
Despite facing significant challenges, including the withdrawal of half her competitors in the Global Solo Challenge and the persistent dangers of ocean races, where lives are still at risk, especially in the tumultuous storms of the Southern Ocean, she persevered. An incident involving a violent broaching left her with a rib injury as she was thrown across the hull in the rough waters near Africa. Another test of her resilience came when dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea prompted her U.S. team to guide her in inserting an IV. In reflecting on her unwavering determination, she shared with the Today show, “There’s no option at that point. You’re so far away from land that there’s no one who can rescue you or come and grab you. You kind of just need to keep moving along and keep doing everything.”

Successful leaders exemplify unwavering determination in the face of challenges, navigating through uncertainties with resilience and a steadfast spirit. They understand that preparation is essential, yet they embrace the reality that true leadership lies in the ability to adapt and thrive when the unexpected unfolds. In the pursuit of success, it's not about having a perfect plan but rather the courage to navigate uncharted territories with tenacity and unwavering belief in one's capabilities.
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As we celebrate Cole Brauer's remarkable achievement in conquering the Global Solo Challenge, her journey becomes a beacon of inspiration for leaders, entrepreneurs, and dreamers alike. Encouraging us to embrace the unexpected, to unlock the power within, and to navigate uncharted territories with courage and unwavering belief. Let her story be a guiding compass, steering us towards unparalleled success, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. Thank you for sharing your journey with us Cole. 🤙🏻