In My Kitchen with Paula
Hi, I’m Paula Mohammed, welcome to my podcast: In My Kitchen with Paula. This podcast is a gathering place for culinary adventurers who love to travel.Here’s a little about me…My parents came from very different backgrounds, so I grew up with cultural influences from Pakistan, Japan, Italy, and New Zealand. In our family kitchen, the different traditions, recipes, and stories mingled together to create meals that were fun, inspiring, and memorable. This inspired a love of travel and cooking in me that continues today. AND a curiosity about the people behind the dishes.I’m also the found...
Paula's Picks 02: Exploring Goan Food and Culture with Lara Victoria
Introducing Paula's Picks, a special series of archival episodes re-edited and re-released with updated context. This episode originally aired on March 13, 2025.
Have you ever wondered what makes Goan cuisine so special? What if the secret ingredient isn’t just the spices, but the sun itself?
In this episode, Paula sits down with Lara Victoria, a food and wine expert with deep roots in both Bombay and Goa. Lara shares her journey from pastry chef to sommelier, weaving in the rich cultural influences that have shaped her love for food and hos...
Paula's Picks 01: Culinary Activism/ Anna Voloshyna's Journey from Ukraine to California
Introducing Paula's Picks, a special series of archival episodes re-edited and re-released with updated context.
This conversation about the power of food as an act of resistance with Anna Voloshyna originally aired May 8, 2025 and since then her new book, Ukraine: Recipes and Stories from Kyiv to the Black Sea, has been released.
What does it mean to fight a war—with food?
In this episode, we meet Anna Voloshyna: chef, cookbook author, and passionate culinary activist. Born and raised in Ukraine and now based in California, Anna shares how...
Barbara-jo McIntosh on Hospitality, Reinvention and Finding Home in France
What if the most meaningful journeys in life aren't about finding a new place, but about creating a place where others feel they belong?
Barbara-jo McIntosh is a cookbook author, culinary entrepreneur, bookseller, and one of Canada's most respected voices in food and hospitality. After building an extraordinary career in Vancouver's culinary world, including founding the beloved Barbara-jo's Books to Cooks, she began a new chapter in rural France, where she now welcomes guests into her beautiful home, La Maison des Mots, in the medieval village of La Charité-sur-Loire.
I...
Sacred Cuisine: A Journey of Palestinian Heritage and Culinary Identity with Izzeldin Bukhari
In this episode of In My Kitchen with Paula, I sit down with Palestinian chef, storyteller, and founder of Sacred Cuisine, Izzeldin Abdul Aziz Bukhari.
Speaking from the Old City of Jerusalem, Izzeldin shares the story of his family’s migration from Bukhara, Uzbekistan to Jerusalem in 1616, his Sufi roots, and how food became both a form of meditation and a powerful vehicle for preserving Palestinian culture and identity.
You’ll Hear About
The Heart of Peru: Cuisine and Culture with Ericka La Madrid
What if the most memorable part of visiting Peru isn’t Machu Picchu… ?
In this episode, I sit down with Ericka La Madrid, founder of Delectable Peru Food Tours, a proud Peruvian who grew up surrounded by big family tables, Andean flavours, and the kind of culinary traditions that carry stories across generations. Today, she helps travellers experience Peru through its kitchens, markets, and regional dishes.
Erica, is generously offering a 5% discount on when you book a tour with her, just mention the podcast episode and that you are following Delectable Food Tours and...
Savouring Brazil: Cristina Dias on Coffee, Culture, and Connection
What if your morning cup of coffee carried a century-old story of family, community, and connection?
In this episode, I sit down with Cristina Dias, founder of Mogiana Coffee in Vancouver, Canada whose family has been farming coffee in Brazil since 1890. We talk about legacy, sustainability, and how a simple cup of coffee can hold the spirit of a place, from the red soil of Minas Gerais to a roastery in Burnaby.
You’ll hear about:
☕ How Mogiana Coffee bridges Brazil and Canada through mindful business
🌱 The social and environmental heartbea...
Journey Through Moroccan Flavours with Siham Lahmine
Have you ever been invited to “eat from your triangle”?
In this episode I sit down with Moroccan culinary expert and guide Siham Lahmine to explore the real Morocco—the one you taste and sit inside. From family kitchens in Fez to late-night medina vibes during Ramadan, Siham shares how hospitality, daily rhythms, and regional dishes reveal the country’s open-minded surprises and deep food heritage.
You'll hear about:
🏠 How Siham curates in-home culinary experiences with local women outside tourist areas.
☕ Everyday meal rhythms (including the beloved cas...
Made in Taiwan: A Culinary Legacy with Ivy Chen
What if preserving a recipe was the key to preserving a culture?
In this heartfelt and flavor-packed episode, I sit down with Ivy Chen—longtime cooking instructor, co-author of Made in Taiwan, and the force behind Ivy’s Kitchen in Taipei.
You’ll hear about:
🍚 Why sticky rice dishes like oil rice are central to Taiwanese celebrations
🏮 The cultural rituals that surround food—from ancestor offerings to baby blessings
🎥 What it was like filming with Phil Rosenthal for Somebody Feed Phil
Whether you’re a curious home cook or someone tra...
Not Your Butter Chicken: Exploring Cultural Heritage with Shiva Reddy
What if the immigrant story you’ve heard is only half the truth?
In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Shiva Reddy—sommelier, food columnist for CBC Vancouver, and host of the acclaimed docuseries Not Your Butter Chicken. We talk about identity, heritage, and the power of food to connect us to our culture and the women who shaped it.
Shiva shares the deeply personal story behind the series, inspired by her mother’s dementia and her own journey to reclaim the flavors and traditions of her Indo-Fijian roots. From hustling samosas as a t...
Flavourful Bonds Part 4: What We Leave Behind
What if you could supercharge your travel experiences, with just a little perspective?
In this episode I wrap up the four-part series 'Flavourful Bonds' by delving into the character strengths of humility, gratitude, and legacy within the culinary traditions of Pakistan, Mexico, and Croatia. I share personal anecdotes, cultural insights, and practical exercises to help travelers and food enthusiasts recognize and practice these strengths through food.
You will learn about:
✈️ How these strength helps us to have a more immersive travel experience
🍲 Traditional dishes like Peka, Sarma an...
Flavourful Bonds Part 3: Resilience in the Ruptures
How do food and culinary traditions reflect resilience, forgiveness, and hope?
In this episode I look at the character strengths of forgiveness, hope and perspective through the lens of food in Pakistan and also Vietnam and Portugal. Three countries that have experienced upheaval and rupture. Through personal stories and culinary traditions I illustrate how these strengths manifest in the kitchen and during travels, emphasizing the importance of food in preserving memory, fostering connection, and enabling healing.
You will hear reflections on:
🌏Partition of India in 1947: Devastation and the birth of Pakista...
Flavourful Bonds Part 2: Exploring Cultural Truths Through Cuisine
How do honesty, integrity, and fairness shape our culinary adventures and deepen our connections across cultures?
Join me in episode two of 'Flavourful Bonds' as I explore these character strengths through stories and culinary experiences from around the world. Learn how honesty varies in different cultures, the importance of culinary integrity in places like Italy and Pakistan, and how fairness is shown in community-based tourism and traditional meals. This episode invites You to reflect on your values and the impact of your presence, transforming you from mere tourists to guests who honor the tables you a...
Flavourful Bonds Part 1: Kindness Served Warm
Haver you ever wondered how food can create deeper, meaningful relationships?
In this first episode of our special four-part series, Flavourful Bonds, we delve into the VIA character strengths and how they manifest in different cultures. This week, we're kicking off with 'Kindness Served Warm' and exploring love, kindness, and gratitude through memorable meals and personal stories.
We’ll travel from my own kitchen to the homes of Suha, Naomi and visit Japan, and the warm hearts of New Zealanders. You’ll not only hear about diverse culinary traditions but also practice some reflect...
Whip Up Wellbeing: Character Strengths in Action (Part 2)
What if your best travel companion isn’t your passport—but your personality?
In this solo episode, host Paula Mohammed continues the conversation on character strengths—those deeply personal yet often overlooked qualities that shape how we connect, cook, and travel.
Building on episode 33, Paula explores how our signature strengths like curiosity, kindness, and humor show up in everyday moments—from bustling street markets to quiet shared meals with strangers.
She shares personal stories, including a dog bite in Portugal (yes, really) and a watermelon dinner on a Greek ferry, to illustrat...
Whip Up Wellbeing: Character Strengths in Action (Part 1)
Ever wondered what makes you truly shine?
In this episode we go on an exciting journey to discover our unique character strengths using the VIA Character Strengths framework. Developed by positive psychologists Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson, this framework identifies 24 universal strengths that help individuals not just get by, but truly flourish.
We Talk About:
😀How knowing and applying these strengths can boost happiness, enhance resilience, and enrich our connections through food and travel.
💫Actionable tips, stories, and the magic of using your personal 'seasoning blend' to navigate...
From MasterChef to World Traveler: Michael Motamedi's Culinary Quest
What if the best way to experience the world was to live in it—one month at a time?
In this episode, we meet Michael Motamedi: former MasterChef Canada contestant, marketer-turned-full-time traveler, and passionate culinary explorer. For the past three years, Michael has been traveling the globe with his wife and young daughter—living in one city at a time, uncovering local food gems, and sharing stories through his podcast No Fixed Address and viral food videos.
From pig nipples in Spain to baby eel breakfasts in Barcelona, Michael’s advent...
Culinary Activism: Anna Voloshyna's Journey from Ukraine to California
What does it mean to fight a war—with food?
In this episode, we meet Anna Voloshyna: chef, cookbook author, and passionate culinary activist. Born and raised in Ukraine and now based in California, Anna shares how her deep love of Ukrainian cuisine has become a powerful tool for cultural preservation and resistance amid war.
From feeding soldiers on the frontlines in bulletproof vests to writing cookbooks that celebrate regional Ukrainian dishes, Anna’s story is a moving example of how food can connect, heal, and inspire action. Her journey is equal parts resi...
Culinary Time Travel: Sephardic Flavours and Tales with Hélène Jawhara Piñer
What can food tell us about history, identity, and resilience?
In this episode of In My Kitchen with Paula, I sit down with Hélène Jawhara Piñer — historian, professor, and author of Matzah and Flour — to explore the powerful stories behind Sephardic cuisine. With a PhD in medieval history and the history of food, Hélène shares how her research into Inquisition trials and Jewish food traditions unearthed a rich, global culinary heritage that continues to shape how we eat today.
We discuss her personal story, including growing up between French an...
From Farms to Flavour: Exploring Heritage through Food with Selena Pellizzari
What if your next meal could take you back in time—and across continents?
In this episode, Paula reconnects with longtime friend and accomplished equestrian coach Selena Pellizzari, whose story weaves together family heritage, global exploration, and rich culinary traditions.
From Ukrainian cabbage rolls to Italian minestrone, Selena shares how she’s traced her roots through food—and how those recipes carry stories of the past.
Together, Paula and Selena reflect on:
🍝 How food and travel have shaped Selena’s Italian, Ukrainian, and Norwegian identity
📚 The recipe book sh...
Sharing Meals: A Global Happiness Hack
Did you know one of the simplest ways to boost your happiness might be sitting right at your dinner table?
In this solo episode, I dive into a fascinating chapter of the World Happiness Report 2025 that explores something near and dear to my heart: the power of sharing meals.
From the data to the dinner table, I’m connecting the dots between science, culture, and personal experience — showing how something as ordinary as a shared meal can have extraordinary effects on our well-being.
You’ll hear reflections on:
💛 How meal sharing sh...
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 3)
Want to explore the world more meaningfully — one dish, one market, one moment at a time?
In this final installment of my three-part series, I’m wrapping things up by sharing the simple framework I use to explore culture through the lens of food. It’s a method I unconsciously developed during my 22 years in event planning, and it’s become the secret sauce behind some of my most memorable and meaningful travel moments. This approach helps me slow down, connect deeply, and travel with intention.
In this episode, I share:
📖 How I prep for a...
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 2)
Ever wonder how to create deeper connections through travel — and how food can be the key?
In this special solo episode, I’m continuing a three-part series where I share my personal story, travel philosophy, and the principles that help me discover the world in a more meaningful way.
This week, I’m diving into the power of micro-moments — those small, spontaneous connections that can transform a trip — and how they’ve shaped both my personal adventures and the foundation of In My Kitchen.
From a terrifying scuba dive in the Azores to an...
Culinary Adventures: Paula's Method of Travel and Connection (Part 1)
Ever wonder how to create deeper connections through travel — and how food can be the key?
In this special solo episode, I’m kicking off a three-part series where I share my personal story, travel philosophy, and the principles that help me discover the world in a more meaningful way.
I’ll take you behind the scenes of my own culinary adventures, from childhood memories of fragrant curried peas made by my Bibi to spontaneous moments of connection that shaped my life in Portugal back in 1998.
You'll also hear about my diverse...
The Spirit of Manaakitanga: Food, Family, and Friendship in New Zealand
What does it really mean to care for others through food — and how does that shape who we are?
In this episode, Paula takes us on a journey to New Zealand, where her earliest memories of generosity, gathering, and good food were formed. From fishing, harvesting for mussels on the beach to backyard hangi feasts and the comfort of warm pikelets, she shares the simple, soulful flavors that defined her childhood.
But this conversation is about more than recipes. It’s about manaakitanga — the deep-rooted Māori value of hospitality and care — and how those...
Exploring Goan Food and Culture with Lara Victoria
Have you ever wondered what makes Goan cuisine so special? What if the secret ingredient isn’t just the spices, but the sun itself?
In this episode, Paula sits down with Lara Victoria, a food and wine expert with deep roots in both Bombay and Goa. Lara shares her journey from pastry chef to sommelier, weaving in the rich cultural influences that have shaped her love for food and hospitality.
Together, they explore the vibrant flavors of Goan cuisine, from the legendary Goan sausages to the Portuguese-inspired vindaloo. Lara explains the relaxed Goan wa...
Savouring Slow Travel: Discovering Parma and Modena with Sonia Bozzi
What if the best way to experience Italy isn't through checklists and tourist attractions, but by slowing down and savoring each moment?
In this episode, Paula is joined by Sonia Bozzi, entrepreneur and founder of Cultour Italia, who curates immersive culinary and cultural tours in Italy. Sonia shares her journey from growing up in the Alps of Lombardia to managing hospitality ventures across Mexico, Canada, and Italy—all of which led her to creating unique travel experiences rooted in food, culture, and community.
Together, they explore slow travel, the art of truly experiencing a...
Savouring Alentejo: Alfredo Cunhal Sendim’s Portuguese Legacy & Montado do Freixo do Meio
Did you ever drive by a village when traveling and wonder what people do here day to day and what is their story?
In this episode, Paula talks with Alfredo Cunhal Sendim, a former fisherman turned organic farmer from the Alentejo region of Portugal.
Alfredo shares his journey from the sea to farming, championing the Montado agro-ecological system in Freixo do Meio (a former estate). He discusses his family history, the importance of acorns as sustainable food, and how the Montado system intertwines with Portuguese culture and cuisine. Paula and Alfredo also explore th...
A Taste of Alentejo and Lisbon with Maria João Carros
Curious about the real Lisbon and Alentejo outside of tourist guides and google? Get a local’s take with Maria João Carros on our latest episode.
Maria shares her experiences and insights into Portuguese culture and cuisine. Maria explains her approach to enjoying food and wine in Portugal, highlighting the importance of socialization and savouring meals. She recounts her life growing up in Portugal, her education in the UK, her move to Canada following political turmoil in Portugal, and her continued connection to her native country.
Maria’s conversation with Paula includes a less...
Beyond the Plate: Communicating Across Cultures
Have you ever been traveling and asked a local person a question and they are saying yes, but the meaning you realize later is no?
Join Paula as she dives into the art of understanding different communication styles, Paula serves up a hearty discussion on how different countries have different communication styles. She sprinkles in personal stories, insights from Erin Meyer's 'Culture Map,' and practical tips to help you connect with people from around the world. Whether it's navigating a bustling market or sharing a meal, Paula shows how a little cultural awareness can...
From Taiwan to Canada: Pete Young's Journey of Creativity and Innovation (Part 2)
Ever wondered what it takes to navigate the complexities of identity and culture, as a young immigrant?
In this two-part episode, Taiwanese-Canadian artist and educator Pete (Shouh) Young takes us on a journey through his life, sharing how his experience of moving from Taiwan to Vancouver at the age of nine shaped his art, his studies, and his sense of self. From the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, to the founding of Young Guns Studio to mentor young artists, Pete's story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to hi...
From Taiwan to Canada: Pete Young's Journey of Creativity and Innovation (Part 1)
Ever wondered what it takes to navigate the complexities of identity and culture, as a young immigrant?
In this two-part episode, Taiwanese-Canadian artist and educator Pete (Shouh) Young takes us on a journey through his life, sharing how his experience of moving from Taiwan to Vancouver at the age of nine shaped his art, his studies, and his sense of self. From the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, to the founding of Young Guns Studio to mentor young artists, Pete's story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to hi...
Living La Dolce Vita in Puglia with Paola Maggiulli (Part 2)
A look into Paola's Puglia:
This episode of 'In My Kitchen with Paula' features a conversation between host Paula Mohammed and guest Paola, a self-love coach living in Puglia, Italy. Paola shares her journey from a high-paced London life to embracing the serene culture of Puglia, encouraging listeners to find joy and self-love through Italian cooking.
The episode explores the culinary richness and beautiful landscapes of Puglia, offering insights on local staples, traditional dishes like bombetta and pasticciotto, and tips for making the most of a visit to the region. Paula and Paola d...
Living La Dolce Vita in Puglia with Paola Maggiulli (Part 1)
Feeling stressed? Discover how cooking simple Italian dishes can be a form of self-care.
This episode of 'In My Kitchen with Paula' features a deep and engaging conversation with Paola, also known as the Tiny Italian. Host Paula Mohammed invites Paola to share her inspiring journey from the corporate fashion world to becoming a self-love coach and Italian cookery teacher. They discuss Paola's transition from a high-stress career to finding joy and balance through cooking.
The conversation delves into the importance of mindful cooking, the Mediterranean diet, and embracing a Dolce Vita lifestyle. P...
Beyond Butter Chicken with Chef Gurjyote Sethi
Spices, Stories, and Smiles: Exploring Indian Culture and Cuisine with Chef Gurjyote Sethi
In this episode of 'In My Kitchen with Paula,' host Paula Mohammed invites Red Seal Chef Gurjyote Sethi (Chef GJ) to share his culinary journey from India to Canada. Chef GJ delves into his family's rich culinary history, regional Indian cuisines, and the importance of hospitality. He provides insights into daily life in India, cooking techniques, and his philosophy of spreading love through food. The discussion also touches on Chef GJ's culinary tours in India and his ongoing cooking ventures in C...
The Essence of Japan: Naomi Eguchi's Story from Soccer to Sake (Part 2)
A journey of food, soccer and cultural insights...
In this episode of 'In My Kitchen with Paula', host Paula Mohamed reunites with Naomi Eguchi, a former host and native of Kobe, Japan, for the second part of their series. They delve into:
The Essence of Japan: Naomi Eguchi's Story from Soccer to Sake (Part 1)
Friday evenings you will find Naomi cooking up Japanese small plates and pouring sake for friends around her kitchen island. The conversation goes something like this...
In this episode of 'In My Kitchen with Paula', Paula interviews Naomi Eguchi, an original In My Kitchen Host and a talent both in the kitchen and on the soccer field. Naomi, originally from Kobe, Japan, and now running a successful business in Vancouver, shares insights into her upbringing, Japanese home cooking, and the diverse food scene across Japan's regions.
These are just a few of the to...
Exploring the Heart of Japan: A Tale of Temples, Tastes, Teens and Traditions
Peeling back the layers of Japan, one trip at a time.
In the season three premiere, Paula recounts her enriching and flavorful trip to Japan with her 17-year-old son, weaving through the cultural, historical, and culinary landscapes that have been a part of her life since childhood, thanks to her father's business ventures.
Paula offers a detailed itinerary of their journey, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene onsen culture in Yufuin and the culinary delights discovered along the way.. Alongside sharing planning tools and advice for spontaneous travel, Paula emphasizes t...
A Culinary Journey Through the Caribbean with Chef Mireille
Suriname, Djon djon, Soup Jou Mou and more….what do these all have in common? The Caribbean!
In this episode, host Paula Mohammed chats with Chef Mireille, a New York City based food and travel blogger with a diverse family background that spans the globe from India to Haiti.
Mireille shares her unique perspective on international cuisine as she encourages listeners to traverse the cross-cultural landscape with her traditional recipes. She gives a deeper insight into the diversity of Caribbean cuisine and culture, focusing on the uniqueness of each region based on historical colon...
Episode 10: In My Kitchen with Paula featuring Chef Mireille - A Culinary Journey Through the Caribbean
Suriname, Djon djon, Soup Jou Mou and more….what do these all have in common? The Caribbean!
In this episode, host Paula Mohammed chats with Chef Mireille, a New York City based food and travel blogger with a diverse family background that spans the globe from India to Haiti.
Mireille shares her unique perspective on international cuisine as she encourages listeners to traverse the cross-cultural landscape with her traditional recipes. She gives a deeper insight into the diversity of Caribbean cuisine and culture, focusing on the uniqueness of each region based on historical colon...
Early Days and a Brand is Born
“Positive Paula for Progress”, avoiding people pleasers, and working with people smarter than me are just a few of the ingredients I used to create In My Kitchen.
In Episode 3, I talk about why I started In My Kitchen. This episode is the start of a series about how I started In My Kitchen.
"Early Days and a Brand is Born" is where I recount the journey of my career, sharing some of my experiences in the event industry, starting a professional partnership and embarking on a journey of self-employment.
I then...
