Wabi Sabi - The Perfectly Imperfect Podcast with Candice Kumai

The True Meaning of Matcha: History, Culture, and the Healing Ritual In this special longform episode, you'll discover the deep, often untold story behind matcha — where it really comes from, what it really means, and why it matters. If you've ever felt peace, clarity, or healing from a cup of matcha, this episode is your invitation to go deeper. You'll learn how matcha originated with Zen Buddhist monks, how it became a sacred part of Japanese tea ceremony, and how its quiet power has been passed down through generations — including in my own family. I share personal stories, cultural context, and the wisdom that's been kept alive through ritual and respect. This isn't just about tea. It's about reclaiming origins, honoring heritage, and asking thoughtful questions about wellness, appropriation, and integrity. You'll walk away with a richer understanding of matcha, and hopefully, a new lens for how you approach your own healing practices. This episode is for anyone who values culture, intention, and truth. It's for those who want to move beyond the trend and toward something deeper. Thank you for listening xx Candice + Matcha Code: https://itoen.com/products/matcha-love-organic?ref=CANDICE15

In today's deeply polarizing society, we've become too comfortable with whitewashing—rewriting culture, truth, and identity to fit a more convenient narrative. We're constantly told by con artists, influencers, and marketers that certain things are "normal," when in reality, they're anything but. In this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast, I felt it was necessary to draw a firm line—to call out where we've compromised and where we've allowed culture to be diluted. I use Matcha as one clear example. If I don't uphold the values of my own heritage—publicly and with conviction—I wouldn't be doing my job as a journalist. This episode is about reclaiming your roots. It's about learning from where you came from, understanding why that matters, and how honoring those truths can actually improve your life. These are free tools and reminders that anyone can use—anytime. And if you're feeling stuck, that's okay. You're not behind. You already hold the keys to unlock your next chapter. Let's get into it.

This episode is for you — the one who's quietly rebuilding, starting over, or holding it together when no one sees the effort. If you've been feeling stuck, overlooked, or unsure of what's next… take a breath. You're not alone. You're doing better than you think. You've survived things most people don't even know about. And no matter where you are on your path — you are allowed to begin again. This week, we're talking about the real, unfiltered lessons that come with growth, reinvention, and protecting your peace. It's a reminder that even in the messiest moments, there's beauty. Even when it's quiet, you're still making progress. You deserve to feel grounded, strong, and proud of how far you've come. Let this episode be a soft place to land.

Welcome back to the Wabi Sabi podcast. Today, we honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis — a true bridge builder, a humble servant, and a radiant light in a time when the world often feels broken. In the spirit of kintsugi — the Japanese art of repairing what is broken with gold — we'll reflect on how hope, healing, and compassion still shine through our fractures. Pope Francis taught us that even in our most fragile moments, there is beauty, unity, and the chance to begin again. Let's take this time together to remember his example, and to rediscover the light that still lives within all of us.

Let's be real—life falls apart sometimes. But here's the good news: in Japan, we don't toss the broken stuff—we gold it. This week on Wabi Sabi, I'm diving into the art of kintsugi and how those so-called “cracks” in your life can actually lead you to your ikigai—your purpose, your why, your get-out-of-bed-and-make-matcha energy. We'll talk breakups, burnout, identity shifts, and how feeling “off” can actually be the beginning of something beautiful. It's not about having it all together—it's about loving your flaws, laughing at the mess, and finding your path anyway. This is your permission slip to be a little broken, a little fabulous, and a lot more you.

Hey friend, I know I've been a bit MIA from the pod these past few weeks, and I truly appreciate your patience. Life has its seasons, and sometimes we walk through chapters that aren't ready to be shared—yet. What I can say is this: we're all on our own unique path, and you never really know what someone else is going through. That's why it's more important than ever to lead with compassion. Everyone—everyone—is doing their best with what they have. When we start from that belief, we shift the way we see the world. We soften. We open. We allow more grace in. Today we will also be doing just a round up of recent events and little notes that you've all sent my way... Today's episode is a gentle reminder to pause. To take care of yourself. To give back to your community, even in small, quiet ways. To rest. To breathe. To do the little things that bring you peace. As one of my favorite monks once told me in Japan: "Bochi bochi ganbatte." Step by step, do your best. We'll also explore some perspectives from the Kintsugi documentary—how we mend, how we shift, and how we prepare for change in this ever-evolving world. And always remember: Wabi Sabi is about embracing the beauty in imperfection. Life isn't meant to be polished. It's meant to be real. So don't stress too much. You're doing better than you think. Let's begin.

Welcome to this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast! Today, we dive deep into the powerful and inspiring reviews you've shared with us about what you took away from the Kintsugi documentary. Your feedback has been nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait to reflect on it with you. Have you ever felt like giving up on your dreams? I know I have. In today's episode, I'll be sharing some personal insights on how I've shifted my perspective, shaped my future, and kept pushing forward—even when there was no immediate reward and when others doubted me. These are not easy stories to share, especially when faced with negative comments or criticism—because yes, it happens. But through it all, I've learned one crucial thing: the moment an artist stops pursuing their dream is the moment that dream dies. I'm here to remind you to keep going, no matter what. Thank you for listening and if you love the show, don't forget to leave us a five-star review to help keep this free, public service podcast alive. xx Candice

Today, we're diving deep into the timeless philosophy of Kakugo—resolution, determination, and the clarity of purpose in our lives. Kakugo is about setting intentions and committing fully to them, much like the monks high in the mountains who dedicate themselves to a life of service, simplicity, and profound mindfulness. In today's episode, we'll explore how we can learn from those who have walked the path before us—from the wisdom of these monks to the lessons hidden in the unfiltered messages of children. We'll also take a closer look at the Kintsugi documentary, which captures the essence of Japanese spirit, and how it all ties back to the powerful practice of Kintsugi. If you've seen Kintsugi, the limited series I created that aired on NHK World, you'll recognize how the art of golden repair teaches us that our brokenness, our flaws, and our scars aren't just things to hide, but something to embrace. They become the gold that strengthens us, propels us forward, and makes us whole again. In a world where so many of us are battling feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, these ancient practices offer us the tools we need to mend, to grow, and to find peace. How can we be better individuals, and better people, by applying these lessons from the past to our everyday lives in the present? Let's talk about how we can incorporate these teachings into our daily practice and open our hearts to the beautiful brokenness of being human. Thank you for joining me. Let's explore this journey of healing, transformation, and discovering your own path to resilience. x ck

In Japanese culture, there are many subtle practices that help cultivate humility, kindness, love, and softness, even in the midst of a turbulent world. Japan, having endured natural disasters and war, serves as a living work of art. The philosophy of Kintsugi teaches us that the cracks—whether from atomic bombs, earthquakes, or tsunamis—represent both pain and resilience. The Japanese people embody gaman, the ability to endure and persevere. We learn to rise, rebuild, and heal. In this episode, I'm excited to share insights from my documentary Kintsugi, and some valuable lessons we've learned along the way to help you mend, heal, and restore your own life. Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider leaving a five-star review and sharing it with a friend. With love, Candice

Hi friends! Today I want to share a little about Kintsugi—the ancient Japanese art of golden repair—and how it can transform our pain into something meaningful. In my docu-series, Kintsugi, we dive into this philosophy as I travel through Japan, tracing the footsteps of my grandfather and discovering how brokenness, much like the cracks in pottery, can be healed and made even more beautiful. It's about embracing your past, finding strength in what you've been through, and letting the light of love and hope guide you forward. In a world that feels heavy, Kintsugi reminds us that we can turn our struggles into superpowers. If you're ready for a deep dive into this philosophy, check out the Kintsugi docu-series on YouTube, and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more reflections on finding peace, healing, and beauty in our lives. Please join me every Friday in February for a new episode—link in the description! Thank you for being here. x Candice Watch Kintsugi on YouTube.com/CandiceKumai (4 episodes total) originally released on NHK World Shop Kintsugi Wellness the best-selling book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062669850/?ref=exp_influencer-0c39ba4e_lv_dp_vv_d

In this Wabi Sabi episode, I dive into the three traits that make people truly magnetic—not in a superficial way, but on a deeper, more meaningful level. Listen to hear more - thank you for listening xx ck

In this episode, I'll share how to navigate the next four years with peace and resilience. We'll explore the beauty of Japanese homes and how they inspire creating more space—both physically and mentally—in our lives. I'll talk about why it's essential to stop paying attention to the chaos of "Idiocracy" and focus on what truly matters. Learn the power of giving yourself more time, making self-care a priority, and investing in your well-being. I'll discuss the importance of setting boundaries and how they help create a peaceful, balanced life. Meditation and deep breathing are key tools for creating space, managing stress and staying grounded—I'll guide you through these practices. Remember to stay in your own lane—you don't need to do what others are doing, and that's perfectly okay. Finally, I'll remind you to stay curious and kind, no matter how others may behave around you. Let's dive in and create more peace and resilience together xx thank you for listening xx Candice

Welcome to another episode of Wabi Sabi where we explore the beauty of imperfection and the power of resilience. What can you do to truly influence? What are you doing in times of inevitable natural disaster? How can you better help others? I'm here to share my insights on how we can not only bounce back from life's challenges but inspire others to do the same. Tune in as we talk about finding strength, staying authentic, and making a real impact. Thank you for listening & please write a five star review for this pod + share with a friend xx Candice 

Embracing Wabi-Sabi: The Philosophy of Imperfect Growth Wabi-sabi is more than just a concept—it's a powerful approach to personal development. At its core, it's about accepting imperfection and finding beauty in life's natural progression. This philosophy teaches us to: Embrace our unique journey Stop comparing ourselves to others Find contentment in the present moment Accept life with all its challenges Key Areas of Personal Transformation 1. Nutrition and Wellness Mindful Eating: Focus on whole, natural foods. Eliminate Processed Foods: Remove items that don't serve your health. Holistic Approach: Consider nutrition from all five wellness zones. 2. Self-Improvement Strategies Self-Discovery: Identify your true passions and strengths. Goal Setting: Create realistic, achievable objectives. Skill Building: Continuously learn and grow. Resilience: Develop the courage to overcome obstacles. Practical Steps for Personal Growth Embrace Change Change is inevitable and essential for growth. As someone who has navigated significant personal transformations, I've learned that: Resilience comes from accepting and adapting to life's challenges. Self-belief is your most powerful tool. Every setback is an opportunity for growth. The Wabi-Sabi Mindset Remember, true wellness isn't about perfection. It's about: Accepting yourself completely. Finding beauty in your journey. Staying true to your authentic self. Continuous, gentle self-improvement. Final Thoughts This is your year to shine from the inside out. Embrace your imperfections, celebrate your unique journey, and commit to becoming the best version of yourself. Thank you for listening, and here's to your true health journey in 2025! Don't forget to subscribe and share with friends. xo Candice

In 2025 we want to see and feel positive changes: In 2024, life didn't always go as planned. We faced challenges, missed out on some of the things we wanted, and even the price of eggs skyrocketed. But here's the silver lining: there are 10 small, meaningful actions you can take every day that cost nothing and can create a powerful shift in your mindset. These tips will help you free your time, open your heart, and find a little more peace in your life. Tune in to this special podcast episode for 2025, where I'll guide you through 10 simple ways to improve your heart, mind, and soul. Together, let's step into the new year feeling lighter, brighter, and ready to embrace all that's ahead. Take a deep breath, hit play, and let's start this journey together. Thank you for listening & please leave a 5 star review xx xx, Candice

On this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast, we dive into the theme of overcoming change by letting go, drawing inspiration from the timeless teachings of Dr. Wayne Dyer. With fall upon us, it's the perfect season to reflect, release, and make brave changes. We explore practical tools for finding peace within and breaking free from your limiting beliefs, helping you navigate life's transitions with grace. Tune in for thoughtful discussions on how going inward, working on your own personal healing can make a profound difference in your life, enabling you to do difficult or even scary things and step into your true potential this season by shedding what no longer serves you. Thank you for listening x Candice

The Wabi Sabi Podcast: Special Episode with Chef Cynthia Sestito This episode of The Wabi Sabi Podcast dives deep into the 20-year journey of Chef Cynthia Sestito and Candice Kumai. From pioneering on Top Chef season one to transforming the culinary arts scene in New York, Los Angeles, and the Hamptons, Cynthia and Candice have been trailblazers in their fields, breaking boundaries and celebrating their heritage. Chef Cynthia Sestito, a powerhouse in the industry, has spent over a decade cooking for Jay Z and other hip-hop legends. She played a pivotal role in opening the iconic 40/40 Club and worked on memorable projects like the music videos for “Bonnie & Clyde” and “99 Problems.” Hear her behind-the-scenes stories of traveling with Jay Z's entourage across Germany, Paris, Mexico, Los Angeles, and New York. Don't miss this incredible episode & Share with a friend: Support marginalized women in the food and media industries by subscribing to Candice's YouTube channel. Your subscription helps elevate voices that deserve recognition in an often-overlooked industry. Follow Cynthia on Instagram @CynfulFood. Also, check out her work at The Cookery by Cyn and Trudy in the Hamptons: The Cookery. Candice Kumai is a 7x bestselling author and has written for Vogue, Bon Appétit, and Cosmopolitan. She has appeared on Iron Chef, Selena + Chef, Top Chef, and has contributed to the TODAY Show for over 15 years. Based in Brooklyn, New York, Candice is a proud Japanese-American who is committed to empowering marginalized women.

In this episode, we dive into what it truly means to be the bigger person in today's challenging times. It often feels like moral values and ethics are slipping away, but for those of us who care deeply about these principles, how can we not only survive but thrive in this modern world? I'll guide you through real-life scenarios and offer actionable steps on how you can be the change we need. Through thoughtful examples, we'll explore ways to navigate these moments with grace, compassion, and strength. By the end of the episode, I hope to leave you with a glimmer of hope—reminding you that “this too shall pass” and that we can choose to value empathy, kindness, and love as our currencies. Although not popular now, perhaps in another world. + Our love for cats + dogs on this pod and how we can help to be of service to others. I'll help to share true wellness practices + no BS like the rest! xx Thank you so much for listening x With gratitude, Candice

Today, I want to talk about the power of being earnest—truly sincere in your journey, even when things don't go as planned. My own path has been full of moments where I didn't get what I wanted, but those experiences taught me the beauty of moving forward, changing, and growing through it all. Life's imperfections shape us, and it's through embracing them that we find our true strength. Let's dive into how we can navigate these challenges with grace, and how being earnest can lead to the most authentic growth & know - that you are not alone in this struggle! xx keep going because experience matters! x Candice

Episode Title: Most Intelligent Individuals Do This: Embrace Change Well In this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast, I dive into the power of embracing change—something the most intelligent individuals master with grace. Growing up with immigrant parents, I learned early on that change is not only inevitable but essential for growth. We'll explore how to navigate life's transitions, especially when others try to put you down, discourage you, or talk down to you. It's about resilience, self-belief, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the world pushes back. Tune in for insights on turning challenges into opportunities and standing tall in the face of adversity. Thank you for listening xx ck

In this episode, we dive deep into your powerful transformations happening in your life and how they mirror the journey of the world's greatest Olympians. We explore the intersection of hard work, real talent, and the grit it takes to keep pushing forward, even when the applause feels distant. Discover why these changes, though challenging, are setting you up for a future where your dedication will shine. Tune in to understand how embracing these shifts can lead to your own moment of triumph—just like the Olympians who train for years to stand on that podium. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of the struggle, the unseen hours of effort, and the eventual rewards that come with perseverance

In this episode of Wabi Sabi, we explore the transformative power of hitting the reset button in life. Discover how to embrace new beginnings, find resilience in change, and unlock your potential to start fresh at any moment. Join us for inspiring stories and practical tips on how to restart and thrive. PS I was so elated by being in nature the past week - I think I called this episode 185 -- whoops! It is Ep 165 hehe x ck wabi sabi

re you ready to take charge and revamp your career? In this episode of Wabi Sabi, I'm sharing a step-by-step timeline to help you become the mastermind of your own life. I'll guide you through my personal journey—from a struggling young lady to a celebrated wellness reporter chef and author—and how I made it happen. We'll break it down into actionable steps: Self-Discovery: I'll help you identify your true passions and strengths. Setting Goals: Learn how to set realistic, achievable goals that align with your dreams. Building Skills: Discover how to acquire the skills you need to succeed, even if you're starting from scratch. Networking: I'll share tips on building a powerful network of supporters and mentors. Overcoming Obstacles: Hear stories of how I overcame challenges and stayed resilient. Taking Action: Get practical advice on taking those first steps and keeping the momentum going. Plus, I'll share real-life examples, success stories, and samples of actionable advice that you can start applying today. Whether you're looking to switch careers, start a new venture, or simply find more fulfillment in what you do, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

In this honest episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast, we journey inward to explore the profound impact of presence, integrity, and honesty on mental well-being. Join us as we discuss how embracing authenticity and living with integrity can alleviate anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Be more aware! The power of being present and the importance of nurturing your inner self. Through candid conversations and reflective insights, we guide you on a path to becoming a better person, fostering genuine connections, and finding peace within. Thank you for listening xx ck

Diving into the fascinating connection between mental wellness and skin health. We'll explore how stress, anxiety, and overall mental well-being can directly impact your complexion and what you can do to achieve a healthier glow from the inside out. Get ready for actionable tips, ingredients, and free daily rituals that reveal the secret to radiant skin lies in your mind. Stay tuned and discover how better mental wellness can transform not just your mood, but your skin health too!

I'm so excited to dive deep into the essence of true attractiveness with you. In this episode, we'll explore how confidence, kindness, and authenticity outshine superficial looks. Drawing from my rich background in wellness, Japanese cultural traditions, and personal experiences, I'll share practical tips and profound insights on enhancing your inner and outer beauty. Tune in to learn how embracing your unique qualities and cultivating a genuine, positive presence can make you irresistibly attractive. With love and gratitude, thank you for listening xx Candice

Entrepreneurial women (and men) – I love working alongside so many of them. I have been fortunate enough to observe the small but impactful practices they embody daily: inner peace, offering opportunities, appreciating beauty, wisdom, grace, respecting personal space and boundaries, pursuing constant growth, and a confident humility that avoids seeking undue attention. Thank you for listening xx Candice

Find out what kind of person you are - a true humbled master at your craft -- or a thirsty manipulator. Listen carefully for more- enrich your whole life, work on your personal self - with reflection, time and experience. x ck

Little Gems take time to give back remove expectation celebrate experience simplify rest solitude fruits and veggies and a few bonuses with some special pod guests xx Thank you for listening xx Candice

Take Action Now, How to Be the Change you Wish to See!

If you need a moment of fresh air, breathing, birds singing, chimes, calm - here it is - enjoy friends xx ck

Nature's O!? How to be true to your body: way nature intended your body/mind to function. Let's do this the way our Grandparents did & tips on how we can ALL get fit and gorgeous! Plus: A bunch of laughs and jokes in between .. like my mom & her one liners. Get healthy with your own rules, gain muscle mass, get gorgeous skin, hair nails & mentally, feel amazing. How to? Listen now thank you for being a devout listener xx Candice

Wellness Secrets vs Consumerism- Too often we intertwine and confuse the two -- one should be free and available to us at all times and the other should be completely separate as a shopping experience- for companies focused on profit should remain a consumer facing for profit business. There's nothing wrong with a for profit company - I would say it is important to know the difference and know wellness is a free and available practice to all. Here are some of my fave free ways to well & sites I love - written by each individual posted below. A free meditation is avail at the end of this podcast. xx thank you for listening xxCandice being in nature feet in ground eating healthy and well - fruits, veggies and unprocessed foods meditation for peace and calm - keep yourself immune to the haters//meanie people give yourself a mani pedi in the bath! - do a bubble bath make a face mask at home with papaya, yogurt, honey or matcha! fostering a pet at home, serving others who cannot help you is the best plant a garden at home, in the backyard and or get new plants/flowers free resources for real wellness: purchase their books, follow their work: plumvillage.org/articles/love-is-the-answer tarabrach.com jackkornfield.com drweil.com plumvillage.org/articles/love-is-the-answer candicekumai.com

We learn from Dr Wayne Dyer's "Being in Balance" - a master with his words. No more scarcity mindset - there is enough for all of us to go around! xx enjoy x ck

Glowy, radiant, sexy, delicious!?... but real? How to know the difference between real deal and fakie wellness? Real deal IG posts and fake ones? Real food and fakie food? I've spent decades studying these things in culinary school, on the line, writing the pages of the biggest magazines in the world and reporting on the largest news outlets in the world - here are some hot tips that I've found xx you are welcome! x ck

Knowing most business is transactional; Knowing that "appointing" can lead to disappointment and "expectations" how to manage both in real life. + To my friend Wendy Williams - I love you, you are such a champion for women in media & a pioneer of her own time. A mini tribute to my friend for Black History Month and Beyond - we love you Miss Wendy xx Candice

Gestapo. Mental Wellness. Flavanoids. Why Matcha VS Coffee. Skincare. Why Workouts. Travel for Inspo. Finding Purpose: & Your Q's Answered all in one pod, no bs xx ck

I'll lead by example and share with you some of my own fears & ways that we can work through our past so we can start leading in the present and let go of old ideas and belief systems (perhaps even values) that do not work for us anymore. In letting go - and being honest you can set yourself free & be on your way to a healthier/fulfilled you. xx ck

Well, you'll have to listen for this one ...

NEW WELLNESS RULES of 2024  Quiet Individuals are Well: There's no need to brag, boast or wealth flaunt in wellness Wellness is Confidence: Wellness is about being a professional and having self -respect for your beautiful body: Save the constant need to show your boobs and butt to everyone to confidential texts or snapchat! Trust me, you'll thank me later  Wellness is a Personal Journey & It will only Happen When you go Inward: Wellness is not flaunting, showing off or purchasing products  Wellness is FREE & Available to everyone at anytime Read books like: "Being Peace" by Thich Nhat Hahn or Dr Wayne Dyer's Anyone Asking you for Money is not wellness. Anyone asking you to buy their mastermind or courses is not wellness True Wellness is Humility Wellness is not showing people you live in a Mansion & have W Wellness is about Grace When the doors close; how loving, how kind and how graceful are you FR?  Wellness is Cooking at Home  Wellness is being Peace Wellness is not quantitative Wellness is Meditating at Home for Free, whenever you would like; its available for you at anytime   Wellness is Experience: Learn from those with decades of personal experience; tik tok is garbage.  Wellness is being a GREAT GATEKEEPER Don't be fooled by marketing, ads, influencers on social media Social media has proven to make us sick, ill, mentally ill, depressed, anxious and far worse ...Be a great gatekeeper this year - only follow FR FR people that are tried and true.  Wellness is Being Kind to others Be kind.  Wellness is Sharing Real images, and pics//videos periodically Wellness is not editing, face tune, photoshop, distorting your images and videos, so you come off as someone you are not IRL. Don't over expose your life. Be private and be a good gatekeeper of your own life.  Wellness is Being off Your Devices It's who you are in real life, who you are as a person for real, not a persona, and certainly not numbers Wellness is Being Free Doing you, and not giving af about what everyone else is doing  True Wellness is Patience: It is in letting go of expectations as hard as this one is - its very important to practice - let go  bc attachment is what leads to suffering Passion Will Find You when you are Ready, Well and Confident  you don't need anyone's validation or approval to make you whole. You are whole on your own. 

Everything changes. There is nothing to stick to. That is the Buddha's most important teaching.' - Shunryu Suzuki you need a break from tech & people take more quiet time just to yourself offline take a week at a time of not returning texts right away spending time away from your desk is what can work best for a new mind next level year be mindful of what you spend time looking at - is it really necessary? Embrace the women that give a multitude of opportunity - and thus do the same for them xx ck

Top secret ep as I run out the door to do more volunteer work! xx happy holidays you! xx ck

This year in a summary has been wellness scamming and bullshit thirst in a nutshell. Well, frankly I'm over it - major cringe. And I know you are too! Here's my 2024 WELLNESS TREND CALLING OUT BULLSHIT review. Watch out, be aware and be smart. Because wellness is aboyt simplicity, real foods, cooking, a simple workout, pets, practicing mental wellness, mindfulness, nature, social - in real life and lots and lots of sleep. Happy Holidays Friends! Enjoy and please share with a friend xx ck

In reflection - next year marks my 20 years since I was the youngest chef to compete on Bravo's Top Chef - things that have made me? and what's worked well -- or -- not? Take a Listen xx and pls share with two friends! Be a good Person - while this does not seem to be valued in our society these days -- I can tell you that if I still exist and you still exist - we can certainly reward goodness, purity and those who do care about being a good person - do not follow or reward those who get work and attention from poor and classless actions//behavior  Don't expect anyone to hand you a job. You're going to have to get out there and work for it  Be weary that not everyone will like you - be strong enough to love yourself - especially when things fall apart -- let them - if they are meant to be - they will come back the stronger your mental health the more you'll fly -- those who are the strongest in mental wellness and health - those who are the most real - those are the ppl I've seen FLY- bc they don't have to live with all of their shitty demons at night  Hot Bodies only come from working out & eating well exercise, eating fresh fruits, veggies, whole foods and cooking real delish foods- Have Grace for everyone. Tough mental wellness  Take advice with a grain of salt - and only from someone far wiser and more accomplished than you Know people will talk about you- they will be cruel and they will let you down -- this is sadly, life and -- as we say in japanese "Shikata ga nai" - it cannot be helped Times will change - you may be at the top one year and have fallen the next -- keep going -- because martha & julia child didn't make it BIG until their 50's!! Instant success is not lasting and it's not for everyone - most of us will not have a "viral" moment - therefore its best to work hard, perform in quality work within integrity, do something meaningful and keep going- they right people will give you opportunity at the right timeDo not compare your journey to anyone else's  - it's impossible to be the same and will never be the same - there will always be someone thinner, smarter, prettier and richer than you learn to let go of he people and things that cause suffering - is optional - opt out inner tranquility and peace - this is what to seek - not happiness - happiness is fleeting Read more books by solid authors -- vs online crap and trash - watch out for scammers, fakes, wannabes and con artists - the are everywhere & stay away from them Most of the time my mother was right - I fought her for a very long time - until we became friends a few years ago - I slowly had less resistance and more of my life made sense Cynthia - Cynthia from top chef was always my real friend - she and I had the biggest age gap on top chef - and yet we became the closest - find the ally that believed in you - especially when nobody else did - we went on to do big things, together and apart but mostly - the success we have is internal and its not shared openly to the public - not all success stories need to be bragged or boasted about - sometimes sits just for you It is better to be respected & to seek merit - than to be beautiful, successful in finance or in power - trust me - respect is all I have ever focused on - and that's made the biggest difference in my career.  Gratitude for the small things I do have - this is what makes life worth living & share it with others along the way - Kindness is the most powerful resource to success - because at the end of the day kindness is all we've got. 

The simple things getting on real wellness can DO and losing the bogus wellness fakeness that's a DON'T! - Ask yourself - what is your offering, legacy and use to the world - what do you want to be remembered for? - Professionals can offer you the most useful advice & experienced practices - Stop buying "courses" - Start reading time-tested books - Workout 5 days a week: the endorphins, blood flow, cardiovascular health benefits and muscle tone are just few of the many benefits you'll get for free! - what has helped? - weights! - Advice from fakie, cheapo, wannabes - do not - anymore- misinformation is REAL & its dangerous/risky for you/your loved ones - Working out also leads to tight and younger looking skin - believe it- it's true - Want abs for decades? - Eat lean meals with veggies and lean protein + workout + weights - Be kind to yourself with weights loss - take it in stride, each day with baby steps - you have got this! - Start focusing on eating real foods (yes even for snacks & the books I recommend to cook with) + smoothies for snacks - Don't lose the joy in delicious cooking and enjoying a incredibly flavorful meal! Stop eating AS much & keep it svelte - SEX. (HERE WE GO) helps to prevent common cold, stress & get better sleep - Do check out aromatherapy - for mental wellness - How to make your own electrolytes - Forest bathe in nature// eye health is important for 2024 - Get rid of trackers and devices - let go of tech this year - Consider deleting tik tok - its not really good for anything - Perhaps it is time for a pet - pet wellness is key - Kindness & Giving back are and always will be the best wellness practices of all - Beauty is mostly from your inner heart - looks will fade over time - so get started on that inner beauty journey, now. Don't make the focus of your life on food, weight or counting calories. If you cook for yourself, eat fresh produce, workout and be mindful - everything will indeed fall into place - thank you for listening xx ck

Happy Holidays Friends! Today we are sharing an hour long special episode of the Wabi Sabi Podcast: EP 141! With Special Guest: Miranda Kerr, CEO of Kora Organics, mogul, model and philanthropist. We chat on wellness, love, gratitude, business, cooking, support systems, beauty and of course, Moms! You'll learn in this podcast the importance of self-worth, confidence, growth, family and giving back to others. Miranda has a keen eye for not only beauty, fashion and wellness, but she is the pioneer in organic beauty standards. More than a model and a mogul - Miranda is a global inspiration for all of us to learn and grow with. Miranda is a devout philanthropist and supports numerous charities relating to women, children, and eco friendly causes. Please tune in today, listen and share this pod with three friends. A very special and BIG DISCOUNT CODE is released at the end of the pod - for Black Friday with KORA Organics (NOV 21-27th) listen to find out more. xx Thank you for listening

Actionable ways to let go and start following your intuition & loving yourself this holiday season - plus hot tips as always xx

A big thank you to Japan America Society Houston for allowing me the grace to receive the J. Thomas Schieffer Leadership Award -And to Executive Director Patsy Brown - you are a wonderful human & a prize in this world: I thank you for sharing this honour with myself and my family! Thoughts at this time:  Wellness - Wellness means you are real, vulnerable and share a common sense of wanting to connect with others around you in your community- it is not wanting to be a leader who is not relatable or feels that they are holier than others. Ask yourself to look at the leader in you- you already posses this: Now: What traits would you like to possess and who in life are you looking up to? Who is giving you advice? Where are you learning your everyday values from? Be kind to yourself, let go of old, stale beliefs and surrender to the unknown. What word of the day do you want to focus on? Shall we mend our friendships and harbor better diplomacy in our own lives? Do you have humble and gracious mentors in your life? Mend, pray for others, listen to your enders, prize them & war- can we better learn from these times? So we do not repeat history? Can we erase hatred from our own hearts? Can we lean into a better understanding of one another simply by listening & choosing curiosity? Thank you for listening & have a great week all xx ck 

It's that time of year again - where we start rounding up the things we learned in our 30's and now 40's and sharing what makes sense in this current climate with you: Listen for these 5 things to do now before 2024. Refocus & Recalibrate your values, old belief systems, business ideas, old dreams/hopes & tap into what works for you, now Learn to let go of attachment - this is an ongoing practice Stop saying yes to things that are not serving your health and mental wellbeing Create a strategy/or a business plan before 2024 Spend more time working on your healing journey and practice solitude

Self Care - Don't ever feel guilty for taking time to do you - get off group chats, work on your heart, heal, sleep, workout, make time to save $$, to sleep, to build your own life! You do you. Let go, steer your life into the direction that you've always dreamed of. Sometime the best gift you can give to others is: grace, time, understanding, space and love - from afar. Sometimes ppl need to get their lives back in order for a year or two ... everyone is different & remember to reciprocate & don't take anything personal. Comments and actions are a reflection of those speaking/acting them - not a reflection of you xx ck

Well, a straight shooter will answer them straight from Brooklyn & as live as it gets xx thank you for listening - xx Candice