Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tina DeJesus. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tina , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
My journey towards finding my purpose was a transformative one that unfolded over several years. After spending more than a decade working in the hospitality industry, I found myself in an unhealthy lifestyle characterized by late nights, disrupted sleep patterns, and a repetitive cycle. It was in 2013 that I made a conscious decision to break free from this detrimental way of living. I embarked on a personal journey encompassing all aspects of well-being, including vegetarianism, nutrition, mental health, and movement. This period of self-discovery opened my eyes to the incredible potential of food as a tool for healing and nurturing the body and mind.
The defining moment in my journey toward purpose came when my father fell ill due to a blood clot and subsequently underwent triple bypass surgery. It was a wake-up call that struck me in the middle of the night, and in that moment, I knew that this was my calling. I realized that I had the power to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives through the healing properties of food.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My journey into the culinary world began over a decade ago when I decided to pursue my passion for food. I attended Le Cordon Bleu, where I received formal training in the art of French cuisine. Right after graduation, I honed my skills as a line cook in a fine dining seafood restaurant, which was an invaluable experience in refining my culinary expertise.
As my career progressed, I ventured into different aspects of the food industry, including catering for large events and orchestrating intimate dinner parties. But it wasn’t until 2013 that my life took a transformative turn. I made a conscious decision to prioritize my health and well-being, diving headfirst into the realms of vegetarianism, nutrition, mental health, and yoga. This personal transformation led to the birth of VegHead Chef.
VegHead Chef is a culmination of my culinary journey and passion for healthy living. At VegHead Chef, I create seasonal, plant-based meals tailored to accommodate various lifestyles, dietary restrictions, and unique preferences. My approach is to keep these dishes not only delicious but also nutritious and straightforward.
What sets VegHead Chef apart is my unwavering commitment to quality.I meticulously source all my ingredients from local farms, trusted butchers, and dedicated fishermen to ensure the freshest and most wholesome meals possible. I prioritize organic ingredients, use grass-fed beef, organic poultry, and wild-caught fish. My philosophy is simple: ingredients should be sourced directly from Mother Earth and brought straight to your table.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Firstly, my experience as a server in restaurants proved to be invaluable. It taught me the art of hospitality, customer service, and the importance of attention to detail. My advice to those starting out is to consider positions that provide a front-line view of your industry, as it helps you understand the intricacies of the industry. Secondly, my time spent cooking for adults with autism was a profoundly enriching experience. It taught me patience, not only with others but also with myself. It fostered a sense of compassion that I carry with me in all aspects of my life..
Lastly, my formal culinary education at culinary school was a critical foundation for my career. Knowledge is a powerful tool, and I firmly believe that education can only enhance your prospects in the future.
In addition to these specific qualities and skills, I would encourage individuals to seek a variety of positions within their industry or field. This diversity of experience can provide a holistic view of the profession, helping you become a well-rounded and insightful leader.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
One book that has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development is “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. This book is a treasure trove of valuable insights, but two concepts, in particular, have resonated with me deeply: the “Win-Win” approach and “Begin with the End in Mind.”
The “Win-Win” approach, which is one of the core principles in the book, emphasizes the importance of seeking mutually beneficial solutions in interactions and negotiations. It encourages a mindset where all parties involved can achieve their goals and objectives, rather than pursuing a one way win.
“Begin with the End in Mind” is another pivotal concept from the book that has influenced my thinking. It underscores the importance of setting clear, long-term goals and envisioning the desired outcome before embarking on any journey. This principle has taught me the significance of purpose and intentionality in both my personal and professional life. It’s about crafting a vision of what I want to achieve, and then aligning my actions and decisions with that vision. This approach has been instrumental in helping me prioritize tasks, make better choices, and stay focused on the bigger picture.
Contact Info:
- Website: vegheadchef.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vegheadchef/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VegHeadChef
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-dejesus-4655b980/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUhHpNpt-N0Wsuz8H7AUA7A
