Cathy FitzgibbonThe Culinary Celt
When you were small, what did you want to be as a grown-up?
Owning and running my own business was where I saw my future-self. I wasn’t sure at the time in what industry, so on that note I decided to take the scenic route! Educating and promoting positive relationships with food is such a wonderful space to be immersed in.
Tell us about your career progression to your role today:
Having worked in the media industry for the past 23 years in the areas of sales and marketing, I’ve been able to witness first hand the power of both words and marketing. Since my college degree studies in the late '90s in MTU (formerly Institute of Technology Tralee), the landscape of the industry has changed greatly. So, a few years ago, I went back to study a masters in business studies marketing in Cork as a part-time mature student and that opened an exciting new chapter for me, enabling me to pursue my interest in food education, learning and development.
The research and academic writing aspects of the course helped me to re-discover my love of writing. This resulted in my academic and peer-reviewed published writing contributions in the areas of food tourism, mental health and connectedness, as well as the publication of my solo debut book on mindful eating.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
I enjoy researching, educating and writing about food. Every day presents me with the opportunity to communicate practical knowledge and practices that I’ve learnt over the years and gradually refined through sustained research and natural awareness in terms of my personal heightened experiences with food. I enjoy helping others explore and shift their relationship with food in a mindful and healthy way.
What motivates you?
Educating myself and educating others. Life’s a rollercoaster of learning experiences!
What advice would you give your 15-year-old self?
Stop comparing yourself to others. It’s better to be unique and the best version of yourself.
If you weren’t in the job you have, what would you be doing?
Leading an orchestra as a music conductor! As well as food education, music and the arts are other outlets that I have a keen interest in.
What is your greatest life or career achievement to-date?
My greatest life and career achievement to date was publishing my debut book ‘Eat With The Seasons’ and designing The CELT Mindful Eating Model and Culinary Compass Tool principles. The book has enabled me to shine a light on the vital role that mindful eating plays in terms of enhancing our daily interactions with the natural environment, whilst improving our overall wellbeing.
Who has had the biggest influence on you in your life?
Sir David Attenborough. Being a champion of humanity and earth, his concern for the natural world comes from a deep knowledge and understanding, and his energy, advocacy and ability to reach people globally is a true inspiration.
What is the life dream now?
To further expand on my food writing contributions and actively promote the areas of wellbeing and sustainability through my published work in the areas of wellbeing, sustainability, mental health and connectedness.
How do you switch off?
I like to switch my mobile off and get out in nature for walks with the dogs. I also enjoy yoga and mindfulness. These help me to zone out of the stresses that everyday life can present. I also enjoy going to farmers markets and putting my own twist on recipes with my haul of locally produced, in season ingredients!
What is your favourite Cork memory?
Our traditional annual visit to the city at a young age. My mum would pile me, my sisters and brothers into the car on 8 December, ‘Farmers’ Day’ to visit the city and do our family Christmas shopping!
What is your favourite place in Cork?
The walking and nature trails in Gougane Barra Forest Park are magical and can be enjoyed in a multitude of different ways. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy in all seasons! Exploring the rich diversity of animal, plant and bird life on the forest hikes there is a great way switch off and mindfully connect with nature.
Do you have a favourite quote or motto?
“We must become the change we want to see” – Mahatma Gandhi
When are you at your happiest?
Enjoying the great outdoors in my wellies/hiking boots, surrounded by nature, with a backpack of delicious food for a tasty picnic!
What is your hidden talent?
I am a whizz at table tennis. It’s a spot I loved in school and I still love to this day.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I’m a ciotóg (leftie) which, according to science makes me very special! Research suggests that only 10%-12% of the world is left-handed.
Anything else you’d like to share with us??
I’m currently busy designing Nourished by Nature, a series of wellness retreats that will be launching this autumn. For all things food you can get in touch and stay connected with me online @theculinarycelt.