There are so many amazing things about the internet, and my favourite has got to be the connections I’ve made online. I had a very special realization a few years ago, that there are so many people on the planet that have access to social media, that there is truly room for everyone at the table! The more we can connect and share knowledge, the more we can all grow, succeed together and be happy!
For the first episode of tiny victories, I wanted to chat with Tony from Vegan Scratch Kitchen. To be honest, I haven’t been following him for that long. His stop motion recipe videos were the first to catch my attention. My wife does stop motion photography and I know how time consuming it can be. Tony creates amazing recipe videos that are super creative, approachable and friendly!
What did you have for breakfast today?
Vegan yogurt bowl with granola, raspberries, blueberries, banana, almonds, walnuts, hemp hearts, and maple syrup. It was very good.
What is one thing you accomplished this week that you are proud of?
I learned how to color grade footage for my content!! This has been a game changer. I got a new phone over the holidays and have been using the BlackMagic Camera App to film in “log profile,” which basically retains a LOT more data when you shoot a video, allowing more flexibility in post-production to tinker with the highlights, shadows, exposure, coloring, and so much more. I’m constantly on the lookout for new ways to make my videos more appealing, and this format has worked brilliantly.
Name your current hyperfixation meal?
SALADS!! I’ve been sleeping on salads for a long time now, TBH. They are SO good. Fresh veggies taste way better than so many other foods. My salad includes the following: mixed greens, cucumber, carrot, green onion, cherry tomatoes, toasted almonds and pumpkin seeds, hemp hearts, cashew parm (cashews ground up in a mortar and pestle with nooch and a pinch of salt), and a homemade vegan ranch (1 cup vegan yogurt, 2/3 cup vegan mayo, 1 lemon juiced, chopped fresh dill, parsley, and chive, garlic and onion powder, and salt + pepper). I also add protein, and recently, my favorite is TEMPEH. Tempeh hack: cube tempeh and boil in salted water for 10 mins, strain it, add to a large mixing bowl with smoked paprika and a couple tablespoons each soy sauce, white vinegar, and maple syrup, mix together, then roast in 425F oven on an elevated baking rack or directly on parchment for about 15 mins.
What is one piece of advice for someone struggling?
Always know that help is out there, and that everyone struggles. Not all struggles are created equal, but we all face challenges. The stigma around mental health (especially within one’s family/close friends) is what keeps so many folks from seeking help. Just know that you are not alone, and that getting help is always an option. This has been a PSA from a licensed neuropsychologist.
How do you take your coffee?
With a splash of oat milk.
What is something you want to do that scares you?
Go on a podcast! I love getting to share my thoughts on things I love and enjoy, although I also have social anxiety and putting myself out there can be scary.
What’s for dinner?
Curry with crispy tofu (see below)