How Food Connects us to Places and People, and How We can Use this for Business with Rosemary Kimani & Claire Rouger

If you’re someone who lights up at the smell of a simmering pot or feels nostalgic over a childhood snack, this episode is for you.

Today, I sit down with the amazing Rosemary Kimani, co-founder of Authentic Food Quest—a platform dedicated to connecting travelers with cultures through local food and immersive cooking vacations. Since 2015, she and her partner Claire have explored the cuisine of 45 countries and over 290 food cities, spotlighting the kind of culinary experiences that go far beyond what's on the plate.

We talked about everything—from soul-warming tomato stews in Argentina, surprise snail dinners in Vietnam, to the simple snack that bonded me with my mom. But more than just food, this episode dives into how meals open doors to connection, understanding, and even business growth.

In this episode, we covered:
Why food is never just food—it’s emotion, memory, culture, and connection
How to deepen travel experiences by choosing what’s truly local
How food melts walls in business settings and helps build real trust
3 food tourism trends you can use in your own business: authenticity, sustainability, and wellness
The power of storytelling (even a $10 chocolate bar can go a long way)
Why entrepreneurs should celebrate local culture through food—whether you're hosting clients, motivating a team, or building brand identity

And if you’re someone who’s been dreaming of that once-in-a-lifetime foodie adventure, Rose shared all about Authentic Food Quest’s immersive cooking vacations in Italy and Greece. Think: homemade pasta with a real Italian nonna, cheese-making in the countryside, wine tastings, and dancing in the moonlight. Um—yes, please.

This episode might just convince you to try that unpronounceable dish, recreate a family recipe, or book a food trip of a lifetime. And if you’ve been looking for a unique incentive trip for your team, a food quest might just be the answer.

Share this episode with your foodie friends or your work bestie—especially if you’re dreaming of an unforgettable bite abroad.