019: Creating Real Connections with Kara Elise

In today's world, so many people crave having real connections. With so much taking place online, and more and more people eating dinner in front of their favorite Netflix show, it comes as no surprise that people are feeling isolated and lonely. On today's episode, I am joined by Kara Elise, a chef, experience curator and hostess who helps clients by hosting dinner parties that create connection and community. She shares how she developed this idea for creating a dinner party company and why she's always followed her heart. She discusses the power of words and speaking things into existence and the importance of taking time to pause, reflect and write things down. We also chat about how the Enneagram can help you to understand yourself and others.   What's in this episode: Always wanting to follow her heart Moving across the country on a whim Developing the idea for a dinner party company The power of your words and speaking things into existence Knowing that it's okay to end a chapter and create space for new things Taking the time to pause, reflect and write down Getting rid of the fear of failure Using table questions to get everyone to speak What the Enneagram is and how it can help you understand yourself and other people Hosting dinner parties for celebrities  Craving real connections and how dinner parties can help fuel those connections Having gratitude and being in the moment   About Kara: Kara Elise is a chef, experience curator, and the ultimate hostess. She focuses on creating spaces and experiences that cultivate community. Kara's expertise in hosting, recipe creation, and food styling establish a culture of invitation through holistically designed, welcoming environments. She is intuitive, warm, and disarming. A genuine hostess encouraging us to live fully.   In a culture obsessed with technology, being busy, and overstimulation, slowness is one of our most difficult disciplines. Kara believes that creating intentional time to sit with others is an essential practice. A moment to feed our bodies and fill our deepest human desire - to be seen and known.   While fostering relationships in Los Angeles, Kara has garnered a network of influential guests, clients, and brand partners. Her dinner party movement has successfully traveled between the West Coast and London and continues to grow internationally - drawing in socially savvy, mindful foodies along the way for dinners, retreats, and events. Kara also collaborates with a variety of brands, turning their consumers into a community of thriving relationships.   Kara recently launched her YouTube channel empowering freedom in the kitchen and teaching how to eat both mindfully and beautifully. Her first cookbook, Toast, was released in September 2017.   Connect with Kara: Website | Instagram | YouTube   Links: Maui Retreat Amy's Collection with American Crafts The Enneagram Institute Sparketype Test You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie   I would love to hear from you! Connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or on my website. If you enjoyed this podcast and you haven't already, I'd like to encourage you to subscribe that way you won't miss a single update. Craft a Life You Love by taking a small step toward turning happiness and fulfillment by savoring this season no matter where you are in your life and in the world.