090: The Hidden Table: What This International Chef Learned in the World’s Most Unexpected Kitchens

In this episode, I’m joined by world-traveling chef, author, and storyteller Shannon Smith—creator of The Hidden Table—for a soul-stirring journey through food, culture, and the power of saying yes to curiosity.But don’t expect a list of top restaurants or travel hacks.From hidden kitchens in Morocco to salt pans in Mexico, Shannon opens up about what it means to connect with humanity—one conversation, one handmade dish, one unexpected invitation at a time.We explore how embracing spontaneity, discomfort, and unfamiliar flavors can transform your travels—and yourself—and why some of life’s richest experiences can’t be Googled.✨ Inside This Episode:How Shannon went from seamstress to global chef in her 40sThe mindset shift that helped her unlock deeper travel connectionsStories behind the hidden tables that shaped her new cookbookWhy culinary travel is about people—not just platesWhat she’s learned from women entrepreneurs around the worldHer approach to flexible, curiosity-led travel (no itinerary required)How she empowers women through teaching skills like cooking, sewing, and jewelry-makingA powerful reminder that your next chapter can start any decade🌍 Whether you’re craving more meaning in midlife or just hungry for a deeper taste of the world, this episode is your invitation to slow down, savor the flavors, and follow your curiosity all the way home.In this episode:00:00 Introduction 04:57 Shannon's Culinary Beginnings08:05 First Taste of International Travel09:54 Rediscovering the World Through Food15:55 Connecting Through Curiosity and Food17:54 Culinary Adventures in Mexico26:16 Choosing Stories and Recipes for the Book29:08 The Art of Making Food Look Beautiful30:13 Capturing the Essence of Different Cultures31:04 Unexpected Culinary Adventures in Chile34:07 The Magic of Spontaneity in Travel35:09 Embracing Flexibility and Trying New Things38:18 Empowering Women Through Culinary Skills44:24 Advice for Finding Purpose After 5048:24 Lightning Round: Culinary Favorites51:28 Where to Find Shannon's Book and RecipesResources & Links:Purchase The Hidden Table: Cookbook: https://chefshannon.com/shop/p/hidden-table-cookbook Best Day Brewing: Learn more about Best Day Brewing’s Earn $2 Back Program today! https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/best-summer-yet  Download our Travel Planning Packages & Pricing: Click here to download our latest packages brochure - https://transformwithtravel.myflodesk.com/welcomeguide Leave a Review: Loving the show? Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your favorite travel buddy (or stressed-out parent friend 💛). It helps more families find joy and transformation through travel.Connect with Chef ShannonCookbook: https://chefshannon.com/shop/p/hidden-table-cookbook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefshannonsmithTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefshannonsmith YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefShannonSmith Website: https://chefshannon.com/ Connect with KellyFollow the Podcast on IG: http://www.instagram.com/transformwithtravel   Follow Kelly Tolliday on IG: http://www.instagram.com/kelly.tolliday Transform With Travel Website: https://www.transformwithtravel.co Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Transform With Travel. Happy travels in 2025! ✈️