170: Becoming a Food Photographer While Writing a Debut Cookbook with Saeng Douangdara

Molly and Kristin speak with Saeng Douangdara, a personal chef and academic counselor turned online content creator and now, cookbook author and food photographer. Saeng shares what motivated him ten years ago to get into the online food space, why he wanted to show off Lao cuisine and how he's built up an audience and community during that time. His refreshing approach means he doesn't dilute or censor his interests and instead continues to challenge himself to learn and grow. This mindset came into play when he 'manifested' his cookbook, took on the daunting prospect of learning professional food photography on the job and collaborated with the writing and typography elements of the book. Saeng discusses why he wanted to create a book that acts as a Lao food primer and a way to share personal stories along with the recipes and leaves us with some sage advice and a look at how this book accomplishes some of his earliest goals. Hosts: Kate Leahy + Molly Stevens + Kristin Donnelly + Andrea Nguyen Editor: Abby Cerquitella   Mentions Saeng Douangdara Website Food Tour Newsletter YouTube Instagram TikTok   Fig & Light Lao Foodie Tour 2026 Food Friends Podcast Newsletter   Visit the Everything Cookbooks Bookshop to purchase a copy of the books mentioned in the show The Lao Kitchen: Lao Flavors & Stories Told Through Family Recipes, by Saeng Douangdara