A Cookbook Changed Her Life | Christina Minutillo | Author, Host & Creator of What Lights Us Up

What happens when you follow the spark, even if you don’t know where it will lead? In this episode, Kara talks with Christina Minutillo, an Italian-American host, author, and podcaster whose self-published cookbook launched a whole new chapter in her life. They talk about how Christina went from corporate fashion to building her own brand rooted in joy, creativity, and community. You’ll hear how her cookbook came to life during COVID, how it helped her discover her voice, and how it opened the door to her podcast "What Lights Us Up," where she now highlights stories of personal development and creativity. Chapters: 00:00 Creating space for joy and creativity 01:20 A cookbook born from community and tradition 03:10 Building chosen family through hosting 05:45 Turning a dinner party into a published book 08:00 Teaching herself book design, production, and launch 11:25 The evolution of a creative project 13:00 How making the book changed her mindset and energy 15:00 Launching "What Lights Us Up" podcast 17:00 Why more people need to hear stories of starting 19:00 Following purpose, even if you don’t know the end goal 21:00 Growing up an only child in an entrepreneurial family 23:30 Listening to your inner voice and acting on it 25:00 From fear of visibility to hosting with confidence 27:00 Redefining what powerful means 29:15 Finding your purpose by noticing what lights you up 31:00 Daily routines that support clarity and creativity 34:00 Choosing connection, presence, and community The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices