Culinary Activism: Anna Voloshyna's Journey from Ukraine to California

What does it mean to fight a war—with food?In this episode, we meet Anna Voloshyna: chef, cookbook author, and passionate culinary activist. Born and raised in Ukraine and now based in California, Anna shares how her deep love of Ukrainian cuisine has become a powerful tool for cultural preservation and resistance amid war.From feeding soldiers on the frontlines in bulletproof vests to writing cookbooks that celebrate regional Ukrainian dishes, Anna’s story is a moving example of how food can connect, heal, and inspire action. Her journey is equal parts resilience, community, and unwavering pride.We talk about:🇺🇦 Ukraine’s food renaissance—and how chefs are modernizing traditional dishes🪖 What it’s like to cook for 50 soldiers near the frontline, explosions in the distance📚 How Anna’s first cookbook BUDMO! became a fundraising tool before it even launchedWhether you're a food lover, cultural explorer, or just looking to understand the world through a more human lens, this episode will move you. Anna’s story reminds us that even in war, food can nourish both body and soul.FEATURED RECIPE: UKRAINIAN RED BORSCHTClick here for Anna's original recipe! HELPFUL LINKS📘 Check out Anna's first cookbook BUDMO! ✨ Visit Anna's website to learn more about her projects📸 Follow Anna on Instagram🧳 Download my free Travel Planning ToolSUBSCRIBE, RATE & REVIEWIf you love this podcast and want to give me your support, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. This goes a long way in helping me get in front of other culinary adventurers like you. Just open up the Apple Podcasts app and go to “In My Kitchen with Paula”. Or, in this episode, click on the 3 dots in the right corner and click on “Go To Show”. At the bottom of the show page, you can rate and review.SAY HELLOIn My Kitchen creates connections one dish, one story, one journey at a time, by exploring culture through food.  We do this through unique culinary workshops, speaking engagements, and of course, this podcast.I'd love to hear from you! Connect with me in one of three ways:Visit www.exploreinmykitchen.com to join our IMK Community of culinary adventurers.  More recipes, stories and fabulous podcast episodes.DM me on Instagram at @inmykitchenpaula Email me at [email protected]