Nutrition happens. We’re not solely focused on the food around here (even though we LOVE chatting about a good meal!) – we believe nutrition happens when we’re intentional about the way we’re feeding every aspect of life: the decisions we make for our bodies, the way we take care of our minds, and the relationships we choose to invest in.
While healthy certainly looks differently on everyone, one thing we can all agree on is this: health should be a judgement-free zone. Instead of focusing on perfection, we’re actively choosing to drop the comparison game and instead, celebrate people just the way they are. Because nutrition happens with no labels – whether you’re holding a green smoothie or a maple glazed doughnut. This series intends to share the incredible minds of Chicagoans in this community who share a similar passion for living their own definition of their best lives. Here’s how these Chicago locals are all making nutrition happen:
*May’s note: I met Chef Jess at a Farmer’s Fridge lunch this past winter and and immediately knew I wanted her to be a part of this series. Dietitians often wear many hats and Jess is a prime example of someone in the industry with an unconventional (and amazing!) path in nutrition. Also, I’m big fan of Farmer’s Fridge – I wrote about them in a post here. They’re a company that sells salads in automated fridges through the Chicago area. The salads and meals are packed into reusable jars daily with fresh ingredients – I love that they are a company with high standards for changing the way people eat on the go. I’m telling you now that you should keep this humble company on your radar – I have a feeling these fridges will completely change the way we see “fast food” in the next few years! Check it out if you’re in Chicago – you can find the locations here. (ps don’t leave the fridge without also grabbing a few of the chocolate trail mixes – TRUST!)
Name: Jessica Foust
Hometown: Reno, NV (Biggest Little City in the World)
Occupation: Chef, Registered Dietitian, Inventor, Dreamer
Tell us about yourself:
I am a passionately curious food lover who has worked across the industry to create solutions to positively influence the way the world eats. I’ve lived in the Chicago for 10 years and am happy to call it home with my husband (Michael), frenchie (Coney) and my first baby on the way in May (no name picked yet). I love exploring the world through food and enjoy time in my home garden, fishing with my husband and traveling the world to experience food from farm to fork.
Favorite part of your job?
I love working for Farmer’s Fridge because I work with a very talented team that is passionate about increasing access to fresh, delicious, plant-based food. We work hard to source high quality ingredients and promote local partnerships to support the vibrant food culture in Chicago. My favorite part is that I am constantly learning and taking on new challenges. I love exploring how food is grown and finding ways to celebrate the care that goes into serving truly great food.
What’s your personal philosophy on a healthy lifestyle?
Health is not one-size-fits-all and must be managed individually with a balanced and realistic approach.
Flexibility is key to make the best choices that support long term health and life goals.
(Making nutrition happen for the…)
MIND.
Morning routine or evening routine?
Morning routine: I prepare breakfast and plan for snacks/meals throughout the day. I then brew myself a cup of coffee (decaf these days) and take a quick glance at my calendar and inbox to prepare myself for the day.
One thing you are grateful for today:
The sun. I hope that it sticks around all day, I am more than ready for spring.
How do you recharge after a long day?
Bubble Bath & Sleep
Last song played on your Spotify?
Tamacun by Rodrigo y Gabriella…trying to get myself pumped up to fold laundry (I hate doing laundry).
BODY.
Top 3 food essentials that you can’t live without (or, 3 items ALWAYS on your grocery list):
Eggs, Kefir/Greek Yogurt, Seasonal Fruit/Vegetables
The BEST meal you’ve ever had (or favorite meal, ever):
The best/most memorable meals I’ve ever eaten are with the people I love, creating great memories.
One of the best was Thanksgiving a few years ago because my husband and I were in Maui and after a full day of successful fishing, we decided to cook our thanksgiving dinner on the beach. All our preparation happened on the hood of our rental car and we found a cheap little grill to cook the freshest fish we’d ever eaten, while drinking wine and watching the sun set over the ocean. This was one of the most special dining experiences.
Open your fridge. What are the first two things you see?
Purple Cauliflower & Leftover Orange Cauliflower Soup…I’ve been experimenting with lots of colorful cauliflower lately.
Favorite way(s) to move/ sweat / workout?
Walking with Coney, Spinning, Hiking, Skiing
SOUL.
What makes you the most confident?
I feel most confident when I have worked hard at something that I truly care about.
Where do you find the best inspiration?
I don’t have just one source and find the best inspiration from being in and experiencing the world.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Follow your passion.
Success to you is…
Continued curiosity and finding joy in the everyday of work and life.
CHICAGO.
Favorite spot(s) in Chicago…
Anywhere in the summer, this city is amazing.
Your perfect Chicago day is …
First Course- Waking at sunrise on a warm day and sitting on my front porch with a cup of coffee and stack of cook books/magazines.
Second Course- Wandering the city in search of good food at Farmer’s Markets, Shops and Restaurants.
Finale- Cocktails under the stars whether on the river, roof top, or in my garden.
