Chef Joanne Thomas on Transforming Her Passion into A Culinary Business

May 28, 2024

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“I didn't realize that it was my gift. I know it was something that I enjoyed and it's something that I loved, but I didn't learn that it was my gift until I got into my 30s.”

As a young girl, Joanne Thomas used her Easy-Bake Oven to make the best light-bulb-baked brownies that anyone had ever tasted—but it took her decades to realize that the culinary arts were her true calling. Today, Joanne is a former Marine and an international travel chef and caterer who transformed her passion for hospitality into a thriving culinary business. As the founder of Serenity Catering, Joanne has catered everything from intimate dinners to grand weddings and offers a range of services, including virtual cooking classes and private chef dinners worldwide. Her journey from line cook to corporate chef consultant and now entrepreneur reflects her dedication to culinary excellence, believing in the power of hospitality to open doors and warm hearts. Joanne's mission is to create unforgettable experiences through food, making her purpose not just a job, but a calling. Tune in and hear our conversation with Joanne about the importance of honing hospitality skills, watching and cultivating your children’s gifts, and what it really takes to be an entrepreneur.

What we talk about:

Joanne learned her passion for food from her mom (02:31)
How her time in the Marine Corps influenced Joanne (05:47)
Adjusting and finding your passion after a big career switch (08:34)
Creating retail products (12:39)
Marketing strategies to attract new catering clients (15:57)

Connect with Joanne:

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