The Corporate Grind: A Life That Wasn’t for Me
They say when one door closes, another opens. For me, that door was the 9-to-5 corporate world—a place that, despite offering a paycheck and a sense of stability, never allowed me to be creative, to grow, learn, and thrive. My creativity was blocked, and I didn’t feel free.
I remember being out one night in New York with my friends from TheGoodLife! when I saw a sticker in a bathroom stall that read, "Now or never." I took it as a sign. Something inside told me to just do it. Choosing to follow my passion was the most freeing decision I’ve ever made.
Deep down, I knew there was more to life than sitting in a cubicle and grinding away for someone else’s dream. My heart was in the kitchen, in the flavors of my childhood, and in the zest for life I had been too afraid to fully embrace.
From Grinding Weed to Grinding Peppers: A New Path
I left the corporate world behind and embraced what had always been a constant in my life: my passion for food. Growing up in a Balkan household, food was always part of my identity. It wasn’t just about what we ate, but how we ate—with love, with community, and with pride. The rich spices, bold flavors, and unforgettable meals have always been at the core of who I am.
I started small, hosting Balkan BBQs with my family. I remember the first time I made ajvar on my own. It wasn’t just about the heat or the spice; it was about crafting something from scratch, rooted in my heritage. I started with the basics—my Baka’s recipe—then added a bit of myself to the mix. Experimenting with flavors and textures, creating something that felt both nostalgic and new, was exhilarating.
The next morning, the name came to me: The Spicy Balkan. I dreamt of a business rooted in my culture and my love for food—bringing the bold, vibrant flavors of the Balkans to the world in a way that felt true to who I am.
The Balkan Empire: More Than Just Food
Building The Spicy Balkan has been a dream, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. Turning a passion into a business is never easy. It requires hard work, mindful decision making, letting your intuition guide you and a willingness to take risks. But every step has been worth it because it’s not just about food—it’s about sharing a piece of my history, my culture, and my love for the flavors of the Balkans.
I’m building my Balkan empire, bringing the tastes of my homeland to people who might never have experienced them otherwise. It’s about creating a brand that reflects the spirit of the Balkans—bold, unapologetic, and full of life.
Food is my way of connecting with people, and through the Spicy Balkan, I hope to bridge cultures and bring people together around the table. It’s about community, flavor, and the shared experience of enjoying something that nourishes both the body and the soul.
Looking Ahead
I’m excited about the future of The Spicy Balkan. I know it will continue to evolve, and I’m growing and evolving with it. There’s no rulebook—I’m ready for whatever comes next. My roots, my culture, and my love for food will always be at the heart of this journey, and I’m committed to sharing that with the world.