Did you know that before foods make it into our homes, it touches the hands of food scientists who are tasked with ensuring the final product actually aligns with what's on the label?

Have you ever met a food scientist? Well meet Ali Manning.

She is a multi-passionate creative entrepreneur who has taken her love for food and creativity, and has begun transforming her world. Ali took a big bet on herself and founded Umami Food Consulting, which has led her to a Netflix competition show and the SXSW stage. Ali's deep passion for building colorful communities with fresh fruits and vegetables in her home of Memphis has given her inspiration to introduce the world of Food Science at the earliest of ages through "Food Science for Kids."

Ali truly believes that by feeding our bodies with the best foods, we are feeding our minds, and giving our souls the fuel it needs to seize each day as the gift it is.

You can find Ali on Instagram @AliManning_ and her company Umami Food Consulting @umamifcc_fs4kids.

A late birthday episode with Vic, and some of lessons she learned in 33, things she's carrying into 34, and what she's leaving behind.

Creative expression is something we are born with and it exists in many forms. This episode digs into the benefits of using creativity to express feelings, boost mental health outcomes, and help us show up more authentically in the world.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the So Many Layers podcast and leave a review!

Also, be sure to follow the Instagram page @somanylayerspod to keep up with all of the happenings!

Lastly, the writing workshop I reference can be found here: Craft & Release

Happy Women's History Month!

This Episode of so Many Layers features Memphis's premiere "Experience Reviewer" Camille Fulton. While Camille is a full time marketer, small business owner, and book lover, everything she does is rooted in service.

This conversation explores how Camille's move back home to Memphis gifted her a community and an opportunity to curate a life that she truly enjoys, while organically building a social media presence that is engaging and supportive of Black owned businesses.

Each of Camille's layers build upon another, and as of right now, she's having lots of fun so there's no stopping her!

Keep up with Camille on Instagram: @camilleunlimited

Follow her book club community: @literature.libations

Review and subscribe to So Many Layers and follow the podcast on Instagram: @somanylayerspod!!!

We can all have a hand in shaping the future. One that we may not benefit from, but if we build it right, the will impact will be long lasting.

Here's a link to the Article referenced and the Institute for the Future Website.

Also, follow @somanylayerspod on Instagram!

On this episode of So Many Layers, we learn about Adeola Odutola’s journey from electrical engineer to bespoke suit designer. Addy shares how he drew inspiration from the Yoruba meaning of his first name and harnessed the creative spirit he borrowed from his sister. Through the lens of Addy's experiences, we explore the intersection of engineering precision and artistic expression that defines his unique approach to suiting. With unwavering support from his wife, Kourtney, Addy took a courageous leap, leaving behind the familiar world of electrical engineering to embark on an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey. Learn how his passion for design, coupled with determination, propelled him forward, and why he has never looked back since.

For an exclusive look into Addy's world of style and craftsmanship, be sure to follow him on Instagram @addyodutola and on his business account, @CrownOfWealthCollection.

In this episode of "So Many Layers," host, Victoria Shoots reflects on a profound insight shared by guest Ciara Coleman about trusting that "God sees around the corner." This revelation sparks a personal realization about overcoming intrusive thoughts and embracing the idea that a greater force guides us.

The episode delves into a transformative moment when the host, a law student at the time, discovered the diverse interests of Patron owner John Paul DeJoria. This revelation leads to exploring the concept of polymaths, individuals with broad knowledge in various subjects. The host challenges the notion of specialization, highlighting the societal pressure to choose a clear career path from a young age.

Listeners are encouraged to think like polymaths in their daily lives through a set of questions, exploring their skills, problem-solving instincts, and interests. The host advocates for curiosity and a multi-hyphenate approach, stressing that becoming a polymath is a process rather than a time-bound achievement.

Instagram: @Somanylayerspod

This first episode features Ciara “Ce Ce” Coleman. Ciara is a philanthropist through and through. She works for one of the largest foundations in the U.S., co-founded a social experience for cocktail enthusiasts during the height of the pandemic, and she has launched a giving circle dedicated to pouring financial resources into non-profits that are uplifting Black women and girls. Ciara is clear that her faith and her desire to leave this life empty of her gifts is the driving force that keeps her pushing through.

Ciara shares more about her layers, what keeps her going, and where she’s ready to take it all.

You can keep up with Ciara on IG: @cece_coleman18

Meet Me at the Bar: @_meetmeatthebar

Geaux Girl Giving: @geauxgirlgiving_collective