In our most light and peppy episode to date, Danielle Kartes reminds us that joy is available today—not if or when. In this upbeat, heart-forward conversation, the celebrity chef behind Rustic Joyful Food shares how a closed restaurant, tight budgets, and a whole lot of grit became the soil for fourteen books, national TV appearances, and a ministry of encouragement.

We swap stories about building a resilient family culture around the table, the healing power of rhythm and routine, and why “Dear dinnertime, we love you!” can change a home’s atmosphere.

Explore Danielle’s world (and her recipes by season) at RusticJoyfulFood.com

Parents, you’ll love the practicals: getting kids confident in the kitchen, “flip it or skip it” ingredient swaps, toddler-tapas starters, and the lost skills every child can master—multiplying a recipe, seasoning with savvy, and knowing when a cake is done. Danielle’s brand-new book The Best Kids Cookbook is a joyful on-ramp to all of it.

Also, check out the other books mentioned in this episode!

Your Were Always There

Meant to Share

If this conversation encouraged you, share the link with a friend—your text might be the bright spot in their day.

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