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Ina Garten Says You Can Either Get on Her Train or Get Out of the Way

Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, discusses her career, her philosophy on life and cooking, and her new podcast and cookbook. She shares insights on taking on challenges later in life, the importance of trusting your instincts, and how she maintains clarity and consistency in her brand.

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Lulu Garcia-Navarro sits down with the iconic Ina Garten, known to millions as the Barefoot Contessa, to discuss her illustrious career, her unique approach to cooking and life, and her latest ventures: a new podcast, "Happy Hour with Ina," and her 14th cookbook, "Simply Ina." Garten, at 78, reflects on a life marked by continuous reinvention and an unwavering commitment to her own vision.

Embracing New Challenges Later in Life

García-Navarro highlights Garten's impressive trajectory, noting that she launched her celebrated Food Network show in her mid-50s and wrote her first cookbook in her early 50s. Now, at 78, Garten is embarking on a new chapter with her podcast and latest cookbook. When asked about taking on challenges later in life, Garten reveals a surprising philosophy: she loves "working scared." She explains that the thrill of getting out over her skis, where there's no choice but to commit, keeps her engaged. Garten emphasizes her aversion to doing things the way everyone else does, preferring to find unique approaches. She recalls the initial skepticism surrounding her first cookbook, which featured only 75 recipes instead of the industry standard 250, but ultimately proved successful.

Keep reading in The Digest

The full 4-minute article, 6 more sections, and every new episode from The Daily and the creators you follow.

  1. The Power of Trusting Your Instincts
  2. Maintaining Clarity and Consistency
  3. The Evolution of Home Cooking
  4. The Joy of Connection
  5. The Inner Voice and External Pressures
  6. A Life of Purpose and Fulfillment
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