From Tax Preparer to Award-Winning Food Writer: An American's Journey of Self-Discovery in France with Steve Hoffman

Published: June 12, 2024, 6 a.m.

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected link between French cuisine, midlife acceptance, and the resilience found in a tiny winemaking village? Join Steve Hoffman, an award-winning writer and memoirist, as he shares his journey of cultural immersion and self-discovery. You won't want to miss the open loop of his unique insights that are sure to stir a sense of wonder within you. Keep an eye out for his upcoming memoir, "A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France," for a deep dive into his transformative experiences.\nBIG REVEAL: Get ready to savor the flavors of life and the unexpected truths that come with it.\nIn this episode, you will be able to:\n\nEmbracing cultural differences to thrive in a new environment.\n\nDiscovering the enriching rewards of extended stays in one foreign location.\n\nUnveiling the impact of French cuisine on the global culinary landscape.\n\nCapturing and sharing personal experiences through the art of memoir writing.\n\nNurturing and navigating the unique upbringing of third culture kids in France.\n\n\n\nMy special guest is Steve Hoffman\nSteve Hoffman, a Minnesota-based tax preparer and food writer, has achieved recognition for his culinary expertise, including the prestigious 2019 James Beard MFK Fisher Distinguished Writing Award. His contributions have been featured in esteemed publications such as Food and Wine, the Washington Post, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune. With an upcoming memoir titled "A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France," Hoffman provides a unique perspective on cultural adaptation, the global influence of French cuisine, and the complexities of raising third culture kids in France. Through his extensive experience and compelling storytelling, Hoffman offers valuable insights into navigating culture shock abroad and the profound impact of French culinary traditions on global food culture. His expertise and passion for cross-cultural experiences make him a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of cultural immersion and resilience.\nThe key moments in this episode are:\n00:00:02 - Introduction and Sponsorship\n\n00:02:05 - Steve's Background and Career Journey\n\n00:08:59 - Finding Identity in France\n\n00:11:55 - Embracing Present Circumstances\n\n00:14:06 - Acceptance and Family\n\n00:14:54 - The Human Experience and Cultural Influence\n\n00:16:27 - Analytical Brain and Creativity with Food\n\n00:19:29 - Influence and Personal Commitment\n\n00:23:56 - Finding Satisfaction in Deep Commitment\n\n00:27:48 - Travel Advice\n\n00:28:49 - Embracing the Unexpected in French Polynesia\n\n00:30:15 - French Influence in Southeast Asia\n\n00:32:05 - Exploring Mediterranean French Cuisine\n\n00:35:10 - Overcoming Culture Shock\n\n00:37:29 - Embracing Cultural Diversity Through Food\n\n00:43:01 - The Immersive Read and Deeper Topics\n\n00:43:23 - The Importance of Pre-Orders\n\n00:43:46 - Embracing New Cultures\n\n00:44:51 - Connecting Through Food\n\n00:51:08 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways\n\nJoin us for an exclusive EPS with Steve Hoffman in our Difference Makers community on Patreon. This exclusive episode isn't available any where else but here: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference\n\nOne way you can make a difference and help people find us is to leave us a review. It doesn't take long, but it really does make a difference! Leave a review here: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/\n\nhttps://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com\n\nhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/\n\nhttps://www.twitter.com/@awodpod\n\nhttps://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference\n\nhttps://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/\n\nhttps://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/\n\n\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices