Ep02 From Ukraine to Alabama: The Sweet Journey of Cake Honeys and Finding Home Through Food

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From Ukraine to Alabama: The Sweet Journey of Cake Honeys and Finding Home Through Food | From Where to Here Podcast 🎙️

What does it take to rebuild a life from scratch in a new country? In this episode of From Where to Here, host Alexandra Lloyd sits down with Lisa Strelnikova, a Ukrainian immigrant and owner of Cake Honey’s, to explore the emotional journey of adapting to a new culture while holding onto home.

Lisa shares how baking became her bridge between past and present, a way to preserve her Ukrainian heritage, and build a community in Alabama. From crafting unique recipes inspired by family traditions to navigating the challenges of starting a business in the U.S., this conversation highlights the resilience, creativity, and passion that fuel her journey.

We also discuss the impact of war on her homeland, her mission to give back, and her aspirations for expanding her business while staying connected to Ukraine. If you're interested in Ukrainian culture, food as a cultural connector, immigrant entrepreneurship, or stories of resilience, this episode is for you!

🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ How cultural identity is deeply connected to food and traditions—and why it matters
✔️ The ways food can serve as a bridge to understanding different cultures
✔️ Why immigration is both challenging and enriching, leading to self-discovery
✔️ How baking can be a powerful therapeutic outlet during difficult times
✔️ The crucial role community support plays in adapting to a new environment
✔️ How cultural exchange strengthens personal and communal connections
✔️ Why memories of the past shape our present identity and sense of belonging
✔️ The balance between tradition and innovation in culinary heritage
✔️ How a learner’s mindset fuels growth and adaptability in business
✔️ The journey of turning personal experiences into a thriving baking business
✔️ Why high-quality ingredients and lower sugar levels are a priority for healthier desserts
✔️ How community engagement helps refine recipes and connect with customers
✔️ The vision behind expanding the business beyond sweets to include savory dishes
✔️ Why giving back to the community is a core part of the business mission
✔️ How personal experiences of loss and gratitude shape an approach to generosity
✔️ The importance of sharing traditions to create a sense of home in a new place
✔️ Practical ways to navigate homesickness by embracing and celebrating cultural heritage

💡 Whether you’re an immigrant, a food lover, or passionate about cultural connections, this episode will inspire you to embrace traditions, build community, and find home wherever you are!

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🔗 Links & How to Follow Lisa Strelnikova
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📍 Follow Lisa Strelnikova:
- https://www.instagram.com/thehandel_/ (Cakes and Pastries)
- https://www.instagram.com/thehandel__/ (Soups and Food)
- Visit Cake Honey's w

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Cultural Diversity and Personal Journeys (00:00:00)

2. Cultural Identity and Food as Connection (00:02:31)

3. Navigating Life in a New Country (00:11:15)

4. Reflections on Past Lives and Memories (00:19:01)

5. Baking as a Means of Healing and Connection (00:35:32)

6. Culinary Heritage and Cultural Exchange (00:46:06)

7. The Birth of a Business: From Passion to Profit (00:47:10)

8. Crafting Recipes: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation (00:50:10)

9. The Sweet Balance: Healthier Desserts and Personal Choices (00:54:01)

10. Future Aspirations: Expanding Beyond Sweets (00:58:00)

11. Community Connection: Engaging with Local Ingredients and Culture (01:01:51)

12. Rebranding and New Beginnings: The Handel (01:05:12)

13. Giving Back: The Mission Behind the Business (01:09:23)

14. Lessons in Generosity: A Circle of Kindness (01:13:51)

15. Finding Home: Navigating Change and Belonging (01:18:39)

16. Coping with Homesickness: Traditions and Connections (01:25:12)