Food is always at the heart of Catherine McCord’s life. And although she grew up learning how to make and cook with her grandparents, her path to becoming a successful founder of not one but two industry-disrupting business ventures has been uneventful. anything simple. Catherine started her career as a model, she regularly appeared on catwalks and magazine covers everywhere. But as is the case with many entrepreneurs, Catherine’s journey begins with solving a problem. And when things turned around, it was a challenge she was far from facing alone.
As a parent, expanding your child’s taste buds is anything but easy. And when the question about adding healthy foods added to the mix, tasks are just multiples. One new momCatherine struggles with not knowing what to feed her baby — and finding anything simple, delicious, and easy to prepare has proven impossible.
With a degree from the Institute of Culinary Education, Catherine looked for a solution: cut back RomanticAnd after that, A potato born. With a little (again: a lot) of creativity in cooking, Catherine has succeeded in delivering delicious and healthy meals to families everywhere. And when I say success, I mean the kind of Jennifer Garner-approved success where career dreams are realized.
In short, Catherine is a fit for healthy, family-friendly meals — and today, she shows us the rituals and routines that help her show up every day with presence, mindfulness and steady inspiration to share. (Hint: Start up your blender. Catherine considers smoothies her enviable source of all-day energy.) Let’s dive in.
Take us back to the beginning: How did you start Weelicious?
I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky and my grandparents were incredibly invested in growing and picking most of their food. I always help them freeze, canning and pickling vegetables, so I have been exposed to a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables since I was a child. When I started modeling and traveling the world, I was fascinated by the way people eat in different countries – especially the time and pride spent cooking and eating dishes. meal with friends and family.
How can parents encourage children to try new foods?
If you’re a picky eater, make sure not to mention them that way. You want them to feel good about themselves when they try new foods, not reject them. It can be challenging for some kids, but it’s worth the investment of patience and time for them to become more open-minded.
We are very inspired by One Potato! How do you differentiate yourself in such a saturated space?
I want families to have access to organic, semi-prepared meals that support all dietary needs and eating styles. My family has been enjoying One Potato every week since we launched a few years ago. As a busy and working parent, I can’t live without it.
Your superfood smoothie is easy and delicious. What are your favorite recipes to help make sure kids get the nutrients they need?
There are many depending on your taste preferences and nutritional needs! My Blue Majik, Bright Green, Golden Milk, Pregnancy, Immunity Booster and Superfood Smoothie are a few family favorites. Pink Milk or Blueberry Chia are great choices for kids who are new to smoothies.
What does a typical day look like to you?
I wake up at 5:45 a.m., read the newspaper online, and then go hiking with my dog. I usually get up later but find that if I get up for a hike, I feel so much better mentally and physically. When I get home around 7:20 a.m., I prepare breakfast for the kids, pack their lunches, and take them to school. Every day is completely different, but overall, it’s a mix of meetings, filming, and getting down to creative work.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Drink water and read three news sites online.
How has your morning routine changed during quarantine? why?
I was so busy building One Potato and spending time with my kids that I had to exercise on one side for five years. When the stay-at-home order first appeared, my husband and I decided to start exercising. We have kept to that routine every day ever since. I try to walk 5-6 days a week and do pilates with my girlfriend twice a week.
Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.
I always change up my beauty products because I love trying new brands. I have very dry skin, so I prefer anything moisturizing.
What’s your favorite bath or shower product?
I make one Dr Teal’s or Kneipp salt baths when I have time, but I do bathe most days. My daily bathroom usually includes Iles .’s formula or Second shampoo and conditioner and Tho Tu face salt rub.
What do you always have on your nightstand to ensure a smooth and successful morning?
A tall glass Calm.
What do you eat in the morning?
Most mornings, I would drink a smoothie for breakfast. I like to add berries because they have a lot of fiber. Every smoothie I make myself includes collagen peptides for hair, skin and nails, hemp or chia seeds for fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Bananas are also great for potassium, especially after a workout, and protein powders keep me full — I love the taste!
What are your morning communication rituals?
The first thing I try to do is stay away from social media and focus on the news and listen to podcasts while hiking. I start with The Daily and switch to How did I create this?, Second lifeor Pivot.
What are your favorite books?
I read a lot of books about parenting, like Discipline without drama and The brain has.
What’s your favorite getting ready soundtrack?
“Move Your Feet” by Junior Senior was I went to recently. I have a fun, upbeat Spotify playlist that I play around the clock.
What is your daily uniform?
In the morning, I always wear Athleta leggings, a classic t-shirt and Clare DRAW sweatshirts (they are so soft and plush). It’s a bit like a uniform to me. If I have meetings or filming, I like to wear fun sweaters with Anine Bing Jeans, Natalie Martin Outfits and monthly items from Rent the Runway to change my style. If I go to a meeting, I tend to wear a jacket and shorts. After 18 months at home, I like to wear heels, classic boots and comfortable apartment like Rothy’s.
If you had an extra hour in the morning, how would you use it?
If I have any time, you can find me to organize. That is my happy place.
What one or two things do you do every day to live a more present life?
Most nights, we dine as a family. We all talk about our days, question each other, and find time to really connect. Every night, my youngest daughter and I read 2-3 books and cuddle. My older kids and I watch movies or TV series together. Right now, my oldest daughter and I are watching all of the James Bond movies she loves so much. If I connect with my children, it fills my bucket.
If you could credit your success to one thing, what would it be?
Hard work, passion and determination have played an important role in everything I do.
Sentence perfecters with Catherine McCord
I never leave the house without: my phone.
If there were more hours in the day, I would: craft and knit more.
The best routine in the morning: Hug and kiss your husband.
Worst Morning Habit: There is no time for spontaneity.
One thing I want to know is: Inspire families to cook and dine together.
What I fear most is: did not fulfill my dream.
When I felt that fear, I realized: I have completed most of them.
The book I always recommend: To be Fountain.
The three traits you need to be successful in life are: determination, tenacity and passion.
When I’m creatively blocked, I: turn on music and sing.
The best advice I’ve ever received is: Never be afraid to ask for help from any and everyone you know.
The greatest sacrifice I have made for my career is: don’t go to college. I made up for that by going to culinary school and realizing it was my true passion.
