If failure wasn’t an option, I’d build a food empire that’s weird, wonderful, and absolutely delicious. From condiments in diners to saving corneas, this dream is spicy, quirky, and unapologetically me.
Author: Genesis Candelaria
Hola, I’m Génesis — where creativity meets culture.
With roots in Puerto Rico and Colombia, and a life between Puerto Rico and Chicago, I’m fueled by curiosity and a passion for human connection.Y sí, se habla español — las mejores ideas nacen de la mezcla.
Crossroads, Resistance, and the Path Forward
Standing at a crossroads between Puerto Rico and Chicago, I’m caught between the comfort of familiarity and the thrill of growth. Sometimes, life makes decisions for you, but finding peace in the unknown is a journey all its own.
Why Are Work Trips Always a Mix of Torture and Chaos?
Hotel life isn’t what it’s cracked up to be, especially when paired with sleep-deprived mornings and subpar airport coffee. Why do I keep doing this to myself?
A Tale of Two Elections: The Diaspora’s Double Dose of Stress
As a Puerto Rican in the diaspora, election season isn’t just about choosing a president—it’s juggling two elections, two identities, and twice the stress. From deciding on la isla ballot to the U.S. one, it’s a wild, double-decker ride of loyalty and laughter.
The Good, The Bad, and The Spicy Secrets of Running Food Pop-Ups in Chicago
Running a food pop-up in Chicago is a wild mix of creativity, hustle, and unpredictability. From fiery Latin flavors to the chaos behind the scenes, here’s a taste of the good, the bad, and the spicy moments that make it all worthwhile.
Five Years in Therapy 🥲
In five years of therapy, I’ve learned how to function through chaos, showing up even when the world feels like it’s on fire. Here’s how you can do the same.
Ode to My Most Expensive Misstep (aka ATX)
An ode to the year Austin took my savings, but gave me back a whole new perspective. 💸✨
Finding My Way Back:
La Tercera La Vencida in Chicago?
After years of bouncing between Puerto Rico, Chicago, and ATX, I’m back in the Windy City for the third time. From juggling PR work with Sobremesa Chicago pop-ups to full-time babysitting, and now with a fresh outlook, the question remains: is the third time really the charm?
Cilantro Is the Devil’s Herb: A Latina’s Culinary Rant
Cilantro? Hard pass. This is my unapologetic rant against the soap-flavored herb everyone expects me to love because I’m Latina. Spoiler: I don’t. And I’ll take pasta over cilantro-covered dishes any day.
Babysitting: The Unexpected Career Bootcamp
Who knew babysitting could lead to success in hospitality, advertising, and nonprofit work? Discover the unexpected career lessons I learned!