Leesa Renae on Nutrition, Creativity, and Life with Ground Up
At Ground Up, we believe that empowering women is not just the mission behind our apprenticeship program. It is a value we see reflected in the community around us. The She's Empowered series spotlights women who are building purposeful careers, creating work that matters, and inspiring others along the way. This month we are sitting down with Leesa Renae of Plated Productions. You might recognize her as the photographer of all the beautiful photos you see on our website!
Tell us a little bit about you!
Hi! I'm Leesa. Photographer, nutritionist and recipe curator at Plated Productions.
What's the story behind your blog, Purposeful Plate?
The idea started in graduate school while getting my Master's degree in nutrition. We learned that whole, fresh foods from the earth contain powerful vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and even more compounds that we haven't fully identified yet that positively impact the body in specific ways. I knew right away I wanted to share this information with the world in a beautiful, colorful, delicious way -- so my blog was born!
When you're not creating amazing recipes, how are you spending your time?
I'm a city girl at heart and love to wander around PDX in my free time, soaking up the amazing community and connecting with other female makers and doers. I am so grateful for that! I also love to explore and see the outdoors, so hiking, camping, and road trips are almost always in rotation.
What ingredient is your kitchen NEVER without?
TOO many to list. But if I had to pick one... some kind of vegetable. They are the foundation of almost every meal in our house, and a stocked fridge or an empty fridge always has at least one to choose from.
Ok, we have to ask. What's your favorite way(s) to eat your Ground Up?
I know this is not a unique answer, but honestly -- by the spoonful. It's a treat in itself! Otherwise, drizzled on fruit is a close second.
How do you stay inspired?
Luckily I have never been short of inspiration. In fact, my head is buzzing constantly with ideas. The challenging part for me personally, is following through and seeing an idea all the way through. If I'm in need of direction for an idea, I brainstorm, ask around, research, and make a plan. When I'm ready to make it happen, I generally do it quickly so as not to lose focus.
What are your favorite ways to #spreadgood in your community?
I love to connect with others in the food/bev/wellness industry. Mentoring new graduates, meeting other entrepreneurs, supporting friends following their dreams...I feel the most connected when I'm engaged in a good conversation and I think communicating is a gift our community will always value. Dining at local restaurants, purchasing from individuals, supporting the small guy has always felt right. Spreading good to me means being open, honest, transparent, encouraging, and kind as a real person in real life in addition to our purchasing habits.
Inspired by Leesa's story? At Ground Up, we are surrounded by women building something meaningful every day. Learn more about the women in our apprenticeship program and the mission behind every jar.
