About Vanessa Young, Founder of Thirsty Radish

“When you bring together rigorous research and practical wisdom, then sprinkle in a generous dose of authenticity and deep presence, you get Vanessa’s powerful recipe for helping people meet the challenges of modern life. Through her work, she shows us how to cultivate happiness, meaning, and wholeness.” – Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, internationally renowned teacher, speaker, and author in the fields of happiness and leadership

With a deep commitment to mindful living, I nourish body and spirit through cooking classes, wellness coaching, and speaking engagements designed to bring more joy and meaning into your life.

From butchers to bakers, my family is a long line of self-taught and professional chefs. I meld their influences in an artful approach to dishes with a focus on seasonal meals. Known for my culinary wisdom, I guide home chefs to become more versatile in their approach to food, often reigniting their passion for cooking.

Beyond the kitchen, I share my expertise in mindfulness, meditation, and the science and art of happiness to help you manage life’s challenges and flourish. My wellness work is rooted in master’s degree training in research-based practices, positive psychology, and the science of happiness.

Whether I teach you how to prepare beautiful seasonal dishes or coach you toward greater purpose and life satisfaction, I take a holistic approach designed to help you live vibrantly.

My writing and photography have been featured in a variety of publications including The Inquisitive Eater, Chronogram, Juked, Prick of the Spindle, The Monarch Review, Ginosko Literary Review, Black Heart Magazine, At Home New Jersey, Southern Cast Iron Magazine, Natural Awakenings Magazine and many additional publications.

I am available for cooking classes, personalized wellness coaching, meditation and mindful living classes, keynote and guest speaking, writing, and collaborations. Say hello through my contact page.