Description

February 1972 was a moment when romance slowed down, music softened, and dinner at home became something meaningful.

In this episode of Groovy Eats, Kristen Hess travels back to the early '70s to 1972 —when soul music set the mood, Valentine's Day meant staying in, and cooking was an act of care. Anchored by the #1 song in America that week, “Let's Stay Together” by Al Green, this episode explores how food, music, and culture came together in a uniquely intimate way.

Kristen shares the cultural backdrop of February 1972, reflects on early childhood memories, and walks through a classic 1972 Valentine's Day menu featuring Steak Diane, Green Goddess salad, and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

This episode isn't just about what people cooked—it's about how it felt to live then.

Key Takeaways

• Why February 1972 marked a cultural shift toward intimacy and slow living

• How soul and R&B music shaped romance and home life in the early '70s

• The story behind “Let's Stay Together” and why it resonated so deeply

• Why staying in was often considered more romantic than going out

• How classic dishes like Steak Diane and Green Goddess salad symbolized elegance

• Why food and music imprint memory long before we realize it

00:00 – Welcome to Groovy Eats: Setting the tone for February 1972

01:39 – The Cultural Mood of Early 1972: Why the world was turning inward

2:23 – The Artist: Al Green: Soul music, intimacy, and emotional connection

03:10 – The Song: “Let's Stay Together”: Why it became the soundtrack of staying in

03:52 – Valentine's Day in 1972: Romance before reservations

04:37 – A 1972 Valentine's Day Menu: Steak Diane, Green Goddess salad & chocolate-dipped strawberries

12:48 – Personal Reflection & Memory: Why this era still resonates

14:46 – Why It Still Matters Today: Slow living, intention, and staying present

15:17 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Go Next

Listener Question

What song instantly brings you back to a moment when life felt simpler?

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Groovy Eats on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review—it helps more listeners discover the show.

Until next time…

stay together, and keep it groovy. ️

Cook Along with Groovy Eats

Want to experience this episode visually?

Watch the Groovy Eats Valentine's Day cooking show episode – now on YouTube!

https://youtu.be/EBikpKaSQC4

Get the complete recipes and photos at https://theartfulgourmet.com/groovy-eats-ep2-february-1972-soul-romance-and-steak-diane/

Read the companion editorial essay on Substack at https://open.substack.com/pub/artfulgourmet/p/february-1972-when-love-didnt-rush?r=6fy3xt&

Follow Kristen on Facebook, IG, Pinterest + X @artfulgourmet

See Kristen's food styling + photography portfolio

Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn

See more behind the scenes content + shorts on TikTok @foodiegirl87

Watch the Al Green YouTube video "Let's Stay Together"

Description

In this premiere episode of Groovy Eats, Kristen Hess of The Artful Gourmet revisits January 1978, when soft rock and yacht rock dominated the charts and comfort casseroles defined family dinners.

Featuring the #1 song Baby Come Back by Player and the classic Chicken Divan casserole, this episode explores music history, food history, and personal memories—including a five-week childhood road trip from New York to California.

A nostalgic, feel-good podcast for fans of 1970s music, comfort food, and meaningful storytelling.

Key Takeaways

• January 1978 marked a golden era of soft rock and yacht rock
• 'Baby Come Back' by Player captured universal themes of regret, longing, and hope
• Player emerged from the West Coast studio scene with a harmony-driven sound
• Chicken Divan evolved from a French restaurant dish into a late-'70s casserole icon
• Food and music act as emotional time machines
• Nostalgia is about connection, not just the past

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Groovy Eats Welcome to the show where retro food and music become memories. Kristen Hess introduces the theme of the episode, focusing on 1978.

01:06 - Setting the Scene: 1978 A nostalgic look back at the cultural landscape of 1978, highlighting the era of soft rock and its impact.

02:33 - Featured Band: Player An introduction to the band Player, their formation, and their hit song "Baby Come Back."

04:33 - The Story Behind "Baby Come Back" Insights into the emotional resonance of Player's hit song and its significance in 1978.

05:16 - The Essence of Late '70s Soft Rock Discussion on the emotional and melodic qualities of soft rock music from the late '70s.

06:02 - Personal Memories and Road Trip Kristen shares personal stories from a family road trip across the US in 1978, creating lasting memories.

08:38 - Chicken Divan: A Retro Comfort Food The origins and evolution of Chicken Divan, a staple dish from the late '70s.

10:54 - Cooking Chicken Divan Today A step-by-step guide to making Chicken Divan, including tips for a homemade Mornay sauce.

11:30 - The Power of Food and Music Exploring how food and music serve as powerful anchors to our memories and emotions.

12:20 - Conclusion and Listener Engagement Kristen encourages listeners to share their own memories connected to food and songs.

Keywords

• Groovy Eats podcast
• January 1978 nostalgia
• Baby Come Back Player
• Yacht rock podcast
• 1970s music podcast
• Chicken Divan recipe

Watch the full episode ⁠on YouTube ⁠to groove, cook along and experience the story visually

️ Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify

️ Read the full recipe and story on ⁠The Artful Gourmet⁠ blog

✍️ Subscribe on Substack for weekly essays, behind-the-scenes stories, and Groovy Eats extras ⁠@artfulgourmet

Follow Groovy Eats, Kristen Hess and The Artful Gourmet on social media @artfulgourmet and on TikTok ⁠@foodiegirl87

️ View Kristen's Food Styling + Photography Portfolio + book your next food shoot at ⁠https://www.kristen-hess.com

⭐ If this episode brought back a memory, please like, share and leave a comment below or a review — it helps the show grow!

Watch the original music video of Player performing⁠ 'Baby Come Back' on YouTube⁠

Listen to the song 'Baby Come Back' on Spotify

Description

What if success in 2026 wasn't about doing more—but about living better? In this episode of The Artful Gourmet Podcast, Kristen Hess shares a nourishing, sustainable approach to success, health, and happiness rooted in everyday habits that support your body, mind, and creativity. From mindful nutrition and flexible meal planning to joyful movement, gratitude, and energy-protecting routines, this episode reframes wellbeing as the true foundation of success. You'll also be guided through a grounding reflection and introduced to a Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowl with versatile Lemon Honey Herb Dressing variations—simple, beautiful food that meets you where you are. This episode is an invitation to slow down, nourish yourself, and build a life that feels good to live inside.

Key Takeaways

• A healthier, more sustainable definition of success for 2026
• How nourishment and daily habits impact energy, mindset, and joy
• Simple fitness and movement ideas that support real life
• Meal planning strategies that reduce stress and decision fatigue
• Why flexibility—in food and in life—is a form of self-care
• A guided reflection to help you reset, refocus, and realign

Sound Bites

"You need to take care of your body." "Consistency matters more than intensity." "Nourishment is a daily choice."

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Artful Gourmet Podcast

02:46 Redefining Success and Happiness

05:04 The Importance of Well-Being

06:48 Nourishment as a Daily Practice

09:15 Meal Planning for Peace of Mind

37:29 lifestyle-outro-low.wav

#TheArtfulGourmetPodcast

#HealthyHabits

#MindfulLiving

#FoodAsSelfCare

#WellnessLifestyle

#MediterraneanDiet

#IntentionalLiving

#SuccessAndHappiness

#NourishmentOverHustle

Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify, Apple, Amazon + iHeartRadio

Download the printable recipe + dressing variations

Read the full blog post and reflection

Read the extended essay on Substack

Follow Kristen Hess & The Artful Gourmet online!

View Kristen's Food Styling and Photography Portfolio at www.kristen-Hess.com

Follow The Artful Gourmet on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@theartfulgourmet

Follow on social media at @artfulgourmet

Follow on TikTok at @foodiegirl87

Summary

In this conversation, Kristen Hess discusses the importance of reflecting on past experiences to embrace change and transformation. She emphasizes the need to recognize both the good and bad moments, learn from them, and trust the process of personal growth. The discussion also highlights the significance of new beginnings and the lessons that come with them, encouraging listeners to create positive choices moving forward.

Takeaways

Reflect on the past to understand your journey.

Embrace the transformation process, even the in-between phases.

Recognize the lessons in every experience.

New beginnings offer opportunities for growth.

Trust your choices and let them guide you.

Tomorrow is a chance for a fresh start.

Neglecting your needs can hinder your progress.

Joy can be found in the reflection of experiences.

Every year brings new lessons and opportunities.

The best is yet to come if you choose to create it.

Sound bites

"take a moment to reflect."

"learn to trust the transformation."

"the best is yet to come."

Chapters

00:00 Nourishing the Soul Through Culinary Art

02:36 The Recipe for New Beginnings

23:14 lifestyle-outro-low.wav

Follow The Artful Gourmet for more inspiring stories and delicious content at

Portfolio: www.kristen-hess.com

Blog: www.theartfulgourmet.com

IG/FB/X: @artfulgourmet

Podcast : The Artful Gourmet https://open.spotify.com/show/2dI0lF9FW9bPByWm0W6JwM?si=0adcac98aa96410e' -

*Also available on, Apple, Amazon, iHeartRadio + SoundCloud*

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theartfulgourmet⁠

Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/@artfulgourmet⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiegirl87⁠

Substack: https://artfulgourmet.substack.com/

In this special holiday episode of The Artful Gourmet podcast, Host Kristen Hess encourages us to slow down and reflect on the true spirit of the Christmas season. From cozy kitchen moments to quality time with loved ones, this heartwarming message is a reminder to appreciate the simple joys of life, celebrate what we've accomplished this year, and enter the New Year with hope and gratitude. Whether you're cooking a festive meal, wrapping presents, or enjoying a quiet winter evening, this episode will inspire you to find beauty in the little things.

For more stories, recipes, and cozy holiday inspiration, visit:

www.theartfulgourmet.com

⏱️ Key Messages

Podcast Intro

Welcome to the holiday season

Slowing down and savoring the little things

Reflections on the past year: gratitude and growth

Creating joy through food, connection, and presence

Looking ahead to the New Year with hope and dreams

Closing thoughts & holiday wishes

Outro and Call to Action

️ TAKEAWAYS

• The holiday season is an opportunity to slow down and be present.
• Joy can be found in the simple, cozy moments: sharing food, time, and love.
• Reflecting on the year helps us recognize growth, resilience, and gratitude.
• The New Year is a fresh start filled with potential and hope.
• True holiday magic comes from connection—not perfection.

In this episode of The Artful Gourmet Podcast, Kristen Hess explores the theme of happiness as an internal journey, emphasizing the importance of creativity and joy in our lives. She encourages listeners to find their groove through music, personal expression, and rediscovering passions that may have been lost. The conversation highlights the transformative power of joy and the idea that it's never too late to reclaim one's happiness and creativity.

• Happiness is an inside job.
• Creating joy from within leads to external opportunities.
• Music has the power to uplift and inspire.
• Rediscovering passions can reignite creativity.
• It's important to dance and express joy, regardless of judgment.
• Finding your groove can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• It's never too late to get back into your groove.
• Personal growth often requires self-reflection and action.
• Engaging in creative activities can enhance overall happiness.
• Joy is a rhythm we create in our lives.

"Happiness is an inside job."

"Your happiness is homemade."

"Joy is a rhythm we create."

00:00 Introduction

00:23 The Joy of 'Groove is in the Heart'

01:14 Creating Your Own Joy

1. 00:07 - 00:14: "The idea that joy is a rhythm we create."
2. 01:24 - 01:32: "Your groove, your joy is already inside your heart."
3. 01:57 - 02:04: "Happiness is an inside job."
4. 03:15 - 03:23: "Joy is a practice."
5. 04:38 - 04:46: "When you create joy from the inside out, everything else in your life starts to groove with you."
6. 06:34 - 06:42: "Your groove is any moment that reconnects you to yourself."
7. 07:09 - 07:17: "It just means it's waiting for you to press play again."
8. 10:21 - 10:29: "Doesn't matter how long you're out of your groove, you can still get it back."
9. 13:26 - 13:34: "Your happiness is homemade."

Summary

In this heartfelt episode, Kristen Hess reflects on the concept of home, exploring how memories, family, and comfort food shape our sense of belonging. She shares personal anecdotes about her childhood, the warmth of family gatherings, and the significance of recipes that evoke nostalgia. The discussion emphasizes that home is not just a physical space but a feeling tied to love, memories, and the comfort of familiar dishes.

This episode includes:

✨ The emotional meaning behind “There's no place like home”, inspired by The Wizard of Oz and "Home" in The Wiz

✨ A soulful reflection on belonging and gratitude

✨ Kristen's personal essay “There's No Place Like Home”

✨ The story behind her award-winning creamy, cozy mac & cheese recipe

✨ A link to the full blog post + printable recipe

Chapters

00:00 The Meaning of Home

03:50 Personal Reflections and Recipes

14:48 lifestyle-outro-low.wav

Takeaways

• Home is about memory, belonging, and comfort.
• Nostalgia can be triggered by food and family traditions.
• Cooking can be a way to connect with our past.
• Simple recipes can evoke powerful memories.
• Home is not just a place, but a feeling.
• Family gatherings create lasting memories.
• Comfort food can help alleviate feelings of homesickness.
• The act of cooking can be therapeutic.
• Sharing recipes can foster connections with others.
• Gratitude plays a key role in our sense of home.

Read the full story + get the recipe here:

https://theartfulgourmet.com/theres-no-place-like-home-an-amazing-macaroni-cheese-recipe/

Follow Kristen / The Artful Gourmet online for more inspiring content and delicious recipes at:

FB/X/Instagram: @artfulgourmet

Website: www.theartfulgourmet.com

Portfolio: www.kristen-hess.com

Pinterest: @artfulgourmet

TikTok: @foodiegirl87

YouTube: @theartfulgourmet

Link to The Wiz song "Home" on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sRKT_CVeWt0?si=cxzFwwvggRd3GU3s

In this conversation, Kristen Hess explores the significance of purpose and P.A.S.S.I.O.N in personal and professional growth. She shares her journey of leaving a successful corporate job to pursue her passion for food photography and storytelling. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, investing in creative skills, and the role of innovation in achieving higher purposes. The discussion highlights how finding one's purpose can ignite P.A.S.S.I.O.N and lead to a fulfilling career.

• Purpose gives your passion direction.
• Align your daily actions with your dreams.
• Spirit is the energy that makes your work unforgettable.
• Surprise fuels creativity and innovation.
• Ownership is taking responsibility for your life.
• Being notable means leaving a lasting impact.
• Innovation keeps you relevant and inspired.
• Aligning goals with purpose leads to success.
• Passion becomes sustainable with purpose.
• Purpose is the anchor and North Star.

"It's better to be different."

"Purpose is the heartbeat."

"You need to set boundaries."

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Passion and Purpose
• 00:02:48 The Seven-Step Framework
• 00:06:26 Purpose and Direction
• 00:29:54 The Seven Pillars of Passion