I am excited to introduce the fabulous team behind this blog! For the first year and a half I completely ran the whole thing by myself, and at times I felt like I was just flying by the seat of my pants. But after experiencing my fair share of technical difficulties as well as some serious blog growth, I quickly realized I could no longer do this on my own. So I am excited to share all the names and faces that make this blog what it is today. There is no way everything would keep running smoothly without their invaluable help! Also almost everyone on this list either has or will be publishing guest posts so look for their names as they join the conversation here on the blog.
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Lisa Leake, Blog Creator
Lisa Leake, Blog CreatorI am a wife, mother, foodie, blogger, and New York Times Bestselling author who started this site to (hopefully) inspire others to cut out highly processed food. Prior to my unexpected and “almost didn’t happen” blogging stint I absolutely loved both food and cooking, but never wrote anything a day in my life (other than thank you notes and term papers!). I actually worked for Bank of America mostly doing corporate event planning up until my older daughter was 4-years-old…so as you can see quite a contrast from food writing. I am glad I overcame my “lack of writing skills” concern though and went down this path anyway because as it turns out, combining a deep passion with determination and hard work can take you to some pretty unexpected and exciting places!
Sometimes it feels like I don’t have much of a life outside of this blog (and the cooking that comes with it), but I do have other interests! They include traveling, gardening, sewing, craft projects with my girls, entertaining friends, throwing an occasional party, running or biking for exercise, and both decorating and organizing our home. Yep, I am your classic type-A busybody…even though I sometimes try I never actually sit still for very long!
To learn more about how this blog got started check out our “about” page.
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Jason Leake, My Husband and Operations Manager
Jason Leake, My Husband and Operations ManagerJason is a jack-of-all-trades having worked in engineering, real estate, and sales. But in August of 2012, Jason had the opportunity to leave corporate America and begin working on the blog full time. Hooray! Jason’s primary blog roles are editor, COO, and CFO. He is also involved behind the scenes with most every other aspect of the blog including strategic development, grocery go-getting, first tier-tech support, and emotional support. :)
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Outside of work, Jason is a very involved dad and husband. He loves adventure, mountain biking, camping/backpacking, music, travel, home improvement projects, truthful people, and of course real food. He also enjoys rock climbing, running, and meditation (but is a novice at all three). Jason and Lisa both currently reside in Charlotte, NC with their two daughters, ages 13 and 15, and recently built a tiny house retreat in the mountains.
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Kiran Dodeja Smith, Advertising Manager and Contributor
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Kiran was a Junior in college when she realized that the accounting degree she was pursuing was not the field she wanted to work in for the rest of her life. So instead, she continued on and completed an MBA program with a focus in marketing. Upon graduation, she moved to Charlotte, NC with her (now) husband. After working for 3.5 years with a regional bridal publication, she started her own business, a regional magazine targeting parents. She successfully ran the publication for 8 years, during which she expanded her family to include four children. In November 2011, it was time for a change.
Kiran handles all of our sponsorship partners and advertising sales including giveaways and discounts for our readers. If advertising your company or website on 100 Days of Real Food might be a good fit then Kiran is your girl! Kiran brings a strong understanding of advertising, marketing and promotion as well as skills gained from running a small business and can assist you in finding the best way to promote your business to our targeted demographic. Please visit our Work with Us page to connect.
In addition to working with sponsors, Kiran is a contributing writer for the blog. She is also a Certified Holistic Health Coach and has her own blog, EasyRealFood.com. She currently resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband and four children.
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Hi,
Would it be possible for me to send you a free product (kitchen tongs with a built-in stand – to keep the utensil heads germ free and off of the counter top), and if you like it, you can post it on your website.
Do you do anything like this?
Here is the product on Amazon – but I would send you one for free if you are interest.
http://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Cooking-Utensils-Stainless-Silicone/dp/B00P2Y4DQQ
Thanks,
Sheryl M
Do you have any information about the canned drink – La Croix? Ingredients show carbonated water and natural flavor. Thank you.
I need help finding high protein foods. My body is recovering from cancer and ongoing chemotherapy. I need to make the best choices (on a budget) I can of high protein, lots of fruits and veggies and whole grains. Any direction. You can point me in?
Hi Heather. This might help: http://authoritynutrition.com/20-delicious-high-protein-foods/. Also, I personally love Kris Carr and her books: http://kriscarr.com/.
My moms’ group is wanting to read some sort of book as we talk through organic vs. whole food vs. our current eating habits. Do you have some sort of recommended book list that you could pass along that would spark discussion and support us in our conversation/debate?
Hi. This should help: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/recommended-reading/.
I did not know who I can talk to get lisa on my BloG talk Radio show for Nov/dec time frame
I was wondering if maple sugar is considered unrefined and the equivalent of using maple syrup?
Hi Lara. We would consider it one step more processed. Some of our readers like to use maple sugar, just not for the 10 day challenge.
Is Almond meal/flour considered unprocessed? Can it be used instead of flour or whole grain wheat flour?
Hi Darlene. Almond meal is whole and is fine to use but we don’t really have any insight to offer regarding how to convert it for use in recipes. :)
Hiiiii Lisa and 100DORF team! Here I am again, but this time I subscribed! Yayyy!!! I said, “here I am again” because since I heard of 100DORF and saw Lisa on TV, I started checking out this blog! And as TODAY, I heard Jason on the The Food Blogger Pro Podcast and here I am! I myself just started (finally) my own food blog. I love the approach about eating real food, using all the tools we can to achieve this and the vision of this blog along. Besides, I love how Lisa started this blog and the team. I can totally see a common interest and passion about real food from each of the teams. Also, it is so good to know that there is another great food blogger in town! (I live just outside of Charlotte!). Anywho, I just wanted to say “hi” and show my support=)
Thanks!
Hey Lisa and Team,
I was wondering…have you tried Komax/Biokips Lunch Boxes? They have 3 Removable Compartments and are Leak Proof, Microwave Freezer and Dishwasher Safe. I bought a set for school lunches, but haven’t tried them yet. I was crushed when Ziploc discontinued their leak proof boxes. Thanks :)
Ihttp://www.amazon.com/Removable-Compartments-Microwave-Freezer-Dishwasher/dp/B00MWBJRUO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1439818758&sr=8-3&keywords=biokips
HI there. Nope, not familiar with that one.
I’ve looked at a recipe and noticed it did not have any “Nutritional Information”. I’m a Diabetic type 1 and I Carb. count so I rely on that information. I would love to by this book, but with out the nutritional information it’s no good for me. Thanks.
Hi Lisa and Team!
I love this site and now that I have an almost one year old I am even more cognizant of eating real food. Our family is still working on this but your suggestions and ideas help a lot.
Just recently I read your milk post which was super helpful. My daughter will be starting on milk after nursing for a year and I want to give her organic milk with the least amount of additives so your article was very informative.
Also, we just moved to Charlotte , which is so exciting for our family. There are many more options here for real food. Will you all be doing any speaking engagements or book signings?
I saw on your FB page that you are hiring. I wish I was qualified because in would so love to work with your team. I will be working for the local school system so if there is any part time work I would love the opportunity. I am a quick learner and I love to cook. I especially love your school lunch ideas since I pack for myself, my husband and now will be packing for my one year old.
Thank you for all that you do! It is much appreciated!
Hi there. Keep an eye on Facebook because Lisa would likely announce any book signing opportunities there. Welcome to Charlotte! :)
Hello Lisa and team! I love this blog, it’s mission, education and passion. My name is Dani Walker and as a Mom/Entrepreneur blogger myself I’m reaching out to like minded parens who have a passion for health, simplified living and business. Great job on getting nominated for top Mom bloggers!
The reason for my message is simple: (I could not find a contact form so I hope it’s ok to leave a comment. You can simple delete or not accept it if you’d rather.)
I’m a stay at home Mom, wellness author, & marketing consultant with a passion for helping improve the lives of children & have recently become a founding member of a new healing food company named YEVO International (no processed foods company). Our mission is to improve the lives of people through good nutrition an our cause is http://43forkids.org
Every meal YEVO makes provides…
26g Protein
8g Fiber
1g Omega 3s
15 Macronutrients
14 Vitamins
11 Minerals
100% Whole Grain
gluten free, non-GMO, soy free options
Yevo foods leave out all the bad…
No MSG
No Trans Fat
No High Sodium
No Preservatives
No High Heat
No Cooking
No Artificial Dyes / Colors
… while preserving all the good.
All 43 essential nutrients are contained in every meal.
Half of the daily requirement for most of the 43 nutrients is provided in each meal.
Delicious flavors.
Simple and easy to prepare, every day foods like mac-n-cheese, refried beans, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, alfredo, marinara and much more.
Yevo’s foods are an excellent source of protein, all the essential vitamins and minerals, potassium and fiber.
These are foods for every person, young, old, active, aching etc.
I’d love to send you a sample and see what you think? Maybe we could form a strategic alliance as I know your audience would love these natural, quick and easy to prepare foods for their families. As we bring this brand to the world through the direct sales industry, lead by Harvard billionaire economist and philanthropist Peter Castleman, we are going to need the help of passionate Mothers, bloggers, and business people like yourselves.
As we bring 43 for Kids to schools we are enlisting the help of volunteer Mom’s and passionate parents who really want to change the way our children think about FOOD, what it is, what it isn’t and how if effects our well-being.
Please let me know your thoughts and thank you in advance for your response.
Dani Walker
Do the Whole Wheat Tortillas lend themselves well to being frozen? I’d like to try to make a large batch so that I can save some for a later time.
Yes, I freeze them all the time.
Looking for Part I of Costco shopping list. Thanks
Hi Mary. Here it is: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2014/09/19/costco-shopping-list/. :)
Hello, Super blog and great efforts in helping kids eat healthy!
I wish I had you guys test the real Pilgrim cornbread recipe I included (for fun) in one of my books, The Thanksgiving Dinner Platter!
Randa
Did you part ways with Vani Hari? I saw a less than flattering post from Kevin Folta and I was wondering if Lisa had a take on this?
http://kfolta.blogspot.com/2014/10/food-babe-visits-my-university.html
Hi Philip. No, there has been no parting of ways at all. We think Vani brings a lot of attention to some very important issues and consider her our friend. I don’t think one needs to be degreed in food science to know that our food system is seriously flawed. :) ~Amy
I have been thinking of holiday gifts already and love the vanilla idea. I would like to do smaller bottles. If I make 6oz bottles, should I only use one bean?
Hi Lori. Yes, I would use one bean per bottle. :)
Hi Lisa!
I love both your website and cookbook! My family and I are well on our way to only eating “real food” and I’m very excited about it. I have a tough crowd here! We live in Illinois and since fall is on it’s way, I was wondering if you have any “fall” recipes that involve pumpkin, apples, etc. If you do, I’d love to get some ideas.
Thanks so much!
Becky
Hi there. Here are a few: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/09/28/recipe-pumpkin-bread/, https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/11/19/cinnamon-apple-crisp-recipedinner-club/ and https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/10/02/recipe-slow-cooker-sweet-potato-apple-soup/. I also use the banana pancake recipe replacing the banana with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/04/21/recipe-whole-wheat-banana-pancakes-freeze-the-leftovers/. You might find even more fall favorites in the recipe index. ~Amy
I’ve enjoyed your blog so much! Thanks for all your efforts for so much great information!! I was recently introduced to Melaleuca products and can’t stop thinking how you all would love them too!! (Although maybe you already use them since they are a perfect fit!) They are all natural, safe, extremly effective products (cleaning, health & beauty care, nutrional supplements) that are all very cost effective and made in America too! I would love to share more info with you, my contact info is on this website: http://www.workathomeunited.com/gregNchristina
Thanks!
Thank you. I look forward to all the information on your site. Steve
Does anyone know of a message board or facebook page in Charlotte, NC where people can share deals that they see or ask questions about food prep or such. For instance, Earthfare just had grassfed beef for 3.99/lb. And on Tuesdays, Fresh Market has antibiotic free, hormone free chicken breast for 2.99/lb. Luckily a friend told me about these, but it would be great to have a place to help us all track that and share tips. I know it’s hard for me to feed a family of four all organic all the time on a budget.
Hi Angela. I don’t but it is a great idea. Maybe you should start a FB page? :)
Angela,
We actually started a local Facebook page named Real Food Moms (Insert City) and I’ve seen a couple of nearby cities have the same format. We share deals, articles, pictures and recipes. You know, all that foodie yumminess! ;)
During exercise this morning I was listening to the final chapter of PANDORA’S LUNCHBOX, in which your website was mentioned. So here I am – I love what you are doing here.
At 58 years old I have been working my way off of processed foods for the past few years and am largely free of them now – with no regrets other than it should have happened sooner, I don’t miss them at all. At 6 feet tall, my weight is down from 205 lbs to 190 lbs in the past year – and I have not had a soda in 3 years! The one remaining toxic waste I consume (but I have cut down) is POTATO CHIPS! I’ll conquer that next.
Enough about me! Here’s my question: What do you think of “Protein Powders,” Almond Milk, and Soy Milk? I make a fruit shake (water, almond milk, fruit, nuts, oatmeal, and protein powder) every morning for my breakfast. About a year ago I wondered if the soy and whey powders were just more (unnecessary) processed foods and cut back on them. I’m curious about your thoughts on all the powder supplements. Also, the ingredients on Almond Milk and Soy Milk containers generally read like most processed food packages. Is there any alternative to dairy milk that is not loaded with synthetic chemicals and preservatives?
Thanks, Fleetwood McDonald
Hi Brad. Making your own almond milk is a great alternative and pretty easy. Here is our go-to recipe: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/08/31/food-allergies-dairy/. ~Amy
I think this is a great idea for a site/business and I wish you well!
I think it is amazing how many people do not think at all and keep eating fast food, canned food, frozen food, etc. The fact is we eat some of that too but we limit it and NEVER eat such things as hydrogenated fat or high fructose corn syrup, aspartame etc.
The point is, everyone is at their own stage of development but it takes sites like these to help wake people up to at least THINK about the food they eat.
It’s the same with water! I sell water filters but before I bought my first filter I had no idea about how bad plastic bottles were, that chemicals like pthalates and bpa may leach into the water, that bottled water is often just filtered tap water (and not filtered as well as it could be with your OWN filter system), and so on.
So we all evolve and the sooner we evolve to not eat and drink stuff that hurts our bodies instead of helping them, the better!