Ching He Huang From Dumplings to Destiny
It's Your Time - A podcast by Jo-Ann D'Costa-Manuel OBE

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In this episode,Jo-ann engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ching-He Huang, MBE, a renowned chef and author, who shares her journey from childhood memories of cooking with her grandmother in Taiwan to becoming a celebrated figure in the culinary world. Ching reflects on the challenges she faced as a young immigrant and how cooking became a means of healing and connection. KEY TAKEAWAYS Breaking the Cycle: The conversation emphasizes the importance of being a cycle breaker, particularly for women who feel they are starting late in life. It encourages embracing one's journey and achievements, regardless of societal pressures. Cooking as a Form of Love: Cooking is portrayed as a deeply personal and loving act, rooted in family traditions. The preparation of food, especially in the context of special occasions, is seen as a way to express care and connection with loved ones. Health and Nutrition Awareness: There is a strong focus on the impact of food on health, particularly in relation to gut health and hormonal changes in women. The discussion highlights the importance of mindful eating and choosing fresh, nutritious ingredients over processed foods. Embracing Change and Growth: The dialogue encourages embracing life's challenges and changes, viewing them as opportunities for growth. It stresses the significance of gratitude and maintaining a positive mindset, even in difficult situations. BEST MOMENTS Ching: "When cooking feels like a chore, it takes the love out of it. I didn't want to really be the cook... but little did you know that it was in those moments, the magic was coming together." Ching: "Food should be accessible to all... you know, food is not just sustenance, especially when it’s a special occasion. You have to really love it to infuse the love." Ching: "The more sugar you eat, the more it's addictive and the more you want to eat. And actually when you do a whole two-week sugar detox, you just naturally don’t really feel like having it." My Social Links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jo_ann_official_uk/ HOST BIO Jo-Ann is a trailblazing voice for midlife reinvention. An OBE recipient, celebrated media professional (MTV, BBC, ITV, Sky), and lifelong champion for empowerment, she brings a rare blend of credibility, warmth, and transformative insight to every episode of It’s Your Time. Don’t be fooled by her 4ft 11 frame—Jo-Ann is a true pocket rocket. Her strength, wisdom, and heart are larger than life, igniting confidence and clarity in every woman she meets. From philanthropic work alongside billionaires to intimate personal breakthroughs, Jo-Ann’s journey is both inspiring and deeply relatable. As a coach, mother, and advocate for purposeful living, she helps women break through self-doubt and rediscover their voice, dreams, and power. With a signature mix of authenticity and elegance, Jo-Ann is not just a host—she’s your invisible wingwoman, best friend, and biggest cheerleader whispering, “It’s your time.” PODCAST DESCRIPTION Midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s your greatest comeback. It’s Your Time is the transformational podcast for women ready to turn the dream they thought had passed them by into the life they live now. Hosted by OBE-awarded media powerhouse and reinvention coach Jo-Ann, and launched in partnership with Soho House, this is where some of the UK’s most high-profile women—across media, business, wellness, and the arts—share the deeply human experiences every woman faces. Through unfiltered conversations, hard-won wisdom, and uplifting rituals like personal affirmations, Jo-Ann helps midlife women rise higher, dream bolder, and live fuller. This is where self-doubt fades, clarity rises, and long-held dreams come home. Write the book. Launch the business. Love your reflection. You’ve earned your wisdom—now it’s time to use it. Because when the world says slow down, we say: step up. It’s not too late. It’s Your Time.