On this episode of Creatively Speaking: Food for Thought, we’re diving deep into the world of food blogging, personal reinvention, and self-publishing with the incredible Mel Gunnell, the creative mind behind Mel’s Kitchen Cafe. By emphasizing brand and community building, Mel was able to transform her humble hobby of 17 years into a beloved food brand and thriving multimedia business. Mel joins us to share the winding, flavorful path that led her from coding her first blog in Minnesota to life on a faux farm in Southwest Idaho, all while building a loyal community around her signature blend of warmth, wit, and delicious recipes. Let’s dive in!
As our conversation begins, Mel candidly discusses navigating the ever-changing digital landscape. Today’s creatives must learn to juggle photography, recipe development, content creation, and brand partnerships, all while remaining rooted in authenticity and a deep connection with their audience, a delicate balance Mel became very familiar with as Mel’s Kitchen Cafe became a bigger part of her life.
“I feel so grateful I got in when I did, because I feel like I was able to create my content creation/food blogging identity in a very natural, authentic way, because it wasn’t cutthroat. You weren’t fighting the algorithms to get up in Google search ranking, and it wasn’t social media.”
Mel started her food blog in the early days of digital content, when websites were hand-coded and social media was still in its infancy. She shares what it took to grow from those first few posts to becoming a respected voice in the food blogging world. For Mel, the key to brand and community building is staying true to your authentic voice and showing up consistently.
A cross-country move from Minnesota to Idaho led Mel and her family to a “faux farm” life that, while unexpected, deeply shaped her personal and professional identity. The experience instilled values of resilience, self-reliance, and creativity, qualities that continue to define her work today.
As a one-woman creative force, Mel juggles everything from recipe testing and photography to content strategy and brand collaborations. She walks us through her day-to-day workflow, the tools that keep her sane, and how she’s learned to prioritize what truly matters in her business.
Mel gives us an inside look into self-publishing her cookbook, a process that required meticulous financial planning, design decisions, and choosing the right publishing partner. She breaks down what it really takes to bring a book to life—on your own terms.
Throughout her journey, Mel has kept her focus on people. She shares how authentic marketing and intentional community building have been key to her growth.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- 0:00:00 | Mel’s introduction & background
- 0:01:12 | LeAnna & Mel’s history & reconnection
- 0:04:48 | A discussion on the evolution of food blogging culture
- 0:06:58 | How Mel is starts with yummy recipes
- 0:12:49 | Mel’s life on a “faux farm”
- 0:17:15| Mel’s perspective on navigating publishing options in food blogging
- 0:38:02 | Mel’s thoughts on building sales and community gratitude
- 0:46:50 | Insights into the warehouse selection process
- 0:51:44 | A discussion on the benefits of exploring new opportunities
Mel’s story is equal parts inspiring and practical. Whether you’re an aspiring content creator, food blogger, or simply someone seeking a creative career path rooted in authenticity, Mel offers a masterclass in building something meaningful—without burning out or selling out. You’ll walk away with insights on entrepreneurship, personal branding, self-publishing, and the beauty of starting small and growing with purpose.
Episode Resources:
Website: https://wellersmithdesign.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellersmithdesign/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannawellersmith/
If you are curious about self-publishing and want to learn more about how we can help, check out our Self-Publishing Services.
Weller Smith Design is a Full-Service Boutique Design Agency that provides publishing, self-publishing, branding, web design, and strategy services. We pride ourselves in being the Boutique Agency of choice for Thought Leaders like you.
