Life & Work with Neelam Rawat Makhloga of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Neelam Rawat Makhloga

Hi Neelam Rawat, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in a small village in Uttarakhand, India, and raised in the bustling heart of South Delhi. My childhood was far from easy, but despite the challenges, I pushed forward, completed my education, and landed a stable job. With hard work and determination, I climbed the corporate ladder, earning promotions and switching roles for better opportunities.

However, I always knew I was meant for something more. My passion for food and exploration led me to the world of restaurant marketing, where I started as a food blogger. I attended exclusive blogger tables, shared my experiences, and became an active contributor to the Google Local Guide program—eventually reaching Level 9! I also expanded my reach by posting detailed reviews across multiple platforms, helping people make informed choices.

Today, I live in Los Angeles with my husband, turning my love for travel and food into a vibrant social media presence where I share experiences with a growing audience. Beyond my digital ventures, I dedicate time to volunteering with a nonprofit organization, giving back to society in meaningful ways.

For me, mental health is a top priority, and I advocate for balance, fulfillment, and chasing dreams fearlessly. My journey—from a small village in India to a thriving life in LA—proves that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Success rarely comes without challenges, and my journey has been no exception. Growing up in a small village in Uttarakhand before moving to South Delhi, I faced financial struggles and limited opportunities. My childhood was tough, and completing my education felt like climbing a mountain. But I refused to let circumstances define my future.

When I finally secured a stable job, I realized that financial stability alone wasn’t enough—I craved passion, purpose, and creativity in my work. Balancing a full-time job while trying to build a side hustle in restaurant marketing and food blogging was exhausting. There were sleepless nights, self-doubt, and moments where I questioned if I was on the right path.

Entering the world of content creation was another challenge. Breaking through as a food blogger, attending events, and growing my platform required persistence. There were times when my content didn’t get the traction I hoped for, but I kept pushing forward. Slowly, my dedication paid off, and I climbed to Google Local Guide Level 9, sharing insights that help thousands make better choices.

Moving to Los Angeles brought new challenges—adapting to a different culture, building a new network, and finding ways to continue my passion. But every struggle taught me something valuable. Today, I balance my love for food, travel, and social impact while working with a nonprofit organization, giving back in ways that truly matter.

The road wasn’t smooth, but it shaped me into the person I am today. I’ve learned that resilience, adaptability, and passion can turn struggles into stepping stones toward success.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Over the past 10 years, I’ve built a strong career as a Human Resources (HR) professional, navigating the dynamic world of corporate HR. My expertise spans talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, and organizational development. I take pride in creating workplaces where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered to thrive. What sets me apart is my ability to blend strategy with empathy, ensuring that business goals align with employee well-being.

Beyond my corporate career, I’m also a content creator, Google Local Guide (Level 9), and an avid reviewer. My passion for exploring new places, food, and experiences has led me to create content that helps people make informed decisions—whether it’s about a restaurant, travel destination, or a hidden gem in the city. Through detailed reviews and insights, I aim to connect communities and enhance user experiences.

What I’m most proud of is my ability to juggle multiple passions while making an impact in different spheres. Whether it’s shaping corporate cultures, guiding people through my reviews, or engaging with my online community, my journey is driven by a love for growth, exploration, and meaningful connections.

My story is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to fit into just one box—you can be a professional, a creator, a guide, and so much more!

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Throughout my journey—both as a corporate HR professional and a content creator—one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that growth begins at the edge of your comfort zone.

Early in my career, I followed the conventional path: secure a good job, work hard, and climb the corporate ladder. But deep down, I knew I wanted more. Stepping into content creation, restaurant marketing, and reviewing while balancing a full-time HR career wasn’t easy. There were moments of self-doubt, setbacks, and uncertainty, but each challenge taught me the value of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning.

Another invaluable lesson I’ve embraced is that success isn’t just about titles or salaries—it’s about impact. Whether I’m helping organizations create better workplaces or guiding people through my reviews and recommendations, I’ve realized that true fulfillment comes from making a difference.

Finally, I’ve learned that you don’t have to fit into just one box. You can be a professional, a creator, a mentor, and a lifelong learner—all at once! The key is to embrace your passions, take risks, and trust the journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neelam_rawat5/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Neelamsrawat15
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelamsrawat5/
• Twitter: https://x.com/neelamsrawat5
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Neelamsrawat5
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/neelam-rawat-713715195
• Other: https://in.pinterest.com/Neelamsrawat5/