Today we’d like to introduce you to Taided Betancourt.
Hi Taided, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in a Cuban family of food lovers where food was the center of every celebration and everyone pitched in. Making and sharing food has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.
For the last 15 years, I’ve worked as a private chef for some amazing families in New York and Los Angeles. Leading up to becoming a private chef, I trained in the field while working at restaurants and catering companies in New York as well as opening my own cafe in Brooklyn.
About six years ago, I came to L.A. looking for a big change in lifestyle. My husband, five years old son and myself settled into Topanga Canyon, soon after we arrived, my second son was born. We have made Topanga Canyon our home and absolutely love spending time hiking in our beautiful mountains, surfing, crafting, making and sharing food with our amazing community.
Last year, I decided to launch my food brand – These are the Days. The name comes from the idea that right now is all we have, so we better try our best to be in the moment and enjoy it. We like to celebrate the little things in life that bring joy. One of those things for us is – pancakes! For my first product, I’ve created a super delicious and nutritious pancake mix.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My business is pretty new (launched in November of last year) so I’m not sure yet! I have been taking the time to grow organically and learn as much as I can. I guess the biggest struggle has been learning a whole new business and finding the time and organization to wear all the different hats required to run a business. It can be overwhelming sometimes but I love the upside of the challenge which is growing and learning new skills!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
These are the Days was born out of my son’s love for pancakes. Jude’s love of pancakes and waffles inspired me to create ones that not only taste amazing but also “do something”
Most pancakes I ate left me feeling like I had dessert but not a meal. An hour later I was still hungry. I wanted a pancake that left me satisfied like I actually just had a balanced meal AND that it had some nutritional value. But most importantly, it has to taste really good. And it had to pass Jude’s taste test.
I set out to create the most delicious and nourishing pancakes with the purest all-natural ingredients. A pancake that was “worth it”. I settled on a mix of carefully curated, grains and seeds. Every ingredient specifically chosen has a dual purpose – flavor and nutrition.
We chose locally/freshly milled Sonora wheat for its buttery sweetness and delicate texture. Spelt for its robust earthiness and nuttiness. Texture is important-We add oats for more body and earthiness and Almonds for creaminess. Chia, flax and hemp not only provide plenty of healthy Omega 3s, they also have a ton of fiber and protein to help balance the carb load and to make a solid meal. And – no sugar! (just get or make some really good syrup).
Pancakes are on REGULAR rotation now. And we are so grateful for that!
How do you think about happiness?
Nature, music, food and connecting with people through any of these things. These things make me happy because they make me feel alive, present and in flow.
Contact Info:
- Website: shopthesearethedays.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopthesearethedays/
- Other: cheftaided.com
