Photography: Christian Cervantes
What is growth for you?
Simone: I think growth you need to nurture. It’s about recognizing what you as an individual need. For me it’s the relationships I enjoy and foster, reducing (negative) stress, looking out for yourself by eating well, traveling & getting inspired. Every decision we make on a daily basis can accelerate or hinder growth – at the end of the day it’s only our mindset that limits or frees us.
Adi: For me it’s that certain hunger to always strive for the best version of yourself. It’s fascinating if you look back and realize how much you have changed, evolved and how much you’ve learned. And yes it’s the constant falling and standing up cycle that actually will make you rise.
What keeps you grounded?
Simone: My family, my home, meeting friends for dinner. Sharing great food, wines, good talks and laughs is what makes my heart full. And appreciating the little things in life like stopping for a moment and simply enjoying the sun in your face, or random encounters like a smile from another person crossing the street or just being there and listening to a friend who needs help.
Adi: Cooking is my meditation, I always drift into my own zone while cooking. What’s best about it is that you can share the results with family and friends. Food brings people together and slows you down – it doesn’t matter how busy the day was.
How do you connect with nature?
Simone: Definitely with getting ‘lost’ in the woods with my dog Charlie. The woods have a very special energy for me. The smell (I love the smell of pine trees), the light/shadow plays, the silence and sounds of birds. It’s truly magical. In Japan they call it “Shinrin Yoku” (forest bathing) and it’s an inherent form of healthcare there. I can totally understand why.
Adi: A walk with Simone and Charlie through the woods or vineyards of Vienna always feel like a little mini vacation to me.
What is a book that has inspired you?
Simone: It is too hard to only choose one, so here are two book recs that really moved me. Eating to Extinction from Dan Saladino is simply eye opening and takes you on a journey of the past, present and future of food. It’s also a love letter to diversity of all food cultures out there and that they all should be cultivated and celebrated. It’s important DNA that needs to be passed on. The book depicts the great urgency we live in, but also gives hope. Do yourself a favor and read it – it really fed me. And then there is The Year of Magical Thinking from my favorite author Joan Didion. This book touched me so deeply like no other before.
Adi: I’m truly a podcast guy and history is the best teacher, that’s why I’m obsessed with Geschichten aus der Geschichte. Wanna hear one?
What is your favorite plant?
Simone: Without a doubt it’s clearly the one and only Monstera deliciosa. It’s amazing how strong they are and how quickly they outgrow themselves (sometimes I’m not even fast enough with repotting them into a larger pot). Btw have you heard of the story of Picasso’s Monstera that took over his entire bathroom while he was gone for a few months. For me the Monstera depicts the power of nature.
Adi: The bunny ear cactus is my favorite (the one we have at home looks a bit like a donkey tho). It’s the perfect plant for the less green-fingered (oh that’s me) and I really like the different, funny shapes and sizes.
