Founder and Owner of Suzy Spoon's Vegetarian Butcher.
Suzy started 'Suzy Spoon's Vegetarian Butcher' because the vegan products available in supermarkets were tasteless, rubbery and highly processed. Suzy had been making delicious handmade vegan small goods and Seitan for my friends and family for years so the next logical step was to make it into a business.
The ‘Answers to Thriving' is an interview series that takes a look at the women who have created a life of self-success. We uncover key moments, lessons and habits that have influenced the life they lead today.
You can’t start the day without:
Having my morning cuddle with our dog Basil who sleeps on our bed.
A favourite quote is:
Albert Einstein said "Nothing will benefit human health and increase the chance for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet."
One wellness ritual you do regularly:
I try to have one day off a week where I don't do any Vegetarian Butcher work.
The last inspiring podcast you listened to and what makes it worth a listen:
Chat 10 Looks 3. I love Leigh Sales and Annabel Crab. I find them inspiring.
A recommended read for personal growth:
Oh the places you'll go by Theodor Geisel (Dr Seuss) because it's truly inspirational for people of all ages. It was the last book Theodor Geisel published before he died, and his experience of life is expressed so poetically. The story shows the excitement and energy that comes from the beginning of a journey, told using the experience of a well traveled traveler. It's just the most perfectly told story of life. It pulls no punches and gives you the crunchy with the smooth, because that's how life is.
Which business or person inspires you right now and why?
My friend Kevin Baker who does field work as a Dr for Medecins Sans Frontieres inspires me on a daily basis. His compassion for humanity is contagious and humbling.
What has been the most defining moment in your career to date?
In 2012 I quit my job in the art department of Home and Away and started Suzy Spoon's Vegetarian Butcher. It was a risky leap of faith but I've never looked back.
Who has helped you progress in your career the most and what did they do to support you?
My partner Tracy, who has stood by me, helped me, guided me and loved me throughout this whole risky journey.
A fear you've had to overcome to pursue your ambitions:
As I've got older I've become scared of public speaking, and over the past few years I've been asked to do more public speaking than ever. It had been making me really anxious and stressed and I always wanted to say no when asked to speak at something or do an interview, but I could see how it would benefit my business if I could say yes. So recently I signed up for 3 public speaking courses. Although scary at first, the courses have been great and now I'm well on my way to over coming my fear.
Life/career advice you wish you'd been given in your early 20s:
Two things I've heard said all my life are 'be yourself' and 'its never too late to learn new things' but hearing them and really understanding them are two different things. Maybe what I needed was advice on how to understand and apply the advice.
For women who want to make a positive change in their life, what advice would you give them?
Follow your heart and pursue your dreams is easier said than done. Start by talking about it to friends, family and people who inspires you and respect you.
What does thriving mean to you?
Being happy, prosperous, learning and growing.
Anything else you would like to share with our readers?
Think globally and shop locally is great advice we can all benefit from.
Suzy Spoon's products are made with real ingredients, all plant based with no preservatives. The team really care about what they do and believe it shows in the quality of their products. When you purchase Suzy Spoon’s products you’re guaranteed quality and taste! Order online here.
Enjoy this post? How about sharing it with others?
Thrivhers mission is to inspire as many women as possible to take action on their ambitions. We'd be so grateful if you could help join us on this quest and share it via your preferred social media channel.