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Host Cindy Peterson and Darian Tomas, co-founder of a unique knife-sharpening solution, dig into the real-life frustrations home cooks face with their kitchen tools — and learn some new vocabulary while they're at it!

From the dilemma of never using prized chef’s knives out of fear of ruining them, to common mistakes we make when storing and sharpening knives, Darian shares his journey from a small Canadian town to developing an accessible product designed for busy families.

Together, they cover everything from the science of blade angles and the pitfalls of glass and stainless steel cutting boards, to the “relationship” we each have with our favorite kitchen knives.

Whether you’re a pro or just trying to slice a tomato without frustration, this episode is full of practical tips to help you feel more confident — and a little more joyful — in the kitchen.

Products featured in this episode:

CINQ Rolling Knife Sharpener

For more thoughtfully curated joy, check out berryandbasil.com and follow the store for all the latest products, events and sales at @theberrybasil.

Follow the show at @joycuratedpodcast and make sure and subscribe to us on the podcast app of your choice. It helps us grow and share the story of all the brands we love.

For more thoughtfully curated joy, check out berryandbasil.com and follow the store for all the latest products, events and sales at @theberrybasil

Follow the show at @joycuratedpodcast (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) and make sure to subscribe to us on the podcast app of your choice. It helps us grow and share the story of all the brands we love.

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In this episode, host Cindy Peterson is joined by Ashley Mccord, a longtime expert and advocate for the Ankarsrum mixer — a Swedish heritage kitchen appliance with a rich history dating back to 1940, and so versatile that it’s been called “the assistant” for decades.

From its unique bottom-motor design and versatile attachments to its reputation as an heirloom-quality appliance, they discuss why investing in quality tools transforms both your confidence and creativity in the kitchen. Whether you're baking bread, making (smoked!) butter, or tackling monster cookies, a quality stand mixer is truly is an assistant for real life — empowering you to take control of your ingredients and enjoy the process.

Together, they discuss the roots of the machine, its enduring quality and design, the evolution of its use in kitchens across the world, and how thoughtful choices and the right tools can empower creativity, wellness, and convenience at home.

Products featured in this episode:

Ankarsrum Assistant mixer

Ankarsrum attachments

For more thoughtfully curated joy, check out berryandbasil.com and follow the store for all the latest products, events and sales at @theberrybasil

Follow the show at @joycuratedpodcast (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) and make sure to subscribe to us on the podcast app of your choice. It helps us grow and share the story of all the brands we love.

Send us Fan Mail

Cindy shares her first solo adventure at the Inspired Home Show (IHA) in Chicago, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how this event stands apart from typical markets — and why it’s such a big deal for kitchen store owners. You’ll hear about her favorite discoveries, chats with the actual makers behind beloved kitchen brands, and some exciting product trends coming soon to Berry + Basil.

But the true gold in this episode is just how relatable Cindy’s dream is and her response. Who hasn’t had a vivid dream where your partner did something terribly wrong (and so often out of character) and experienced the visceral emotions that follow?

Lucky for you — and her husband — she found the perfect apology gifts. From gorgeous knives and kitchen shears to brownie bowl pans, candles, and tickets to a wine glass tasting, she offers plenty of thoughtful ideas for just-because gestures — or to get ahead of terrible dream actions, because that never hurts.

Whether you’re curious about the latest in kitchenware or simply need a laugh and a bit of encouragement for everyday life, tune in and share with someone else who relates!

Products featured in this episode:

Helena Cangshun knives

Kitchen shear set of 4

Brownie bowl pan

Billionaire Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix

Rewined Market Candle Collection

Riedel Wine Glass Seminar Tickets

For more thoughtfully curated joy, check out berryandbasil.com and follow the store for all the latest products, events and sales at @theberrybasil

Follow the show at @joycuratedpodcast (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) and make sure to subscribe to us on the podcast app of your choice. It helps us grow and share the story of all the brands we love.