Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Narsinghani.
Michele, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Since graduating 10 years ago, I have been working in the healthcare industry as a pharmacist in the Chicago area. I even married a pharmacist so never did I think I would be a food blogger!
I love to put my own spin on recipes using ingredients I already have on hand, then go tell people about what I’ve made; that’s essentially that’s how Mom Under Pressure started. I would show up to work excited about a dinner idea or have a great food story from the newest restaurant in Chicago. Then one day my coworker said, “Michele, your eyes light up when you talk about food!” I was convinced to start sharing with a wider audience. My parents have built businesses throughout the Midwest, so most of my entrepreneurial spirit stems from watching them over the years.
“Mom Under Pressure” describes the pressure I feel to provide a variety of delicious meals for my family while also being fast and healthy. I think most of us have felt that way at some point in our lives, so many people can relate to my blog.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Yes and no. Mom Under Pressure started out smoothly since I was simply posting about my best dinners on Instagram and began to gain a steady following through friends, family, and referrals. After a few months, my growth on social media plateaued, and it started getting harder to constantly create innovative content. Even though I was still excited to share what I was cooking at home the process was time-consuming, and I was only reaching a small number of people. I have a narrow window of time to prep, cook, photograph, and create a blog post in between my primary job and a toddler who is always running around… being a toddler. So, I definitely struggle with balancing my personal life and blogging. The journey has been amazing, though! I’ve already learned so much outside of my professional training in search engine optimization (SEO), how to use a DSLR camera, and now I am connecting with brands and other food bloggers. Each stage of development has ups and down, but this experience has been surreal.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mom Under Pressure – what should we know?Mom Under Pressure is a food website where you will find recipes for meals and drinks made using everyday ingredients. I come from a traditional Indian home where both of my grandmothers taught me their methods for making authentic North Indian cuisine so you will see that the style of cooking reflected on the blog. I blend my love for bold flavors with my obsession for fine-dining to curate fusion meals and elevated dinners that don’t require hours in the kitchen. I am truly a foodie and use every chance I get to explore new restaurants, but my life changed after I became a mother. That being said, I didn’t want parenthood to make a dramatic impact on what I eat. When I taste delicious food it makes me happy! When I can positively affect the people around me with my food and show them they can cook the same way it makes me even happier.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Wow, where do I start? As I mentioned, my parents have played a huge role in allowing me to know that it’s okay to step outside of my comfort zone. They migrated to the United States almost 40 years with practically nothing. My dad’s first job was as a secretary at our local Ramada Inn, and when my mom came here a year later she started work as a part-time cashier. They both have taught me to work hard, take risks, and be independent. I have to give a ton of credit to my husband who is my grocery delivery service, sous chef, taste-tester, and equipment tech all in one! He also keeps our son entertained if I need a few minutes by myself to get organized. Then, there are my siblings who are 6 and 13 years younger than me; they are true millennials and help me navigate the world outside of being a pharmacist and a parent. It’s hard not to get consumed in my day-to-day routine so having a “cool” sister and brother to throw around ideas with is really helpful! My friends and colleagues are always so excited to hear about what I’m making for dinner and ask for my advice regarding methods or shortcuts, and now, they are spreading the word about my blog! I have an incredible support system which drives my ambition and keeps the wheels spinning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mom-underpressure.com/
- Phone: 812-343-5666
- Email: michele.narsinghani@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momunderpressure/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momunderpressurempn/
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
