Confessions of a Grocery Addict
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About Me

Hey y’all! I'm Ashley, and I’m a Grocery Addict.

Welcome to Confessions of a Grocery Addict, my cozy little corner of the Internet. Ready to cook up some yumminess without draining your wallet? You've found your happy place! Let's create some mouth-watering magic in the kitchen, budget-style.

I'm all about one simple thing: good food for everyone, no matter your budget or how crazy your schedule is. With over two decades of restaurant kitchen adventures and a heart full of passion for food equality, you can trust me to dish out some seriously good eats and savvy tips. We're in this together!

the author about to bite into a freshly picked tennessee apple

I've Got Serious Cooking Chops 

From making pancakes in diapers (my Mom was patient as a saint), to hosting my first three-course dinner party at 10, to navigating various roles over 20 years in the restaurant world, my life has been a flavorful journey. I've worked as a host, back-waiter, server, restaurant manager, line cook, and assistant pastry chef. In short, I know good food.

Food Justice Is My Passion

I'm not just about making tasty things and serving up with a side of hospitality, though. I've hit the books hard, too. I got my undergrad in International Studies and Political Science at the University of Chicago, and later, an MBA from Vanderbilt.

Oh, and did I mention I'm a two-time Iron Chef champ at Owen School of Management? I've got the trophy to prove it!

After earning my MBA in 2015, I founded The Local Collaborative, an online farmer's market aimed at reducing food deserts and supporting local farmers. Though I had to close it in 2018 due to regulatory challenges, it deepened my commitment to food justice. 

Now, I pour all that passion for food access into my blog. It's for you – the busy, budget-conscious, flavor-loving folks. I'm all about whipping up something scrumptious without breaking the bank or taking over your schedule. 

I Know Budget Struggles

And, as someone who graduated into the recession, worked a $40,000/year job while living in San Francisco (my 650-square foot apartment was $1850/month back in 2008 😱), and who is still paying back six five figures worth of student loans, I promise — I've learned a thing or two about making mouth-watering food on a shoestring budget! 

I'll show you sneaky ways to get the most from your food budget, including how to use every ingredient to the fullest, how to store and repurpose leftovers like a restaurant would, and even how to find and use free ingredients to add big flavor without spending big bucks.

Join Me!

If you're into big flavors, budget-friendly tips, and a dash of food activism, stick around. I can't wait to dive into some fun, frugal, and fabulous cooking adventures together!

With love, gratitude, and a BIG pinch of kosher salt 😋,

Ashley Schuering, your friendly neighborhood Grocery Addict

In The Press

This is where I get to show off a little. 😊 Check out my features in various publications and see where my food adventures have taken me!

Podcast Appearances

AS SEEN ON...