Megan chats with Ryan Sparzak and Becca Mills about why in-person retreats offer food bloggers a unique blend of connection, creativity, and clarity you just can’t find online.

Becca Mills is the recipe developer, writer, and photographer behind Fork in the Kitchen, a food blog dedicated to approachable, flavor-forward vegetarian recipes. She’s passionate about making meatless meals feel effortless and exciting for home cooks of all skill levels. With a background in education and a love for sharing the “why” behind the recipe, Becca empowers her audience to cook with confidence, without relying on hard-to-find ingredients or meat substitutes. Outside the kitchen, she’s usually sipping a homemade latte, playing with her dog Basil, or soaking up the sun on her paddleboard.

Ryan Sparzak is the creative force behind Cookery Amendola, where he works alongside his mother to craft memorable dining experiences tailored to each guest. Inspired by his parents—his mother’s heart in the kitchen and his father’s love for gathering. Ryan grew up appreciating the magic that happens around the table.

His passion for elevated culinary experiences was sparked during his first unforgettable meal at Barbara Lynch’s No. 9 Park, where he discovered the power of storytelling through food. Today, Ryan brings that inspiration to life, using local, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that honor tradition while offering something deeply personal. At Cookery Amendola, each plate is a story, celebrating flavor, connection, and the joy of sharing a meal.

What makes the Eat Blog Talk retreats so unforgettable? Becca and Ryan share behind-the-scenes insights from past events and delves into why showing up in person can completely transform your blogging business. Whether you’re thinking about attending or just curious about what really happens at these retreats, you’ll love the mix of fun, flavor, and inspiration.

Key points discussed include:

- The power of in-person connection: Discover why attending a retreat is a totally different experience than an online mastermind.

- Food that fuels creativity: Ryan’s personalized menus elevate every retreat - think seasonal, sensory, and yes, even gluten-free Detroit-style pizza.

- Magic in the margins: From late-night snacks to conga lines and spontaneous ice cream runs, the unscripted moments often become the most meaningful.

- A space to reset and refocus: Learn how the fall retreat offers a much-needed pause from overwhelm and a way to recalibrate your business with clarity.

- Behind the chef’s process: Hear how Ryan crafts every meal around attendee tastes and how his mom helps pull it all off behind the scenes.

- Comfort is the vibe: Think Victorian mansions, pajamas-all-day masterminding, and Trader Joe’s candy at your fingertips.

- Why collaboration trumps competition: Retreats attract all levels of experience, but everyone leaves feeling like part of the same creative tribe.

- What consistent action really means: Ryan shares the one takeaway he keeps hearing, and applying, in his own entrepreneurial journey.

If You Loved This Episode…

You’ll love Episode 307: Transform Your Business Through In-Person Blogging Retreats with Melissa Erdelac

Connect with Becca

Website | Instagram

Connect with Ryan

Instagram