A quick jog in the crisp Parisian air is a great way to start the day, even if the cold makes my face and fingers ache. I like to explore new cities at my own pace, enjoying a leisurely jog without a strict schedule. Today’s run was a relaxed 1.9 miles at a 13-minute pace, stopping and walking whenever I felt like it. Back at the apartment, it’s time to warm up and start the workday.
I usually focus on one major task each day, like filming or editing a YouTube video. Today is a bit different, with several smaller tasks on my to-do list. I need to finalize the upload checklist for a video releasing later today, brainstorm some new video ideas, and head to the grocery store. Being in Paris has been creatively inspiring, perhaps a little too much so. I’m overflowing with video ideas and finding it challenging to prioritize.
One example is a galette video I’m planning. Should I travel to Brittany, France, or just focus on the recipe itself? Should I make a traditional galette, a healthy version, or my own unique twist? It’s a constant struggle to narrow down the possibilities and stick to a single concept. This creative overload is one reason why I’ve been releasing fewer videos lately, aiming for one per week and adding a second if possible.
After a productive work session, I’ll share a glimpse into my current projects. I’m working on a “Dooner” video, recreating a recipe I filmed with a friend in Berlin. I’m researching various recipes, trying to find the perfect balance between focaccia and sandwich bread.
I’m also updating my website, ethanchebowsky.com, with the latest recipes. I use a recipe generator to create printable recipe cards, which I then embed into the website and include in the video descriptions. It’s a crucial part of my workflow, ensuring the recipes are easily accessible to my audience.
Finally, I’m creating a grocery list for today’s lunch and upcoming meals. I’m planning a healthier version of PK Chicken Karahi, though I’m disappointed I couldn’t find fresh ginger. I also picked up a whole chicken to roast for dinner.
A quick check-in with Gabe, my invaluable assistant, who’s preparing a delicious-looking breakfast. He’s handling the cooking while I head to the grocery store. We usually cook together, but he was hungry, so I’m off to gather ingredients for my lunch.
Time to make lunch! I’m preparing a PK Chicken Karahi-inspired dish, though missing some key ingredients like fresh ginger, garam masala, and onions. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are surprisingly hard to find in European grocery stores, so I’m using chicken breasts instead.
Lunch is served! It’s not quite the authentic PK Chicken Karahi I envisioned, but still delicious. Filming while working is surprisingly tiring. I’m feeling mentally drained, so I’ll relax for an hour or two before tackling more work. I also need to double-check the checklist for the video releasing at 4 PM today.
A quick update: I’ve been relaxing and reviewing the recipe on my website, ensuring everything is accurate before publishing. I’ve been contemplating a website redesign, transforming it into a more traditional food blog with better search functionality and more polished recipes. It’s a significant undertaking, but I believe it could be a valuable asset for my audience and business.
As a creator, it’s easy to get caught up in analytics, but I try to focus on creating content I’m proud of, even if it doesn’t perform as well as expected. The pan sauce video I released today is a prime example. I had a blast making it, and I think it’s one of my best videos yet, even if the initial numbers aren’t stellar.
I’m now scripting the “Dooner” video and planning a galette video. I’ll spend the next couple of hours working on those. Time to roast the chicken for dinner! I’m keeping it simple with just oil and salt, letting the natural flavors shine through. Gabe requested mac and cheese with peas and ham, and I’ll make a simple salad to accompany the meal.
The chicken is roasting, and I’m heading back upstairs to relax with a movie while editing some short-form videos on my phone. It’s a great way to multitask and make the most of my downtime.
Dinner is ready! Roast chicken, mac and cheese, and a simple salad. I’ll enjoy this delicious meal and then relax for the rest of the evening. Thanks for following along on this day in my life. I’ll link the recipes mentioned in this video in the description below. Filming while working is challenging, but I enjoy sharing these glimpses into my creative process. Let me know if you enjoyed this style of video!