I’m Betty Rodriguez-Hakes, a cooking instructor and meal-planning advocate with over 30 years of real-world experience balancing family, work, and home cooking. As a wife and mother, I understand the daily challenge of getting meals on the table while juggling busy schedules. But I also know that home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated—they can be simple, satisfying, and a powerful way to bring people together. In a world where fast food and processed meals have become the norm, I believe that cooking at home can transform not just our health but also our connections with loved ones.
My mission is to bring families back around the dinner table with wholesome foods – avoiding processed and fast foods.
My Culinary Journey & Experience
- Cultural Roots in Cooking: Growing up as a first-generation Cuban American, I learned early on that the kitchen is the heart of the home. My abuela taught me that food is love, and every meal is an opportunity to share our heritage and stories.
- Hands-On Experience: With years of experience teaching cooking classes, I’ve guided countless individuals and families in making healthy, simple, and delicious meals. My approach is practical, focusing on techniques that fit into busy lifestyles without compromising flavor or nutrition.
- Community Engagement: I’ve collaborated with local organizations in the Cincinnati area to promote healthy eating habits and have been a guest speaker at events focused on meal planning and family health.
How I Can Support Your Culinary Goals
- Personalized Cooking Classes: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your culinary skills, I offer tailored classes that meet you where you are. From mastering basic techniques to exploring Cuban cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
- Meal Planning Workshops: Learn key strategies on how to plan and prepare meals that suit your family’s tastes and schedules. From using paper and pen to Tech and AI tools. Including key AI prompts or creating a custom GPT that includes your family’s favorite meals. My workshops provide practical strategies to make home cooking a sustainable and enjoyable part of your routine.
- Speaking Engagements: I offer engaging talks on topics like meal planning, healthy eating, and bringing families back to the dinner table. If you’re interested in having me speak at your event, let’s connect.
A Note on My Tech Background
In addition to my culinary endeavors, I have a background in marketing technology consulting. This experience has refined my ability to streamline processes, optimize efficiency, and integrate technology into everyday tasks—including meal planning. My approach balances tradition with innovation, using tech and AI thoughtfully to simplify home cooking while keeping it personal and meaningful. For more details on my professional background, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile.
Let’s Cook Together
If you’re in the Cincinnati area—or even virtually—I’d love to help you make cooking a joyful and integral part of your life. Together, we can create meals that nourish both body and soul.
Let’s Connect!
I’d love to hear from you – whether you’re interested in tech consulting, a cooking class, or a conversation about how to make healthier choices at home. Email or connect with me via any social media platform. You can also schedule a 15 minute connect with me by clicking on this link:
I look forward to collaborating, cooking, and sharing in life’s journey with you!”