New episode on our #UNFILTERED interview series of The Artful Gourmet Podcast 🎬
What does it really mean to tell the truth—especially when it’s your own story?
In this episode of #UNFILTERED, I sit down with Maria Costanzo Palmer—author, journalist, and speaker whose work lives at the intersection of vulnerability, identity, and transformation.
We dive into her memoir “On the Rocks”, unpacking the emotional layers behind major unexpected life changes, family dynamics, and personal healing.
Maria shares what it took to write something so deeply personal, how storytelling can become a powerful tool for growth, and why owning your voice matters more than ever.
We also explore her work in media, her local cooking class events, and what’s next—including a new book and documentary currently in the works.
This conversation is honest, raw, and deeply human—just the way we like it on #UNFILTERED.
This episode matters because shifting your narrative can restore your sense of self and spark powerful transformation. Maria shows us that our most imperfect moments, when truthfully told, become the foundation of our greatest rebirths.
Watch a clip from the episode
Key Takeaways
- Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for healing
- The journey from journalist to author to filmmaker
- The emotional reality behind writing a memoir
- How addiction and family dynamics shape identity
- The courage it takes to share your truth publicly
- The connection between food, memory, and personal history
- What it really means to live “unfiltered”
- How Maria is expanding her story into a second book, a new TV documentary + next steps in her career
Sound Bites
“Gratitude for everything that happened to me”
“Our roots and family stories shape who we are”
“Storytelling is a powerful form of healing”
Chapters/Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Kristen Hess and Maria Palmer
01:21 Maria Palmer’s Background and Journey into Writing
03:36 Family Roots and the Restaurant in McKees Rocks
04:56 Life-Changing Moments and Moving to Los Angeles
06:39 Documenting Family History and Confronting the Past
09:10 Healing Through Storytelling and Family Connections
11:37 Reuniting Family Through Food and Shared Memories
13:48 The Book Project: Writing in Multiple Voices
18:46 The Documentary Series: Production and Future Plans
26:00 Writing Challenges and Lessons Learned
32:40 Balancing Control and Collaboration in Creative Projects
45:16 Final Thoughts and Unfiltered Life Lessons
This episode dares you to confront your past, embrace your true voice, and find healing through the raw power of storytelling—because what we hide can ultimately make us whole.
Tune In and Watch the full episode
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Q+A: What’s one truth you’ve learned the hard way?
We’d love to hear your comments below!
Guest Links – Maria C Palmer
Maria Palmer’s Book ‘On the Rocks’
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#Storytelling #Leadership #CreativeEntrepreneur #PodcastInterview #PersonalGrowth
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Kristen Hess | The Artful Gourmet
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