As the author of three cookbooks, I have developed a fine skill for research. From scouting locations to interviewing chefs, home cooks, and street vendors, my background as an author grounded me in the deepest curiosity about the cultural identity of Brazil and South America. Each book has involved extensive research. I’ve learned about habits that have been in place for many generations but have never been documented before. I have translated recipes shared orally by semi-analphabetic street vendors into dishes that can be replicated by anyone, in any kitchen, in any part of the world. I gave voice to people who didn’t know how to articulate their craft and shone a light on talented people who contribute to the uniqueness of a region. My research did not happen in a lab or a computer. Instead, I traveled to places that I’d never seen before. Most importantly, I discovered a deep passion for interviewing, documenting, writing, and editing. The learning process evolved from plain manuscripts to the rolling skills of media production work like photography, food styling, videography, and social media.