Culinary Diplomacy: Leadership, Relationships, and Soft Power with Jeremiah Knight | S5 EP3
In this episode of The Leadership Tea Podcast, Shelby and Belinda are joined by author, Foreign Service Officer, and “diplomat in the kitchen” Jeremiah Knight. Jeremiah shares the story behind his cookbook, Diplomat in the Kitchen, and how food has shaped the way he builds relationships, connects across cultures, and leads with intention.
Jeremiah reflects on pursuing a creative passion alongside a demanding career, including the realities of building a brand over time, learning through trial and error, and finding the right team to bring a long-term vision to life. He also discusses how culinary diplomacy can serve as a powerful form of “soft power,” creating trust and opening doors, even in challenging professional contexts.
Throughout the conversation, Jeremiah offers practical leadership lessons on strategy, feedback, humility, and investing in purpose without abandoning stability.
In this episode
What “culinary diplomacy” looks like in real life—and why it builds trust
Using soft power and hospitality to strengthen relationships and influence outcomes
Pursuing a passion project over time (and why it doesn’t have to be overnight)
The value of building a team early and learning to accept honest feedback
Why strategic discernment matters more than jumping in full throttle
The “10% entrepreneur” approach: investing in your goals while working full-time
How storytelling, culture, and food can create connection across differences
Connect with Jeremiah + learn more about the book:
Instagram: @jerryjk
X (Twitter): @jerryjk
Threads: @jerryjk
Listen to S5 EP3
Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QGuuDvth64A
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