Hello, Fit Foodie Finds family! It’s an absolute pleasure to “officially” connect with you all. As I wrap up my exhilarating first full week working alongside Lee and Lin, I can genuinely say it has been a transformative experience, a vibrant departure from the past decade of my career. For so long, my days were defined by the morning commute through bustling city streets, settling into an office role with a rigid job description, a clear-cut vertical growth path, and all the corporate jargon you can imagine. My routine involved navigating endless meetings, often sacrificing lunch at my desk, then battling the afternoon rush hour, squeezing in a workout if time permitted, and finally heading home to catch up on Fit Foodie Finds emails. Only to repeat the cycle the next day.
Now, imagine swapping that predictable routine for a week brimming with dynamic activity: working from various charming coffee shops, collaborating at ModernWell, enjoying the comfort of working from home, and immersing myself in the creative energy of FFHQ, our Fit Foodie Finds headquarters. This new chapter has involved exciting hands-on tasks, such as shopping for and shooting an upcoming sports bra review, capturing the perfect shots for three brand-new, delicious recipes, and ensuring my mornings start with an invigorating workout to fuel my day. I’ve also had the invaluable opportunity to meet with exciting new brands, explore potential collaborations, and, most importantly, absorb the daily rhythm and creative pulse of Lee and Lin’s operations. And yes, I’ve been asking a *ton* of questions – soaking up every bit of knowledge and insight. It’s certainly a different pace, a wonderful blend of challenge and fulfillment, but I’m absolutely loving every moment of it. The best part? I can’t wait for Monday to arrive. What an incredible feeling of purpose and passion!
We believe there’s no better way for you to get to know me, Emily Richter, than through a candid Q&A session. This interview delves into a wide array of topics, offering a glimpse into my life, passions, and the journey that led me to Fit Foodie Finds. We encourage you to dive in, discover more about the newest full-time team member, and if you have any additional questions, please feel free to share them in the comments below! Your engagement helps us build an even stronger community around healthy living and delicious food.
1. What is your full name?
My full name is Emily Katherine Richter. However, for the first three decades of my life, I was known as Emily Katherine Stickler. It’s always interesting how names can change, marking new chapters in life! While many of my close friends and family affectionately call me “Em,” reflecting our long-standing connections, Linley has a special nickname for me: “big sissy.” It’s a wonderful reflection of the warm, familial bond we share here at Fit Foodie Finds, making this team truly feel like home and fostering a collaborative, supportive environment.
2. Where did you grow up?
I proudly grew up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. It’s a charming city that instilled in me a deep appreciation for community, the beauty of the outdoors, and, of course, a lifelong devotion to the Green Bay Packers – go Pack go! Growing up in Wisconsin, with its distinct four seasons and vibrant local culture, certainly shaped my love for wholesome food, outdoor activities like hiking and running, and the importance of strong, supportive relationships. These themes resonate deeply with the Fit Foodie Finds mission of promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle through delicious food and active living.
3. How did you meet Lee and Linley?
My connection with Lee and Linley blossomed quite organically, around the same time I started dating my now-husband, Bryce, who happens to be Linley’s older brother. It truly felt like fate intertwining our paths. Linley returned home from living abroad shortly after Bryce and I began our relationship, and we immediately forged a strong bond over our shared passion for cooking and engaging in deep, meaningful conversations about life, food, and aspirations. It was Linley who then introduced me to Lee. We instantly clicked, spending hours geeking out over blog analytics, content strategy, and our mutual love for all things Wisconsin, from its distinct seasons to its culinary delights. Shortly after, I began contributing to Fit Foodie Finds on a part-time basis, assisting with various projects. As they say, the rest is history! Our professional relationship has always been rooted in genuine friendship, mutual respect, and a shared vision, making this full-time transition feel incredibly natural and exciting.
4. What was your job before joining Team Fit Foodie?
Before embarking on this exciting full-time journey with Fit Foodie Finds, I held the position of Director of Strategy at a prominent advertising agency located in downtown Minneapolis. My primary focus in that role was working with various food brands, where I was responsible for developing strategic marketing campaigns, understanding consumer behavior, and crafting compelling brand narratives. This experience provided me with invaluable insights into the food industry, market trends, and effective communication strategies. The transition from the fast-paced, often demanding, corporate agency world to the dynamic, creative, and passion-driven environment of Fit Foodie Finds has been incredibly invigorating. It allows me to apply my strategic insights and love for food directly to a brand whose mission – promoting healthy and delicious living – I genuinely love and believe in, contributing to its growth and impact.
5. What is your favorite food?
This is a tough one, as my culinary heart is truly split, making it an undeniable tie between a perfectly seared tuna steak and sizzling fajitas. There’s something about the delicate, rich flavor of fresh tuna, seared just right to a rare or medium-rare perfection, that I find incredibly satisfying and elegant. And then there are fajitas – the vibrant colors of peppers and onions, the aromatic spices, the fresh toppings like guacamole and salsa, and the interactive, communal experience of building your own in a warm tortilla. If I’m truly lucky, and the stars align in the kitchen, I get to enjoy the best of both worlds: tuna steak fajitas. Imagine tender pieces of perfectly seared tuna, seasoned with classic fajita spices, nestled in a warm tortilla with caramelized peppers, onions, and all the fresh fixings. It’s a flavor explosion that hits all the right notes for me – savory, fresh, and utterly delicious.
6. Team sweet or team savory?
Without a shadow of a doubt, I am and always will be TEAM SAVORY 4EVER! While I certainly appreciate a well-crafted dessert or a sweet treat now and then, my palate consistently gravitates towards rich, umami, and complex savory flavors. Give me a perfectly seasoned meal, a salty and satisfying snack, or a dish packed with aromatic herbs and spices over a sugary indulgence any day. There’s just an endless depth, complexity, and profound satisfaction in savory cooking that continually inspires me. This preference aligns perfectly with the wholesome, flavor-packed, and delicious recipes we passionately create here at Fit Foodie Finds, always seeking to balance taste with nutritional value.
Silo District Marathon, an event incredibly close to my heart and held in powerful support of my longtime friend, the late Gabriele Grunewald. Gabe, an extraordinary professional runner and an incredibly courageous four-time cancer survivor, had a serendipitous chance encounter with Chip Gaines in Central Park (yes, seriously, what are the odds of that happening?!). Their conversation sparked an idea: Chip, deeply inspired by Gabe’s resilience and spirit, decided not only to run his very first marathon, hosted at the iconic Magnolia property, but he also humbly asked Gabe to train him for this momentous feat. It’s a profound testament to Gabe’s incredible spirit and her ability to inspire everyone she met, even in the face of immense personal challenge. A group of our close college friends and our significant others are making the trip to participate in the marathon, spend quality time together, honor Gabe’s enduring legacy through the Brave Like Gabe foundation, and, of course, soak in all the unique charm and hospitality that the Magnolia experience in Waco offers. It promises to be a moving and memorable trip.
8. What is your preferred form of exercise?
My ultimate passion and preferred form of exercise lies squarely in running. I was fortunate to grow up in a family deeply immersed in marathon running, which naturally ignited my love for long-distance running early in life. This foundation set the stage for my current pursuits. Fast forward to today, and while Lee and Linley might affectionately think I’m a little crazy, I’ve completely fallen head over heels for ultra trail running. There’s an unparalleled magic in being utterly immersed in nature, navigating challenging single-track trails, and pushing your body (and mind!) further than you ever thought possible. It’s a profound test of endurance, a mental game, and a deeply meditative experience all rolled into one. This fall, I’m eagerly anticipating running my fifth 50k on the breathtaking Superior Hiking Trail along Minnesota’s North Shore – a true gem for trail runners. When I’m not logging miles on a run, you’ll often find me embracing other invigorating workouts alongside my amazing FFF ladies at Alchemy, challenging my strength and agility at the Minneapolis Bouldering Project, or getting my high-intensity sweat on at Switch Minneapolis. Each activity offers a unique way to stay strong, active, and connected, fostering both physical and mental well-being.
9. What is your dream job?
Without a moment’s hesitation, my dream job is THIS very job right now! I am beyond thrilled and genuinely excited to be joining Lee and Lin full-time at Fit Foodie Finds. The opportunity to collaborate, to “mash our brains together” every single day, sharing ideas, strategizing, and collectively exploring where our creativity and combined efforts can take Fit Foodie Finds is incredibly exciting and fulfilling. It’s a role where my deepest passions for healthy living, strategic thinking, and creative content creation perfectly align, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to a brand I adore. However, if I were to indulge in a far-off, whimsical fantasy that truly encapsulates a past passion, my ultimate dream job would be commentating figure skating alongside the legendary Scott Hamilton. A girl can certainly dream, right?! It combines my lifelong love for the sport with the thrill and art of live commentary, which sounds absolutely exhilarating.
10. Chocolate candy or gummy candy?
This is a question with a delightfully nuanced answer for me, as it truly depends on the specifics! When it comes to chocolate, it absolutely has to be dark chocolate – the richer and darker, the better. I’m simply not a fan of milk chocolate; its sweetness is often overwhelming for my palate. However, if there are Haribo gummy bears within my reach, then all bets are off! You’ll find me making a beeline straight for those delightfully chewy, vibrant, and fruity treats. There’s something uniquely satisfying about their texture and playful flavors that makes them utterly irresistible. So, while dark chocolate holds a special, sophisticated place in my heart, the humble Haribo gummy bear is a formidable contender for my sweet tooth’s immediate affection, providing a fun, nostalgic burst of flavor.
11. Do you have any animal babies?
Yes, we certainly do, and he’s one very large, incredibly lovable animal baby! Our beloved dog, Thor, is a delightful and unique mix of Lab, Hound, and Great Dane. He’s a magnificent 90-pound ball of pure snuggles, affection, and goofy charm. We adopted him approximately three years ago when he was just a 30-pound pup. The vet initially estimated he would grow to about 50-60 pounds, but Thor clearly had other, grander plans, continuing to grow taller and taller! Today, he stands proudly up to my waist, often surprising new acquaintances with his gentle giant stature. Thor absolutely adores trail runs with us, has an unexpected passion for bananas (his favorite treat!), and finds immense joy and fascination in trying (unsuccessfully, of course) to befriend the dogs he sees on the TV screen. He brings so much warmth, joy, and laughter into our home every single day, making our lives infinitely richer.
12. What is your guilty pleasure when it comes to food?
My ultimate guilty pleasure, without a doubt, is ice cream. And not just any ice cream, but a very specific, delightful, and incredibly indulgent combination! My absolute go-to treat is a generous scoop of rich Oreo ice cream from Izzy’s in Minneapolis, crowned with one of their famous “Izzy scoops” of cotton candy ice cream right on top. Izzy’s is a local institution, known for its creative flavors and generous portions. The contrast of the creamy, crunchy Oreo ice cream with the light, sweet, and airy cotton candy flavor is an absolute dream for my taste buds. It’s a nostalgic treat that instantly brings a smile to my face, offering the perfect way to unwind and indulge after a busy week. It’s pure, unadulterated happiness in a cone!
13. Do you have any special talents?
Well, I do possess a rather niche, albeit somewhat unusual, skill: I can name all the state capitals in the U.S.! However, there’s a small, very specific catch – I can only recall them accurately when I sing the catchy song I learned back in my 5th-grade social studies class. It’s quite the earworm, and surprisingly effective for recall! Does that truly count as a special talent? It’s certainly unique and has proven useful in a handful of trivia nights! If not, I promise to reveal my second (and perhaps equally impressive, or at least more universally applicable) special talent when we get to Question 21. Stay tuned for that big reveal; it’s one you won’t want to miss!
14. What is your favorite beer?
I have a true and deep appreciation for craft beer, with a particular fondness that gravitates towards refreshing sour beers and a well-crafted, aromatic fresh hop IPA. The complexity of sours, with their tantalizing tart and often fruity notes, is incredibly refreshing and intriguing, making them perfect for warmer days or as a palate cleanser. And then there’s nothing quite like the vibrant, aromatic bitterness and juicy flavor profile of a fresh hop IPA, especially when the hops are at their peak, delivering an explosion of floral and citrus notes. It’s incredibly difficult to pinpoint an absolute favorite, as my preference often depends on the season, my mood, and what I’m pairing it with. However, if I had to choose a few standout local brews from Minnesota that I absolutely adore and frequently recommend, they would be Bent Paddle Harness (a superb, balanced IPA), Rush River Scenic (another fantastic, hop-forward IPA), and Fair State Roselle (a delightfully tart and beautifully balanced sour). These breweries consistently produce exceptional beers that perfectly capture the essence of what I love about the vibrant craft brewing scene.
15. Do you have any irrational fears?
This might sound a bit quirky, and perhaps a touch irrational, but I am *really* grossed out by raw poultry. The texture, the sliminess, the way it feels – it just gives me the shivers every single time! I absolutely detest touching it with my bare hands, and the thought of cleaning cutting boards or utensils after they’ve been in contact with raw chicken or turkey… well, let’s just say I question if they’re ever *truly* disinfected to my satisfaction! It’s an oddly specific aversion, as I’m perfectly fine handling any other type of raw meat, from beef to pork to fish. It remains a mystery why poultry triggers such a strong reaction in me, but it’s one I’m quite happy to continue avoiding whenever possible, leaving the raw chicken handling to others!
16. Tell us about your siblings…if you have any.
I am fortunate to have an incredible family, which includes a younger brother, David. Despite being my younger sibling, he is significantly taller than me – a fact we often joke about! David is not only my brother but also one of my closest friends. He currently lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he manages The Wicked Hop, a popular spot in the city. If you ever find yourself exploring Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward, I highly, highly recommend stopping by The Wicked Hop for what is arguably the best Bloody Mary in the entire city – tell David I sent you, and prepare for a truly exceptional drink! Beyond my fantastic brother, I also recently gained a pretty kickass sister-in-law, Linley, who I affectionately call my first and only “little sissy.” It’s truly wonderful to have such strong, supportive family connections that now extend beautifully into my professional life with Fit Foodie Finds, creating a truly collaborative and familial team environment.
17. If you could be a professional sports player of any kind, what would you be?
Without a doubt, if I could choose any professional sports career, I would be a professional figure skater! This isn’t just a fleeting dream; it’s rooted in a deep passion and history. I grew up deeply immersed in the demanding and beautiful world of figure skating. I spent countless years on the ice, training intensely, competing, and continually refining my skills in various disciplines. Later, during my college years, I had the incredible experience of skating on the synchronized skating team at the University of Minnesota – think synchronized swimming, but performed with immense precision, strength, and artistry on ice. The dream of competing in the Olympics, representing my country on that global stage, was a powerful aspiration throughout my formative years. The exquisite combination of athleticism, grace, artistic expression, and mental fortitude required in figure skating makes it a truly captivating and challenging sport, and one I would wholeheartedly pursue as a professional.
19. What is your favorite season?
FALL. Hands down, it is my absolute favorite season, and it is especially breathtaking and magical in Minnesota. If you’ve never had the opportunity to experience a Minnesota fall – hiking or running on our thousands of miles of scenic trails, with the sun dappling through the canopy of trees and vibrant, rustling leaves falling all around you – you absolutely *must* add it to your bucket list. The crisp, invigorating air, the kaleidoscope of colors painting the landscape, and the undeniable sense of cozy anticipation for the holidays make it a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Beyond the stunning scenery and invigorating outdoor activities, I’m also a huge fan of cooking and baking with the incredible bounty of harvest crops that autumn brings. From hearty, comforting stews to delicious pumpkin treats and apple crisp, fall truly is my jam – a season that nourishes both the soul with its beauty and the stomach with its flavors.
21. Would you rather have 10 big toes or 11 pinky fingers?
This is an easy one for me, and I can give you my second special talent in the process! Definitely 10 big toes. Here’s a little fun fact about me, and the revelation of my second talent: my pinky fingers are unusually short compared to the rest of my fingers. They’re so short, in fact, that I don’t even use them for typing on a traditional keyboard; my ring fingers simply do double the work! Given this physiological quirk, the thought of having 11 of those tiny, less-than-functional pinky fingers sounds far from ideal and rather impractical. So, you certainly won’t find me stepping in for any hand modeling gigs anytime soon, especially not for the famed and much-loved @Linleyshands! Ten big toes, on the other hand, would be a much more practical, balanced, and aesthetically pleasing option for me. It’s a definite no-brainer!
That’s all for now, Fit Foodie Finds community! Thank you so much for taking the time to get to know me a little better through this Q&A. I’m incredibly excited to be here full-time, contribute my passion and expertise to this wonderful platform, and connect with all of you. Feel free to follow my journey, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and daily adventures on Instagram at @EmilyKRichter. I look forward to connecting with more of you there and continuing to share our collective passion for good food, invigorating fitness, and a vibrant, healthy life!