Throughout my career in online operations in Dublin & California, I've pursued a passion for cooking and coaching with qualifications as a Life Coach and Intuitive Eating Counsellor. I've trained at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Co. Cork and catered for retreats in Ireland, France and the UK. I launched The Calm Kitchen in 2017 - an in-person cookery experience based on cooking as a mindful and relaxing practice - and in 2018 was named as one of the 'people to watch in food' by The Irish Times.
In 2023, I'm offering dining and cooking events based on intuitive eating practices of satisfaction, self-care, connection and mindfulness.
Currently writing about my interests and adventures, with food usually at the heart of them, at The Calm Companion newsletter.
“Few things make as much sense to me as cooking the ingredients that fuel and pleasure us. Nothing else grounds me as cooking does - it makes me happy.”
With Darina Allen at Ballymaloe.
“If following your heart’s desire seems crazy but not following it is becoming more and more difficult with every passing week or month or year, your choices come down to taking a leap of faith or living with the regret of never having tried. Wouldn’t you rather jump?”
"Joanna Bourke isn't just a chef, she is a magician who uses food to deeply nourish her clients. Joanna prepared my retreat menu with love and care and delivered masterpieces at each meal. Thank you Joanna for being so amazing."
–Susan Hyatt, Life Coach, Entrepreneur
"Joanna Bourke is a powerful blend of talented chef, food artist, and warm-hearted therapist. If you ever have the opportunity to work with her, do it!"
–Peg Kusner, Peg Kusner Design
"Thanks so much Joanna for the amazing food, excellent service and impeccable taste at our Monalea Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat - it wouldn't have been the magical weekend that it was without you!”
–Gemma Deeney, The Yoga Gym
"Joanna catered my retreat in England for 16 women. She brought so much thought, attention and care to the whole experience - our Retreat participants fell in love with her JoFlow! Running a kitchen that is at the heart of a big house, is no small feat. Over the four days, Joanna played a vital role in ensuring everyone was nourished, cared for and able to enjoy food that loved them back. This meant they could relax into the deep and important work of the retreat. I can’t recommend Jo enough and I’ve already booked her services for next year’s Sacred Rascals!"
–Sas Petherick, Coach & Mentor
