Happy new year?
Issue 26: Maybe next year will be better.
Why hello there! Welcome to on hand! If you’ve landed here and somehow aren’t subscribed, I got you:
Hi hello there -
It’s the last day of the year and I am extremely unsure how we got here so fast. Is it just me or was it April like 2 months ago? This year is going out in the same way it came in — with a bang (but not in a fun way) — and I am cautiously optimistic next year will be better.
I am not usually one to reflect on the past year but I set out to do a thing in January and I did it! kind of! I started this newsletter as a weekly publication but it really ended up being more of a scattered schedule. But you know what? I sent out 26 issues and I feel like that’s still pretty exciting. To everyone that reads these, thank you for sharing in this project of mine — it really means a lot.
Since January, I’ve shared interviews with a whole range of humans, some longer-form articles I’ve written, and a few issues where I just rant a little bit. It’s been fun! In 2022, I hope to share more interviews and writing, and maybe some recipes.
In case you missed any issues from the last year, here are a few of my favorites:
Kim Pham, co-founder of Omsom, on building a business, starting an Asian food brand targeted at fellow Asian-Americans, and reclaiming the “ethnic” food aisle.
André Hueston Mack, Sommelier and Winemaker, on running a business during a pandemic, why he left Per Se to strike out on his own, being Black in the wine industry, and how the wine industry can be more inclusive.
The one where I quit my job and then talk about how much me and my friends love onions.
Andy Young, winemaker and founder of The Marigny, on his path to wine, The Marigny’s “Grape Friends” wine club, and how he sees his brand growing.
The first time I talk about how much I hate summer and also a deep dive into my favorite style of beer: sours!
The second time I rant about how much I hate summer and a recipe for homemade ranch!
How three HBCU grads are building a community-focused beer bar at Harlem Hops.
Dan Pelosi, the man behind GrossyPelosi, on "mom energy," building a brand, and finding inspiration in family.
The Year I Ate New York: an essay for a job I didn't get.
Don Guerra, baker and small-scale farming advocate, on getting his start in bread baking, working with heritage and ancient grains, and preserving small-scale farming.
You can catch them all here and see you in the new year, folks!
Brianna