We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maalek Getchell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Maalek, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

A few years back, I took a leap that changed everything. I was working in restaurant management, a role I’d carved out for myself after years of hard work and dedication. I had the comfort of stability, a solid career path, and plenty of perks. But deep down, I felt something was missing. I’d always been passionate about food, culture, and adventure. I lived for those moments when a new flavor, a new city, or an unexpected connection would light up my world. Yet, I felt tied down, unable to fully embrace the wanderlust that had been calling me for years.

The risk? Leaving my comfortable job behind and venturing into the unknown. I didn’t just want to travel; I wanted to create something that would let others experience the joy of authentic culinary adventures and cultural immersion. So, I left my job, packed my bags, and booked a one-way ticket to Southeast Asia with no real plan other than to explore, learn, and see where it would lead. I knew it was a gamble—leaving behind a secure paycheck and a career I’d built—but I also knew I’d regret not trying.

Fast forward, and that risk paid off. I spent months discovering the hidden gems of local cuisine, meeting incredible people, and truly immersing myself in each place I visited. Those experiences turned into more than just memories; they became the foundation for my business, WhereintheWorldisMaalek. Now, I get to share that same sense of adventure and connection with others through curated travel experiences.

It was a risk that could have left me back at square one, but instead, it led to a journey of self-discovery, a growing start-up, and a life that constantly pushes me to embrace the unknown. Looking back, I realize it wasn’t just about leaving my job. It was about stepping outside my comfort zone and betting on myself to create a life that feels more aligned with who I am. And for me, that’s where the real magic happens.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hey there!

I’m Maalek, a professional culinary curator, adventurer, and the founder of WhereintheWorldisMaalek. My journey into this world started in the kitchens of some of the best restaurants in the U.S., from Zingerman’s to The Broadmoor, where I honed my craft and built my culinary expertise. I’ve managed restaurants, opened new spots, and worked as a pastry chef—all experiences that fed my love for food and the stories it tells. But as much as I loved the restaurant world, I felt this pull to explore, to dive deeper into different cultures, and to see how food connects us across the globe.

So, I decided to take a leap of faith. I left the comfort of my stable career, packed my bags, and set off on a journey through Southeast Asia and Europe. I didn’t just want to visit new places—I wanted to immerse myself in them. I sought out authentic food experiences, learned from local chefs and home cooks, and built strong connections with people who welcomed me into their world. What I discovered was something truly magical: the way food could bridge cultural gaps, tell a story, and create unforgettable experiences.

That’s how WhereintheWorldisMaalek was born. My business is all about sharing the joy of these authentic culinary adventures with others. I offer curated travel experiences that blend luxury with the raw, unfiltered beauty of local culture. Whether it’s a food tour through the bustling streets of Bangkok, a quiet dinner with a family in Bali, or a hands-on cooking class in the Philippines, my goal is to give travelers a taste of what makes each destination unique and special.

What sets us apart? It’s the personal touch. Every tour is carefully designed and curated by me, based on my own travels and the connections I’ve made along the way. I work closely with local guides, chefs, and artisans to ensure every experience is genuine and immersive. And it’s not just about the food—it’s about embracing adventure, stepping outside your comfort zone, and discovering the world in a way that feels real, exciting, and deeply fulfilling.

I’m most proud of the community that has grown around my brand. It’s not just about traveling—it’s about creating connections, building confidence, and finding joy in every moment, whether that’s through trying a new dish or sharing stories with someone on the other side of the world. For me, the secret to happiness is a life full of adventure, connections, and discovery.

If there’s one thing I want potential clients and followers to know, it’s that my tours aren’t about being a tourist—they’re about being an explorer. They’re for anyone ready to step off the beaten path, embrace spontaneity, and see the world through a different lens. So, if you’re craving something more than just a vacation, if you want to feel the heartbeat of a place through its food, its people, and its stories, I’d love for you to join us. Because that’s where the real magic happens.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I think the most valuable resources I wish I had known about earlier were free business consulting services. I was still able to take advantage of them once I found them, but I could have avoided a lot more confusion, frustration, and all the time and energy spent trying to figure it out on my own. Programs like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), WCC Entrepreneurship Center, and SPARK Ann Arbor have pushed my company and brand further than I ever expected, providing resources for every aspect of starting and scaling a business.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a passion for connection, discovery, and stepping outside of comfort zones. At the heart of everything I do is the belief that the secret to happiness lies in embracing adventure, building meaningful connections, and experiencing the world in its most authentic form. Through my brand, WhereintheWorldisMaalek, I aim to inspire others to see the world not just as tourists, but as explorers—seeking out hidden gems, tasting the true flavors of a culture, meeting the people who make each place unique, and giving back the communities we encounter.

My mission is to create experiences that go beyond the surface, where travelers can truly immerse themselves in the local culture, cuisine, and community. I want to show that there’s a magic to be found when you dare to take a leap, whether it’s through trying a new dish, learning a local craft, or having a conversation with someone who sees the world differently. Ultimately, it’s about encouraging others to step out, explore the unknown, and discover not just new places, but new sides of themselves.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.whereintheworldismaalek.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whereintheworldismaalek/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064106709615
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maalek-getchell-a51a8ba7/

Image Credits

All photos are taken by Whereintheworldismaalek