We recently connected with Chrys Salmon and have shared our conversation below.

Chrys, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

A defining moment in my professional career came while I was working with a particular professional athlete. By that time, I had over six years of experience working in high-end restaurants, with sports teams, and for Fortune 500 executives. I had been managing this athlete’s diet for about four months, but despite my efforts, their physique wasn’t changing. I was meticulously counting macros, controlling every aspect of his nutrition, yet the results weren’t there.

I decided to take a closer look, tracking everything they consumed and every hour they spent training. Over the next month, I made adjustments to the diet plan based on the feedback I received on their performance. If they felt weak during a game, I’d increase the intake of healthy, low-glycemic carbs and monitor the difference. If they complained about bloating or sweating excessively, I’d reduce the salt intake.

It was at this point that I began to realize the importance of listening to the signals the body was sends, rather than focusing solely on numbers or the scale as a result of our diet changes. By tailoring the nutrition to our body’s needs, we began to lose weight effortlessly, gain speed and endurance, and increase stamina . This experience taught me that, no matter the fad diet, our bodies need a personalized approach to truly thrive.

That moment changed everything for me. I became passionate about helping others heal and perform at their best by using food as a tool for wellness, rather than relying solely on medical interventions or just cooking for flavors. It was a powerful lesson in the connection between what we eat and how we feel.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Here’s a first-person introduction about you:

I’m Chef Chrys, a passionate community activist, urban farmer, and food equity advocate based in Miami, FL. As a retired Navy veteran and professional nutritional chef, I co-founded Sistrunk Seeds Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to providing fresh, organic produce and social services to underserved communities. My expertise encompasses nutrition, urban sustainability, and environmental health, which I integrate into my work at Dunn’s Overtown Farm.

I am deeply committed to my mission of creating a safe, inclusive space for community empowerment. Through education, gardening, and health-focused programs, I strive to help others learn how to nourish themselves and their families, fostering a culture of resilience and equity in our community.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Patience and perseverance have been vital in my journey as a farmer, shaping both my personal growth and the success of my community initiatives.

When I first started my work at Dunn’s Overtown Farm, I quickly learned that farming is not just about planting seeds and watching them grow. It requires a deep understanding of the land, the seasons, and the natural cycles of life. Patience has taught me to appreciate the time it takes for crops to mature, allowing me to develop a more profound connection to the earth and its rhythms. I’ve learned that the best results often come from waiting for the right moment to plant, nurture, and harvest.

Perseverance has been equally important. I’ve faced numerous challenges—unexpected weather changes, pest infestations, and the complexities of urban farming in a community with unique needs. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, I’ve leaned into the lessons they offer. Each obstacle has pushed me to adapt and innovate, ultimately leading to more resilient farming practices and a stronger commitment to my mission of food equity and community empowerment.

Moreover, my patience and perseverance have helped me build relationships within my community. Whether working with families at the farm or engaging in outreach programs, I’ve learned that meaningful change takes time. By staying committed to my vision and consistently showing up, I’ve fostered trust and collaboration, creating a supportive network that benefits us all.

In essence, these qualities have not only deepened my connection to the land and my community but have also empowered me to continue advocating for health and wellness through sustainable farming practices. They remind me that the journey is just as important as the destination, and with time and dedication, we can cultivate a healthier, more equitable future together.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

The best way to make sure that moral is high and respect is given is to never ask anyone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. Having humility and empathy each day you choose to step outside is necessary if you want to make a real difference not only in your own life, but the lives of those around you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @chefchryssalmon
• Other: @dunnsovertowmfarm