Meet Emily Ponczek | Food Blogger/Content Creator & Social Media Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Ponczek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work-life balance has been very challenging particularly in the past year. Juggling a full-time job at a pharmaceutical company along with managing my food blog and handling social media for local restaurants was really hard at first. I had to reevaluate my routine and explore what worked best for me. I was able to secure a job with more flexible hours, from 7-3 which has helped me allocate time more efficiently.

My work-life balance strategy involves a combination of planning and adaptability. After my core work hours, I dedicate time to visit restaurants and engage with my social media responsibilities. I also carve out time at home after work to post on my food blog and manage my accounts. Being able to schedule things on Instagram has also helped me a ton. I try to schedule my week in advance so I don’t have to worry about doing things at the last minute!

My mindset is by trying to be proactive and intentional about managing my time, I try my best to be able to work on both my professional commitments and personal passions.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I take great pride in the progress I’ve made with my food blog. The transformation from a COVID hobby to its current state is beyond what I could have imagined. Balancing my commitments has definitely been a struggle. However, by implementing a more structured routine, I’ve managed to carve out time for activities like massages and facials, crucial for destressing from my three jobs. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m dedicated to making it all work. Moreover, the food blogging community has been a source of fun and excitement for me! The friendships I’ve built great relationships with fellow bloggers at various events over the years that I will forever be grateful for , and it wouldn’t have been possible without EatsWithEmm!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love spending a long weekend down in Atlantic City! Between the restaurants, the activities, and the nightlife, it is always guaranteed to be a great time! I love staying at The Borgata and dining at Angeline for Italian food or venturing out of the casino to Angelo’s which is another Italian restaurant right in the heart of Atlantic City. I love going to see DJ’s play at the clubs like HQ2 and Premier and going to see comedy shows and concerts while I am down there also!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Reflecting on my journey to achieve a better work-life balance, I owe a heartfelt shoutout to my mom, Laura, for instilling in me the value of hard work and commitment She’s showed me what true work ethic looks like and teaching me the importance of putting in the effort to achieve my goals.

Instagram: @EatsWithEmm