Some things just can’t be rushed. Sourdough especially. But also grief. And conversations you’ve been putting off. Watching dough rise has become a weird little metaphor for me lately—something about letting time do its thing, without trying to fix or force it.

You’d be surprised what someone’s willing to share when there’s warm bread between you and no phones on the table. Here are a few of my favorite questions to ask during that in-between moment—right after the first bite, but before the last. Fair warning: things might get real.

For me, baking has always been a barometer. There are cookies I reach for when I need comfort, and ones I only make when I’m in a good place. This one? It’s the latter. Here’s the story behind it, and why I almost didn’t share the recipe at all.

We’re doing a thing! It’s called Soft Talks, and it’s basically an excuse for me to bake something and then sit down with a friend and ask them questions that feel like a warm hug and a tiny gut punch at the same time. Here’s what you can expect, and how to tune in.