Christina Tosi Talks Donating Food During Crisis with Guy Raz | How I Built This | NPR

Transcript

um we are here of course talk about how business businesses are building resilience and we're taking your questions right now on Facebook on YouTube and on Twitter so please ask away this is food week we're talking some to some incredible chefs and restaurant tours all this week about some of the amazing things that they're doing and before I'm joi... Read More

Summary

In this video, Christina Tosi, founder of Milk Bar, discusses how her business is coping with the current crisis. She talks about the challenges of furloughing employees and the emotional impact it has on both the employees and the employer. Tosi also shares the ways in which the company is pivoting and finding new opportunities online and in grocery stores. She mentions the importance of community and connection, and how her daily baking club on Instagram has brought people together. Tosi addresses questions from the audience about her favorite cookies, new dessert combos, and how to support Milk Bar during this time. She ends by discussing her hope for resilience and personal growth during this challenging period.

Questions & Answers

Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected Milk Bar and its employees?

The pandemic has had a significant impact on Milk Bar, forcing them to furlough half of their team. However, they made sure to prioritize the well-being and comfort of their employees, taking into account their health concerns and the availability of government support. Tosi also emphasizes that Milk Bar sees itself as a team-first business, not solely focused on profits.

Q: How is Milk Bar adapting its operations during this crisis?

Milk Bar has closed most of its store locations, but is still operating its commissaries in New York City and Los Angeles. Tosi explains that they have seen an increase in online orders, especially from healthcare professionals and individuals wanting to send treats to loved ones. They have also pivoted to selling their products in grocery stores, which has helped offset some of the loss in store traffic.

Q: How is Milk Bar ensuring the safety of its staff in the commissaries?

In the commissaries, Milk Bar is implementing safety measures such as maintaining physical distance between employees, wearing gloves and face masks, and increasing hygiene practices. Tosi mentions that they have always followed these practices, but have added face masks to their routine. She also talks about the importance of reading people's eyes and gestures to effectively communicate in a masked environment.

Q: How can customers support Milk Bar and send cookies to healthcare professionals?

Customers can support Milk Bar by ordering cookies and other treats directly from their website. Additionally, the company is working on a program that will allow customers to send cookies to hospitals and healthcare professionals. Tosi encourages customers to include notes with their orders, expressing gratitude and support for the recipients.

Q: What are some challenges faced by businesses like Milk Bar during this crisis?

Tosi emphasizes the perishable nature of food products, which can lead to challenges in managing inventory and cash flow. She also mentions the uncertainty surrounding lease agreements and rent payments. Additionally, she talks about the unknown changes in consumer behavior and new norms that will emerge in the coming months.

Q: How is Milk Bar finding new opportunities during this challenging time?

Despite the difficulties, Milk Bar is focusing on the opportunities available to them. They have recently launched their products in Whole Foods and are seeing great engagement online. Tosi mentions that they are exploring new flavor combinations and experimenting with alternative ingredients. She also highlights the importance of staying one step ahead and continuously thinking about how to bring joy to people's lives.

Q: Can Christina Tosi recommend a treat for individuals living alone who are hesitant to bake a whole batch?

Tosi suggests ordering a tin of cookies, a slice of Milk Bar pie, and a pack of truffles from their website. This way, customers can have a variety of treats without having to bake a whole batch. She also encourages individuals to share their baked goods with others by leaving them in mailboxes or giving them to neighbors and essential workers.

Q: How is Tosi taking care of her own mental health during this challenging time?

Tosi acknowledges the emotional toll of furloughing employees and the loss of friends due to COVID-19. She shares that she needs alone time for mourning and reflection. Tosi emphasizes the importance of making difficult decisions now to secure the future of the business. She also prioritizes self-care through activities like morning walks and expressing her creativity through baking.

Q: How is Tosi building resilience and growth during this crisis?

Tosi sees this crisis as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow. She wants to make the most of this difficult time and not waste it. Tosi talks about the importance of gratitude, connection, and finding meaning in everyday actions. She mentions the value of looking forward instead of dwelling on the past, and embracing the challenges as opportunities for personal and professional development.

Q: What does Tosi hope will come out of this crisis for Milk Bar and herself personally?

Tosi hopes to build resilience in her business and personal life. She wants to come out of this crisis stronger and to not waste the lessons learned during this time. Tosi wants to continue finding joy in baking, supporting her team, and creating connections with people. She believes that being resourceful, caring, and adaptable are key qualities to develop during this challenging period.

Takeaways

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented numerous challenges for businesses like Milk Bar. Furloughing employees has been emotionally challenging for both the employees and the employer. However, Milk Bar is finding new opportunities by pivoting their operations and focusing on online orders and grocery store sales. Tosi emphasizes the importance of resilience, gratitude, and connection during this time. Through her daily baking club on Instagram, she brings joy to others and fosters a sense of community. Tosi hopes to emerge stronger from this crisis, not wasting the lessons learned and continuing to show up for her team and customers in meaningful ways.