The Power of Cacao: Creativity, Connection & Plant Medicine with Laura Huaman

The Power of Cacao: Creativity, Connection & Plant Medicine with Laura Huaman

From Nourishing Creativity with Chef Carla Contreras (formerly Show Up Fully) by Chef Carla Contreras

March 20, 2026 · 20 min

About this episode

This episode explores the transformative power of cacao through the journey of Laura Huaman, emphasizing creativity, connection, and cultural roots.

“Cacao isn’t just a drink, it’s an invitation to reconnect with yourself.” — Laura Huaman This episode is your invitation to explore creativity through connection, ancestry, and ritual. I’m joined by Laura Huaman, former Stanford scientist, Peruvian native, and founder of KUYU. She’s on a mission to bring health, happiness, and connection through cacao and Peruvian superfoods. Laura shares the pivotal moment of her first cacao ceremony in Austria. That experience didn’t just change her relationship with cacao, it changed the trajectory of her life. What began as a search for clarity in a tech career became a journey back to her roots, her culture, and the jungles of Peru. Laura shares the story of Señor Efraín, a cacao farmer in Quillabamba, whose relationship to cacao is deeply personal. His words “cacao means love”became a guiding force in Laura’s brand. Through packaging, sourcing, and storytelling, Laura aims to transmit that love from Pachamama to your cup. Whether you’re building a brand, reconnecting to your ancestry, or seeking more presence in your daily life, this episode reminds you that creativity thrives when you honor both science and spirit. For Laura that means a…

People in this episode

Host: Chef Carla Contreras

Guest: Laura Huaman

Topics covered

  • cacao
  • creativity
  • connection
  • ancestry
  • ritual
  • plant medicine

Keywords

  • cacao
  • creativity
  • connection
  • ancestry
  • plant medicine
  • Peruvian superfoods
  • health
  • ritual

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: KUYU

Places: Austria, Quillabamba, Peru, Pachamama

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