interview with Matt Zielonka

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For issue ten of AMBITION, we spoke with THE 'Pasta Man.' Matt Zielonka first made a name for himself on social media creating the most spectacular, original pasta everyday and documenting it all. The nickname 'Pasta Man' stuck, as did his loyal fan base. Matt has since written a cookbook for his carb creations, and shares with us how he got to where he is now.

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Where does your ambition come from?

I think my ambition and also my work ethic comes from what I learnt from my grandad. He was always thinking about what comes next and I've adopted that same mindset.

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We have to ask…why pasta?

Good question. For a long time I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I used to do a bit of everything, and then I made my first pasta dough and I just fell in love with it from there. I find it so therapeutic.

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For many, cooking is a hobby, but for you it’s a career. What made you decide to take it to the next level?

I decided to place my focus on just one thing - pasta. With pasta, you can always try to create something new and challenge yourself.

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You are known as Pasta Man. What’s been the single most important factor in building your impressive personal brand?

Funnily enough everything started on social media. I was posting pasta everyday, then everyone else started to call me ‘The Pasta Man’ and it stuck from there.

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You get so much positive interaction from your community on social media – how have you built such a loyal and engaged following?

It’s really important to stay real. I’ve always made a conscious effort to try and engage with my online community. It’s so important to take the time to answer their questions, and help guide them through the pasta-making process.

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The hospitality industry is a very competitive landscape. What would you say to the chef, food blogger or food business owner looking to stand out from the rest?

Once again, I urge people to stay real. Engage with people both face-to-face and online. Build a community and focus on one thing. Take it one step at a time.

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You say that carving out “pasta time” in your schedule is the ultimate expression of self-care, how so?

I find pasta making to be really relaxing and good for your mental health (at least, this has been my experience).

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You are so creative when it comes to making pasta look sexy. How do you stay inspired?

So many things keep me inspired; art galleries, museums, walks in the countryside where I live (Dorset) and gardening.

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You are currently working on opening a restaurant, you’ve just published a book, and you’re regularly creating content for your social media. How do you stay motivated?

It’s not easy to do so many things at once. I have met some incredible people along my journey and they help me to stay motivated. It’s important to have a strong community around you.

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How often do you force yourself outside your comfort zone and how important is it to do so?

Everyday should be a challenge!

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If you had a microphone and the whole world was listening, what would you say?

I would say: cook more at home. Put your phone and other distractions away, and make time to cook something delicious.

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Where will Mateo Zielonka’s AMBITION take him next?

All will soon be revealed...