For Catherine McCord, A Simple Morning Routine Is The Key To Unlocking Joy

Food has always been central to Catherine McCord’s life. And though she grew up learning to can and cook alongside her grandparents, the path to becoming a successful founder of not one, but two industry-disrupting ventures, was anything but straightforward. Catherine began her career as a model, a regular on the runway and magazine covers everywhere. But as is the case for many entrepreneurs, Catherine’s journey began with solving a problem. And as it turned, it was a challenge that she was far from facing alone.

As a parent, expanding your child’s taste buds is anything but easy. And when the question of adding healthy foods gets added to the mix, the task only multiples. A new mother, Catherine struggled with knowing what to feed her baby—and finding anything that was simple, tasty, and easy to prep proved impossible.

With a degree from the Institute of Culinary Education, Catherine sought a solution: cut to Weelcious, and later, One Potato being born. With a little (re: a lot) of culinary creativity, Catherine found success in bringing healthy, delicious meals to families everywhere. And when I say success, I mean the sort of Jennifer Garner-approved success that career dreams are made of.

In short, Catherine’s a healthy, family-friendly meal maven—and today, she’s giving us a peek into the rituals and routines that help her show up every day with presence, mindfulness, and a steady stream of inspiration to share. (Hint: Start your blenders. Catherine credits smoothies with her enviable, all-day energy.) Let’s dive in.

Take us back to the beginning: How did you start Weelicious?

I was raised in Louisville, Kentucky and my grandparents were incredibly invested in growing and picking most of their food. I was always helping them freeze, can, and pickle vegetables, so I had a lot of exposure to fresh fruits and vegetables from a young age. Once I started modeling and traveling the world, I became fascinated with how people ate in different countries—especially the time and pride put into cooking and eating meals with friends and family. 

How Can Parents Encourage Children to Try New Foods?

If you have a picky eater, make sure not to refer to them in that way. You want them to feel good about themselves when they try new foods as opposed to putting them down for not. It can be challenging for some kids, but worth the investment of patience and time for the day they become more open-minded.

We are so inspired by One Potato! How do you differentiate yourself in such a saturated space? 

I wanted families to have access to organic, semi-prepared meals that supported all dietary needs and styles of eating. My family has been enjoying One Potato every week since we launched a few years ago. As a busy, working parent, I couldn’t live without it. 

Your superfood smoothies are so easy and delicious. What are your favorite recipes to help ensure kids get the nutrients they need?

There are so many depending on your taste preferences and nutritional needs! My Blue Majik, Bright Green, Golden Milk, Pregnancy, Immunity Booster, and Superfood Smoothie are a few family favorites. Pink Milk or Blueberry Chia are great options for kids who are new to smoothies.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I wake up at 5:45 a.m., read the paper online, and then hike with my dog. I used to get up later but realized that if I get up to hike, I feel so much better mentally and physically. When I get home around 7:20 a.m. I make breakfast for the kids, finish packing lunches, and take them to school. Every day is totally different, but generally, a mix of meetings, shooting, and getting to create. 

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up? 

Drink water and read three online news outlets. 

How has your morning routine changed during quarantine? why? 

I was so busy building One Potato and spending time with my kids, that I had to put exercise to the side for five years. When the stay-at-home order first hit, my husband and I decided to start exercising. We’ve stayed true to that routine every day since. I try to hike 5-6 days a week and do pilates with a girlfriend twice a week.

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish.

I’m always changing my beauty products because I love trying new brands. I have very dry skin, so I love anything moisturizing. 

What are your favorite bath or shower products?

I take a Dr Teal’s or Kneipp salt bath when I have time, but I shower most days. My daily shower generally includes Iles Formula or Monday shampoo and conditioner and Earth Tu Face Salt Scrub.

What do you always have on your nightstand to ensure a smooth, successful morning? 

A tall glass of Calm.

What do you eat for breakfast?

Most mornings, I’ll have a smoothie for breakfast. I love adding berries because they have tons of fiber. Every smoothie I make for myself includes collagen peptides for hair, skin, and nails, hemp or chia seeds for fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Banana is also great for potassium, especially after a workout, and protein powder to keep me full—I love the taste!

What are your morning media rituals? 

I try to stay away from social media first thing and focus on the news and listening to a podcast while I hike. I start with The Daily and move on to How I Built This, Second Life, or Pivot. 

What are your favorite books? 

I read a lot of parenting books, like No-Drama Discipline and The Yes Brain. 

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

“Move Your Feet” by Junior Senior has been my recent go-to. I have a happy, upbeat Spotify playlist that I play round the clock. 

What’s your daily uniform?  

In the morning, I’m always in Athleta leggings, vintage tee shirts, and Clare V sweatshirts (they’re so soft and chic). It’s a bit of a uniform for me. If I have meetings or filming, I love dressing in fun sweaters with Anine Bing jeans, Natalie Martin dresses, and monthly items from Rent the Runway to switch up my style. If I’m going out for meetings, I tend to wear suit jackets and slacks. After 18 months of staying home, I’ve been loving wearing heels, funky boots, and comfy flats like Rothy’s. 

If you had one extra hour every morning, how would you use it? 

If I have any extra time, you can find me organizing. It’s my happy place. 

What are one or two things you do every day to live a more present life? 

Most nights, we eat dinner as a family. We all talk about our days, ask each other questions, and find time to really connect. Every night, I read 2-3 books with my youngest daughter and cuddle. My older kids and I watch movies or TV series together. Right now, my oldest daughter and I are watching all of the James Bond movies which she absolutely loves. If I’m connected with my kids, it fills my bucket. 

If you could pin your success down to one thing, what would It be? 

Hard work, passion, and determination have played a big part in everything I do.

Sentence Finishers With Catherine McCord

I never leave the house without: my phone. 

If there were more hours in the day, I would: craft and knit more. 

Healthiest morning habit: Hugging and kissing my husband and kids.

Worst morning habit: Having no time for spontaneity. 

One thing I want to be known for is: inspiring families to cook and eat meals together. 

The one thing I fear the most is: not accomplishing my dreams. 

When I feel that fear, I realize: I already have accomplished most of them. 

The book I always recommend: is The Fountainhead. 

The three traits you need to succeed in life are: determination, resilience, and passion. 

When I’m creatively blocked, I: turn on music and sing.

The best advice I’ve ever received is: never be scared to ask for help from any and everyone you know. 

The biggest sacrifice I’ve made for my career is: not going to college. I made up for it by going to culinary school and realizing it was my true passion.