She Strengthens

The Unbridled Authenticity of Alison Roman

Alison Roman, the talented and creative chef behind the viral chickpea stew, has built a brand around her effortlessly cool persona. With a “nothing fancy” approach, she’s gained a massive following online. But what makes Roman’s brand so appealing is her unapologetic attitude, free from the constraints of ambition.

Roman’s Anti-Business Strategy

In a recent interview, Roman discussed her business strategy, or rather, her lack thereof. She confessed to not having a strategy, which, ironically, has contributed to her success. By shunning the traditional business approach, Roman has inadvertently created an authentic and relatable brand. Her punk-rock-cool aesthetic resonates with many, particularly those who crave authenticity in a world dominated by carefully crafted personas.

The Backlash: Authenticity vs. Insensitivity

However, Roman’s recent comments about Marie Kondo and Chrissy Teigen sparked controversy. Her criticism of these women, particularly women of color, raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate. While Roman’s comments may have been perceived as authentic, they also highlighted the limitations of her perspective. As someone who has built a brand around being unapologetically herself, Roman’s words can be seen as tone-deaf and lacking in empathy.

The Privilege of Not Caring

The “too cool to care” narrative, popularized by creatives and artists, suggests that success comes when you stop trying. However, this approach neglects the experiences of less privileged groups, who often have to navigate success through a different lens. For people from marginalized backgrounds, the luxury of not caring about money or success is simply not an option.

The Importance of Inclusive Conversations

What’s missing from these conversations is a deeper understanding of the systems that govern our lives. We need to acknowledge the privilege that comes with being able to opt out of the capitalist machine. Instead of dismissing ambition and success as “selling out,” we should be having more nuanced discussions about the role of money and power in our lives. By considering the broader narrative our voices contribute to, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic dialogue.

The Appeal of the Creative Mess

As someone who admires Roman’s unfiltered approach, I’m drawn to the idea of living life on one’s own terms. However, I also recognize the importance of having a filter, particularly when it comes to considering the impact of our words on others. Maybe, just maybe, having a few more fucks to give isn’t such a bad thing.