In this episode of Dishin’ Up Diaspora, Chef Emme sits down with Skyler Mapes, co-founder of EXAU Olive Oil and one of the only Black women producers in the global olive oil industry. Named to Forbes 30 Under 30, featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things, and recognized by the Official Index of the World’s Best Olive Oils, Skyler has built a brand with a passionate cult following — and she’s here to share the journey.
From her multicultural upbringing in Oakland, California, with Jamaican and Panamanian roots, to meeting her husband Giuseppe (a third-generation olive farmer from Calabria, Italy), Skyler’s path to olive oil was anything but traditional. She opens up about falling in love with the craft, the decision to leave her architecture career, and the realities of building a business with your spouse.
We dive deep into:
- How extra virgin olive oil is really made — from harvest to milling to bottling
- The difference between a brand owner and a true producer
- Why regenerative farming and supporting small growers matters for the future of food
- The three biggest myths about olive oil (and why they need to be debunked now)
- How social media — especially TikTok and Instagram — landed her a book deal with Ten Speed Press for The Olive Oil Enthusiast
- Why olive oil belongs in your cooking pot (yes, you can cook with it!) and even your skincare routine
- What it’s like navigating the Italian food industry as a Black woman
- The power of storytelling, visibility, and owning your expertise
Whether you’re a food lover, home cook, entrepreneur, or someone dreaming of making a living from your passion, this conversation is packed with insight, humor, and inspiration. Skyler shares real talk on building confidence, unlearning limiting beliefs, and setting boundaries while chasing big, scary, but exciting goals.
If you’ve ever wondered how to choose high-quality olive oil, how terroir and cultivar affect flavor, or why the Mediterranean diet relies so heavily on this golden ingredient, you’ll walk away with knowledge you can taste. And if you’ve been holding yourself back from sharing your work online, Skyler’s story will convince you to hit “post” today.
About Skyler Mapes:
Skyler is the co-founder of EXAU Olive Oil, award-winning producer of premium extra virgin olive oil, and co-author of The Olive Oil Enthusiast. She splits her time between Italy and the U.S., working directly with small farmers and mills to preserve traditional methods while embracing innovation.
About Chef Emme:
Chef Emme is a Brazilian chef, storyteller, and host of Dishin’ Up Diaspora, exploring how culinary traditions connect us to culture, history, and each other.
Where to Find Us:
Follow Skyler: @skylermapes
Follow Chef Emme: @chefemme_
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