The Art Box - Episode 337 - Ara & Juan: Listening to the Dough, Living the Flavor

In this heartwarming episode, Steve had the pleasure of sitting down with his friends, and the dynamic brother-sister duo, Ara and Juan Fernanda, at the Mesquite Works STEAM Center studio. Together, they share the story behind Fat Dough Bakery, where baking is more than a craft, it’s a sensory experience and a service-driven passion.

We journey back to their childhood memories of the aromas and flavors from their hometown bakeries in Mexico and explore how those early impressions shaped their philosophy of baking today. Juan and Ara describe how interpreting a recipe involves more than just measurements, it's about listening, smelling, feeling, and connecting with the dough as it comes to life.

Juan also shares his love for music and how rhythm and creativity flow from his instruments to his ingredients, while Ara reveals her incredible gift for remembering each customer’s favorites, helping guide them to their next culinary delight. Steve also brings up their seamless ability to shift between Spanish and English, an everyday superpower in both kitchen and community.

You can also catch Ara live most mornings on Fat Dough Facebook, where she brings energy and charm to daily updates about what’s fresh at Fat Dough, from pastries and soups to lunch specials.

This episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of thoughtful storytelling that makes you want to run out for a fresh bolillo and say hello to your local baker. Don’t miss this conversation with two truly sweet humans.