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10 Questions: Food Network's Iron Chef, Cat Cora

Some insight into the family life of world-class chef Cat Cora.

By Lolita Carrico

From our provider:

In my weekly column "10 Questions," I interview an inspirational mom about how she balances her family, career and self.

This week, the Food Network's first female Iron Chef -- Cat Cora -- talks about cooking, must-have products and her favorite ways to unwind with family.

Lolita: What's your definition of a Modern Mom?

Cat: The modern mom is a great multi-tasker, versatile, sophisticated yet fun. She is interested in ways to stay healthy and active and she's knowledgeable about cooking, entertaining, style trends as well as kids' trends. She works hard to make sure she keeps balance in her life and her family's life.

Lolita: What's your secret to balancing career and family?

Cat: I have a passion for my job and that helps me stay fresh, focused and excited about going to work everyday. My work helps me stay balanced and happy when I am with my family. My other half is super supportive and takes care of our son while I am on the road. It helps to have a spouse that you are on the same page with. I also exercise or do something active everyday to clear my mind, settle my soul and keep me healthy.

Lolita: What did your parents teach you about parenting?

Cat: My parents have been together for 40-plus years...going on 50. They taught me that it is okay to have disagreements as long as you do it in a healthy manner. They taught me that it is okay to cry if you are sad. They also taught me to never go to bed or leave the house (even if you are upset) without saying I love you to your spouse or partner and your kids. They taught me to support your kids' dreams (even if it is a jaw-dropper) and push them to go out into the world and be their own person. My parents were always involved with a worthy cause and that is one of the biggest things they could have taught us.

Lolita: What do you want to teach your children?

Cat: To always give back to those less fortunate and be considerate of others in all of their roles in life. To be a valuable, honest citizen with integrity and good work ethics. To never take parents, friends or partners/spouses for granted.

We want to teach our kids to follow their dreams and to always find an adventure. Like when our 3-year old started drumming on things last year, we bought him a drum set that he loves and jams on, even though my office is in the next room :)

Lolita: What's your favorite family activity?

Cat: There are two things. First, I love going out in our ski boat -- we pack a picnic, boat, grill out on the sandbar, soak up the sun with my family (including our dogs!) and second, simply playing outside with my son while my partner gardens. It's usually the end of the day, we play a little soccer or we work on Zoran's baseball swing while the dogs steal the ball from us. Then, I get ready to make dinner, pour glasses of wine for us (soy milk for Zoran - he loves to give us a "cheers") and we all have cheese and crackers. It's such a comforting feeling to be home together.

Lolita: Who do you admire most?

Cat: The late Julia Child, my parents and late grandmother, Alma.

Lolita: What is your greatest achievement?

Cat: My son, Zoran

Lolita: What product(s) can't you live without?

Cat: Anything edible! Plus a good book, sharp knives, good workout clothes and great running shoes, good coffee, good wine and almost importantly, my comfy home that I get to spend fun times with my family in.

Lolita: What do you do when youre feeling selfish?

Cat: Get a massage and pedicure.

Lolita: What's keeping you busy these days?

Cat: The shorter list is what doesn't keep me busy! :) A new cookbook, Iron Chef Season 5, appearances around the country, Chefs For Humanity -- my national non-profit organization and my growing family.

In January, Cat joins Modern Mom offering a monthly column on family meals with easy, healthful and fun recipes everyone will love! She'll also answer your kitchen questions...stay tuned!