By Dr. Jeremy Holloway

Words are food.

They nourish our relationships. They shape culture. They fuel souls.

So why do we sometimes hand people our thoughts uncooked?

Too often, we speak before we reflect. We deliver our words without care, without seasoning, without checking if they’re ready to be received. But just like we wouldn’t serve someone a raw piece of meat, we shouldn’t serve uncooked words—unformed, unrehearsed, unready for consumption.

Prepare Before You Speak

When we speak, we’re offering something social, emotional, and spiritual. Words have the power to feed or starve, to connect or divide. That’s why thoughtful communication is non-negotiable. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being prepared.

If you haven’t taken time to process your emotions or clarify your message, don’t ask someone else to do that labor for you. That’s like telling someone you have a meal for them, then handing them a bag of groceries and expecting them to make the meal. Do your cooking first for those you desire to serve.

If your intention is to process with someone—be honest about that. Let them know you’re thinking aloud, searching for understanding, or seeking support. That’s different. That’s intentional. But never mistake uncooked expression for wise counsel.

Don’t Serve Vices—Serve Vision

We wash and prep food before cooking it. We cut out what’s rotten. We balance the flavors. Our words deserve the same treatment.

Don’t deliver messaging rooted in bitterness, blame, or confusion. If you’re sharing something hard—like bad news—do it with humility. Say, “I don’t have all the answers,” and then offer hope. Offer context. Offer care. Never leave someone hanging with a raw burden and no tools to digest it.

The good news is: when we do the inner work of reflection, clarity, and care, our words uplift. They strengthen trust. They make space for healing, inspiration, and meaningful change.

Build Nourishing Conversations

Whether you’re in a boardroom, a classroom, or at the dinner table—serve words that are well-prepared. Conversations should be cooked with empathy, seasoned with wisdom, and delivered with dignity.

It’s simple: if the meal isn’t ready, don’t serve it.

I dive deeper into this topic in my workshops and trainings, where I guide individuals and teams through the art of culturally humble, emotionally intelligent communication.

And stay tuned—my upcoming book, The Social Determinants of Health Toolkit, launches on Grandparents Day! It’s a guide for rehumanizing systems of care and connection, including how we communicate with compassion.

Let’s be the kind of people who don’t just talk—we nourish.

—Dr. Jeremy Holloway