Ingredients of Empathy

A Recipe for a Better World

by Ana Lúcia Correia and Pamela Kay Gonçalves

Ingredients of Empathy offers a practical guide to understanding, developing, and sharing empathy. It breaks up a complex topic into easy-to-digest themes and offers real-life examples of what to say and what not to say when helping others through life’s most difficult situations.

Authors Ana Lúcia Correia and Pam Gonçalves warn us about the declining empathy index in society and how each one of us can reverse the trend by bringing light to a dark world, one person at a time. Common roadblocks to building empathy and learning how to receive empathy highlight some of the challenges we face.

Since sharing a meal offers a simple way to show empathy, Ingredients of Empathy includes some of our favorite recipes that can serve as a conversation starter, where we do most of the listening. Together, we can increase empathy and make the world a better place, starting with ourselves.

Hardcover: $26.99
Ebook: $9.99

Paperback: $26.99
Ebook: $9.99
Hardcover: $26.99

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Genre: Social Science, Cooking, Communication
ISBN: 978-1-945783-54-8, 978-1-945783-55-5
Publication: April 2026
Length: 122 pages

Reviews

“A book to be devoured! Ingredients of Empathy offers thoughtful, practical insights on cultivating empathy in both our personal and professional lives, showing how small acts of care can make such a profound impact. These lessons are beautifully interwoven with delicious recipes that nourish both body and spirit.”

– Miguel Ávila, Editor-in-Chief, The Portuguese Tribune | Tribuna Portuguesa, San José, California

“Ana and Pam’s book offers something we really need today — a clear and engaging guide to rediscovering our empathy. Their real-life examples are relatable and practical, and the warm, accessible writing style makes this a book I’ll return to again and again.”

– Erin Rand, COO and Serial Business Scaler

Ingredients of Empathy masterfully tackles all the basics and specifics of empathy. This readable little book has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of anyone who reads it. It combines clear explanations with practical tips on how to be a person who recognizes and respects the innate dignity of others. Oh, if everyone would practice what Pam and Ana preach, the world would be a much happier place. Including recipes after each chapter was sheer genius. What better way to connect than through a shared table!”

– Michelle Helvey, Head of School

“As life moves ever faster and technology continues to disconnect us, there has never been a more important time to be reminded of the impact of showing empathy and the healing power of receiving it ourselves.”

– Tammy Estes, Former Chief Product Officer, Nomadix

Ingredients of Empathy is an unexpectedly creative way to talk about empathy. It’s a super easy read that mixes solid expert advice with relatable personal stories and — believe it or not — recipes! I loved the cooking metaphors, like leaving the ingredients of “comparison and criticism” out when serving up empathy. It’s a great reminder that empathy belongs in everyday moments, not just during a crisis. It’s a down-to-earth guide on how to show up for people.”

– Colleen Blake, COO, People Leader, and Mother of Three

“Pam and Ana have found the key ingredient to heal healthcare and the world — breaking bread together at a table unleashes empathy that lifts up humanity. A must read to heal the world.”

– Bridget Duffy, Raving Fan and First Chief Experience Officer in Healthcare in the US

“Truly a “Recipe for a Better World!” While I like to consider myself an empathetic person, Ingredients of Empathy reminded me of the basics and the assembled ingredients in a way that helps me better understand and implement them in my own life, so I can also impact the lives of those around me. I want to share it with everyone around me, primarily through modeling in my own life!”

– Ted Helvey, Managing Partner, Gate Worldwide Holdings

“In today’s world, we need more empathy to make it a better place, and being an empath myself, I also learned something new. People don’t realize how strong a word (or action) can make an outcome positive or negative. Ingredients of Empathy gives beautiful, clear, and uncomplicated examples of how to show empathy to those who need it and to those in just everyday conversation. I love all the recipes after each chapter, which is a nice bonus other books don’t have!”

– Debbie Kitani, Friend

“What a heartfelt combination — two friends, Pam and Ana succinctly weave warmth and thoughtful life lessons with family, neighbors, the workplace, and strangers, recognizing our roles and the effect we have impacting others in a positive way. Chapters pair theory with hands-on experience — through storytelling, you see the power of listening and how it heals wounds. Read Ingredients of Empathy! Become a better person.”
– Robert Haefling, CEO & Chairman Icron Technologies (Retired)