Recipe Tin Eats founder Nagi slams influencers and tells then to go and get a university degree in wild rant: ‘It is not a career’

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Recipe Tin Eats founder Nagi Maehashi has given would-be social media stars some surprising advice.

In an ironic twist, Nagi, 46, posted a TikTok video on Friday of a red carpet interview she did at the platform’s awards show in Sydney earlier that week.

Nagi jokingly admitted to a comment she made at the TikTok Awards, where she pointed out that some influencers rely too heavily on social media for their careers.

She emphasized that platforms like social media, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok shouldn’t be seen as long-term career paths. Instead, she advised people to pursue higher education – whether that’s university, vocational training, or an apprenticeship.

Nagi said she was happy for anyone trying social media, but emphasized the importance of having a backup plan or something to rely on if it didn’t work out.

She strongly advises people to try social media, but also emphasizes the importance of developing a separate, traditional career or skill alongside it.

 The irony of Nagi delivering her comments at such an event was not lost on the celebrity gourmand.

She laughed and said, “It’s funny that I’m at the TikTok Awards while also warning people not to pursue TikTok as a job!”

Nagi strongly agreed with the video and added a lengthy comment aimed at young people.

She started by highlighting her successes, including authoring the best-selling cookbook in Australia and building a social media following of over 5 million people.

Continuing, Nagi pointed out that her success was not only due to her social media savvy.   

Let me share something with you – it’s not about boasting, but about being real. I truly believe my education and the 15 years I spent working in the corporate world were absolutely crucial in building my business into what it is today. Those experiences gave me the foundation and skills I needed to succeed, and I’m so grateful for them.

I developed a strong skillset including discipline, perseverance, professionalism, and organization. I also gained experience in project management, self-directed learning, business planning, and strategic analysis – including performing SWOT analyses.

‘I am an accountant by background. An auditor at that!’

Nagi clarified that she didn’t want to discourage aspiring social media personalities, but emphasized that investing in education and good lighting could be really beneficial.

Enjoy social media and go after what you want – create things, explore new ideas, and be brave! But remember, the best investment you can make is in learning skills and getting an education, as those will help you succeed more than any online platform.

Build skills and knowledge that will last a lifetime, not just the latest fad. Whether you choose TAFE, university, an apprenticeship, or finishing school, prioritize learning. Find work where you can learn from experienced mentors and, most importantly, invest in your own growth.

Nagi finished her post by sharing that, even with a large following on social media, she doesn’t see herself as an influencer.

I’m not a social media influencer, just a cook who creates recipes,” she explained. “Almost all of my income comes from my website and books, not social media.

What’s great about social media now is its freedom. You can truly be yourself and don’t need to follow any specific trends or fit in with others.

Nagi’s post was met with a flurry of comments from followers, with many agreeing with her stance.

Nutritionist Sarah Bell offered: ‘100, 000x agree!! Couldn’t have said it better myself!’

Someone else shared a similar experience, saying they completely agree. As a former accountant who now works as a freelancer, they find the knowledge and skills from their previous career invaluable and credit it with their current success.

Developing skills beyond social media will benefit you in the future. That’s advice from Mother Nagi!

Honestly, I already thought I was a huge fan, but this just takes it to another level! I completely agree with another follower who said they didn’t think it was possible to like this person any more, but they were wrong – I feel exactly the same way!

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2025-11-28 06:18