Ina Garten says she takes on new challenges at 78 because she likes ‘working scared’

Ina Garten said she enjoys taking on new challenges even as she gets older. Rob Kim/Getty Images for The Webby Awards Ina Garten says getting older has not stopped her from taking on new challenges. "I love working scared, because it keeps me up at night," the celebrity chef and author said. Garten said deciding whether to pursue a new project comes down to one question: "Is it going to be fun?" Ina Garten , 78, said the key to embracing new challenges later in life is making sure they're fun. On Saturday's episode of " The Interview " podcast, Garten reflected on her decision to pursue new creative ventures in her 50s, both as a cookbook author and as the host of a Food Network show. "I love working scared, because it keeps me up at night," Garten said. "I love this expression, getting out over your skis.