em dashes are typographical faffery and have always been (in my opinion) a marker of writers who take themselves, and the surface level of their style, far too serious.
"Steep learning curve" means quick to learn, not difficult. The curve is learning over time. If the curve is steep there is much learning over short time.
I think they're talking about Europa, the water-nymph and consort of Zeus.
I did not know she was that into milk packaging, but that's cool.