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Episode Description: Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Voice4Chefs podcast, where we’re joined by Chef Kirk Bachmann, Campus President and Provost at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colorado. With deep roots in the culinary world, Chef Bachmann shares his journey from growing up in a family of master bakers in Germany to becoming a leader in culinary education.

In Part II Chef Bachmann explores the importance of finding your "why," a concept that resonates deeply in today's fast-paced world. We also delve into the transformative power of culinary organizations like the American Culinary Federation, Disciples of Escoffier, and the International Association of Culinary Professionals. These organizations shaped our guest's career and introduced them to a community of like-minded chefs and practitioners of the craft.

Our guest shares a touching story about meeting Jean-George and the significance of carrying a copy of Le Guide Culinaire wrapped in a rubber band for 30 years—a symbol of dedication to the craft that embodies what the culinary world is all about.

Whether you're a seasoned chef, a culinary student, or just a food lover, this episode is filled with inspiring moments and valuable insights into the world of culinary arts. Tune in to hear about the profound connections that drive our guest's passion for the industry and the pivotal experiences that shaped their journey.

Key Highlights:

• Culinary education and inspiration from South Seattle Community College.
• The importance of finding your "why" in the culinary industry.
• Navigating the challenges of the restaurant business and the healing power of podcasting.
• Stories from the American Culinary Federation, Disciples of Escoffier, and International Association of Culinary Professionals.
• A moving encounter with Jean-Georges and the legacy of culinary greats like Escoffier and Thomas Keller.
• Our guest’s proudest moments, including graduation ceremonies and the importance of supporting local farms and restaurants.

Call to Action: Support the culinary community by visiting local farms and restaurants that prioritize farm-to-table practices. Appreciate the hard work that goes into restaurant economics, and always aim to leave more than you take.

Website: https://www.escoffier.edu/
https://oneclic

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Episode Description: Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Voice4Chefs podcast, where we’re joined by Chef Kirk Bachmann, Campus President and Provost at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colorado. With deep roots in the culinary world, Chef Bachmann shares his journey from growing up in a family of master bakers in Germany to becoming a leader in culinary education.

In this episode, Chef Bachmann discusses his father's legacy as a master pastry chef, the importance of family traditions, and how those early experiences shaped his career. He also reflects on his own path, stepping out of the family bakery to pursue his passion on the hot side of the kitchen.

Listen in as we explore Chef Bachmann's insights into culinary education, the art of regenerative farming with Farmer Lee Jones from The Chef's Garden, and his continued commitment to empowering the next generation of chefs. Plus, learn more about the Roots Conference 2024, where Chef Bachmann will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, and discover the rhythm of nature that informs the future of sustainable cooking.

Whether you're an aspiring chef or a food enthusiast, this episode is packed with culinary wisdom, heartfelt stories, and a glimpse into the legacy of a family dedicated to the craft of food.

Highlights:

• Chef Bachmann’s family background in pastry and baking, rooted in Germany
• The journey of his father, a master pastry chef, from Germany to Chicago
• How Chef Bachmann transitioned from the bakery to the hot side of the kitchen
• The influence of family, tradition, and critical thinking in his culinary career
• Insights into sustainable farming with Farmer Lee Jones and The Chef's Garden
• Upcoming Roots Conference 2024 in Huron, Ohio

Key Quotes:

• "Family is super, super important, especially a craft that's handed down from generation to generation."
• "In Germany, after nine years, you’re either a doctor or a baker."
• "My father was all about critical thinking and planning, which is why baking and pastry work was so important to him."

Website: https://www.escoffier.edu/
https://oneclick.bio/escoffierschools

Season2

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Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally.
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Join us for a captivating episode as we sit down with Seattle culinary legend Tom Douglas. A James Beard award-winning chef, restaurateur, author, and media personality, Tom takes us through his remarkable journey from his early days in Delaware to becoming a household name in Seattle's food scene. Tom shares how his love for food was shaped by his childhood influences and the diverse immigrant cuisines he encountered along the way. He opens up about his passion for cooking, the inspirations that fueled his culinary creativity, and the challenges he faced as he built his empire of successful restaurants. In this episode, Tom also talks about his entrepreneurial ventures, including the creation of his beloved 'Rub with Love' spice line and his tireless advocacy for sustainable wild salmon fisheries. Plus, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Hot Stove Society, his unique culinary school and a radio show, where food enthusiasts from all walks of life come together to learn, cook, and share their love for great food. Whether you're a fan of Tom's Restaurants, a budding chef, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to be inspired by Tom's deep connection to Seattle, his unwavering commitment to exceptional cuisine, and his infectious enthusiasm for all things food.

IG: HotStoveSociety
Website: https://www.tomdouglas.com
The Breach:https://www.amazon.com/Breach-Russ-Busch/dp/B00YQTCW6G

Season2

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In this episode, we welcome Becky Guzak, a podcaster and producer passionate about helping others connect and build confidence through the joy of entertaining. Becky is the creator of the "Host with Confidence" podcast, where she inspires people to gather without stress. She is also the producer of the Hot Stove Society Radio Show, hosted by renowned chef and restaurateur Tom Douglas at his Seattle-based cooking school.

Becky shares her journey from her early connections to food, nurtured by family traditions, to her current role in the food industry. She recounts fond memories of her childhood, where food was central to family gatherings, and how her love for cooking blossomed later in life after attending a transformative cooking camp in Seattle.

Key Topics Discussed:

· Early Food Memories: Becky reminisces about the nurturing experience of food in her childhood, where her parents' homemade meals sparked her appreciation for cooking.

· Discovering the Joy of Cooking: Becky talks about her experience at a cooking camp hosted by Tom Douglas, which ignited her passion for the culinary arts and eventually led her to her role as a producer at Hot Stove Society.

· The Evolution of Hot Stove Society: Learn how the cooking camp that Becky attended evolved into the Hot Stove Society, a year-round culinary school offering classes, private events, and team-building activities.

· Behind the Scene y Radio Show. She shares how the show's format, featuring multiple guests and hosts, comes together seamlessly under Tom Douglas's experienced guidance.

· Empowering Hosts Through "Host with Confidence": Becky discusses her podcast, "Host with Confidence," which aims to empower hesitant hosts by providing them with the tools and inspiration to entertain with ease and confidence.

· The Importance of Joy in Cooking and Community: Becky emphasizes the role of joy and connection in cooking and how the Hot Stove Society fosters a sense of community through shared culinary experiences.

. Hot Stove Society: Becky gives an insider's look at producing the Hot Stove Society

Websites:

https://hostwithconfidencepodcast.com/

https://www.hotstovesociety.com

Season2

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Season3 Launch & Checkin with Indonesian Pastry Chef Gunawan Wu

Introduction: We're doing something very special to kick off Season 3 of Voice4Chefs. Joining us is my friend all the way from Indonesia, the amazing pastry chef, entrepreneur, and international pastry judge, Gunawan Wu. Known for his humility and dedication to helping others, Gunawan is not just a talented chef but also a mentor and an inspiration to many.

Episode Highlights:

1. Chef Check-Ins:

• We’re bringing back chefs who originally started with the show to see what they’ve been up to.
• This episode is recorded for audio and our Voice4chefs Youtube Channel.

2. Re- Introducing Gunawan Wu:

• Gunawan Wu, from Indonesia, returns to Voice4Chefs.
• Gunawan shares his gratitude for the platform and its impact on young and struggling chefs.

3. Culinary Journey:

• Gunawan's background as an international accredited chef judge and pastry instructor.
• His experience teaching masterclasses in Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
• Exciting news about his new restaurant venture in Indonesia, Gazoz.

4. Past Experiences:

• Gunawan's time in Australia working with various companies, including Nestle and Lakanto.
• His role as a brand ambassador and the impact of COVID-19 on his career.

5. Teaching and Mentoring:

• Gunawan’s experience teaching children and adapting his technical skills for younger students.
• The rewarding moments of seeing children successfully create complex desserts.

6. Judging Competitions:

• Insights into judging international chef competitions, including Chef Hats and high school competitions.
• The joy of tasting innovative dishes from young chefs and networking within the culinary community.

7. Special Recognitions:

• Gunawan’s participation in the Savoir Patissier of the Year competition.
• His journey from a young graduate to a recognized pastry chef, inspired by his mentor.

Conclusion: Join us in celebrating the incredible journey of Chef Gunawan Wu, from teaching and mentoring to opening his own restaurant. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired by his story of dedication and passion for the culinary arts.

Connect to our guest: GUNAWAN (@awi_wu) (https://www.instagram.com/awi_wu/)Instagram

Season2

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**Guest Bio:**
Rasha Younan is the owner and chocolatier of Bon Chocolats, where she crafts exquisite chocolate bonbons and confections using all-natural ingredients. An Architect by profession, Rasha's passion for chocolate led her to become a chocolatier, creating delectable treats that bring joy to many.

**Key Discussion Points:**

1. **Rasha's Background and Journey:**
- Transition from architect to chocolatier.
- The inspiration from childhood memories of enjoying imported chocolates in Egypt.

2. **Chocolate Making Process:**
- Introduction to chocolate tempering and flavor experimentation.
- The importance of using high-quality, natural ingredients without preservatives.

3. **The Birth of Bon Chocolats:**
- Origin and meaning of the name Bon Chocolats.
- The influence of European-inspired confections and Rasha's French language skills.

4. **Unique and Popular Flavors:**
- Creation and balance of flavors like pistachio, strawberry champagne, and cardamom vanilla.
- Importance of balancing sweetness and bitterness in chocolate.

5. **Customer Connection and Community:**
- Engaging with customers at artisan markets and through social media.
- The joy of sharing chocolate with others and receiving community support.

6. **Future Aspirations:**
- Expanding the product line and maintaining quality.
- Goals for a larger shop and sustainable packaging.

**Memorable Quotes:**
- "Chocolate is not necessarily candy; it's not full of sugar. You have to look at the ingredients and know where your chocolate comes from."
- "Balance is very important for me. When creating a new bonbon, I'm always looking to balance the flavors, not too sweet or too bitter."

**Advice for Aspiring Chocolatiers:**
- Gain a thorough understanding of chocolate and its properties.
- Experiment and practice consistently to improve skills.
- Seek professional training and continue learning.
- Find a mentor and taste a wide variety of chocolates to expand your palate.

**Listener Challenge:**
Try one of Rasha's unique flavors from Bon Chocolats and share your experience on social media. Tag @bonchocolats and @voice4chefs to let us know your favorite!

**Connect with Rasha Younan and Bon Chocolats:**
Instagram: @bon_chocolats
- **Email:** chocolat.seattle@gmail.com

Season2

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Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally.
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**Episode Description:**

In this episode, Ellen Bayens shares her powerful journey of living with celiac disease and how her experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy and awareness. From her family's immigrant history to her mother's undiagnosed struggles and her own accidental discovery of her diagnosis, Ellen sheds light on the challenges and importance of early detection. Join us as we delve into her story of resilience and determination to make life easier for those affected by celiac disease.

**Key Points:**

- The impact of World War II on her mother's health and diet

- Undiagnosed celiac disease: A story of struggle and perseverance

- Discovering the diagnosis: Ellen's journey to self-awareness

- Advocacy and raising awareness: Ellen's mission to help others

- The challenges of living a gluten-free lifestyle and the need for support

- Gain insights into the evolution of gluten-free dining and the role of chefs and restaurants in catering to the needs of individuals with celiac disease.

- Explore the intersection of culinary artistry and dietary restrictions, as chefs like David Wong of Six Mile Pub redefine the boundaries of gluten-free cuisine.

- Learn about the rise of dedicated gluten-free establishments and how they contribute to the inclusivity and accessibility of dining experiences for those with gluten sensitivities.

Website: https://theceliacscene.com/
IG: @theceliacscene

Season2

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Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally.
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**Introduction:**

In this episode of the Voice4Chefs Podcast, we sit down with Ben Hodgetts, the mastermind behind Bar Harbor, a seafood hotspot in downtown Seattle. Ben shares his journey from the East Coast to the West Coast, his love for seafood, and the story behind Bar Harbor's success.

**Background:**

- Ben Hodgetts opened Bar Harbor in downtown Seattle in 2016, drawing seafood lovers from around the world.

- Growing up on the East Coast, Ben developed a deep appreciation for the region's culinary traditions and sense of humor.

- Despite not coming from a restaurant family, Ben was drawn to the hospitality industry from a young age and has worked in every role imaginable in a restaurant.

**East Coast Roots:**

- Ben's upbringing on the East Coast instilled in him a love for seafood, particularly lobster and Dungeness crab.

- He recalls fond memories of clamming, crabbing, and lobstering with family and friends along the Jersey Shore and in Portland, Maine.

**Transition to the West Coast:**

- After culinary school and a stint in Europe, Ben found himself in Seattle, where his father lived.

- Inspired by the lack of Dungeness crab rolls on the West Coast, Ben set out to introduce this East Coast favorite to Seattle diners.

**The Birth of Bar Harbor:**

- Initially conceived as a wine shop with a focus on Dungeness crab rolls, Bar Harbor evolved into a full-fledged seafood restaurant.

- Ben's commitment to quality ingredients, including fresh Dungeness Crab and Maine Lobster, set Bar Harbor apart from the competition.

**Navigating the Pandemic:**

- Like many restaurants, Bar Harbor faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

- With creativity and resilience, Ben and his team adapted to the changing landscape, offering takeout and utilizing their outdoor space to ensure guest safety.

**Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned:**

- Ben reflects on the highs and lows of restaurant ownership, from the excitement of opening day to the challenges of managing a business.

- He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and humility, acknowledging that success in the restaurant industry requires hard work and a willingness to learn from others.

**Looking Ahead:**

- As Bar Harbor prepares to reopen its deck for the season, Ben looks forward to welcoming guests back and creating memorable dining experiences.

- He invites listeners to visit Bar Harbor and experience the joy of high-end picnic food in the heart of Seattle.

**Connect with Bar Harbor:**

- Website: www.barharborbar.com

- Instagram: @barharborseattle

Season2

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Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally.
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