Chefs Without Restaurants

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. This week on Chefs Without Restaurants, host Chris Spear welcomes chef Brandon Rogers, a private chef based in the Chicago area who recently competed on Next Level Chef with Gordon Ramsay. With over 15 years of hospitality experience, from fine dining restaurants to cooking for professional athletes, Brandon shares his culinary journey and the transition into running a private chef business. The episode dives into Brandon’s background, how he broke into the private chef world and what it's like cooking under pressure on a reality TV competition. You’ll also get behind-the-scenes insight into Next Level Chef, including his strategies for grabbing ingredients, navigating three kitchen levels and staying composed under the eyes of Richard Blais, Nyesha Arrington and Gordon Ramsay. For those looking to transition into private work or grow their existing business, check out part 2 of our conversation over on Personal Chef Business Startup Guide. Want more Brandon? This is just one part of a two-part series. Head over to Personal Chef Startup Guide to hear Brandon's experience as a private chef. BRANDON ROGERS Brandon's Instagram Check out Brandon's website CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here, or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube Follow us on Instagram, Threads and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. “No one buys a story—editors buy a pitch.” That’s the frame for today’s conversation with D.C.–area journalist, photographer and writing coach Nevin Martell. You’ve seen his byline in places like The Washington Post, Washingtonian and The Boston Globe. He’s the author of eight books (including Looking for Calvin and Hobbes, The Founding Farmers Cookbook and the Red Truck Bakery Cookbook). This episode is a practical, candid look at how to build and sustain a writing life. Nevin lays out his ladder—social → local → regional → national, and explains why editors buy pitches, not finished stories. We talk about sharpening ideas, writing tight queries and why relationships and reputation are the real currency. There’s frank talk on “working for exposure,” managing rejection and uncertainty, and balancing service pieces that pay the bills with work that feeds your soul. NEVIN MARTELL Nevin's Instagram and Threads Check out Nevin's website "Decadent Desserts in the DC-Area to Get Your Veggie Intake" "The Rise of Mission-Driven Restaurants" CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here, or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. Today on Chefs Without Restaurants, I speak with Chef Tristen Epps, a Season 22 finalist on Top Chef and a James Beard–recognized chef. From his Trinidadian heritage to a globe-trotting childhood in Guam, Japan, and the Philippines, Tristen’s culinary path was built on a foundation of cultural diversity and bold flavor. He’s a Johnson & Wales graduate, completed the rigorous Greenbrier apprenticeship under Chef Richard Rosendale, and worked closely with Marcus Samuelsson, who became both a professional and personal mentor. Our conversation explores culinary education and mentorship, and how institutional bias and discrimination continue to undervalue certain cuisines. We also examine how pricing can reflect, or deny, cultural respect in the food world. Tristen shares what it was like competing on Top Chef, and why competitions fuel his creativity. TRISTEN EPPS Tristen's Instagram and Facebook Check out Tristen's website Podcast with Top Chef Season 22 contestant Lana Lagomarsini CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here, or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. In this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, host Chris Spear is joined by spirits expert and acclaimed author Kara Newman. Known for her extensive work as a spirits journalist and for writing innovative cocktail books, Kara shares how she made the leap from writing about pork belly futures to becoming a leading voice in the world of spirits and cocktails. They discuss everything from oddball cocktail creations, like a sour cream and onion martini and pot liquor ice cubes, to larger industry trends such as the resurgence of martinis, non-alcoholic beverages, and the use of upcycled ingredients like spent coffee grounds. Kara also talks about her latest venture, The Cocktail Cabinet, a collection of recipe card decks designed to inspire home bartenders. Whether you're new to mixology or a seasoned drink maker, this episode delivers great insights and practical advice on how to elevate your cocktail game at home. KARA NEWMAN Kara's Instagram Check out Kara's website Get Kara's Books and The Cocktail Cabinet Cards CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. This week, I’m joined by Jeff Koehler, food writer, traveler, and author of The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook, out now from Phaidon. Jeff has written nine books exploring the intersection of food, culture, and place, including The North African Cookbook, Where the Wild Coffee Grows, and Morocco: A Culinary Journey with Recipes. His work has appeared in NPR, The Washington Post, and Saveur, and he's been honored with the IACP award for literary food writing. We talk about Jeff’s journey from the Pacific Northwest to Barcelona, and how he came to split his time between the Spanish mainland and the Balearic Islands. Jeff shares his deep knowledge of the island's culinary traditions, from rustic pantry staples and spreadable pork sausage to fresh seafood and seasonal sweets. You'll hear about daily life in Menorca, what makes each island unique, and why Jeff believes anyone, even those without a Mediterranean market nearby, can cook from this book. If you’ve ever been curious about island living, Mediterranean cuisine, or the power of place in shaping food culture, this is an episode for you. Episode Highlights JEFF KOEHLER Jeff's Instagram Check out Jeff's website Get Jeff's book The Spanish Mediterranean Islands Cookbook CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. This week on Chefs Without Restaurants, I’m joined by Eden Grinshpan, the chef, author, TV host, and culinary creative behind the new vegetarian cookbook Tahini Baby. You might know her as the host of Top Chef Canada, or from her earlier book Eating Out Loud. In this episode, Eden shares her journey from culinary school to food TV host and cookbook author. We dive into what inspired Tahini Baby, how she brings bold Middle Eastern flavors to her vegetable-forward dishes, and why condiments like tahini, harissa, and pomegranate molasses are key to making vegetables exciting. Eden also opens up about juggling a creative food career with raising two kids, and how her cooking style has changed as a result. We talk about cookbook creation, food photography, and what makes a good tahini—and yes, she gives some practical tips on what store-bought staples she swears by. This isn’t just a chat about vegetarian food. It’s about food that feels vibrant, satisfying, and full of life. Eden’s energy is infectious, and I think you’re going to walk away inspired to shake up your own cooking. EDEN GRINSHPAN Eden's Instagram and YouTube Check out Eden's website Eden Eats Get Eden's books Tahini Baby and Eating Out Loud CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. This week on Chefs Without Restaurants, I’m joined by Arash Hashemi, the creator of Shred Happens, a social media movement and brand that’s helping millions eat better through low-carb, high-protein cooking. Arash is also the founder of Kaizen Foods, a company making low-carb, protein-packed pasta and rice alternatives. His new cookbook So Easy, So Good is out now. We dive into Arash’s personal journey from struggling with weight, to building a wellness-focused food empire. You’ll hear how he went from being a finance executive to a full-time content creator and entrepreneur with over 4 million followers. We talk about meal prep, cravings, cost barriers to healthy eating, and what he actually eats for breakfast every day. You'll also hear how he created his lupini bean pasta, and the challenges he faced bringing his product to market. Arash’s story is incredibly relatable and inspiring, especially if you’re trying to build healthier habits without giving up flavor. ARASH HASHEMI Arash's Instagram and TikTok Check out Kaizen Foods: Website & Instagram But the book So Easy, So Good CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

On this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, I’m joined by Chef Takeshi Nishikawa, founder of Snow Crane—a Japanese-inspired ice cream shop coming to Hyattsville, Maryland in 2025. After years leading high-profile kitchens like the Michelin-starred Rose’s Luxury and Pineapple and Pearls, Takeshi is now channeling his energy into small-batch, seasonal ice cream that reflects his minimalist approach and deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions. We talk about the challenges of launching a culinary business, and how he's applying his fine dining background to a neighborhood-focused ice cream shop. He shares lessons learned from overseeing complex catering operations, why mentorship is critical, and how he’s laying the groundwork for Snow Crane’s success. TAKESHI NISHIKAWA Instagram for Snow Crane and chef Takeshi Snow Crane's website New Kitchens on the Block (April 26th) - Try Snow Crane's ice cream CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. Have you ever thought about turning your love for baking into a real business? That’s exactly what Maria Baradell, founder of Leaf & Loaf, did. Starting in her home kitchen, she quickly scaled her sourdough micro-bakery into a thriving business. In this episode, she shares her journey, tips for success, and how she turned a viral moment into brand growth. We discuss: Hotplateon an airplaneAs always, stay connected to the Chefs Without Restaurants community and look out for the Personal Chef Business Startup Guide podcast, launching January 2025. MARIA BARADELL Maria's Instagram (Leaf & Loaf) and TikTok Find Maria's resources Buy the bread pans Maria uses CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Listen to the podcast here Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com Get in touch Support the show

Want the INSIDE SCOOP on building and growing a food business? Subscribe to our newsletter. This week on Chefs Without Restaurants, we celebrate two major milestones: our 250th episode and five years of podcasting. To mark the occasion, we’re joined by one of the most iconic figures in the culinary world, Jacques Pépin. Chef Pépin shares insights from his legendary seven-decade career, including advice for young cooks, his thoughts on balancing tradition with technology, and the inspiration behind the Jacques Pépin Foundation. We also discuss the year-long celebration of his 90th birthday and the remarkable chefs joining him in fundraising for the foundation. As always, stay connected to the Chefs Without Restaurants community and look out for the Personal Chef Business Startup Guide podcast, launching January 2025. JACQUES PEPIN The Jacques Pépin Foundation website Celebrate Jacques: 90 Chefs/90 Dinners and More Buy the book: Jacques Pepin: New Complete Techniques The Jacques Pépin Foundation on Instagram, Facebook & YouTube Podcast: The Jacques Pépin Foundation and Culinary Education with Rollie Wesen CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com ... More Coming soon Get in touch Support the show

Join Chris Spear in this episode as he interviews Joe Yonan, the acclaimed food and dining editor of The Washington Post and celebrated cookbook author. Joe’s latest work, Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking, redefines plant-based food, focusing on creating flavorful and approachable dishes without dietary labels or limitations. Together, they discuss the nuances of plant-based vs. vegan terminology, the cultural roots of global plant-based cuisine, and practical techniques to elevate vegetable dishes. Tune in for Joe’s insights on culinary creativity, low-waste cooking, and embracing plant-based meals—whether for a day or a lifetime. JOE YONAN Buy the books Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking and Cool Beans Joe on Instagram and Threads Joe's Website CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com ... More Coming soon Get in touch Support the show

In this episode, Chris Spear chats with Heidrun Metzler, a passionate baker and author of German Heritage Baking. With recipes that include everything from Apple Strudel to Black Forest Cake, Heidrun's cookbook is a true labor of love that has been over ten years in the making. She dives into her family's baking legacy and her journey to adapt traditional German recipes for American kitchens. Heidrun also discusses how she’s blended these old-world recipes with modern technology—adding QR codes that link to her own instructional videos. Highlights & Timestamps: [00:02:04]German Heritage Baking[00:06:04][00:10:00][00:25:00][00:27:57]Heidrun Metzler Buy the book German Heritage Baking Heidrun on Instagram, Vimeo and YouTube Heidrun's Website CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com ... More Coming soon Get in touch Support the show

In this episode, Chris Spear chats with cookbook author Ben Mims about his new book, Crumbs. The conversation delves into the cultural history of cookies, what defines a cookie, and Ben's research process for compiling recipes from around the world. They discuss holiday cookie exchanges, ingredient nuances, and advice for aspiring cookbook authors. If you love cookies and culinary history, this episode is for you. BEN MIMS Buy the book Crumbs Ben Mims on Instagram & Threads CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com ... More Coming soon Get in touch Support the show

In this solo episode, host Chris Spear shares some exciting updates and future plans for the Chefs Without Restaurants podcast. As the show approaches its 250th episode and five-year anniversary, Chris reflects on the incredible journey and announces a brief hiatus to focus on a new project. You'll learn about his upcoming podcast, Personal Chef Business Startup Guide, aimed at helping aspiring and current personal chefs build and grow their businesses. The new podcast will feature practical tips, industry insights, and interviews with experts, alongside some of the most valuable content from Chefs Without Restaurants. Personal Chef Business Startup Guide will debut in January 2025, and Chefs Without Restaurants will return with new episodes in early 2025. CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites PERSONAL CHEF BUSINESS STARTUP GUIDE Follow us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube Reach out at chefstartup@gmail.com ... More Coming soon Get in touch Support the show

In this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, host Chris Spear talks with Owen Han, viral content creator and sandwich aficionado. With a new cookbook titled Stacked about to launch, Owen shares his journey from making his first food video to building a social media following of over six million fans across TikTok and Instagram. They dive into Owen’s love for sandwiches, how he defines a sandwich (spoiler: a hot dog is a sandwich!), and his process for turning classic dishes into fun, new creations. Along the way, they discuss the challenges of creating engaging food content, what it’s like working with other culinary creators, and how Owen is expanding beyond sandwiches with longer-form videos on YouTube. Tune in to hear more about Owen’s unique background, including his Italian and Chinese heritage, and what it’s like to collaborate with icons like Martha Stewart and Giada De Laurentiis. Key Points: OWEN HAN Owen's Instagram and TikTok Buy Owen's Cookbook Stacked CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites Get in touch Support the show

In this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, Chris Spear speaks with Sarah Fennel, the founder of Broma Bakery and author of the new cookbook Sweet Tooth. What began as a simple creative outlet during her college years has now become a widely successful platform that combines her love for baking, photography, and blogging. Sarah shares her journey of building Broma Bakery into a thriving business, as well as her approach to creating recipes that are as delicious as they are accessible. In addition, we dive deep into the development of her cookbook Sweet Tooth, which features a range of recipes from quick weeknight treats to more elaborate desserts for special occasions. Whether you're a home baker, a food blogger, or simply love sweets, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of food blogging and content creation. Topics Discussed: Sweet Tooth SARAH FENNEL Sarah's Website, Instagram and TikTok Buy Sarah's cookbook Sweet Tooth Meet Sarah on her book tour CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites Get in touch Support the show

In this episode of Chefs Without Restaurants, host Chris Spear sits down with renowned chef David Burke, a trailblazer in modern American cuisine. Burke discusses his journey from a young chef leading kitchens in New York City to building a restaurant empire and pioneering culinary innovations like his patented dry-aging process. The conversation dives deep into the balance between craftsmanship and running a successful business, the evolution of fine dining, and the importance of creativity in the kitchen. Burke shares insightful stories about his early experiences, the importance of mentorship, and how the culinary landscape has shifted over the years. Key Discussion Points: DAVID BURKE David's Website, Instagram, Facebook Page David's Restaurants Get David's Cookbook CHEFS WITHOUT RESTAURANTS If you enjoy the show and would like to support it financially, please check out our Sponsorship page (we get a commission when you use our links). Get the Chefs Without Restaurants Newsletter Chefs Without Restaurants Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube The Chefs Without Restaurants Private Facebook Group Chris Spear's personal chef business Perfect Little Bites Get in touch Support the show

In this previously recorded episode, Chefs Without Restaurants founder Chris Spear talks with The Frederickland Podcast about the local Frederick, Maryland food scene, his personal chef business, and the Chefs Without Restaurants organization. We think it's a great episode, and gives some more back story as to how the organization got started. Your support means everything to us. If you like this show, please subscribe, review, like and share. Thanks so much -Chris & Andrew If you want to...