Best Chef Jj Podcasts (2025)

1
Tony Nguyen Talks Vietnamese Roots & Fine Dining 43:42

5h ago43:42

43:42

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Tony Nguyen, the Executive Chef behind the acclaimed Crustacean Restaurant in Beverly Hills—an upscale destination redefining Modern Asian cuisine with elegance and innovation. Born and raised in St. Louis to a Vietnamese family, Chef Tony shares how his upbringing, rich with cultural heritag…

1
Inside MW Restaurant with Wade & Michelle Ueoka 52:58

13d ago52:58

52:58

Today on Flavors Unknown, we head to Honolulu to meet the culinary duo behind one of Hawaii’s most celebrated dining destinations: Chef Wade Ueoka and Pastry Chef Michelle Karr-Ueoka of MW Restaurant. Their menu is a vibrant tapestry of Hawaii’s multicultural influences, showcasing local farmers, sustainable practices, and authentic island flavors.…

1
WEWP#79: JJ Reich on Black Walnuts 56:34

26d ago56:34

56:34

WE'RE BACK! A FORAGER'S STORY!! We return to the show after an extended hiatus to chat with JJ Reich (@blackwalnutdaddy ), author of "Nuts About Black Walnuts". JJ's self-published book all about black walnuts offers a detailed and in-depth analysis of almost every topic you could possibly imagine involving ye olde Juglans Nigra. Available on Amazo…

1
NYC Chef Panel on Bold Flavors and Reinvention 1:07:50

28d ago1:07:50

1:07:50

Recorded live at Phoenix Palace during NYC StarChefs Rising Stars. Sponsored by Symrise. In this special episode of Flavors Unknown, we head to New York City for a dynamic roundtable with four of the most exciting names in the city’s food and beverage scene: Chef Zhan Chen – Executive Chef at Phoenix Palace, redefining Cantonese dining in Chinatown…

1
Pig Beach BBQ: Inside Chef Matt Abdoo’s Journey 38:45

1M ago38:45

38:45

Today on Flavors Unknown, I’m joined by Chef Matt Abdoo, co-founder of the wildly popular Pig Beach BBQ. Known for its award-winning approach to regional American barbecue, Pig Beach blends the soul of Southern smoke with chef-driven technique—and Matt is the creative fire behind it all. But before the smoke, there were stars—Michelin stars. Matt’s…

1
From SFO to the Hawaii: Mourad’s Next Chapter 1:08:37

2M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

In this in-person episode recorded on location in Honolulu, I sit down with Chef Mourad Lahlou, the visionary behind Aziza, Mourad, Leila, and Miro Kaimuki. Known for pioneering modern Moroccan cuisine and earning Michelin stars along the way, Chef Mourad opens up about his personal and professional evolution—from self-taught beginnings in the U.S.…

1
Dirt Candy’s Amanda Cohen: Breaking Culinary Norms 36:51

2M ago36:51

36:51

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Amanda Cohen, the creative force behind Dirt Candy, one of the most innovative vegetable-forward restaurants in New York City. Amanda has spent her career redefining what plant-based fine dining looks like—turning vegetables into culinary masterpieces while challenging industry norms. From el…

1
How Chef Rivera is Redefining Sushi at Bakku in Puerto Rico 38:51

3M ago38:51

38:51

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Joerick Rivera, the culinary mind behind Bakku, a Japanese crudo bar in Rincón, Puerto Rico, and Palmonte, where he explores Puerto Rican flavors with a modern twist. Despite initially resisting the idea of becoming a chef, Rivera has established himself as a pioneer, bringing Japanese precis…

1
Chef JJ Johnson: The Power of Rice and Culinary Heritage 40:18

3M ago40:18

40:18

On today’s episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef JJ Johnson, the James Beard Award-winning chef and founder of FIELDTRIP, a fast-casual concept with four locations across New York. Known for his deep appreciation of the African diaspora’s culinary traditions, Chef JJ Johnson has built a brand around rice as a universal connector, sustain…

1
Inside the Mind of Puerto Rican Chef Mario Pagán 56:42

4M ago56:42

56:42

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Mario Pagán at his restaurant La Central in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Chef Pagán is a visionary in Puerto Rican cuisine, blending French techniques with bold, local flavors in what he calls the “Nueva Mesa Boricua” philosophy. With a restaurant portfolio that includes Mario Pagán, La Central, an…

1
Exploring The Charleston Food Scene with StarChefs Rising Stars 1:17:58

4M ago1:17:58

1:17:58

Today’s episode is a special one! I’m joined by five exceptional chefs shaping the Charleston Food Scene: Chef Shuai Wang of King BBQ, blending Chinese barbecue traditions with Southern flavors. Chef Shaun Brian Sells of CudaCo., elevating sustainable seafood with creative coastal cuisine. Pastry Chef Annie Coleman of Flora and Fauna, combining art…

1
Alexander Smalls on African Cuisine and Culture 1:05:45

5M ago1:05:45

1:05:45

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with the extraordinary Alexander Smalls—Harlem-based chef, opera singer, storyteller, and James Beard Award-winning author. Alexander recently released his latest book, The Contemporary African Kitchen, a celebration of African culinary traditions and the chefs shaping its future.Recorded in the intima…

1
Chef Dave Beran: Innovation at Pasjoli and Seline 54:43

5M ago54:43

54:43

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we’re thrilled to welcome Chef Dave Beran, a culinary visionary whose remarkable journey spans some of the most iconic restaurants in Chicago and Los Angeles. From his early days at MK, Tru, and the trailblazing Alinea, to creating the critically acclaimed Pasjoli and his newest venture, Seline, Chef Dave Beran h…

1
Chef Andrew Black Talks Perle Mesta and Grey Sweater 44:31

6M ago44:31

44:31

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, host Emmanuel Laroche dives deep into the world of Chef Andrew Black, a James Beard Award-winning chef whose restaurants are redefining Oklahoma City’s culinary landscape. With three acclaimed establishments—Grey Sweater, Black Walnut, and the newly launched Perle Mesta—Chef Black combines his Jamaican and Indian…

1
Dinara Kasko: Redefining Pastry with 3D Art 44:16

6M ago44:16

44:16

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, host Emmanuel Laroche sits down with Dinara Kasko, the Ukrainian pastry artist who’s revolutionized the world of baking. Combining her architectural background with a passion for pastry, Dinara creates breathtaking edible sculptures using cutting-edge 3D printing techniques. Her unique approach has earned her int…

1
Nancy Silverton: Culinary Icon on Cooking and Travel 59:39

7M ago59:39

59:39

In today’s episode of Flavors Unknown, I’m delighted to sit down with the iconic Nancy Silverton—Los Angeles-based chef, award-winning baker, restaurateur, and celebrated author. Known for co-founding Pizzeria Mozza, Osteria Mozza, Mozza2Go, and Chi Spacca, Silverton is a James Beard Foundation Award winner for Outstanding Chef, an honor she receiv…

1
Scary Stories from The Ostos Memorial Museum 38:27

7M ago38:27

38:27

The building that houses The Ostos Memorial Museum has a rich history in Las Cruces, NM, originally starting out as a school in 1915. The building was then the home of a furniture store, where Josie Ostos started working when she was 17 years old. After her husband passed away, the furniture store was converted into a museum to showcase some of the…

1
Top Chef Winner Danny Garcia on Leadership and Legacy 42:02

7M ago42:02

42:02

Today on Flavors Unknown, I’m sitting down with Chef Danny Garcia, the Top Chef Season 21 winner and Executive Chef at Saga Hospitality Group. Chef Danny is preparing to launch Time and Tide, a highly anticipated seafood restaurant opening in Manhattan in late 2024. In this episode, we explore his culinary journey—from his early days at Johnson & W…

1
Wisconsin Death Trip 1:06:19

7M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Wisconsin Death Trip is a 1999 movie by director James Marsh based on the book by the same name by Michael Lesy. The film features reenactments of violent crimes, murders, mental illness, depression, and vandalism that are reported and dismissed as quickly as the newspaper articles that wrote about the incidents that took place in Black River Falls…

1
The History Of The Ouija Board 41:42

7M ago41:42

41:42

The Ouija Board has long been thought of as a tool to conjure spirits and evil, but most people nowadays realize it’s just a toy made by Hasbro. Despite that, the stigma of it being used for occult practices is something that many people still can’t shake off. This week our Super Friend Eli will share the history of the Ouija Board with us, what it…

1
Robbie Felice Talks Wafu Italian and His NJ Restaurants 41:19

7M ago41:19

41:19

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Robbie Felice, the New Jersey-based culinary innovator and co-founder of several renowned restaurants, including the exclusive pop-up pasta RAMEN,Viaggio Ristorante, Osteria Crescendo, and Fatto con Amore. A James Beard Rising Star Chef semifinalist, Chef Felice is known for his inventive app…

1
The Killdozer: Marv Heemeyer’s Weapon of Destruction 1:33:48

8M ago1:33:48

1:33:48

On June 4th, 2004, Marvin Heemeyer took his modified armored 85 ton bulldozer and plowed a path of mayhem and destruction in the small mountain town of Granby, Colorado. His rampage destroyed 13 buildings and caused more than $5 Million in damages. This week our Super Friend Eric will share this crazy story with us and we’ll learn what inspired Hee…

1
The Champawat Maneater: Killer Of 436 People 41:03

8M ago41:03

41:03

In the late 1890’s Nepal villagers began disappearing from the forests and surrounding areas at an alarming rate. They soon discovered that they were being attacked by a 500 pound Bengal tiger. The Nepal army was able to scare the tiger to the Champawat region of India, but not before it had claimed the life of 200 villagers. In Champawat, its kill…

1
Shota Nakajima Talks Top Chef, Taku, and Japanese Food 50:56

8M ago50:56

50:56

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we sit down with Chef Shota Nakajima, the culinary force behind Seattle's acclaimed restaurant Taku and a finalist on Top Chef Season 18. Shota Nakajima shares how his family cultivated his passion for food and hospitality from a young age, and how his career has evolved from his early days in Japan to becoming a…

1
A Haunting In East Austin 47:44

8M ago47:44

47:44

Love haunted stories but hate how there is no resolution? Time for that to change! A single mom and 2 kids were living in a haunted house in East Austin for 7 years before they finally got a team to help. This haunting comes complete with disembodied voices, shadow figures, cat ghosts and someone being scratched and even thrown. Find out how this t…

1
Kenneth, What Is The Frequency? The 1986 Attack of Dan Rather 37:02

8M ago37:02

37:02

In 1986 CBS Evening News anchor Dan Rather was attacked by 2 men. As he was being punched and kicked one of the attackers kept shouting “Kenneth, what is the frequency?!” As leads on the attackers went cold, this seemingly random act of violence was chalked up to mistaken identity. When REM released the single “What Is The Frequency, Kenneth?” in 1…

1
AI in Kitchens: James Passafaro and Opsi.io Lead the Way 46:59

8M ago46:59

46:59

In this episode, I’m joined by Chef James Passafaro, co-owner of the revolutionary app Opsi.io, which is changing the way restaurants manage their operations. Opsi.io is a cloud-based tool that streamlines recipe management, food costing, inventory, and more—eliminating the need for old-school binders and paperwork.James shares his incredible journ…

1
The Origin of Medusa 31:14

8M ago31:14

31:14

Medusa is one of the most famous figures in Greek mythology. She is known primarily for her transformation into a Gorgon, a monstrous creature with serpentine hair and a gaze that turns people to stone. Her story has been retold through various mediums over the centuries, from ancient texts to modern adaptations. In this episode we will explore her…

1
Joe Metheny: The Human Hamburger Chef 48:54

9M ago48:54

48:54

Joe Metheny was arrested for murdering 2 women in December of 1996. During his interrogation he confessed to murdering 8 more people, but investigators were not prepared for how he disposed of the bodies. He would mix their flesh with beef and pork which he sold to customers out of a barbecue stand on the side of the road, horrifying the investigat…

1
Chef Corey Siegel’s Journey from CIA to Electrolux 50:48

9M ago50:48

50:48

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, I sit down with Chef Corey Siegel, the North American Corporate Executive Chef and Director of Culinary Development at Electrolux Professional. Based in Charlotte, NC, Corey is a culinary innovator who has left a remarkable imprint on the industry. Known for his unique blend of culinary mastery and passion for mu…

1
JJ Armes: Eccentric P.I. Who Overcame Disability 40:22

9M ago40:22

40:22

In 1972 when Marlon Brando’s son was kidnapped, he had help from the FBI and CIA but they came up with nothing. Then he called JJ Armes and in 5 days the private eye found his son with no hands. Literally he has prosthetic hooks for hands. Where in the world did this amazing P.I. come from? El Paso, TX. You don’t want to miss his great life story! …

1
The Somerton Man: 73 Year Mystery Finally Kind Of Solved 51:31

9M ago51:31

51:31

On December 1st, 1948, the body of an unidentified man was found on the Somerton Beach outside of Adelaide Australia. Despite conducting a thorough investigation that garnered much media attention, the authorities were never able to identify the man and cause of death. In 2022 a professor from the University Of Adelaide conducted a DNA test that wa…

1
Best Food in Boston: Insights from Top Chefs 1:17:44

9M ago1:17:44

1:17:44

In this episode of the Flavors Unknown podcast, we bring you an exclusive panel discussion from StarChefs Boston's Rising Stars, sponsored by Symrise NA. Join me as I sit down with some of Boston's most innovative culinary minds: Chef Will Gilson of Puritan & Co., Pastry Chef Monica Glass, co-founder of Verveine Cafe & Bakery, Bartender James Sutte…

1
Elmer McCurdy: From Outlaw to Morbid Sideshow Attraction 37:54

9M ago37:54

37:54

Elmer McCurdy’s story is both fascinating and tragic. His life and posthumous fame offer a mix of the Old West, crime, and morbid curiosity. His life was that of a minor outlaw who, due to a series of macabre events, achieved a form of postmortem fame far beyond his criminal activities. His story serves as a unique case study in the realms of crimi…

1
Mike "Madman" Marcum and His Homemade Time Machine 53:28

10M ago53:28

53:28

In 2016 a man known as Mike "Madman" Marcum jumped into his home made time machine and hasn’t been seen or heard from again. But this isn’t his first disappearing act. In 1998 he disappeared for 2 years when he claimed he traveled 2 years into the future. His stories made headlines and garnered the attention of Art Bell and his listeners on his Coa…

1
Norman Van Aken’s Culinary Journey & Legacy 47:52

10M ago47:52

47:52

Today, we delve into the fascinating journey of Chef Norman Van Aken, considered one of the founders of New American Cuisine. A true culinary legend, Van Aken is a pioneer who expertly blends old-world techniques with new-world flavors, coining the term “fusion.” With numerous books, his own Netflix series, and a legacy of inspiring and mentoring m…

1
The Science Of Astrology and Why Your Sign Is Not What You Think 41:30

10M ago41:30

41:30

Astrology goes all the way back to the 3rd millennium BCE. This means your sign is actually not what you probably think. What does psychology say about why people are drawn to astrology? Also let’s dig into a study out of Sweden set to gauge astrology believers on a narcissistic scale and gauge IQ - the results might shock you. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

1
WEWP#78: Sustainability & Ethics Panel @ the Great Lakes Foragers Gathering 53:30

10M ago53:30

53:30

Gorgeous Gorgeous Panelists: GABRIELLE Cerberville @chaoticforager JIM McDonald @herb.craft CHRIS Gavin @eagle_outdoor_skills SEAN Zera @macludrania Pretty Pretty Panel Hosts: JB Douglas @thewildgrocery STEVE Cantu @snoopdoggydogwood Huge thanks to Rachel and the Will Forage For Food team for making the GLFG happen every year, it is truly one of ou…

1
Amy Carlson and The Love Has Won Cult 54:59

10M ago54:59

54:59

On April 28th, 2021 the mummified corpse of a woman found in a Crestone Colorado home was reported to the Salida Police Department. It was later discovered that this was the corpse of Amy Carlson, the leader of the Love Has Won cult. But what would lead a McDonald's manager and mother of 3 young kids to abandon her family and home and start a cult?…

1
WEWP#77: Great Lakes Foragers Gathering: Minis! 19:56

10M ago19:56

19:56

We had the pleasure of being accepted to host a panel at the Great Lakes Foragers Gathering in Michigan! While at the event, Steve had the opportunity to sit down with several attendees and chat about foraging, origins, and their activities that weekend. You'll hear from @clay__bowers, 12-year old Joselle, & @wildernut Tim Coddington! Enjoy this sh…

1
Arnold Myint: Thai Cuisine and Southern Roots 40:33

10M ago40:33

40:33

Today, I’m excited to talk to Arnold Myint, the talented Chef at The International Market in Nashville. Known for his vibrant personality on Top Chef, Arnold is redefining Thai cuisine by blending modern techniques with traditional Thai flavors. In 2024, he was a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef Southeast, highlighti…

1
Bloody Mary And The Woman Behind The Legend 46:18

10M ago46:18

46:18

The legend of Bloody Mary is a staple in the realm of spooky stories whispered by children at sleepovers and tested in dimly lit bathrooms around the world. But where did this haunting tale originate, and why does it continue to endure? On this episode we'll travel back to the 1500s and take a glimpse into Queen Mary Tudor’s life, discover why she …

1
WEWP#76: Dr. Liz Kozik (@chase_prairie) 56:58

10M ago56:58

56:58

"Re-peopling Prairie: History, Ecology, & How They Can Bettter Inform Prairie Science" is available for pre-order on Dr. Liz's Etsy page so give her a follow @chase_prairie to keep up with her exploits and awesome art!!We're back from "Summer Break" (AKA Michael had a baby) with an awesome interview with Dr. Liz Kozik @chase_prairie about her incre…

1
3M Forever Chemicals: Science. Applied To Kill Us. 41:03

11M ago41:03

41:03

In 1997 3M chemist Kris Hansen was tasked with testing the blood of their employees for the presence of fluorochemicals, also known as forever chemicals. Hansen was told they weren’t toxic, but the company wanted to know how widespread they were in their employees. When testing control samples they came to the realization that these chemicals were …

1
Alex Yoon: From Korean Roots to Little Fish Success 52:16

11M ago52:16

52:16

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, we sit down with Chef Alex Yoon, the culinary visionary behind Little Fish, a 16-seat seafood BYOB gem nestled in the Queen Village neighborhood of Philadelphia. Known for its intimate setting and creative seafood dishes, Little Fish has been a local favorite since the 90s. Chef Yoon shares his journey of taking …

1
Giovanni Maria De Agostini: Italian Monk, Cave Dweller, World Nomad 40:42

11M ago40:42

40:42

Living in a cave, not gonna lie, sounds pretty cool. For over 30 years, a monk Giovanni Maria De Agostini lived in caves all over Europe, Brazil and America. He was so admired that he gathered a following in almost every country he went to. So much so that he still has a small number of followers who make pilgrimages to his old cave home in New Mex…

1
Music Icon Dyana Williams and the Making of Black Music Month 41:21

11M ago41:21

41:21

Arriving in Philadelphia after deejaying in her native New York and Washington D.C., where she was known for a time as “Ebony Moonbeams,” Dyana Williams established the popular radio show “Love on the Menu” for radio station WDAS and later Soulful Sundays for Classix 107.9. The latter show lasting for 12 years before signing off for the last time i…

1
Alfred G. Packer: America’s First Cannibal 37:04

11M ago37:04

37:04

Alfred G Packer left Provo Utah with a group of prospectors to Breckenridge Colorado to try to strike it rich during the Colorado Gold Rush in 1873. Against the advice of others, he decided to travel to Gunnison Colorado in the middle of an unusually harsh winter storm. While he didn’t find gold, he did become infamous for resorting to murder and c…

1
JWU’s Dean Evans: A New Era in Culinary Education 52:00

11M ago52:00

52:00

Join us today from JWU as we delve into the transformative world of culinary education with Dean Jason Evans of Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI. With a unique blend of economics and a visionary approach to food sustainability, Dean Evans is steering JWU towards a future where culinary education intertwines seamlessly with health and nutr…

1
The True Story Behind Baby Reindeer 1:01:01

11M ago1:01:01

1:01:01

Baby Reindeer is a true story of the hit 2019 Edinburgh Fringe one-man play, that also goes by the same name, Baby Reindeer. It follows the writer and performer RIchard Gadd’s warped relationship with a female friend, turned stalker, and the impact it has on him and his deep-dark, buried trauma. This critically acclaimed hit series seems to be what…

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Chef Jj Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen