Best The Chefs Without Restaurants Network Podcasts (2025)

1
#310 Ellie Ledden Chef Educator at Prept - Empowering Future Generations Through Food Education 41:02

Play Pause

5d ago41:02

41:02

In this episode, Michael is joined by Ellie from the Prep Foundation to discuss how the foundation educates young people about nutrition and cooking, especially with the decline in food tech education due to reduced school funding. Ellie shares her journey from being a chef to working with Prep, highlighting the foundation's activities, such as in-…

1
#309 Tommy Giraux Head of Restaurant Systems at Honest Burguers - Utilizing AI to Enhance Hospitality 52:36

15d ago52:36

52:36

In this episode, Michael engages in a detailed conversation with Tommy Giraux, the Head of Restaurant Systems at Honest Burgers. Tommy shares his extensive experience in the hospitality and retail industry across France and the UK. The discussion revolves around the integration of technology in the hospitality sector, focusing on how tech can enhan…

1
Recipes from the American South with Michael Twitty 59:53

22d ago59:53

59:53

This week on Chefs Without Restaurants, Chris Spear talks with culinary historian and James Beard Award-winning author Michael Twitty about his new book, 'Recipes from the American South.' With over 250 recipes, the book is a deep dive into the rich, diverse traditions of Southern food. Chris and Michael explore everything from grits and cornbread,…

1
#1 A Podcast Series with Openr - The Future with Common Data Models and Tech Solutions 56:38

1M ago56:38

56:38

1
Fueling the Pros: Chef Brandon Rogers on Cooking for Athletes and Building a Private Chef Brand 29:39

1M ago29:39

29:39

What does it take to cook for NFL players, wear multiple hats as a culinary entrepreneur and still deliver high-end meals week after week? In this episode, Chris Spear sits down with Chef Brandon Rogers, a Chicago-based private chef with a background in fine dining, luxury hotels and a growing client list that includes professional athletes. What Y…

1
From Meal Prep to Prime Time: Brandon Rogers on Next Level Chef 29:09

1M ago29:09

29:09

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 restau…

1
#308 Filip Linek Founder at BE‑A - Reinventing Hospitality with AI and Robotics 45:11

1M ago45:11

45:11

In this episode, Michael welcomes Filip Linek, a hotel operator turned tech innovator, to discuss the advancements in AI and robotics in the hospitality industry. Filip shares his journey from running a packaging company to owning and managing hotels in the Czech Republic. Highlighting the challenges of staffing and maintaining high-quality service…

1
#307 Jannes Sörensen Founder of Kepler - Leaders on Creating Transformative Guest Experiences 1:11:54

2M ago1:11:54

1:11:54

In this episode of the Hospitality Mavericks podcast, host Michael engages with Jannes Sörensen, founder of Kepler Hotel Group and Kepler International Hospitality Academy. They discuss how the Kepler brand aims to redefine luxury hospitality by focusing on guests' essential needs rather than mere wants. Topics include the role of AI in hospitality…

1
The Freelance Writer’s Playbook with Nevin Martell 49:35

2M ago49:35

49:35

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 …

1
How to Stay Connected to Your Team as a Seasoned Leader 6:06

2M ago6:06

6:06

As leaders grow, it’s easy to lose touch with day-to-day team life. Taylor Scott reveals how staying curious, humble, and conversational can prevent emotional disconnect from creeping in. Takeaways: Stay curious about your people and how they’re doing Make time for walk-and-talk conversations to stay close to the work Show consistent interest to he…

1
How to Build Purpose into Your Day with One Simple Habit 3:03

2M ago3:03

3:03

Taylor Scott shares a daily leadership habit that transforms distraction into purpose. Learn how focusing on the important (not just the urgent) helps create clarity and alignment within teams. Takeaways: Set clear goals to focus your team and drive momentum Align daily action with long-term vision through SMART goals Celebrate small wins to keep t…

1
How to Lead More Effectively with Emotional Intelligence 2:07

2M ago2:07

2:07

Emotional intelligence is essential to great leadership. Taylor Scott breaks down the four components of EQ and how they impact team dynamics, performance, and leadership presence in hospitality. Takeaways: Strengthen self-awareness to lead with consistency under pressure Read emotional cues to connect with empathy and intent Manage relationships w…

1
How to Balance Accountability with Empathy 2:58

2M ago2:58

2:58

Taylor Scott dives into one of the toughest but most important leadership challenges: holding people accountable with empathy. He shares the concept of coaching with grace, grit, and intention, and how values-based feedback can drive real change. Takeaways: Build credibility before delivering tough feedback Coach through the lens of shared values O…

1
#306 Gareth Rees Founder at Attention Deficit Hospitality Disorder - Embracing Neurodiversity in Hospitality 1:00:07

2M ago1:00:07

1:00:07

This episode delves into the topic of neurodiversity within the hospitality industry, particularly focusing on ADHD. Michael, alongside guest Gareth, explores how recognizing and accommodating neurodiversity can lead to better business outcomes, improved staff retention, unleashed innovation, and enhanced employee wellbeing. Gareth shares his perso…

1
How to Recognize Your Team in a Way That Actually Matters 2:05

2M ago2:05

2:05

Recognition isn’t just a moment, it’s a rhythm. Taylor Scott walks through how to build recognition into your weekly habits in meaningful ways. Takeaways: Catch people doing things right more often than wrong Reinforce values by celebrating them out loud Tell stories that highlight team strengths and wins Want to connect directly with industry thou…

1
How to Create a Workplace Where People Can Bring Their Whole Selves 4:01

3M ago4:01

4:01

Recognition isn’t one-size-fits-all. Taylor Scott explores how leaders can adapt their recognition to the individual, and why that makes all the difference. Takeaways: Tailor recognition to how each person best receives it Use specific praise to reinforce belonging and culture Acknowledge individual value to deepen connection Want to connect direct…

1
How to Improve Retention with One Leadership Habit 3:57

3M ago3:57

3:57

Retention doesn’t come from perks, it comes from empathy. Taylor Scott reveals how to use simple, learnable skills to connect and keep your team. Takeaways: Listen to understand, not to respond Build trust by reflecting back emotion and experience Keep top performers by making them feel seen and heard Want to connect directly with industry thought …

1
How to Inspire Your Team by Creating the Right Energy 1:31

3M ago1:31

1:31

Energy is contagious, for better or worse. Taylor Scott shares how leaders can shift the energy in the room, creating an atmosphere that motivates, unites, and inspires. Takeaways: Set the tone with steady, positive energy Model calm and confidence when pressure is high Lead with presence to help your team stay aligned Want to connect directly with…

1
How to Stay Emotionally Connected During High-Stress Service 2:18

3M ago2:18

2:18

High-stress moments don’t have to break team morale. Taylor Scott shares how trust, preparation, and consistent communication help teams stay grounded and connected under pressure. Takeaways: Invest emotionally before high-pressure moments arrive Build trust through early and frequent communication Create stability with consistent, intentional conv…

1
How to Avoid the Biggest Mistakes When Building Culture 1:36

3M ago1:36

1:36

Culture is what you do, not what you say. Taylor Scott explains the damage done when leadership actions don’t match company values, and how to avoid it. Takeaways: Align your actions with your stated values Build credibility through consistency Earn trust by following through with integrity Want to connect directly with industry thought leaders lik…

1
How to Drive Performance with Compassion and Encouragement 3:31

3M ago3:31

3:31

Taylor Scott unpacks the self-determination theory and how it fuels performance. Compassionate leadership isn’t soft, it’s strategic. Takeaways: Promote autonomy, competence, and community to boost motivation Understand what drives high-performing hospitality teams Encourage with intention to create lasting impact Want to connect directly with indu…

1
How to Make Your Team Feel Seen and Supported 1:46

3M ago1:46

1:46

Taylor Scott explains how small but meaningful recognition can create a sense of belonging and motivate teams to stay engaged. Leaders who speak to their team’s values win trust and loyalty. Takeaways: Recognize when team members live your values Reinforce culture by showing people how they belong Create belonging by acknowledging what makes people…

1
How to Connect Emotionally Before You Manage 4:04

3M ago4:04

4:04

Learn why emotional connection is the foundation of effective leadership. Taylor Scott shares the six virtues of leading with hospitality and how they apply in the day-to-day life of operators and managers. Takeaways: Commit to connection before offering direction Practice self-awareness and purpose to build emotional intelligence Coach more effect…

1
How to Lead with Hospitality 1:45

3M ago1:45

1:45

Taylor Scott breaks down what it truly means to lead with hospitality through action, emotion, and connection. He shares how great leadership mirrors the best guest experiences, driving loyalty and engagement through intentional service. Takeaways: Mirror the emotional connection of great hospitality in your leadership Lead by being human, emotiona…

1
#305 Geoffrey Toffetti CEO of Frontline Performance Group - Transforming Frontline Teams and Boosting Sales 1:09:00

3M ago1:09:00

1:09:00

In this episode, the discussion centers around the significant impact of investing in frontline teams to enhance business performance in the hospitality industry. Geoffrey Toffetti shares their journey from modest beginnings to becoming a leader in optimizing sales through frontline engagement. The conversation covers building a people-first cultur…

1
How to Build a Restaurant Culture That Actually Works 4:14

3M ago4:14

4:14

It’s time to stop focusing on what’s broken and start building what’s next. Chef Matt Jennings reframes restaurant culture as a place of growth, creativity, and real opportunity for future leaders. Takeaways: Recognize hospitality as a space for career and personal development Make leadership development part of your systems Create workplaces that …

1
How to Align Passion, Purpose, and Process 1:16

3M ago1:16

1:16

Chef Matt Jennings discusses how aligning your passion, purpose, and process is the foundation of sustainable hospitality leadership, and what MAJC is doing to make that a reality for more operators. Takeaways: Reground your business in what matters most to you Create systems that translate passion into repeatable outcomes Build long-term leadershi…

1
How to Lead with Empathy in Hospitality (and Still Get Results) 2:22

3M ago2:22

2:22

Hospitality leadership is evolving, and chef Matt Jennings believes the next generation of leaders needs to listen more than they speak. This episode explores what true leadership looks like today. Takeaways: Shift from top-down commands to active listening and support Redesign hospitality systems to attract and retain younger talent Lead with empa…

1
How to Spot the Patterns Shaping the Industry 3:03

3M ago3:03

3:03

Chef Matt Jennings shares two major industry trends he’s watching closely: shifting civic policies affecting local restaurants and ongoing challenges around staffing. Takeaways: Watch how local regulations affect restaurant operations and margins Adjust hiring and training for a younger, less experienced workforce Build systems that support your te…

1
How MAJC Expert Sessions Connect Operators to the Best in the Business 3:28

3M ago3:28

3:28

In this episode, chef Matt Jennings breaks down what makes MAJC’s Expert Sessions so valuable, and why live access to industry leaders is changing the game for operators. Takeaways: Learn from experts in finance, HR, sustainability, wellness, and more Interact live with top operators and hospitality leaders Use Expert Sessions as a professional dev…

1
How MAJC Office Hours Provide Real-Time Support 4:19

3M ago4:19

4:19

Chef Matt Jennings shares what makes Office Hours inside the MAJC community so powerful, and why real-time, judgment-free conversations are helping operators grow faster and feel less alone. Takeaways: Create space for tough, honest business conversations Learn directly from trusted experts in HR, finance, and operations Make weekly problem-solving…

1
How to Build a Hospitality Community That Actually Helps 2:40

3M ago2:40

2:40

What does the MAJC community offer? Chef Matt Jennings walks through the tools, relationships, and shared values that make this platform different. Takeaways: Find peer support across operations, finance, HR, and more Learn from others’ wins and mistakes to shorten your path Access exclusive tools and guidance designed for hospitality leaders Want …

1
How MAJC Is Redesigning Hospitality Support 3:42

3M ago3:42

3:42

Why did chef Matt Jennings co-found MAJC? In this episode, he shares the personal experiences that inspired him to build a hospitality community, and what operators actually need right now. Takeaways: Support operators facing burnout, uncertainty, and isolation Combine systems, creativity, and technology in one space Build solutions that scale with…

1
How to Reclaim Control When Your Business Is Running You 7:15

3M ago7:15

7:15

If it feels like your restaurant is running you, you’re not alone. Chef Matt Jennings offers strategies for stepping back, assessing, and regaining control of your time and energy. Takeaways: Schedule weekly strategy sessions, even if just two hours Use team input to evaluate what’s working and what’s not Evaluate projects that drain energy without…

1
How to Keep Your Team Truly Aligned 3:22

3M ago3:22

3:22

Chaos is part of the job, but alignment is a choice. Chef Matt Jennings shares why clear communication and smart systems are the foundation of every resilient team. Takeaways: Standardize team communication tools across shifts and roles Be explicit about your vision instead of assuming team alignment Build architecture before expecting results Want…

1
#304 James Bates MD & Co-Founder of QVO Hospitality - A Journey of Growth, Challenges, and Unforgettable Experiences 1:03:44

3M ago1:03:44

1:03:44

In this episode, James Bates from QVO Hospitality shares the journey from the inception of his business in 2014 to its current status with multiple restaurant locations. Over nearly a decade, James and his team have navigated various challenges, including Brexit, COVID-19, and fluctuating economic conditions. Throughout their journey, they have uti…

1
How to Build Systems That Actually Work 2:33

3M ago2:33

2:33

Every operator talks about systems, but how do you build ones that actually work? Chef Matt Jennings shares how his restaurants handled everything from R&D to bar maintenance. Takeaways: Document and iterate on R&D processes with full team input Design systems with ownership in mind, not just compliance Layer small systems to create a culture of ac…

1
How to Recognize When It’s Time to Close Your Restaurant 5:21

3M ago5:21

5:21

Chef Matt Jennings opens up about the hardest decision of his career: closing his restaurant. This deeply personal episode explores what led to that moment, and what other operators can learn from it. Takeaways: Monitor cash flow, receivables, and market fit Know when your well-being needs to come first Transparency with yourself is a leadership sk…

1
How to Lead Without Micromanaging 3:34

3M ago3:34

3:34

Chef Matt Jennings reflects on a leadership lesson learned the hard way, and how it changed how he supports and empowers his team. If you’ve struggled with micromanagement or middle-manager turnover, this one’s for you. Takeaways: Balance trust and accountability with systems Avoid giving too much freedom without adequate tools Middle managers need…

1
How to Prepare for Restaurant Ownership Before You Open 2:15

4M ago2:15

2:15

What do you wish someone told you before opening your first restaurant? Chef Matt Jennings shares his answer, and it’s not what you’d expect. This episode highlights the behind-the-scenes logistics most new operators miss. Takeaways: Build a trusted network of service providers before you open Create real feedback loops with guests to stay adaptabl…

1
How to See the Operator Role for What It Really Is 5:26

4M ago5:26

5:26

In this kickoff episode, Carolyn Grillo flips the script and interviews chef Matt Jennings, co-founder of MAJC, about his journey from acclaimed chef to founder. Matt opens up about what he got wrong in business and how that experience shaped his mission today. Takeaways: Prioritize business systems and financial literacy from day one Profitability…

1
How to Raise Capital Without Giving Away the Business 5:52

4M ago5:52

5:52

From debt to equity to grants, Lauren Fernandez breaks down the full range of capital options restaurant founders can access and how to match funding to your stage of growth. Takeaways: Align capital choices to your stage, control preferences, and risk tolerance Explore debt, SBA loans, angel investors, and private equity options Don’t overlook gra…

1
How to Offer Equity to Employees Without Losing Control 3:54

4M ago3:54

3:54

Equity is a powerful tool. Lauren Fernandez explains how founders can share upside while protecting ownership and preserving future capital flexibility. Takeaways: Grant equity carefully and only when it drives real retention Use employee profit pools or profit shares instead of voting shares Create internal, flexible programs that align with long-…

1
How to Structure Partnerships That Actually Work 1:56

4M ago1:56

1:56

Money and management aren’t the same thing. Lauren Fernandez explains how to define operating roles, accountability, and partnership structure from day one. Takeaways: Clarify responsibilities and job titles inside your partnership Distinguish between passive investors and operational partners Document reporting lines, hiring authority, and account…

1
How to Take on Investors While Avoiding Legal Pitfalls 3:44

4M ago3:44

3:44

Lauren Fernandez outlines the most common legal mistakes operators make during fundraising and how to protect your business, your future, and your team. Takeaways: Separate investment agreements from promised services or perks Do due diligence on your investors, including background checks Include buy-sell clauses, dispute resolutions, and exit str…

1
How to Avoid Common Legal Mistakes 3:06

4M ago3:06

3:06

Lauren Fernandez shares why it’s critical to evaluate people, not just capital, before you take investor money—and how to avoid costly partner mistakes. Takeaways: Prioritize integrity, transparency, and humility in partner selection Assess how a new partner would support your team long-term Set clear personal filters to guide decisions Want to con…

1
#303 Howard Lewis Founder at Offline - Embracing Vulnerability and Building Community 1:07:29

4M ago1:07:29

1:07:29

In this conversation, Howard and Michael explore the themes of disconnecting from technology, fostering community, and nurturing genuine human connections. Howard, who organised 'offline dinners,' shares insights from his journey from the stock market to co-founding a successful company, Invaluable, and his realisation of the importance of human in…

1
How to Structure Ownership as Your Restaurant Group Grows 2:27

4M ago2:27

2:27

Lauren Fernandez breaks down how to structure multiple entities inside a growing restaurant group, and why it’s critical for managing risk, minimizing taxes, and planning for expansion. Takeaways: Form parent LLCs with separate operating subsidiaries Separate intellectual property, franchising, and manufacturing entities Use ownership structures to…

1
How to Avoid Costly Mistakes While Scaling Your Business 3:25

4M ago3:25

3:25

Lauren Fernandez reveals the most common and most expensive scaling error operators make: choosing the wrong location. Takeaways: Vet real estate decisions with full data and on-the-ground observation Understand customer patterns beyond income levels Use brokers, site analytics, and franchise disclosure documents as resources Want to connect direct…

1
How to Build a Franchise Playbook That Actually Works 2:38

4M ago2:38

2:38

Your grand opening plan can make or break a new restaurant launch. Lauren Fernandez shares her blueprint for generating buzz and driving momentum. Takeaways: Build a 90-day marketing ramp-up before opening day Create organic local buzz through grassroots outreach Avoid opening to an empty parking lot by building social proof early Want to connect d…