The Voice4Chefs Podcast

ChefMichael
  • 5.0 (16)
  • FOOD
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The **Voice4Chefs Podcast**, hosted by Michael Dugan comes out of the kitchen and into the studio. Our Mission to amplify the voices of culinary professionals around the world by sharing their stories, passions, and journey empowering connection, leadership, and creativity through the art of podcasting.

  1. NOV 9

    EP 92: Transforming Lives with Stories: Greg Gazin's Toastmaster Odyssey.

    Send us a text Join us for an insightful interview with Greg Gazin, a distinguished Toastmaster and host of both the Toastcaster and The Official Toastmasters Podcast, recently named a Top 25 Higher Education Podcast by AcademicInfluence.com. In 2009, Greg received the Toastmasters International Presidential Citation for his innovative use of technology to benefit the Toastmasters community. This prerecorded session was live from PodMasters Advanced Toastmasters and is hosted by Michael Dugan, a storyteller, career, and podcast coach. They explore Greg's 23-year journey with Toastmasters, his evolution from a shy introvert to a global podcasting leader, and his creative approach to both storytelling and podcasting. Greg provides invaluable advice for Toastmaster podcasters, shares tips on honing your craft, and highlights the critical role Toastmasters played in his podcasting success. Learn from Greg's memorable experiences and gain practical tips to elevate your own Toastmaster podcast. 01:20 Introducing the Special Guest: Greg Gazin 03:51 Greg Gazen's Pizza Obsession 05:41 Greg's Journey into Podcasting 08:26 The Toastmasters Podcast Explained 10:22 Memorable Podcast Episodes 19:06 Podcasting Challenges and Funny Moments 28:04 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters 29:23 Toastmasters for Chefs 30:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Contact Greg:  https://gadgetgreg.com  https://toastmasterspodcast.com  https://instagram.com/gadgetgreg Join our club: Advanced Podmasters Toastmasters: podmasterstoastmasters@gmail.com Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    33 min

  2. OCT 12

    EP91: From Passion to Plate: Chef Kristen Watts Schumacher's Journey at Carnation Farms

    Send us a text In this episode of Voice4Chefs, Hosts Michael Dugan and Chef Steven engage with Chef Kristen Watts Schumacher, also known as Chef Shu, the Culinary Director at Carnation Farms in the Snoqualmie Valley, Seattle. Chef Shu shares her inspirational journey from cooking for friends in her teenage years to running the heirloom cookshop and leading farm to table feasts. The conversation delves into her early influences, challenges, and triumphs, highlighting her love for community, resilience, and food without ego. Chef Shu discusses the deep connection she feels to Carnation Farms, including the regenerative farming practices and the farm's mission to provide fresh, local produce. They explore her diverse culinary experiences, including starting a cooking class program at Carnation Farms, and how transitioning into motherhood reshaped her definition of success. The episode also touches upon her philosophy of teamwork and humility in the kitchen, the importance of local produce, and the unique experiences offered at Carnation Farms’ events such as farm dinners and feasts in the field, where guests connect directly to the land, the animals, and the dedicated team behind the scenes.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:46 Chef Shu's Culinary Journey Begins 02:40 Discovering the Passion for Cooking 05:30 From Culinary School to Professional Chef 07:46 Building the Heirloom Cook Shop 11:35 Challenges and Triumphs of Entrepreneurship 16:05 Transition to Carnation Farms 17:44 The Allure of Carnation Farms 19:40 Teaching Cooking Skills 20:23 Farm Dinners and Community Connection 20:45 Inspiration and Home Cooking 21:32 The Power of Local Ingredients 22:00 Feast in the Field Experience 24:17 Honoring the Source of Food 30:06 Leadership and Team Values 35:38 Upcoming Events at Carnation Farms 38:25 Final Thoughts and Gratitude   Website: https://carnationfarms.org Email: kristens@carnationfarms.org Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    42 min

  3. SEP 13 · BONUS

    Special Announcement: Live Interview with Greg Gazin Host of The Toastmaster Podcast

    Send us a text Special Invitation Podmasters Open House with Greg Gazin! Join us for an inspiring online Open House featuring Greg Gazin, host of the Official Toastmasters Podcast. In a live interview with Michael Dugan, host of the Voice4Chefs podcast, Greg will share his Toastmasters journey, podcasting insights, and tips for amplifying your voice in today’s digital world. This is a unique opportunity to see how Toastmasters and podcasting work hand-in-hand to build confidence, leadership, and storytelling skills. 🗓️ Date: Sunday, September 14th 🕖 Time: 7:00 PM EDT  📍 Register here:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/podmasters-open-house-a-conversation-with-greg-gazin-tickets-1613605259769?aff=oddtdtcreator Or email PodmastersToastmasters@gmail.com for the zoom link. Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    2 min

  4. AUG 11

    EP90: Part II Chef Maricel Gentil:Celebrating Filipino Heritage from Food Channel to PBS

    Send us a text In Part II of this engaging episode of Voice4Chefs, host Michael welcomes Maricel back for part two of her incredible culinary journey. Maricel shares her fascinating experiences from dazzling appearances on PBS, Hulu, and the Food Channel. She recounts unexpected yet serendipitous connections that led her to star on these platforms, including a humorous story about ignoring a potential PBS opportunity, which turned out to be legitimate. Maricel highlights key moments from cooking competitions and shows, such as 'Recipe Rumble' and a family cooking challenge with Cake Boss Buddy Valastro, and reveals behind-the-scenes experiences of filming and lessons learned. The conversation also delves into her success as a culinary instructor, her popular Asian fusion cookbook, and upcoming projects including live TV cooking classes and expanding her business. Maricel's passion for Filipino cuisine and dedication to sharing her culinary heritage shine throughout, inspiring listeners with her vibrant energy and adventurous spirit. 00:00 Introduction to Maricel's Culinary Journey 00:21 Maricel's PBS Experience 02:23 Adventures on Hulu and Food Network 05:27 Challenges and Learning Moments 08:28 Family Competitions and Traditions 11:52 Korean Seafood Ambassador 14:15 Maricel's Cookbook and Future Plans 20:08 Cooking Classes and Events 21:51 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    27 min

  5. AUG 10

    EP89: Part I Chef Maricel Gentil:Celebrating Filipino Heritage from Food Channel to PBS

    Send us a text In this episode of Voice4Chefs, we welcome Chef Maricel Gentile, a celebrated chef educator, and ambassador of Philippine cuisine. With roots in her grandmother's kitchen in Manila, Chef Maricel's career has spanned top restaurants in New York to founding Maricel’s Kitchen in New Jersey. She has been featured on Hulu, PBS, and the Food Network, sharing the bold flavors and stories of the Philippines. Chef Maricel discusses the influence of her grandmother on her cooking, her experiences at markets in Manila, the inspiration behind her career, her classes at Maricel's Kitchen, her cookbook and her experiences appearing on various TV shows. She also shares highlights from her cookbook and upcoming projects, emphasizing her passion for keeping Filipino cuisine authentic and accessible. Join us as we explore her journey and celebrate the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines.   00:00 Introduction to Chef Maricel 00:53 Connecting Through Chef Mimi Lan 02:07 Influences from Lola's Kitchen 08:00 The Authenticity of Filipino Cuisine 10:19 Chef's Table and Kamayan Feast 17:41 Memories and Mentorship 22:52 The Rising Cost of Seafood 24:34 Corporate Team Building at Maricel's Kitchen 27:32 A Picky Eater's Transformation 28:45 From Cooking Class to TV Stardom 29:14 Unexpected Opportunities and PBS 31:03 Hulu and Food Network Adventures 37:20 Family Competitions and Traditions 40:56 Korean Seafood Ambassador 43:21 The Journey of Writing a Cookbook 46:27 Future Plans and Cooking Classes 51:06 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Contact Chef Maricel: IG:@maricelskitchenusa Website: https://maricelskitchen.com/  Facebook: maricelskitchenusa  Youtube: @maricelskitchenusa  Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    32 min

  6. JUL 20

    EP88: From Sea to Table The Story of Sena Sea with Sena Wheeler

    Send us a text In this compelling episode of Voice4Chefs, host Michael is joined by new co-host Chef Steven, a seasoned culinary professional with experience in five-star hotels and Michelin-starred kitchens. Together, they welcome Sena Wheeler, a fifth-generation fisherman and co-founder of Sena Sea, to explore the story behind one of the most trusted names in wild Alaska seafood. 🌊 Discover the Journey of Sena Sea Sena shares how her family’s deep-rooted fishing heritage and passion for sustainable practices led to the creation of Sena Sea, a direct-to-consumer company delivering premium wild-caught Alaska seafood. From the icy waters of the Pacific to your dinner plate, learn about the rigorous quality control, transparent sourcing, and deep family values that drive the company’s mission. 🍽️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ·       How Sena Sea ensures sustainability and traceability from ocean to table ·       The challenges and rewards of running a family fishing business ·       Why wild-caught seafood is essential for flavor and health ·       Behind-the-scenes stories of catching, processing, and distributing premium fish ·       What chefs and home cooks should know about sourcing high-quality seafood This episode is a must-listen for seafood lovers, chefs, culinary students, and anyone passionate about responsible food sourcing. 👉 Visit www.senasea.com to explore their full product line and learn more. 00:00 Introduction and New Co-Host Announcement 00:20 Meet Chef Steven: Culinary Journey 01:55 Introducing Special Guest: Sena Wheeler 02:47 Sena Sea: The Origin Story 05:03 Generational Fishing Legacy 06:17 Building a Personal Brand 08:30 Customer Connections and Feedback 13:05 Sustainability in Fishing 17:26 Handling Fish on Small Boats 19:50 Innovative Packaging for Sustainability 20:56 Protecting the Fishing Industry and Environment 23:22 Family-Based Seafood Business 24:37 Customer Favorites and Unique Seafood Products 28:21 The Benefits of Omega-3 in Fish 32:08 How to Support Sena Seafoods 33:28 Final Thoughts on Food and Community Contact Sena: Email: info@senasea.com  FB: www.facebook.com/senaseafoods  Web: https://senasea.com IG: @senasea_seafoods Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    37 min

  7. JUN 9

    EP87: Celebrating 4 Years of The Voice4Chefs Podcast: How Toastmasters Fueled a Global Culinary Movement

    Send us a text In this special 4-year anniversary episode of the Voice4Chefs Podcast, host Michael Dugan sits in the guest chair—interviewed by Arthur J Byrnes from Podmasters Advanced Toastmasters Club. Michael shares his deeply personal journey through Toastmasters, revealing how it helped him conquer imposter syndrome, find his voice, and launch a globally recognized platform that amplifies the stories of chefs and culinary professionals worldwide. This inspiring episode features reflections on growth, leadership, and the power of community—highlighting how a Toastmasters foundation helped shape a podcast that now reaches listeners across continents. Plus, enjoy featured insights from: Greg Gazin, co-host of The Official Toastmasters Podcast – On the power of storytelling and digital platforms for leadership Whether you're a podcast creator, culinary professional, or Toastmaster, this episode will leave you motivated to pursue your passion with courage and clarity.  Key Takeaways: How Toastmasters helped Michael build confidence and launch Voice4ChefsLessons learned from interviewing chefs, bakers, and culinary artistsThe link between public speaking, storytelling, and culinary leadershipThe importance of mentorship, community, and showing up authentically00:57 Meet Arthur Byrnes 01:58 Interview with Michael Dugan Begins 03:20 Michael Dugan's Podcast Journey 04:28 The High-Performance Leadership Project 09:39 Memorable Podcast Episodes 14:54 Unexpected Opportunities Through Podcasting 26:13 Future Plans for Voice4Chefs 29:31 Podcasting Insights and Challenges 36:36 Round Robin Feedback Toastmasters Resources Join our club: https://podmasters.toastmastersclubs.org Join Toastmasters: https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    51 min

  8. JUN 1

    EP 85: Part I Lessons Beyond The Kitchen: Mental Health at The CIA

    Send us a text As we conclude the month of May. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Voice4Chefs is proud to rerelease and spotlight the courageous and inspiring journey of Chef Abbey, whose story sheds light on the challenges—and triumphs—of mental health in the culinary world. On today’s episode, we meet Chef Abby Miller, the first recipient of the Anthony Bourdain Scholarship through the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). With a minor in Asian cuisine and a deep love for storytelling through food, Abby shares her remarkable culinary journey—from a nomadic childhood to finding her passion and voice in the kitchen. We dive into: * **Her early inspiration**: Moving over 40 times growing up, Abby discovered a sense of home and stability through food. Watching Food Network and working in her parents' restaurant at age 12 ignited her passion for the culinary arts. * **Choosing the Culinary Path**: Although originally headed toward a career in intelligence studies, Abby made a bold pivot—trading one CIA for another—to attend the Culinary Institute of America. * **Life at CIA**: Abby recounts the rigorous yet rewarding experience of culinary school, waking up at 4:30 a.m. for practical classes, becoming team leader, and eventually being chosen as the class speaker. * **Externship Growth**: She reflects on her four-month externship at Stein Eriksen Lodge in Utah, working during their busiest season. Overcoming homesickness, she found strength and mentorship that helped solidify her passion. * **Kitchen Culture and Mental Health**: Abby opens up about working in a male-dominated kitchen, navigating toxic work environments, and advocating for healthier, more supportive culinary spaces. She courageously shares her own experiences with anxiety, depression, and PTSD—highlighting the importance of mental wellness in the food industry. This episode is a heartfelt look at the resilience, determination, and advocacy that define Chef Abby Miller’s inspiring culinary journey. Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost. IG: themindfulwok Support the show Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast. Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review. https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/ Volunteer contact ChefMichael@voice4chefs.com Connect with our Culinary Stories: https://linktr.ee/voice4chef

    32 min
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About

The **Voice4Chefs Podcast**, hosted by Michael Dugan comes out of the kitchen and into the studio. Our Mission to amplify the voices of culinary professionals around the world by sharing their stories, passions, and journey empowering connection, leadership, and creativity through the art of podcasting.

Information

  • Creator
    ChefMichael
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    90
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Voice4Chefs Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Voice4Chefs Podcast