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. 1D AGO

    EP96: The Culinary Compass: Navigating from Kitchens to Podcasts with Chef Steven Leung

    Send a text Chef Steven Leung on Resilience, Entrepreneurship, and Redefining Success Beyond the Kitchen Voice4Chefs welcomes chef Steven Leung, who began cooking in his family kitchen in Hong Kong at 12, trained at Le Cordon Bleu LA, and built his career in top Las Vegas kitchens including Mandarin Oriental and the Michelin-starred Guy Savoy, later serving as executive sous chef at the Cosmopolitan. He and host Michael recount meeting during the pandemic on the Clubhouse “Food Is Religion” community, where Steven gained confidence hosting conversations and drew a record crowd of over 600 with a simplified beef chow fun demo. Steven explains how the pandemic showed the risk of building a life on a platform you don’t own, prompting a shift from titles and technique to entrepreneurship, systems, ownership, and long-term thinking, with health as a key catalyst. He defines success as freedom, sustainability, and structure, and joins Voice4Chefs as co-host to deepen conversations on sustainability, business, and legacy. 00:00 Meet Chef Steven 01:02 New Year Welcome 01:47 How We Met 04:07 Clubhouse Nerves 05:59 Mimi Recruits Steven 09:18 Beef Chow Fun Goes Viral 09:56 Simplifying Home Cooking 15:15 From Passion to Business 16:22 Career Over Job 17:25 Pandemic Wake Up Call 18:22 Ownership And Leverage 19:09 Wild Vs Zoo 21:00 Health Forced Pivot 23:56 Savings Before The Leap 24:25 Redefining Success 25:41 Voice4Chefs Vision 28:09 Legacy And Freedom 29:45 Lightning Round 31:01 Final Takeaways 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

    34 min

  2. FEB 8

    EP95: Chef Check-in Culinary Journeys in the Philippines with Chef Isi Laureano

    Send a text Chef Checkin Celebrating Filipino Cuisine with Chef Isi Laureano: Offering insights into Filipino hospitality, culinary heritage, and the value of pursuing one’s passion, this conversational check-in interview features Chef Isi Laureano, reflecting on her journey as a chef and entrepreneur in the Philippines. Isi shares experiences from the pandemic, describing how lockdowns impacted her private chef career and led to a shift toward home-based cooking and food delivery. The conversation highlights the evolution of Isi’s business ventures, including the creation of Chili Asylum, a brand focused on spicy products sourced from Filipino farmers, and her long-standing involvement with Traveling Spoon, where she hosts intimate Filipino cooking classes and food tours. Isi emphasizes the importance of family traditions, regional Filipino cuisine, and the adaptability required to thrive in changing circumstances. Exploring the diversity of Filipino food, the role of local ingredients and cooking methods, and the cultural significance of rice cakes (kakanin) as a national culinary symbol, Isi discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching, collaborating with other chefs, and maintaining work-life balance. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal growth, advice for navigating career stress, and ways to connect with Isi online. 00:00 Introduction to Chef Isi Laureano 01:34 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Pandemic 05:49 The Birth of Chili Asylum 08:12 From Spices to Chili Products 13:12 The Evolution of Haynayan Ketchups 15:59 Traveling Spoon and Culinary Tours 20:03 Malabon Food Tour and Local Heritage 26:42 Finding Passion in the Kitchen 27:11 Dreams of a Filipino Deli 27:56 Recognition and Local Bookings 29:40 Challenges of a Demanding Client 32:31 Rediscovering Joy in Cooking 36:30 A Memorable Trip to Washington 40:48 The Philippines' National Dish Debate 43:42 Regional Cooking Styles in the Philippines 48:59 Final Thoughts and Farewell Connect with Chef Isi: https://eatmattersph.wixsite.com/eatmatters https://www.instagram.com/eatmattersph/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/isilaureano/ Recent artice about Chef Isi: https://sawasdee.thaiairways.com/cooking-with-the-quiet-ambassador-of-filipino-cuisine/ Original  episode: https://www.voice4chefs.com/cooking-through-the-philippines-with-isi-laureano-of-eat-matters/ 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

    53 min

  3. JAN 11

    EP94: Chef Eda Martin From Aspiring Doctor To Accidental Chef

    Send a text From aspiring medical doctor to celebrated chef and food scientist. Chef Eda discusses her early culinary inspirations, including her pivot from nutrition to food science, and her experiences working in the high-profile Los Angeles culinary scene. Chef Eda also explores the challenges of creating allergen-free menus and the innovative techniques she employs in her cooking. Additionally, she provides insights into her role at Microsoft and her current endeavors with Cocina Casera, including their popular dishes and upcoming product launches. With a focus on tradition, creativity, and inclusivity, Chef Eda's story is both inspiring and enlightening for food enthusiasts and professionals alike. 00:00 Introduction to Chef Eda Martin 00:35 Early Culinary Inspirations 03:33 Accidental Journey to Becoming a Chef 07:49 Culinary Influences and Recipe Development 11:25 Lessons from the Kitchen 13:43 Challenging Projects and Allergen-Free Cooking 15:32 Personal Stories and Foodie Adventures 23:49 CocinaCasera: The Restaurant and Future Plans 27:02 Conclusion and How to Connect with Chef Eda Contact Chef Eda: Email: chefv2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocinacaserame/ Website: https://www.cocinacasera.me 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

    31 min

  4. JAN 7 · BONUS

    EP93: Heart of Hospitality: Chef Tracy's Journey at Pike Place Market

    Send a text This bonus episode of VoiceChefs revisits on of our first episodes and celebrates the indispensable role of volunteers in culinary and community service. Host Michael Dugan welcomes Chef Tracy Calderon, who manages the Atrium Kitchen and Cooking School in Seattle's Pike Place Market. Also running the Nourish Neighborhoods program, Chef Tracy shares how they have fed over 35,000 people during the pandemic with the help of volunteers. She reflects on her childhood, family influences, and career journey from public relations to becoming a chef. The episode highlights her initiatives like community meals and 'pay it forward' pop-up breakfasts, along with the indispensable contributions of her dedicated volunteers. They discuss her favorite recipes, culinary disasters, and the worst meals, emphasizing the impact of connecting with people through food. Chef Tracy also shares insights on securing good volunteers and the significance of unfaltering dedication to community service. 00:00 Introduction and Dedication to Volunteers 00:31 Meet Chef Tracy Calderon 01:14 Chef Tracy's Childhood and Family Influence 04:15 Transition to a Culinary Career 07:29 The Atrium Kitchen and Community Programs 09:24 Volunteers: The Heart of Nourish Neighborhood 16:48 Chef Tracy's Culinary Inspirations and Signature Dishes 23:06 Challenges and Kitchen Disasters 25:26 Nourish Neighborhood: How You Can Help 27:44 Conclusion and Farewell 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

    28 min

  5. 11/09/2025

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

    Send 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

  6. 10/12/2025

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

    Send 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

  7. 09/13/2025 · BONUS

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

    Send 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

  8. 08/11/2025

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

    Send 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
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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Voice4Chefs Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Voice4Chefs Podcast