Send Johni & Jess a text On this episode of The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Chef K—a chef, cookbook author, TV host, and culinary tour guide whose passion for food began in a small village in Northern Italy. What started as learning recipes from local grandmothers turned into a full-blown career that spans professional kitchens, television, and global culinary travel experiences. Chef K has two seasons on Eat This TV Network, and is filming a third season this year! Chef K shares how those early lessons shaped her philosophy around cooking with intention, simplicity, and heart—and how she carried that into high-pressure New York City kitchens as an Executive Chef. The conversation dives into the realities of restaurant life, leadership in the kitchen, and the balance between speed and soul when creating food that truly nourishes. From there, the story expands beyond the kitchen. Chef K talks about her transition into media with her show Chef K’s Kitchen, her appearances on national television, and the inspiration behind her cookbooks—each rooted in making cooking approachable, local, and meaningful. Listeners will also get practical takeaways, including Chef K’s go-to “K Hacks” for creating flavorful meals on a budget, essential pantry staples, and common mistakes home cooks make (and how to avoid them). But this episode isn’t just about cooking—it’s about experience. Chef K gives a behind-the-scenes look at her “Take Your Tastebuds Traveling” culinary tours, from regional Italian food journeys to upcoming adventures in Greece. She also previews an exciting Route 66 culinary trip planned for 2026, celebrating the iconic highway’s 100th anniversary through food, culture, and hidden gems across America. This episode is a celebration of food, culture, and the stories that connect us—all served with a side of inspiration. Learn more about Chef K: Website: chefkcooking.com FB: Twisted Cheers brings friendly, skilled bartenders straight to your event so you can relax and actually enjoy the party. With flexible packages like Cap & Cork, Triple Sip, and Sip Sip Hooray, they make it easy to add a little extra wow to weddings, corporate events, birthdays, reunions, and private parties. Visit Twistedcheers.com to learn more and start planning your next event. River City Consulting builds websites specifically for creatives — musicians, performers, and artists who need an online presence that matches their talent. They’re also the official website agency for The Hook podcast. Learn more at RiverCityConsulting.com and use Promo Code THEHOOK for serious savings. Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.
