Chef Life Radio

Adam M Lamb

Chef Life Radio is for chefs and culinary leaders who already know how to cook, but were never taught how to carry responsibility without burning out, breaking their teams, or losing themselves in the process. Hosted by Chef Adam Lamb, culinary leadership coach and creator of The Successful Chef™ framework, this show explores what it actually takes to lead in modern kitchens, emotionally, operationally, and humanely. This is not a cooking show. It’s a leadership conversation. Each episode cuts through industry noise to address the real work beneath the apron: • Leading people instead of managing chaos • Rebuilding personal agency in high-pressure environments • Creating cultures rooted in trust, clarity, and accountability • Reducing burnout without sacrificing standards • Choosing sustainability over survival Some episodes are solo reflections. Some are conversations with chefs and leaders doing the work. All of them are grounded in lived experience — not theory. If you love the craft, but feel like the business has used that love against you, you’re not wrong. You’re just ready for a different way to lead. Chef Life Radio is where that conversation begins. Register for the free monthly Culinary Leadership Lab: a live working space for chefs ready to lead without losing themselves @ https://link.cheflifecoaching.com/leadershiplab

  1. 239 | Chef Live Radio LIVE: Why Chef Mental Health Matters More Than Perfect Plates

    11 NOV.

    239 | Chef Live Radio LIVE: Why Chef Mental Health Matters More Than Perfect Plates

    The culinary industry is more than just creating beautiful dishes; it's a world where passion meets vulnerability, where creativity collides with chaos, and where the very people who nourish others often struggle to nourish themselves. What happens when we finally start having the conversations that matter most? Don't you wish you had a place to go where you can drop your apron and just be you? Well now there is: Join The Chef Life Brigade Private Member Community by clicking here In this inaugural Chef Life Radio Live event from the Mule in Asheville, North Carolina, we gather as a community to address the elephant in the kitchen: mental health, addiction, and the culture that's been shaping our industry for far too long. From Rock Bottom to Rising UpChef Paul Cressend shares his raw, unfiltered journey through 27 years in the industry—from the dive bars of Nashville to the fine dining establishments of Charlotte, and ultimately to his recovery and rebirth as an entrepreneur in Asheville. His story illuminates the reality many of us face: the functional addiction that seems acceptable until it becomes the very thing holding us back from greatness. Paul's path through rehab, farm work, and eventually building his own private chef business, Pauliboy Enterprises, demonstrates that there's life beyond the destructive patterns we've normalized in our kitchens. The Hurricane That Changed EverythingHurricane Helene didn't just devastate western North Carolina physically—it stripped away the facade and revealed who we really are as a community. In the aftermath, something beautiful emerged: neighbors feeding neighbors, chefs supporting chefs, and a renewed understanding of what hospitality truly means. Breaking the Cycle of SilenceJennifer Hough joins the conversation to offer an outsider's perspective on the intensity that defines our industry. Her observations about the dopamine addiction cycle, the instant gratification nature of kitchen work, and the way we've learned to dismiss genuine appreciation reveal uncomfortable truths about how we operate. The discussion tackles head-on: Why "thank you" becomes meaningless when you hear it constantlyThe connection between kitchen culture and addiction patterns How the brigade system, while effective, can perpetuate unhealthy dynamicsThe importance of having conversations before it's too late Eight Minutes That Could Save a LifeResearch shows that eight minutes of genuine conversation with someone who cares can literally change brain chemistry and pull someone back from the brink of despair. It's a simple concept with profound implications for how we show up for each other. "This is our mess, and I consider myself part of the problem, but that's why I want to be part of the solution."Building Something BetterThis isn't just another podcast episode, it's a call to action. Whether you're a seasoned executive chef, a line cook finding your way, or someone who simply cares about the people who feed our communities, this conversation offers hope and practical steps forward. The path to change starts with acknowledging where we are, sharing our stories without shame, and committing to being present for one another in ways that actually...

    1 h 1 min
  2. 238 | Chef Franck Desplechin: Lessons from the Long Game

    9 NOV.

    238 | Chef Franck Desplechin: Lessons from the Long Game

    The Real Measure of Culinary Leadership: When Cooks Choose You Over Money In a world obsessed with celebrity chefs and flashy culinary theatrics, Chef Franck Desplechin represents something far more valuable: the quiet mastery of sustained excellence. From Michelin-starred kitchens in France to high-volume hotel operations across continents, Chef Franck has built his reputation not on ego or spectacle, but on the unglamorous fundamentals that actually matter—discipline, mentorship, and the long view of leadership Join the Chef Life Brigade Member Community by clicking here In this episode of Chef Life Radio, I sit down with a chef who's witnessed the evolution of our industry from the inside out, and more importantly, has evolved with it. We explore the challenging transition from being a technically excellent cook to becoming a leader worth following, and why the hardest lesson in leadership might be learning when to stay silent. From Perfectionist to People DeveloperChef Franck opens up about his early days in France, where the pursuit of Michelin stars shaped his understanding of excellence: How the relentless standards of fine dining created both his greatest strengths and biggest blind spotsThe moment he realized technical skill alone wouldn't make him a successful leaderWhy his first attempts at management nearly drove away the very people he needed most The Validation That Really MattersWe discuss what true success looks like in culinary leadership: Why the best chefs measure their worth by who follows them, not who applauds themThe profound moment when team members choose growth over money to stay with your visionHow retention became his unexpected competitive advantage in an industry plagued by turnover "I realized very quickly that everyone has a good reason to be in this. Everyone has their own journey and it is up to you to get to know their journey, where they're headed." The Craft of Building OthersChef Franck shares his philosophy on what it means to be in service: How he shifted from seeing cooking as his craft to viewing mentorship as his true art formThe responsibility that comes with the power to shape someone's anniversary dinner—or their entire careerWhy making yourself obsolete is actually the highest form of culinary leadership Lessons from the Marathon MindsetIn our conversation, we explore: How to balance the creative passion of menu development with the patient work of people developmentWhy some of his greatest teachers were the chefs he didn't want to emulateThe difference between being ready for leadership and being willing to step into it This episode offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to build a culinary career that extends beyond the kitchen. Whether you're struggling with the transition from cook to leader, or you're an experienced chef looking to deepen your impact, Chef Franck's insights provide a roadmap for creating the kind of legacy that outlasts any menu or review. Ready to discover what sustained excellence looks like when nobody's watching? This conversation will challenge your assumptions about success and inspire you to lead from a place of genuine service. Join the Crew & Support The Show @Join the Crew & Support The Show Stay Tall & Frosty and Remember to Lead from the Heart, Adam Links In The Show Chef Franck on the...

    45 min
  3. 95: Master Culinary Success Now: Top Time-Saving Tips

    22 AOÛT

    95: Master Culinary Success Now: Top Time-Saving Tips

    The No Hesitations Restaurant Leadership Podcast with Christin Marvin Imagine having the power to reclaim your time in the chaotic world of professional kitchens.  That's exactly what Chef Adam Lamb offers in this illuminating conversation about his new book, "The Successful Chef: Time Strategies That Actually Work." Chef Lamb doesn't just theorize about productivity—he delivers battle-tested strategies born from years in the trenches of high-pressure kitchens and his subsequent journey as a coach to culinary professionals. His approach centers around "the 1% way," the transformative power of small, consistent improvements that compound over time, creating sustainable change without the crash-and-burn cycle of dramatic overhauls. The conversation dives deep into what Lamb calls "the narrow path"—eliminating distractions and protecting your attention in a world designed to fragment it. He shares vulnerable personal stories about missed family moments and hard-won lessons about presence, both in and out of the kitchen. Rather than chasing the myth of work-life balance, Lamb advocates for work-life harmony, acknowledging the seasonal nature of restaurant work and creating transparent communication around those realities. What makes this episode particularly valuable is the practical, applicable nature of the advice. From creating proper systems for delegation to developing succession plans that protect both the business and its people, Chef Lamb outlines concrete steps that any culinary professional can implement immediately. His forthcoming work on communication strategies addresses another critical pain point in kitchen culture—how clarity in expectations and outcomes prevents most workplace problems before they begin. Ready to stop being a slave to your schedule and start leading your time with intention? This conversation will give you the roadmap to make it happen. Subscribe now and check out Chef Adam Lamb's work at Chef Life Radio and Chef Life Coaching to continue your journey toward sustainable success in the culinary world. Resources: Adam Lamb The Successful Chef: Time Strategies That Actually Work Christin Marvin The Independent Restaurant Framework

    40 min
  4. 236 | Christin Marvin: Intentional Growth Strategies for Thriving Restaurant Groups

    20 AOÛT

    236 | Christin Marvin: Intentional Growth Strategies for Thriving Restaurant Groups

    As chefs and restaurateurs, we often dream of expanding our culinary empires. To learn all the secrets of the framework to unlock successful scalability for your business visit https://www.IRFbook.com But the journey from a single successful restaurant to a thriving multi-unit operation is fraught with challenges.  How can we grow sustainably while maintaining the essence of what made us successful in the first place? In this episode of Chef Life Radio, I sit down with Christen Marvin, author of "Multi-Unit Mastery, Simplify Operations, Maximize Profits and Lead with Confidence" to explore the intricacies of scaling independent restaurant concepts. We dive deep into the strategies that can help you transition from a lone culinary artist to a visionary restaurant group leader. Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction and Appreciation 00:03:49 - Challenges of Restaurant Group Expansion 00:09:36 - Key Pillars for Successful Growth 00:15:05 - The Three Ps: People, Process, Profits 00:18:53 - Culture and Core Values in Restaurant Groups 00:22:08 - Effective Internal Communication 00:27:50 - Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges Navigating the Challenges of Expansion We discuss the common pitfalls restaurant owners face when growing their businesses, including: The struggle to let go of control and trust new team membersBalancing standardization with creativity across multiple locationsMaintaining consistent culture and values as the organization expands The Human Element in Multi-Unit Success Christen emphasizes the importance of: Investing in people through training and development opportunitiesCreating clear communication channels across the organizationAligning core values with hiring practices and performance reviews From Imposter Syndrome to Empowered Leadership In a candid moment, Christen shares her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt and rediscovering her passion for the industry. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-reflection and continuous learning in leadership roles. Whether you're contemplating opening your second location or aiming to build a restaurant empire, this conversation offers a roadmap for growth that prioritizes both profitability and the human experience. Tune in to gain insights that could transform your approach to multi-unit restaurant management and help you create a legacy that extends far beyond a single dining room. Join the Crew & Support The Show @Join the Crew & Support The Show Stay Tall & Frosty and Remember to Lead from the Heart, Adam Links In The Show Restaurant Leadership Podcast: Overcome Burnout, Embrace Freedom, and Drive GrowthSolutions by...

    41 min
  5. 234 | Nio DiPietrantonio: From Burnout to Bliss - A Chefs Journey to Purpose and Balance

    29 AVR.

    234 | Nio DiPietrantonio: From Burnout to Bliss - A Chefs Journey to Purpose and Balance

    In the high-pressure world of culinary arts, finding balance and purpose can be a challenge. As chefs, we often sacrifice our well-being for the sake of our craft. But what if there was a way to maintain our passion while prioritizing our mental and physical health? Subscribe to The Recipe For Your Success Newsletter In this episode, I sit down with Chef Nio DiPietrantonio, a culinary professional who's experienced the ups and downs of the industry firsthand. We explore his journey from the intense restaurant scene to a more balanced role in senior living communities, and how this transition sparked a mission to support fellow hospitality workers. A Shift in PerspectiveChef Nio shares his personal story of burnout and health struggles, including a wake-up call that forced him to reevaluate his career path. We discuss: • The cultural shock of moving from traditional restaurants to senior living facilities • Finding purpose and connection in cooking for a different demographic • Balancing creativity with nutritional needs in healthcare settings Building a Support NetworkInspired by his experiences, Chef Nio co-founded Serving Up Support Maine, a grassroots organization dedicated to helping hospitality workers. We delve into: • The genesis of the organization during the pandemic • Addressing issues like substance abuse, financial struggles, and mental health • The importance of community and peer support in the industry Changing the NarrativeOur conversation tackles the broader issues facing the culinary world and how we can work towards positive change: • Challenging the "badge of honor" mentality around overwork and stress • The need for leadership and adaptability training in culinary education • Creating a more sustainable and supportive industry for future generations This episode offers a candid look at the challenges facing culinary professionals and provides hope for a brighter future. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, you'll find valuable insights on creating a more balanced and fulfilling career in the kitchen. Key Takeaways:• The importance of prioritizing mental and physical health in the culinary industry • How changing work environments can lead to new perspectives and opportunities • The power of community support in addressing industry-wide challenges • Strategies for creating a more sustainable and supportive culinary culture Join us as we explore the path to a healthier, more balanced culinary industry – one chef at a time. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Chef Life Radio 00:17 - Meet Chef Neo DiPietrantonio 00:46 - The Origin of Serving Up Support Maine 01:11 - The Reality of Hospitality Work 04:54 - The Importance of Humility and Learning 07:15 - Struggles and Resilience in the Culinary World 12:34 - Transition to Senior Living Communities 15:04 - Challenges and Rewards of Senior Living Kitchens 21:27 - Balancing Flavor and Nutrition in Cooking 21:50 - Challenges of Working with Nutritionists 24:21 - Creating a Support Network During the Pandemic 26:43 - Founding Serving Up Support 28:48 - Mental Health in the Hospitality Industry 35:15 - The Importance of Leadership and Adaptability 40:12 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Stay Tall & Frosty and Lead from the Heart, Adam Links In The Show Serving Up Support:...

    41 min
  6. 233 | How to Find Work Life Harmony by Throwing Out Work Life Balance

    22 AVR.

    233 | How to Find Work Life Harmony by Throwing Out Work Life Balance

    As chefs, we often find ourselves caught in a never-ending tug-of-war between our professional passion and personal life. The elusive concept of "work-life balance" can leave us feeling guilty, inadequate, and constantly juggling. But what if there's a better way? Grab "My Midday Reset" and download your free audio meditation. "Balance is b******t." ~ Adam LambIn this episode of Chef Life Radio, we're challenging the traditional notion of balance and exploring a more sustainable approach: work-life harmony. It's time to ditch the guilt and embrace a mindset that aligns with the unique rhythms of culinary life. Harmony vs. Balance: A Chef's PerspectiveDiscover why the pursuit of perfect balance might be holding you back: • The pitfalls of the 50/50 mindset in a chef's world • How harmony allows for flexibility and presence • Real-life examples of chefs who've found their rhythm Designing Your Culinary LifestyleLearn practical strategies to cultivate harmony: • Identifying core values to guide your decisions • Creating rituals for smoother transitions between work and home • Auditing your week to align energy with priorities From Burnout to BrillianceExplore how shifting from balance to harmony can transform your career and personal life: • Overcoming guilt and shame to be fully present • Redefining success on your own terms • Building resilience through intentional integration Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 01:14 - The Illusion of Work-Life Balance 02:20 - Embracing Work-Life Harmony 02:47 - Personal Story: Struggling with Boundaries 04:35 - Redefining Success in the Culinary World 09:43 - Practical Steps to Achieve Harmony 13:04 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts 14:28 - Outro and Call to Action This episode offers a fresh perspective on navigating the demands of chef life without sacrificing what matters most. Whether you're a seasoned executive chef or just starting your culinary journey, you'll gain insights to create a more fulfilling and sustainable career. Ready to trade in your juggling act for a life that flows? Tune in and discover how to lead with intention, both in and out of the kitchen. Stay Tall & Frosty and Lead with the Heart, Adam The Recipe For Your Success Newsletter Chef Life Coaching Chef Life Media LLC

    15 min
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À propos

Chef Life Radio is for chefs and culinary leaders who already know how to cook, but were never taught how to carry responsibility without burning out, breaking their teams, or losing themselves in the process. Hosted by Chef Adam Lamb, culinary leadership coach and creator of The Successful Chef™ framework, this show explores what it actually takes to lead in modern kitchens, emotionally, operationally, and humanely. This is not a cooking show. It’s a leadership conversation. Each episode cuts through industry noise to address the real work beneath the apron: • Leading people instead of managing chaos • Rebuilding personal agency in high-pressure environments • Creating cultures rooted in trust, clarity, and accountability • Reducing burnout without sacrificing standards • Choosing sustainability over survival Some episodes are solo reflections. Some are conversations with chefs and leaders doing the work. All of them are grounded in lived experience — not theory. If you love the craft, but feel like the business has used that love against you, you’re not wrong. You’re just ready for a different way to lead. Chef Life Radio is where that conversation begins. Register for the free monthly Culinary Leadership Lab: a live working space for chefs ready to lead without losing themselves @ https://link.cheflifecoaching.com/leadershiplab