The Chef JKP Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Send us a text

In this episode, host James Knight-Paccheco is joined by Michelle Johnson, the co-founder and managing partner of the award-winning Pitfire Pizza brand. 

Michelle shares the incredible journey of how she and her husband Bill turned their pizza passion into a thriving business, overcoming challenges and building a beloved brand in the Middle East.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Growing up in rural Alabama and the food scene there
• Michelle's educational and career path, from accounting to human resources
• The origins of the Pitfire Pizza brand name and concept
• Overcoming challenges and legal battles in the early days of Pitfire
• Developing the Pitfire menu and recipes

You can follow Michele on HERE

This show is brought to you by LUVV FITS Gourmet Protein Bars, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

In this episode of the ChefJKP Podcast, David Tapley, the Editor-in-Chief of Fact Magazine, shares about his urban lifestyle magazine covering food, art, culture, and travel across the GCC region. 

Prior to his role at Fact, David had an unconventional path into media, starting out working in professional kitchens before transitioning into journalism and content creation. 

Key Topics Discussed:

• David’ first food memories growing up in the UK and how his palate expanded through travel
• Lessons learned from David’s time in the kitchen, including the challenges of long hours and rigid processes
• How David transitioned from the kitchen into travel writing and eventually joining Fact Magazine
•  Fact Magazine's approach to restaurant reviews, including how they handle negative feedback
• Advice for aspiring writers on building a portfolio and getting started in the industry

You can follow David on HERE

This show is Brough to you by KATA, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

In this episode of the Chef JKP podcast, host James Knight Paccheco interviews Dr. Dionisya Angeliki Lyra , a Halophyte agronomist from the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture. 
They discuss the fascinating world of Halophytes, salt-loving plants, focusing on Salicornia. 
The conversation delves into the nutritional value, culinary applications, and sustainable farming practices involving Salicornia. Dr. Lyra shares her passion for her work, the challenges she faces, and the exciting potential of Halophytes in the food industry.

• Introduction to Halophytes and Salicornia
• Dr. Dionysia Angeliki Lyra's background and journey into agriculture
• Collaborations and projects with Emirates Nature WWF and other partners
• Culinary applications of Salicornia and other Halophytes
• Nutritional benefits and sustainable farming practices
• Challenges and solutions in the cultivation and utilization of Halophytes
• The importance of indigenous knowledge and culinary traditions
• Potential impacts on food security and the local food market in the UAE

• Halophytes are salt-loving plants that can thrive in high saline conditions, offering nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.
• Dr. Lyra's passion for exploring Halophytes and integrating them into sustainable farming practices is evident in her work and collaborations.
• Salicornia, a type of Halophyte, holds significant nutritional value, culinary potential, and sustainable farming solutions for the UAE.
• The importance of indigenous knowledge, culinary traditions, and sustainable food practices in enhancing food security and promoting local produce.
• Collaboration between scientists, farmers, chefs, and the community is crucial for unlocking the full potential of Halophytes and revolutionizing the food landscape.

You can follow Dr.Dionysia on HERE

This show is proudly brought to you by our partners Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

The Chef JKP podcast, hosted by James Knight Paccheco, features a conversation with Chang Sup Shin, the CEO of 1004 Gourmet. 

The episode delves into Chang's culinary journey, business ventures, the unique concept of 1004 Gourmet, strategic business development in the food industry, product curation, sustainability efforts, and advice for young professionals.

Topics discussed:

·    Chang's Culinary Journey

·    Business Ventures

·    Unique Concept of 1004 Gourmetd

·    Strategic Business Development

·    Sustainability Efforts

·    Advice for Young Professionals

Key takeaways and lessons:

• Childhood food memories and experiences play a significant role in shaping culinary journeys.
• Strategic business development, product curation, and customer engagement are crucial in the food industry.
• Sustainability efforts, both environmental and human, are essential for long-term business success.
• Advice for young professionals includes learning from mistakes, embracing passion, and holding oneself accountable.
• Creating a memorable shopping experience and community support are vital in the food industry.

You can follow Chang on HERE

The show is proudly brought to you by our partners Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE 

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

Welcome to The Chef JKP Podcast with host James Knight Paccheco. 

In this episode, chef George Lyon shares his fascinating journey from working in a butcher shop to becoming the head chef at Broadway Brasserie in Abu Dhabi. 

From childhood food memories to prestigious Michelin kitchen experiences, George discusses the importance of work-life balance, culinary excellence, and teamwork in the culinary world.

Topics discussed:

·    Early Culinary Journey

·    Professional Growth

·    Challenges and Rewards in Prestigious Kitchens

·    Transition to Abu Dhabi

·    Leadership and Teamwork

·    Culinary Advice and Funny Kitchen Incident

Key takeaways and lessons:

• Childhood memories and early exposure can shape a chef's culinary journey.
• Prestigious kitchens offer both pressure and rewarding experiences.
• Work-life balance and teamwork are crucial for success in the culinary industry.
• Developing staff, passing on skills, and learning from mistakes are key for growth.
• Culinary excellence requires focus, hard work, and a passion for quality ingredients.

You can follow George on HERE

This show is proudly brought to you by our partners Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

Episode Description: 

In this episode of the Chef JKP podcast, host James Knight Pachecco explores the world of hospitality industry finances with special guest Judith Cartwright, founder and Managing Director of Black Coral Consulting. 
They discuss revenue generation, team management, common mistakes in businesses, and the importance of collaboration between finance and culinary teams for success. 

The episode is filled with valuable insights and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricacies of the hospitality sector.

Topics discussed:

·    Importance of Revenue Optimization in Hospitality Industry

·    Insights from Judith Cartwright

·    Revenue Management Journey

·    Challenges in Hospitality Industry Operations

·    Total Revenue Optimization Culture

·    Business Turnaround Strategies

·    Menu Engineering and Financial Analysis

·    Dynamic Pricing in the Restaurant Industry

·    Future of Food and Beverage Industry

·    Maximising Revenue and Professional Growth

Key takeaways and lessons:

• Data-driven decision-making is crucial for revenue optimization.
• Collaboration between finance and culinary teams is essential for business success.
• Strategic menu design and staff training can improve profitability.
• Understanding customer demographics and industry benchmarks is vital for informed decisions.

If you want to follow Judith please follow her on HERE

This show is proudly brought to you by our partners Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

In this episode of the Chef JKP podcast, host James Knight Paccheco interviews Anand Kumar, the executive chef of the Melia Desert Palm Resort in Dubai. 
Anand shares his journey from wanting to be a pilot to accidentally falling into the culinary world. 
He discusses the challenges of managing Indian weddings, the importance of pre-openings in the hotel industry, and his decision to work in Dubai's gastronomic landscape. 
Anand also talks about his focus on sustainability, farm-to-table concepts, and his aspirations for the future of dining in the region.

Topics discussed:

• Anand Kumar's journey from wanting to be a pilot to becoming an executive chef
• Challenges of managing Indian weddings and hotel pre-openings
• Focus on sustainability, locally sourced ingredients, and farm-to-table concepts
• Aspirations for the future of dining in the region
• Advice for young chefs in the industry
• Funniest kitchen incident involving a mix-up with brown butter and cream
• Anand's culinary heroes and favourite cuisines
• Reflections on his career and advice for his younger self

Key takeaways:

• Anand emphasises the importance of focusing on talent and skills rather than chasing fame or money in the culinary industry.
• He highlights the significance of following one's dreams and staying focused on achieving success.
• Anand's dedication to sustainability, sourcing locally, and creating delicious, authentic dishes for guests.
• The episode provides insights into Anand's career journey, challenges faced, and his passion for elevating dining experiences in the region.

You can follow Anand on HERE

This show is bought to you by Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE 

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

The Chef JKP Podcast, hosted by James Knight Pacheco, features an episode where he interviews Steve Pyle, the CEO of Chef Middle East. 
They discuss topics ranging from Steve's childhood food memories to the evolution of the gastronomic scene in the UK and the Middle East, the importance of exceptional customer service in business, the recent acquisition of Chef's Warehouse, and the future of food distribution post-COVID. 
Steve shares insights into the culinary industry, his preferences, and offers valuable advice for young chefs and F&B professionals.

Topics discussed:

• Steve Pyle's Culinary Journey
• Evolution of the Gastronomic Landscape
• Chef Middle East and Culinary Connections
• Post-COVID Growth Opportunities
• Importance of Human Connection and Passion in the Culinary World
• 
  
  

Key takeaways and lessons:

• Childhood food memories can have a significant impact on one's culinary journey and career choices.
• Evolution in the gastropub scene signifies a democratisation of food and innovative dining experiences.
• Exceptional customer service, quality products, and relationship building are key to business success.
• Acquisitions can lead to business growth, market expansion, and synergies in product offerings.
• Embracing sustainability practices is essential for businesses to remain competitive and relevant.
• Culinary events like Crave provide valuable networking opportunities and foster collaboration in the industry.
• Continuous learning, passion, and human connection are vital for success in the culinary world.

You can follow Steve on HERE

The show is bought to you by Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

• Combining service and hospitality is crucial for creating a positive customer experience.
• Focus on food quality, consistency, and effective marketing strategies for success.
• Avoid overwhelming staff with frequent menu changes and prioritize talent development.
• Emphasise compassion, empathy, and team motivation for a thriving work culture.
• Support Marvin Alballi's work and engage with his insights for inspiration in the hospitality industry.

You can follow Marvin on HERE

You can purchase his book, by clicking on the link - HERE

The show is brought to you by Chef Middle East, you can follow them on HERE

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us a text

Dive into Season 6 of the Chef JKP Podcast, now streaming on YouTube! 

Host James Knight Paccheco welcomes a stellar lineup of culinary talents, CEOs, and industry experts, exploring the diverse flavours of the culinary world. 
From business strategies to sustainability, mental health, and the power of human connection, each episode offers insights, inspiration, and a dash of laughter. 
Join the conversation, share the show, and let's spread the love for food and memories together!

Topics Discussed: 

·      Season 6 lineup featuring culinary talents and industry experts.

·      Discussion on the importance of sharing the show for its growth.

·      Themes explored in the season: food, memories, laughter, vulnerability, and life lessons.

·      Insights from guests on business strategies, customer experience, and sustainability.

·      Personal stories shared by guests about their culinary journeys and career highlights.

·      Exploration of challenges in the hospitality industry, including work-life balance and mental health.

·      Importance of communication and mentorship in fostering a positive work environment.

·      Reflection on the power of human connection and the role of the hospitality industry.

·      Call for kindness and understanding towards industry professionals.

·      Invitation to engage with the podcast, leave reviews, and share with others for inspiration.

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE