November 02, 2025

Chef Lawrence Duran : What I Learned Working 14 Years with Mark Wahlberg | DSH #1603

41 minutes

Step into the world of Mark Wahlberg’s legendary 2:30 AM grind 🎬💪 as Chef Lawrence Duran comes on the Digital Social Hour podcast to discuss his fascinating journey as Wahlberg’s private chef. From traveling the globe for months on end to preparing regimented meals under high-pressure conditions, Chef Lawrence shares the highs and challenges of working for one of Hollywood’s hardest-working stars. He opens up about his career path, lessons in work ethic, balancing family with a demanding lifestyle, and insights into Mark’s relentless drive and discipline.

Hear about the “fanciest prison” life of globe-trotting work, the unique dynamics of private chef life, and his advice for aspiring chefs in today’s world. Don’t miss Chef Lawrence’s stories of dedication and his inspiring outlook on pushing limits to achieve greatness.

What you'll learn:

🍳 Day-in-the-life: What a private chef actually does on tour (wake times, prep, routine).

✈️ Travel reality: Why the glam of international travel is often just hotel → work → sleep.

🧠 Mindset & work ethic: Habits learned from working with a high-performance celebrity.

👪 Tradeoffs: How family priorities clash with an intense travel-driven job — and how he handles it.

💼 Career path: How an unexpected favor led from construction to cooking for Mark Wahlberg.

🔑 Career tips: Networking, loyalty, and how chefs keep (or lose) restaurants and clients.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:38 - Traveling the World with Mark Wahlberg

05:22 - Chef Lawrence's Journey as Mark Wahlberg's Personal Chef

11:38 - Vegas Food Rankings and Culinary Scene

13:33 - Best Fast Food Chains: A Culinary Review

16:12 - Eating Out: Time Management Tips

17:38 - Schooling and Culinary Education

20:00 - Everything Happens for a Reason: Life Lessons

22:48 - Working for David: Insights and Experiences

27:10 - Lessons Learned from DJ Khaled

28:14 - Turning 40: Reflections and Milestones

30:14 - Landing Good Clients: Challenges and Strategies

33:26 - Outro

34:57 - Mark Wahlberg's Weight Loss for Movie Roles

38:03 - Greatest Mark Wahlberg Movie of All Time

38:34 - Connect with Me: Social Media Links

39:13 - Like and Subscribe: Support the Channel

APPLY OR CONNECT

Apply to be on the podcast: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application

Business inquiries / sponsors:[email protected]

GUEST:

Chef Lawrence Duran: https://www.instagram.com/chef_lawrence_d/

LISTEN ON

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759

Sean Kelly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmikekelly/

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DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed by guests on *Digital Social Hour* are solely those of the individuals appearing on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, **Sean Kelly**, or the *Digital Social Hour* team.

While we encourage open and honest discussions, Sean Kelly is **not legally responsible** for any statements, claims, or opinions made by guests during the show.

Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and to seek professional advice where appropriate. Content on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, financial, or professional advice.

We strive to present accurate and reliable information; however, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or accuracy. The views expressed are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent those of the producers or affiliates of this program.

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By Sean Kelly

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