In this episode I speak with Chef Curtis Aikens. Curtis is a former host and Founding Chef of The Food Network. Mentored by Julia Child, Chef Paul Prudhomme, The Green Grocer, Joe Carcione, and Edna Lewis, he is one of the few chefs featured in Julia Child's kitchen at the Smithsonian. After learning to read at age 26 through Literacy Volunteers of America and the Marin County Free Library, Chef Curtis has authored seven books sharing his passion for the culinary world, along with his personal journey of struggle and success.

Curtis has hosted shows for ABC and been featured on major networks including CNN, NBC, and CBS. He has hosted seven shows for Food Network and made live appearances around the world. Chef Curtis has been invited as a guest chef at the White House for three sitting presidents, both Democrat and Republican.

He currently lives in Novato, California, with his fiancée Lisa and runs a garden and culinary program for the Marin County Cooperation Team in Sausalito and Marin City. Chef Curtis’s personal motto is Spread Love.