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Season 9 is here! 🎉 And this time, we’re diving deep into wellbeing in the hospitality industry, as we all know it can be a tough place to be. James Knight-Paccheco returns with a season dedicated to the real struggles and challenges faced by chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals, featuring raw, honest conversations with inspiring guests.This season isn’t just about food—it’s about thriving in an industry that never stops. Expect practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories on how to manage stress, recognize mental health struggles, and create supportive work environments.00:00 Special Announcement!00:47 Welcome to Season 901:21 Focus on Wellness and Mental Health02:12 Sponsors and Partnerships03:04 Sneak Peek of Upcoming Episodes05:48 Personal Updates and Achievements08:04 Mental Health in Hospitality09:47 Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Issues14:10 Resources for Mental Health Support15:53 Conclusion and Season Wrap-UpA huge thank you to our partners:Luvv Fits - www.luvvfits.com Westholme - www.westholme.comJoin the Conversation LIVE🚨 We’re taking the podcast on the road! 🚨Join Chef JKP for live recordings at Time Out Market Dubai on April 13th, 20th, and 27th. Expect raw, unfiltered conversations, audience Q&As, and an inside look at what’s shaping the future of hospitality.Make sure to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode. Leave us a review and let us know what topics YOU want to hear this season.Links for free mental health advise is below;·       7 Cups7cups.comProvides free, anonymous emotional support through online chat with trained volunteer listeners, along with community forums.·       Mental Health America (MHA)mhanational.orgOffers free mental health screenings, educational resources, and information to help users better understand and manage mental health.·       The Mightythemighty.comAn online community where people share their personal experiences with mental health challenges and support one another.·       Mindmind.org.ukAlthough based in the UK, Mind provides extensive mental health information, advice, and support services that can benefit users worldwide.·       Samaritanssamaritans.orgOffers free, confidential support for people in distress. While its primary services focus on the UK and Ireland, the website provides useful global resources and crisis intervention advice.·       IMAliveimalive.orgA free online crisis chat service where individuals can speak with trained volunteers if they’re in distress (primarily available for the US, but accessible online).Remember: Food is memories. Enjoy Season 9, culinary brothers and sisters! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us Fan Mail

🚨The Season 8 Finale is here! 

And we’re closing it out with an absolute legend in the world of gastronomy - Chef Pierre Koffmann. 

In this special episode, James Knight-Paccheco is joined by Pierre and his brother-in-law Simon for an unforgettable conversation that dives deep into the career of one of the most influential chefs of our time.

From shaping the golden age of fine dining in London to mentoring industry giants like Marco Pierre White and Gordon Ramsay, Pierre’s legacy in the culinary world is nothing short of extraordinary. This episode is truly one for the books.

Tune in to learn:

👨‍🍳London’s fine dining evolution: Pierre’s experiences at Waterside Inn, opening La Tante Claire, and the challenges of achieving three Michelin stars.

👨‍🍳A career of influence: How Pierre’s mentorship shaped some of the most iconic chefs in the industry.

👨‍🍳Life after Michelin: From retiring and traveling to launching The Food Heroes, a project celebrating quality produce and the artisans behind it.

👨‍🍳Expanding horizons: Pierre and Simon discuss their insights on the Middle East’s growing culinary scene and what excites them about the future.

This episode is an inspiring tribute to one of the greatest chefs of our time - a master of classic French cuisine and a mentor to generations of chefs. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to the Grand Finale!

06:33 Early Life and Culinary Beginnings of Pierre Koffmann

20:18 Moving to London and Career Growth

28:34 Opening La Tante Claire and Earning Three Michelin Stars

51:01 Life After Michelin: Retirement and Pop-Up Restaurants

59:34 The Food Heroes: Celebrating Quality Produce

01:15:21 The Middle East’s Culinary Scene

01:20:25 Quick Fire Questions and Reflections

01:33:19 Season Finale: Thank You

01:35:19 Special announcement!

🎉 What. A. Season. Thank you for being part of Season 8 - we’ve had an incredible lineup of guests, stories, and insights. Don’t forget to follow, share, and subscribe - so you don’t miss what’s coming next!

Drop us a review and let us know 👉 What was your favorite moment from this season?

A special thanks to our sponsors for supporting Season 8:

Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com)

No More Bottles (nomorebottles.ae)

LuvvFitS Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)

Get your hands on the Chef JKP thermos bottles, perfect for keeping your drinks hot or cold. Available now at chefjkp.com – or DM us on Instagram!

FOLLOW PIERRE: 

https://www.instagram.com/pierre.koffmann/

FOLLOW THE FOOD HEROES 
https://www.instagram.com/thefoodheroesfamily/

FOLLOW SIMON
https://www.instagram.com/bigsimonthespud/

FOLLOW THE CHEFJKP PODCAST 
https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/

Food is memories. 🍔🥘🌮🌯🍣🎂🍦

Enjoy the episode! 🌟🌟🌟

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In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco chats with Neha Mishra, the trailblazing chef and founder of Kinoya, one of Dubai’s most celebrated culinary destinations. Neha opens up about her unique journey - from an independent upbringing and diverse career paths to discovering her passion for ramen and transforming it into an international phenomenon.Tune in to listen to our discussion on:👨‍🍳Going from independence to passion: Neha reflects on her independent upbringing and the pivotal moments that ignited her love for food👨‍🍳The Ramen Obsession: How a fascination with ramen led Neha to Japan, where she immersed herself in the art and craft of this iconic dish👨‍🍳From supper club to Kinoya: The challenges and triumphs of starting a supper club and turning it into Kinoya, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant that quickly became a Dubai favourite👨‍🍳Recognition and expansion: Neha’s emotional journey of receiving global accolades, including being featured in 50 Best and opening a new location at Harrods in London👨‍🍳Lessons from the kitchen: Insights into the pressures of running a restaurant, the importance of a strong team, and overcoming imposter syndrome.This episode is packed with stories of resilience, creativity, and culinary mastery. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast, a budding chef, or simply someone chasing a dream, Neha’s journey will leave you inspired and ready to take on the world.You can follow Neha on HERE A special thank you to our sponsors for their continued support:Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com)LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)Stay refreshed in style with our Chef JKP thermos bottles, designed to keep drinks hot or cold for hours. Order yours today at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!Don’t forget to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast to keep up with inspiring stories like Neha’s. Leave us a review—it means the world to us and helps spread the love for food and hospitality.FOLLOW KINOYA: https://www.instagram.com/kinoya.ae/?hl=enFood is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍜Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco chats with Neha Mishra, the trailblazing chef and founder of Kinoya, one of Dubai’s most celebrated culinary destinations. 

Neha opens up about her unique journey - from an independent upbringing and diverse career paths to discovering her passion for ramen and transforming it into an international phenomenon.

Tune in to listen to our discussion on:

👨‍🍳Going from independence to passion: Neha reflects on her independent upbringing and the pivotal moments that ignited her love for food

👨‍🍳The Ramen Obsession: How a fascination with ramen led Neha to Japan, where she immersed herself in the art and craft of this iconic dish

👨‍🍳From supper club to Kinoya: The challenges and triumphs of starting a supper club and turning it into Kinoya, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant that quickly became a Dubai favourite

👨‍🍳Recognition and expansion: Neha’s emotional journey of receiving global accolades, including being featured in 50 Best and opening a new location at Harrods in London

👨‍🍳Lessons from the kitchen: Insights into the pressures of running a restaurant, the importance of a strong team, and overcoming imposter syndrome.

This episode is packed with stories of resilience, creativity, and culinary mastery. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast, a budding chef, or simply someone chasing a dream, Neha’s journey will leave you inspired and ready to take on the world.

You can follow Neha on HERE 

A special thank you to our sponsors for their continued support:

Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com)

LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)

Stay refreshed in style with our Chef JKP thermos bottles, designed to keep drinks hot or cold for hours. Order yours today at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!

Don’t forget to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast to keep up with inspiring stories like Neha’s. Leave us a review—it means the world to us and helps spread the love for food and hospitality.

FOLLOW KINOYA: 

https://www.instagram.com/kinoya.ae/?hl=en

Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍜

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Pacheco welcomes Doxis Bekris, Vice President of Culinary Shared Services and Concept Development at Emirates Flight Catering, for an in-depth conversation about the fascinating world of in-flight culinary operations. From his childhood in Greece to leading one of the world’s largest catering services, Doxis shares his journey and the dedication it takes to create exceptional dining experiences at 40,000 feet.Tune in to learn:👨‍🍳 Chef’s journey: How Doxis transitioned from studying in Greece to working in Michelin-starred kitchens in the UK👨‍🍳 Innovating airline cuisine: The art and science of creating meals that meet the highest standards of quality, taste, and consistency on a massive scale👨‍🍳 Behind the numbers: The logistical feats of serving over 240,000 meals daily for Emirates and other airlines👨‍🍳 Culinary leadership: Doxis’ approach to managing diverse teams, ensuring safety and hygiene, and maintaining exceptional service across global operations👨‍🍳 Sustainability matters: How Emirates Flight Catering tackles food waste and adopts sustainable practices to improve the industry.This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the complexity and creativity behind in-flight dining. Whether you’re a chef, a traveler, or simply curious about what goes into those meals served at cruising altitude, Doxis’ story is packed with insights and inspiration.Big thanks to our sponsors for supporting this episode:Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com) - You can follow them on HERELuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com) - You can follow them on HEREKeep your beverages at the perfect temperature with our Chef JKP thermos bottles. Grab yours now at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!FOLLOW DOXIS:https://www.instagram.com/doxisbekris/?hl=enBe sure to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast. If you loved this episode, leave a review and help us share these amazing stories with the world!Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Pacheco welcomes Doxis Bekris, Vice President of Culinary Shared Services and Concept Development at Emirates Flight Catering, for an in-depth conversation about the fascinating world of in-flight culinary operations. 

From his childhood in Greece to leading one of the world’s largest catering services, Doxis shares his journey and the dedication it takes to create exceptional dining experiences at 40,000 feet.

Tune in to learn:

👨‍🍳 Chef’s journey: How Doxis transitioned from studying in Greece to working in Michelin-starred kitchens in the UK

👨‍🍳 Innovating airline cuisine: The art and science of creating meals that meet the highest standards of quality, taste, and consistency on a massive scale

👨‍🍳 Behind the numbers: The logistical feats of serving over 240,000 meals daily for Emirates and other airlines

👨‍🍳 Culinary leadership: Doxis’ approach to managing diverse teams, ensuring safety and hygiene, and maintaining exceptional service across global operations

👨‍🍳 Sustainability matters: How Emirates Flight Catering tackles food waste and adopts sustainable practices to improve the industry.

This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the complexity and creativity behind in-flight dining. Whether you’re a chef, a traveler, or simply curious about what goes into those meals served at cruising altitude, Doxis’ story is packed with insights and inspiration.

Big thanks to our sponsors for supporting this episode:

Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com) - You can follow them on HERE

LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com) - You can follow them on HERE

Keep your beverages at the perfect temperature with our Chef JKP thermos bottles. Grab yours now at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!

FOLLOW DOXIS:

https://www.instagram.com/doxisbekris/?hl=en

Be sure to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast. If you loved this episode, leave a review and help us share these amazing stories with the world!

Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us Fan Mail

In this milestone 100th episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight Paccheco reflects on the incredible journey since the podcast's inception in May 2020!

JKP explores memorable moments from past episodes with renowned chefs, CEOs, and media personalities.

The episode is a celebration of the culinary industry's vibrant stories and a look forward to many more episodes of truth-telling, laughter, and learning.

P.S. Keep an eye out for an exciting announcement!

00:00 Welcome to the 100th Episode

00:46 A Trip Down Memory Lane

01:59 The Very First Introduction Clip

03:20 Early Challenges and Growth

04:58 Incredible Guests and Their Stories

12:14 Lessons Learned from the Best

21:49 Exciting Announcements and Future Plans

22:39 Thank You and Final Thoughts

 Whether you've been here since day one or you're joining us just now, your support means absolutely everything!

 Here's to the next 100 episodes of truth telling, laughter, and learning. Food is memories! 🍜

A special thank you to our sponsors for their continued support:

Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com) - You can follow them on HERE 

LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com) - You can follow them on HERE

Food is Memories !

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

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In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Fay Economides, Executive Managing Director of M Management Company, to discuss her extraordinary journey from the world of finance to becoming a leading restaurateur in Dubai. 
Fay shares her inspiring story, from growing up in Athens with a love for food to opening two of Dubai’s most celebrated restaurants, Mythos and Nola Eatery & Social House, simultaneously.

Tune in for a great discussion about:

👨‍🍳Going from finance to food: Fay talks about her early career in banking and venture capital and how those experiences shaped her approach to the restaurant business

👨‍🍳Building iconic restaurants: The challenges and triumphs of creating two beloved dining spots and their influence on Dubai’s culinary scene

👨‍🍳Greek hospitality in Dubai: Insights into evolving Greek cuisine and adapting traditional flavors for a global audience

👨‍🍳Overcoming business challenges: Strategies for marketing pre-social media, managing staff retention, and navigating the hospitality industry’s unique hurdles

👨‍🍳Community and recognition: Reflections on fostering a supportive team culture and earning accolades like being named among the top 50 best discoveries

Whether you’re a restaurateur, a foodie, or an entrepreneur, Faye’s story offers valuable lessons on following your passion and building a lasting legacy.

You can follow Fay on HERE

Fay on LinkedIN

Mythos - follow HERE

Nola - follow HERE

A big thank you to our sponsors for supporting this episode:

Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com)

LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)

Stay hydrated with our Chef JKP thermos bottles, perfect for keeping your drinks hot or cold for hours. Order yours now at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!

Don’t forget to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast to keep up with inspiring stories like Faye’s. If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review—it helps us reach more listeners and share these incredible journeys!

Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Carmen Landsberg, Global Executive Chef of Brunch & Cake, to explore her extraordinary culinary journey. From helping her mom in the kitchen as a child in South Africa to navigating the high-stakes world of casino kitchens and leading an internationally recognized brand, Carmen shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.

Tune in to learn about:

👨‍🍳 Casino kitchens and leadership: Insights into the fast-paced world of hospitality and becoming a Head Chef at just 20 years old.

👨‍🍳 Building global success: Carmen’s journey to Dubai, her role at Brunch and Cake, and the challenges of managing international teams.

👨‍🍳Star-studded collaborations: Behind-the-scenes stories of working with Tyra Banks and stepping into the world of TV cooking shows.

👨‍🍳 The future of food: Predictions for the food and beverage industry, including cultural trends, sustainability, and innovation.

Carmen’s story is equal parts inspiring and relatable, offering practical advice for aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs while celebrating the creativity and resilience that define great leadership. Whether you’re in hospitality or simply passionate about food, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and heartfelt moments.

• 00:00 Introduction
• 03:56 Early Influences and Unique Food Memories
• 12:29 Launching a Catering Business at 16
• 29:07 Lessons from Casino Kitchens and Leadership
• 42:35 Moving to Dubai and Career Shifts
• 56:33 The Brunch & Cake Story
• 01:08:34 Collaborating with Tyra Banks and TV Experiences
• 01:17:07 Industry Challenges and Hiring Struggles
• 01:25:54 The Future of Food and Beverage
• 01:33:34 Quick Fire Round

You can follow Carmen on HERE 

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting this episode:

• Chef Middle East (chefmiddleeast.com)
• LuvvFits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)

Stay stylish and hydrated with our Chef JKP thermos bottles, perfect for keeping drinks hot or cold. Order yours now at chefjkp.com or DM us on Instagram!

Don’t miss out—follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast on YouTube and all major platforms. If you loved this episode, leave a review and share your favorite takeaways!

Food is memories! 🍴

Support the show

Follow The Chef JKP Podcast on Instagram HERE