Ep 134: A Welsh Welcome: Bringing Worldchefs Congress 2026 to Wales with Arwyn Watkins OBE

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs President and long-time leader in the global culinary community. From his early beginnings in Melbourne to his role as President of the Emirates Culinary Guild and now Worldchefs President, Andy has dedicated his career to elevating chefs and hospitality professionals worldwide. With one year of his presidency now complete, he reflects on the milestones achieved, the importance of education and communication, and his vision for sustaining Worldchefs for the next 100 years. Tune in to hear about the importance of networking and discover how Andy aims to secure Worldchefs’ future and strengthen its global presence. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Arwyn Watkins OBE, President of the Culinary Association of Wales and the driving force behind bringing the Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026 to the UK for the first time in its 98-year history. Arwyn has played a significant role in Wales’ culinary scene, from coaching their junior team to a gold medal at the Culinary Olympics in 2004 to leading the successful bid to host Worldchefs' landmark event. Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026 promises to be an unforgettable showcase of the country’s culinary identity, with networking, educational sessions, competitions, a world-class expo, and more. Tune in to hear Arwyn share the vision for the 2026 Congress, including the theme “Pasture, Passion, Plate,” immersive experiences for young chefs, and how Wales’ unique food, culture, and heritage will shape this global gathering. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Chef Noreen Mira, whose journey from healthcare to the kitchen has shaped her ambitions to address nutrition, food security, and sustainability through food. With a background in psychology and years of experience in emergency and primary care, Noreen witnessed firsthand how access to quality food impacts health outcomes, inspiring her to pivot her career during the COVID pandemic. Today, she brings her medical insight to the culinary world as a line cook at The Boca Raton in Florida, advocating for better nutrition, reduced food waste, and chef-led community change. Tune in to hear Noreen’s perspective on the role of chefs in driving positive change, the simple steps kitchens can take to cut waste, and why culinary leadership is essential in shaping a healthier, more equitable food system. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

In this episode, podcast host Christopher Tanner sits down with Chef Chris Wilmoth to talk about his work with Daesung and explore how global flavors and spices are growing in popularity in the US.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with French physical chemist Hervé This, founder of molecular gastronomy, molecular cooking, and Note by Note cooking, three distinct approaches that apply scientific understanding to study, improve, and reimagine the culinary arts. A visionary in culinary innovation, Hervé was recently awarded the prestigious Sonning Prize for his work to renew and scientifically question the foundations of culinary knowledge and gastronomy. Tune in to explore how Note by Note cooking is reshaping culinary creativity and sustainability, and discover the possibilities for chefs to take full control over flavor, color, nutrition, consistency, and texture—one compound at a time. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Karl Guggenmos, a Certified Master Chef, visionary leader, and culinary medicine expert with over 60 years of experience in the food industry. Beginning his culinary journey as an apprentice in Europe, Karl became the Dean of Culinary Education at Johnson & Wales University, shaping the future of chefs' education. Karl has been a driving force behind the growing field of culinary medicine, which blends the art of cooking with the science of nutrition to promote health and prevent chronic disease. Tune in to hear Karl discuss how culinary medicine is transforming the future of food and health, and discover the importance of breaking down silos between these fields. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Executive Chef Evi Chioti, active member of the Cyprus Chefs Association and an accomplished advocate for sustainable gastronomy. From her early days in a family of hospitality professionals to becoming the first woman awarded the Ambassadors of Taste for the Global Gastronomy® Gold Medal, Evi has built a remarkable career as a chef and educator. Today, she is co-owner of the restaurant La Maison Fleurie in Cyprus, a Jury Member with the International Taste Institute, and a member of the Academie Culinaire de France. Her leadership has helped develop innovative educational programs for chefs, secure government support for culinary training, and promote sustainable food practices. Tune in to discover Evi's approach to sustainable gastronomy, the staples of Mediterranean cuisine, and how chefs are advocates for a green future. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Kristine Hartviksen, Executive Committee Member at Worldchefs and Head of Innovation at NorgesGruppen, Norway’s largest grocery company. Kristine has held several leadership roles across culinary associations, including as President of both the Norwegian Chefs Association and the Nordic Chefs Association — the first woman to hold these roles. With over 25 years of involvement with Worldchefs, Kristine is currently serving as Assistant Vice President, sharing her deep commitments to community, collaboration and wellbeing. Tune in to learn how Scandinavian values are shaping healthier, more respectful kitchen cultures and why wellbeing must be at the center of our industry’s future. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Matthieu Longuere, Master Sommelier and Wine Development Manager at Le Cordon Bleu London. Originally from France, Matthieu has worked in the UK since 1994, holding senior sommelier positions at some of the country’s top hotels and restaurants. In 2005, he earned the prestigious title of Master Sommelier, an honor held by fewer than 300 individuals worldwide. Today, Matthieu shares his expertise at Le Cordon Bleu, shaping the next generation of wine professionals.Tune in to hear how the industry has evolved, learn key characteristics of wine, and discover tips for a successful pairing that will elevate the dining experience. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.