Episode 106: Journey to Michelin Stardom with Asia’s Best Female Chef, Pichaya 'Pam' Soontornyanakij

On this episode, Ragnar welcomes Chef Thomas A. Gugler, outgoing President of Worldchefs, as they reflect on his impactful 8-year leadership. Thomas shares stories from his global culinary journey, challenges and triumphs during his tenure from COVID-19 to Congresses, advice to future chefs, and a look ahead for Worldchefs. Tune in to celebrate a legacy of passion, unity, and excellence in the culinary world. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

In the second installment of a two-part series with Worldchefs' presidential candidates, Ragnar speaks with Chef Andy Cuthbert, President of the Emirates Culinary Guild, Worldchefs Continental Director Africa & Middle East, and Chairman of the Worldchefs Congress Committee. Chef Andy shares his career journey, spanning from Melbourne to Dubai, highlighting his roles at the Jumeirah Group and Hilton Hotels. He shares his vision for Worldchefs, emphasizing the importance of communication, education, and sustainability within the culinary industry. Tune in to hear his goals, such as empowering young chefs, leveraging technology for education, and enhancing global partnerships. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

In the first of a two-part series with Worldchefs' presidential candidates, Ragnar speaks with Dr. Chef Manjit Gill, President of the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations and Ambassador of Worldchefs Cultural Culinary Heritage Committee. Chef Manjit takes us through his career, including his work with ITC hotels, EcoGreen Hospitality, and notable events like the World Economic Forum in Davos, and outlines his vision for Worldchefs' future. He emphasizes the importance of sustainability, inclusivity, transparency, and digital transformation, alongside initiatives like mentorship programs and mental health support for chefs. Tune in to hear how he envisions his potential presidential term, highlighting the role of food in global diplomacy. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Elizabeth Yorke, a chef turned food researcher and advocate for sustainable food systems. Elizabeth shares her journey from culinary school to co-founding Edible Issues and Saving Grains, focusing on innovative and circular food economies. Discover how Elizabeth is transforming India’s food system through initiatives like upcycling brewers spent grain into nutritious products and fostering a collaborative environment for food innovation. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Ikal Luzon, the local program coordinator for the Like a Chef project in Argentina. The Like a Chef initiative, created under the Worldchefs Feed the Planet partnership, aims to equip underprivileged individuals with culinary and workplace skills. Ikal shares her inspiring journey from working in kitchens to becoming an ambassador for the Electrolux Food Foundation. She discusses the unique focus on the LGBTIQ+ community in Buenos Aires and the transformative impact of the program. Learn how partnerships with local NGOs and the private sector are building a more inclusive culinary community. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Will North of The Long Table. They delve into The Long Table's community-driven restaurant that operates on a radical hospitality model, allowing patrons to pay as they can. Will shares the unique origins of the restaurant, how it evolved to serve 35,000 people annually, and its approach to sustainable sourcing through creative partnerships with local producers. Discover how The Long Table addresses food security, inclusivity, and sustainability, turning challenges into triumphs. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

In this episode, host Ragnar connects with Jason Evans, the Dean of the College of Food Innovation and Technology at Johnson & Wales University, to delve into the evolving landscape of culinary education. From the impact of the 2009 recession to the renaissance in food programming post-pandemic, Evans discusses trends, challenges, and technological advancements shaping the industry. Tune in for a rich discussion about the importance of comprehensive education, the role of technology, and the exciting opportunities awaiting culinary students. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with internationally renowned chef Pam Soontornyanakij, the youngest female chef to receive both a Michelin star and Asia's Best Female Chef award. From her humble beginnings in her family's kitchen to creating the acclaimed Potong restaurant in Bangkok, Chef Pam shares her journey, inspirations, and unique culinary principles. Tune in to explore her innovative approach to Thai Chinese cuisine, the challenges she faced in New York's competitive culinary scene, and her mission to empower the next generation of chefs. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Anna Hug and Marianne Wüthrich, co-managers of the illustrious Swiss bakery, HUG Familie. They share their distinctive co-CEO management model, exploring its challenges and advantages, particularly in balancing work and family life. Learn how this innovative approach could inspire changes within the hospitality and restaurant industry to attract and retain talent. Tune in to hear how this dynamic duo leads one of the world's top bakery brands to sweet success. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with Katja Tuomainen, Team Manager and Kari Julin, Team Captain to delve into their triumphant journey at the Culinary Olympics in Stuttgart, where they led the Culinary Team of Finland to its first victory. Kari and Katja share insights on their meticulous preparation, the challenges faced, and the strategies behind their winning dishes, which showcased the best of Finnish ingredients. Discover how teamwork, innovation, and a deep connection to their culinary roots brought them to the top. World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and Electrolux Food Foundation.