Food Network Obsessed

Amanda Freitag reflects on her experience competing on Wildcard Kitchen, where she tested her poker skills while cooking alongside Chopped judges Tiffany Derry and Geoffrey Zakarian, embracing both the challenge and the fun of the unique format. She explains what makes Chopped a lasting success, emphasizing the genuine passion behind the judging process and how her approach to critiquing has evolved over nearly 1,000 episodes. Amanda dives into her return to Tournament of Champions, highlighting the intense competition, the rise of talented young chefs, and the camaraderie that fuels the show’s high-energy environment. The chef shares the physical and mental demands of competing at that level, admitting that each season pushes her further as both a chef and competitor. Amanda elaborates on her love for cocktails and how she developed Freitag Cocktails, focusing on high-quality ingredients and well-balanced flavors. She teases future additions to the lineup, including a dirty martini, and reflects on her passion for crafting drinks that bring restaurant-quality experiences into people’s homes. HEREHEREHEREHEREHEREHEREHERE Learn More About Wildcard Kitchen: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Oh reflects on his journey from growing up in a Korean immigrant family to becoming a Michelin-rated chef and restaurateur. He recalls how his love for food was shaped by his mother’s dedication to cooking traditional Korean dishes, though as a child, he often felt embarrassed to bring them to school. He explains that, despite his passion for food, he initially pursued careers in real estate and entrepreneurship before realizing that his true calling was in the kitchen. The chef looks back on his breakthrough moment when he and his team won The Great Food Truck Race, a victory that catapulted his culinary career and led to the launch of multiple restaurant ventures. He details his experiences on Food Network’s most intense competitions, including 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing and Tournament of Champions. Despite his unconventional path to success, he acknowledges how his parents, once skeptical of his career choice, have since become his biggest supporters—even working alongside him at food festivals. HEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Frankie Gaw shares how his creations on Dig In With honor the rich traditions of his Taiwanese heritage while pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation. He reflects on family Lunar New Year celebrations, where steamed crab symbolizes joy and connection, and how these cherished moments shaped his culinary journey. Frankie details his process of blending nostalgic childhood flavors with inventive modern twists, such as his standout Cinnamon Toast Crunch Butter Mochi. Drawing inspiration from his grandmother's intuitive cooking style, he emphasizes the importance of trusting his instincts and preserving family recipes. Frankie explores the challenges of growing up between two cultures, a duality that now drives his mission to fuse them through food. He discusses his series, Turning American Classics Asian, which reimagines beloved staples, bridging tradition and modernity in meaningful ways. The chef teases his second cookbook and envisions a line of food products that celebrate cultural diversity while finding a place on mainstream grocery shelves. HEREHEREHEREHEREhttps://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/dig-in-with Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonnie Wright reflects on reuniting with her on-screen brothers, James and Oliver Phelps, for Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, sharing memories of their sibling-like bond on and off set. She fondly recalls her early days growing up on the Harry Potter set, describing the camaraderie among the young cast and how simple moments, like playing games in the green room or catching up on schoolwork together, shaped her experience as much as the magical premieres and worldwide travel. She explores her approach to judging the baking competition, emphasizing creativity and storytelling, and reveals her favorite magical creatures and baked inspirations. Bonnie delves into her personal journey toward sustainability, the inspiration behind her book Go Gently, and her passion for incorporating eco-friendly habits into daily life. She shares tidbits from her life as a new mom, her favorite holiday traditions, and her love for baking, particularly muffins and chocolate treats. HEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy introduces his handbook, Recipes for Connection, designed to combat loneliness and foster connection through the power of food. Dr. Murthy shares personal memories of food gatherings from his upbringing, emphasizing the power of his mother’s comforting dishes, like lentil dal, in fostering community. He delves into why food is a universal connector, offering practical tips for hosting gatherings with minimal stress—be it potlucks or leftovers parties. Dr. Murthy highlights that the success of gatherings lies in the people present, not the perfection of the meal. He opens up about his own battles with loneliness and how regular, intentional connections, like monthly video calls with friends, have been a source of strength. Dr. Murthy underscores the profound impact of small, heartfelt interactions on mental and physical health, emphasizing that even simple efforts can rebuild relationships and combat isolation. HEREHEREHERERecipes for ConnectionHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carson Kressley talks about his favorite childhood food memories, including Pennsylvania Dutch traditions and his first word being “fries.” Carson reminisces on his first Food Network appearance on Worst Cooks in America, where he learned essential cooking techniques like cutting an onion and spatchcocking a chicken, and how his experiences there helped him grow more confident in the kitchen. He reflects on his evolving relationship with cooking, highlighting how Food Network shows have expanded his culinary knowledge and inspired his creative approach in the kitchen. Carson recounts hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, such as bonding with Bobby Flay over a dunking booth and enjoying mouthwatering meals at hidden gems during filming. He talks about his friendship with Bobby, which started two decades ago and has grown through shared experiences both on and off screen. Carson offers tips for hosting stylish yet stress-free holiday parties, recommending crowd-pleasing menus like KFC chicken tenders with homemade dipping sauces. He teases his upcoming appearance on Beat Bobby Flay: Holiday Throwdown, hinting at over-the-top festivities, surprise gifts, and plenty of holiday cheer. HEREHEREHEREBeat Bobby Flay: Holiday ThrowdownHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James and Oliver Phelps reflect on their journey to landing their iconic roles as Fred and George Weasley, sharing humorous stories about their audition, where they skipped school and traveled hours to join thousands of hopefuls. They reminisce about their on-set antics, from inventing ways to pass the time to unforgettable pranks with co-stars like Rupert Grint, where they’d crack up in scenes and create games to stay entertained. They discuss their excitement in blending the magical world with baking on Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, describing the unique set with nods to the Great Hall and the awe-inspiring edible creations the contestants bring to life. James and Oliver express a deep appreciation for the bakers' artistic skills, recalling moments of pure wonder at seeing elaborate designs take shape under pressure. They describe how the show’s competitive yet community-driven atmosphere makes it accessible to audiences beyond the Harry Potter fanbase, creating a sense of connection across generations. HEREHEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AEW personalities, Renee Paquette and RJ City, dive into their unique show, Meal and a Match, which combines their passions for wrestling and food. In each episode, a wrestling guest joins them for a meal and a casual evening of watching wrestling highlights, blending commentary, humor, and relatable stories to celebrate the community spirit of wrestling. Renee shares her love for Taco Bell as her road-trip go-to, proudly calling herself a “taco aficionado,” while RJ describes his unconventional coffee ritual—drinking cold brew from a hot coffee cup to elevate his experience. They also spotlight some of their favorite underrated food cities: Renee praises Seattle for its fresh seafood, sushi, and Pike Place Market, while RJ describes Omaha as a hidden gem for those seeking authentic, local flavors. HEREHEREHEREHEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carla Hall dishes on her role as a judge on the new baking competition, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking. She shares her excitement for the show, from working on iconic sets like Platform 9 ¾ and the Great Hall to collaborating with hosts and former Harry Potter actors. She describes the high-energy atmosphere, where self-taught and professional bakers alike create awe-inspiring structures that embody the spirit of the wizarding world. Carla discusses the unique challenges, including balancing intricate visuals with delicious flavors, and shares her approach to judging with co-judge Jozef Youssef, whose shared life parallels fostered an instant bond. Alongside her tales of magical sets and wardrobe, Carla reveals her admiration for the incredible details of the sets and props, from enchanted forests to floating candles. She also reflects on embracing the unexpected in her own life, fueling her own magic and creativity. HEREHEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bobby Flay discusses how various forms of media, from films like The Color of Money to shows like Punk'd, have sparked creative ideas for his popular Food Network hit shows. He elaborates on his passion for French cuisine and how his experiences traveling through Europe, along with his New York roots, have shaped the menu and atmosphere of his latest restaurant, Brasserie B in Las Vegas. The iconic chef highlights his dedication to using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients, even dedicating an entire section of the kitchen solely to making the perfect French fries. Bobby shares how his deep connection with his daughter Sophie has influenced his approach to social media, and how working with younger influencers keeps him engaged with the fast-paced changes in the food industry. He shares details about his latest cookbook, Bobby Flay: Chapter One, a coffee table book featuring 100 of his most meaningful recipes. Bobby explains why this project is particularly special, detailing the careful curation of recipes and his collaboration with top-tier talent to bring this personal collection to life. HEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Lee Biegel discusses her journey on The Kitchen, which is now on its 37th season, and how the show has shaped her both personally and professionally. She reflects on the deep connection with her co-hosts, describing the family-like atmosphere and chemistry that has contributed to the show's success. The chef explains her creative process for developing new recipes and dishes, particularly her focus on comfort food balanced with seasonal ingredients. Katie teases upcoming episodes of The Kitchen, revealing seasonal comfort foods and exciting new dishes like miso maple roasted cabbage and sweet tea-brined oven-fried chicken. She discusses her latest project, the podcast All on the Table, emphasizing her passion for connecting with people through food. Katie highlights a memorable interview with Bobby Flay, where they explored personal food memories and the role food plays in bringing people together. She dishes on how becoming a mom has influenced her approach to cooking, tailoring meals to her daughter’s tastes while keeping family traditions alive. HEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Valdes reflects on his upbringing, where food played a central role in his Cuban family, and how his mother’s teachings deeply shaped his cooking style. He recalls early mornings spent picking up fresh Cuban bread for their family restaurant and the nostalgic comfort of dishes like the Cuban steak sandwich. Chris discusses key creations, such as his Miami-inspired Spanish tortilla and that same steak sandwich, both of which hold personal significance. He offers insights into his creative process, balancing tradition with experimentation, and shares practical cooking tips, including how to master the tricky tortilla flip. Chris touches on the profound influence of his culinary heroes, particularly his mother and Chef Emeril Lagass, and how they helped mold his career. The chef opens up about the challenges of launching a catering business at just 19, from financial hurdles to personal doubts, and provides advice to young entrepreneurs about the importance of perseverance and passion. The Miami native dishes on his favorite local food spots, showcasing the city’s vibrant food culture. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: [HERE] Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Chris Valdes on Instagram: HERE Learn More About Dig In With: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruth Reichl reflects on receiving the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award with gratitude, noting how it has motivated her to support young journalists. She recounts her diverse food experiences growing up in New York City and Montreal, including visits to her classmates’ homes, which exposed her to various cultural cuisines. Ruth reminisces on her mother's unconventional approach to cooking which led Ruth to begin cooking at a young age. She discusses how food television has transformed American food culture, creating a new generation that is passionate about cooking and ingredients. The food critic shares her experience at one restaurant, where she went undercover and received vastly different levels of service depending on her appearance, highlighting the biases in the dining industry. Ruth also expresses her love for visiting food markets, explaining how they provide a more authentic glimpse into a culture than restaurants. She recounts one of her most unusual meals, involving silkworm larva in Laos, and the memorable challenges of eating unfamiliar ingredients. Ruth discusses her documentary Food and Country, filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which captures the struggles of farmers, fishermen, and ranchers. The writer emphasizes that her goal for this project is to raise awareness about the challenges of producing nutritious food in America and stresses the need for policy change to support the country's food system. Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Bennett returns to discuss his whirlwind year that saw him achieve a lifelong dream - his Broadway debut as Sir Robin in Spamalot. He opens up about the electrifying experience of stepping into the world of Monty Python, performing hilarious and beloved scenes from Monty Python on the Broadway stage. Jonathan shares how surreal it was to bring such iconic comedy to life, while also reflecting on the challenges of joining an already-established cast and the thrill of putting his own comedic twist on the character. The host of Halloween Wars teases what fans can expect from the new season of the fan-favorite competition show. He praises the hard work of the show’s producers in keeping the format fresh while staying true to the spirit of the competition. Jonathan pitches his dream Halloween Wars challenge: having the teams transform his past movie roles—from Mean Girls to his Hallmark holiday films—into nightmarish horror scenes. He shares some of his personal Halloween traditions, including his love for decorating with pumpkins and watching horror movies. Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Jonathan Bennett on Instagram: HERE Follow Jonathan Bennett on TikTok: HERE Learn More About Halloween Wars: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Damaris Phillips reflects on how her Southern and Midwestern roots shaped her culinary style, with family playing a key role in her passion for food. She reminisces about learning to cook biscuits with her grandmother, revealing why biscuits and gravy remain her ultimate comfort food. Damaris shares her creative approach to hosting Kentucky Derby events with fun, themed outfits, like "Clown Couture" and "Animal Print Power Clash." As a passionate advocate for female friendships, she opens up about the importance of girls' trips and how her bond with fellow Food Network Star contestant Nikki Dinki blossomed into a lifelong friendship. The chef discusses her husband’s influence on her vegetarian cookbook, Southern Girl Meets Vegetarian Boy, and shares stories from her time on Food Network Star, where Bobby Flay became a mentor and friend. She teases the new all-star season of Outrageous Pumpkins, where former contestants face off in intricate pumpkin carving challenges. Damaris touches on her love for fall traditions, including her tips for hosting the perfect autumn gathering. Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Damaris Phillips on Instagram: HERE Learn More About Outrageous Pumpkins: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Jonathon Sawyer shares his journey from engineering school to a celebrated culinary star, explaining how a backhanded compliment from a tough chef unexpectedly ignited his passion for cooking. He reflects on his early days as a rookie in the kitchen and memorable moments in culinary competitions, including a loss on Iron Chef America that still lingers in his mind. Jonathon offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his Chicago hotspot, Kindling, where a striking 13-foot wood hearth takes center stage. He talks about some of his more unconventional inspirations, like his famous wood-fired quesadilla inspired by late-night Taco Bell cravings, and his unique foraging adventures, including a roadside stop to marvel at a non-edible green parasol mushroom. The chef explains why wood-fired cooking might be the "sixth taste bud" that connects people to their primal love for flame-grilled flavors. Jonathon opens up about his journey to sobriety and how fatherhood has profoundly shaped his approach to mentoring young chefs and fostering creativity in the kitchen. HEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erica Barrett, winner of the fifth season of BBQ Brawl, opens up about her unexpected path to the competition, taking on the challenge despite the recent loss of her grandmother. She humorously recalls sprinting toward Bobby Flay when he called her name, comparing it to a schoolyard game where no one wants to be picked last. Erica dishes on more behind-the-scenes moments, including her almost burning her legs with hand warmers hidden in her pockets during the surprisingly cold Texas finale. The Alabama native discusses her deep Southern pride and how it shapes her culinary style, from her signature peach-infused barbecue sauce to her secret weapon, Alabama white sauce. She paints a vivid picture of what it means to be a Southern girl, from the joy of walking barefoot in the grass to embracing the relaxed rhythm of rural life. Erica dives into her entrepreneurial ventures, from her trailblazing Dough Boy Pizza concept—a tech-driven pizzeria with no cashiers or vent hoods—to her passion for creating unique food products. The chef reflects on her commitment to uplifting other black food entrepreneurs, sharing stories of how she has helped others bring their culinary dreams to life. Follow Food Network on Instagram: HERE Follow Jaymee Sire on Instagram: HERE Follow Erica Barrett on Instagram: HERE Learn More About BBQ Brawl: HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Food Network Obsessed is back with more episodes. Each week, host Jaymee Sire sits down with your favorite chefs, food influencers and Food Network personalities to dish on all things delicious in the food world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Brooke Williamson shares how she became one of Bobby Flay's titans on Bobby’s Triple Threat, describing the intense yet authentic atmosphere of the show and reflecting on memorable moments. She discusses the dynamics among fellow titans Michael Voltaggio and Tiffany Derry, highlighting their growing camaraderie and mutual support. Brooke delves into her role as a judge on BBQ Brawl, where she admires the barbecue chefs' skill and dedication and notes the unique team dynamics this season. She shares her excitement over her highly anticipated cookbook, Sunkissed Cooking, which emphasizes produce-forward dishes inspired by her upbringing in Los Angeles. Brooke opens up about the challenges of writing her cookbook, highlighting the lengthy process of recipe writing, testing, and editing. The chef shares her struggle with the meticulousness required, contrasting it with her usual instinctive cooking style, but expresses pride in the final product. HEREHEREHEREHEREHEREHERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Brittney "Stikxz" Williams delves into the roots of her nickname, “Chef Stikxz,” tracing it back to her childhood. She discusses how her vibrant Jamaican heritage serves as the cornerstone of her culinary creations. She recounts a pivotal moment during her college years, where her trajectory shifted from sports management to culinary arts, underscoring the profound impact of food in fostering connection. Stikxz offers a glimpse into her initial impressions of the Ciao House hosts, Alex Guarnaschelli and Gabe Bertaccini, noting their blend of nurturing support and disciplined guidance. She intricately describes her approach to melding Jamaican and Italian flavors on the show, drawing upon her deep understanding of both cultures' culinary traditions and techniques. The chef reflects on her immersive pasta-making sessions with authentic Italian nonnas, emphasizing the transformative power of slowing down and fully immersing oneself in the culinary process. Brittney offers insights into her catering enterprise, BWC Catering, unveiling her aspirations for dream collaborations and forthcoming projects. Follow Food Network on InstagramFollow Jaymee Sire on InstagramFollow Brittney "Stikxz" Williams on InstagraLearn More About Ciao Hous Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.