About this episode
In this episode of Chef's PSA Podcast, Chef André Natera kicks off a unique series based on Robert Greene's "48 Laws of Power," but with a culinary twist. These "laws" are adapted specifically for the kitchen, offering insights into navigating the dynamics of a professional kitchen, maintaining power, and climbing the culinary hierarchy. From "never outshine the master" to "guarding your reputation," André offers practical applications of these classic lessons for cooks, sous chefs, and culinary leaders alike. The conversation starts with an update about recent events and new releases, including Chef André's recent participation in a SXSW food panel and the highly anticipated print version of "Kitchen Art of War." The episode then transitions into the kitchen adaptation of Greene's "48 Laws of Power," covering the first ten laws in detail, and applying them to real-world kitchen dynamics. André discusses the lessons he learned throughout his career and gives advice on how to thrive in the competitive world of professional cooking. Key Takeaways from This Episode: - Law 1: Never Outshine the Master — Understanding the importance of letting your mentors take credit and how it helps you advance in the kitchen. - Law 2: Never Put Too Much Trust in Friends — How navigating kitchen gossip and dynamics can be crucial to your success. - Law 3: Conceal Your Intentions — Why you shouldn't share every new recipe or idea too early, especially in the age of social media. - Law 4: Always Say Less Than Necessary — The importance of brevity in the kitchen, especially during the pressure of service. - Law 5: Guard Your Reputation — Your reputation is everything in the culinary industry; André emphasizes how crucial it is to protect it. - Law 6: Court Attention at All Costs — In the attention economy, find ways to stand out, whether through your food or your social media presence. - Law 7: Get Others to Do the Work for You, But Always Take the Credit — The responsibility that comes with being the head chef and owning both successes and failures. - Law 8: Make Others Come to You — How to create an attractive dining experience that draws people in. - Law 9: Win Through Your Actions, Never Through Argument — Actions speak louder than words, especially in a high-pressure environment like a kitchen. - Law 10: Avoid the Unhappy and the Unlucky — Surround yourself with motivated, positive people to thrive in your culinary journey. Additional Updates in This Episode: - Chef André's participation in a SXSW food panel hosted by San Pellegrino, discussing upcoming food trends. - The launch of the print version of "Kitchen Art of War" — a glossy, full-color book that offers timeless kitchen strategies. - Updates on the audiobook release of "The Line Cook Survival Manual." If you're passionate about culinary strategy, leadership, and want a different perspective on power dynamics in the kitchen, this series is not to be missed. Subscribe to my Substack! https://chefspsa.substack.com/ Visit Chef’s PSA for Books, Free eBooks, and More! https://chefspsa.com/ Shop Chef’s PSA Merch! https://shop.chefspsa.com/ 🔗 SOCIAL MEDIA Join our vibrant culinary community across all platforms! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chefspsa?lang=en Twitter - https://twitter.com/ChefsPSA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chefspsa/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550525924555 - Leave a 5-star rating on Spotify if you enjoyed this episode!