EP 85: Part I Lessons Beyond The Kitchen: Mental Health at The CIA

Send us Fan MailAs we conclude the month of May. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Voice4Chefs is proud to rerelease and spotlight the courageous and inspiring journey of Chef Abbey, whose story sheds light on the challenges—and triumphs—of mental health in the culinary world.On today’s episode, we meet Chef Abby Miller, the first recipient of the Anthony Bourdain Scholarship through the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). With a minor in Asian cuisine and a deep love for storytelling through food, Abby shares her remarkable culinary journey—from a nomadic childhood to finding her passion and voice in the kitchen.We dive into:* **Her early inspiration**: Moving over 40 times growing up, Abby discovered a sense of home and stability through food. Watching Food Network and working in her parents' restaurant at age 12 ignited her passion for the culinary arts.* **Choosing the Culinary Path**: Although originally headed toward a career in intelligence studies, Abby made a bold pivot—trading one CIA for another—to attend the Culinary Institute of America.* **Life at CIA**: Abby recounts the rigorous yet rewarding experience of culinary school, waking up at 4:30 a.m. for practical classes, becoming team leader, and eventually being chosen as the class speaker.* **Externship Growth**: She reflects on her four-month externship at Stein Eriksen Lodge in Utah, working during their busiest season. Overcoming homesickness, she found strength and mentorship that helped solidify her passion.* **Kitchen Culture and Mental Health**: Abby opens up about working in a male-dominated kitchen, navigating toxic work environments, and advocating for healthier, more supportive culinary spaces. She courageously shares her own experiences with anxiety, depression, and PTSD—highlighting the importance of mental wellness in the food industry.This episode is a heartfelt look at the resilience, determination, and advocacy that define Chef Abby Miller’s inspiring culinary journey.Season2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost.IG: themindfulwok Support the showYour support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast.Become a monthly supporter:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1432717/supportYour donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_USShare your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review.https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/Volunteer contact [email protected] with our Culinary Stories:https://linktr.ee/voice4chef