EP91: From Passion to Plate: Chef Kristen Watts Schumacher's Journey at Carnation Farms

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Voice4Chefs, Hosts Michael Dugan and Chef Steven engage with Chef Kristen Watts Schumacher, also known as Chef Shu, the Culinary Director at Carnation Farms in the Snoqualmie Valley, Seattle. Chef Shu shares her inspirational journey from cooking for friends in her teenage years to running the heirloom cookshop and leading farm to table feasts. The conversation delves into her early influences, challenges, and triumphs, highlighting her love for community, resilience, and food without ego. Chef Shu discusses the deep connection she feels to Carnation Farms, including the regenerative farming practices and the farm's mission to provide fresh, local produce. They explore her diverse culinary experiences, including starting a cooking class program at Carnation Farms, and how transitioning into motherhood reshaped her definition of success. The episode also touches upon her philosophy of teamwork and humility in the kitchen, the importance of local produce, and the unique experiences offered at Carnation Farms’ events such as farm dinners and feasts in the field, where guests connect directly to the land, the animals, and the dedicated team behind the scenes. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:46 Chef Shu's Culinary Journey Begins02:40 Discovering the Passion for Cooking05:30 From Culinary School to Professional Chef07:46 Building the Heirloom Cook Shop11:35 Challenges and Triumphs of Entrepreneurship16:05 Transition to Carnation Farms17:44 The Allure of Carnation Farms19:40 Teaching Cooking Skills20:23 Farm Dinners and Community Connection20:45 Inspiration and Home Cooking21:32 The Power of Local Ingredients22:00 Feast in the Field Experience24:17 Honoring the Source of Food30:06 Leadership and Team Values35:38 Upcoming Events at Carnation Farms38:25 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Website: https://carnationfarms.orgEmail: [email protected] 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