Episode #121 - The Value Of Your Voice: An Interview With Michael Dugan

With any new endeavor comes reservations, fears, and uncertainty about the unknown. Finding our ability to persevere and fully embrace our passions, even if there is no model to turn to, can be quite challenging, and requires a level of commitment that takes time to cultivate the passion, the skillsets required to be successful, but more importantly, to contribute your "voice" in this ever-changing world. Continuing our episodes celebrating the individuals that made positive contributions to the podcast and to the business, Your Speaking Voice LLC, Michael Dugan, who has been featured since Episode 2 as our intro/outro voice of the show, joins us. Michael's contributions to not only this podcast, but to the overall world of giving awareness to mental health and daily challenges of chefs, explores the possibilities of getting started today with the support and encouragement of other strong mentors. By challenging yourself, the unknown can be turned into the "known" through positive contributions and enduring opportunities to be seen in this ever-changing world, even if it is with your voice.Guest BioMichael holds degrees in Culinary Arts and Hotel & Restaurant Administration, which initially steered him towards a career in the hospitality industry in Seattle, WA, and Napa Valley, CA. However, in 1995, he transitioned to a successful career in technology while still maintaining his fervor for exceptional culinary experiences and admiration for the skilled chefs who guided him. In May 2021, he shifted gears from the kitchen to the studio and introduced The Voice4Chefs Podcast, aiming to bridge connections with pioneering chefs and imaginative culinary artists where listeners can tune in for an enjoyable, insightful, and flavorful podcast experience.Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/voice4chefs@voice4chefs on InstagramYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Voice4ChefsWebsite: https://www.voice4chefs.comToastmasters International (https://www.toastmasters.org)- Toastmasters is an international organization that has allowed many of my guests to be on the show through personal and professional connection, combining all kinds of different types of communication and leadership development. Learn more about this organization at the link provided, plus check out the "Find A Club" option where you can locate an in-person or virtual club closest to you and your likings!Melissa's TEDx Talk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8XEF_X6GK8) - During today's episode, the TEDx talk Michael references is located at this link to watch & listen to.Cooks Who Care Non-Profit Link (https://linktr.ee/CooksWhoCare?lt_utm_source=lt_share_link#306526359) - Towards the end of the interview, Michael shared about the Cooks Who Care Non-Profit, located in the Philadelphia area, that provides assistance in a variety of ways to those struggling in the restaurant industry. Check out this link and contribute to them to continue their enduring mission!Visit Our Website: https://speaking-from-the-heart.captivate.fm/Visit Our Business Website: https://www.yourspeakingvoice.bizSupport The Mission Of The Business! Donate Here: https://speaking-from-the-heart.captivate.fm/supportIntro/Outro By: Michael Dugan, Podcast Host: Voice4Chefs