You may recognize Chef Henry Awayan from his appearance on the Food Network show Bakers vs. Fakers. Those in the San Francisco Bay Area may also know him as the talent behind the award-winning bakery Whisk Cake Creations in Alameda.

Chef Awayan's new book, The Ube Baking Book, celebrates his lifelong passion for baking alongside his Filipino heritage, showcasing a wide range of recipes that highlight the beloved Filipino ingredient ube in both traditional and fusion preparations.

In this episode, we chat about how he found his way into baking, what makes ube such a meaningful and versatile ingredient, and how he hopes this book helps readers better understand and appreciate the culture behind the flavors

Learn more about Chef Henry Awayan at whiskcakecreations.com and follow on Instagram @whiskcakecreations.

Podcast Show Notes: https://kitchenconfidante.com/the-ube-baking-book-henry-awayan

Chef Pyet DeSpain made history as the first-ever winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef, where she showcased her Mexican lineage and her cultural heritage as a proud member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

Today, she continues to honor and preserve Indigenous foodways through her cooking and storytelling, including her PBS food-streaming series, Spirit Plate. Her debut cookbook, Rooted in Fire: A Celebration of Native and Mexican Cooking, reflects that same deep connection to land, culture, and community.

In this episode, we chat about how family and community shaped her approach to cooking, the importance of keeping Indigenous food traditions alive, foraging and seasonal cooking, and how food can spark meaningful conversation and connection at the table.

Learn more about Pyet at pyetsplate.com and follow her on Instagram @chefpyet.

Podcast Show Notes: https://kitchenconfidante.com/rooted-in-fire-chef-pyet-despain

Rachel Riggs is a San Diego-based former specialty food shop owner who experienced a life-altering diagnosis, which forced her to overhaul her diet in favor of more nutrient-dense, allergen-aware recipes.

She has written for Bon Appétit and Camille Styles and has now published a new cookbook: In Good Health: Uncomplicated, Allergen-Aware Recipes for a Nourished Life.

In this episode, we chat about how chronic illness transformed her relationship with food, why nutrition matters more than ever in today's world, her love of dark chocolate, and more!

Learn more about Rachel at rachriggs.com and follow her on Instagram @the.rachel.riggs.

Podcast Show Notes: https://kitchenconfidante.com/in-good-health-rachel-riggs