From Hot Pockets to Master Chef with Michael Varga

Season 3 Premiere With special guest:  Michael Varga @vargacooks 👉Master Chef Finalist 👉Chopped Canada Winner 👉Firefighter We do something a little different here for the podcast. Michael and I go for a physical distance walk and not just 6 feet, we are 4,340 KMS apart! Michael shares his journey from ‘hot pockets’ cuisine to being inspired by family kitchen memories and becoming a Master Chef. We also talk about: -What it takes to for teamwork and openness in the firehall. -The role vulnerability has played in his decisions. -Battling anxiety  -and Nana's Falafel Ping Pong! A great conversation that you won’t want to miss. It's going to feel right! A little  more about our guest Michael Varga: His Hungarian father, a self- taught chef, laid the groundwork for Michael’s personal approach to cooking. His father’s motto, “When it tastes good, its ready,” continues to inspire Michael ’s culinary creativity. Michael’s mother, a native of Egypt, introduced him to the spice profiles of the Mediterranean and Middle East, which have become staples in his cuisine. A seasoned Vancouver firefighter, Michael’s skills have been tested in the firehall kitchen. Fueling hungry firefighters with interesting and delicious meals while sticking to a budget is a challenge Michael enjoys. Michael competed on the reality television show “Chopped Canada,” taking home the title of Chopped Canada Champion! Then a new opportunity to showcase his cooking skills under intense pressure: Master Chef Canada - season 5. Michael went on to become a finalist and the opportunity to work with a number of talented chefs elevated his skills and pushed his limits in the kitchen. Michael strives to continually evolve his reach as a health enthusiast, chef and a family man