“I grew up my whole life in Kansas City. As soon as I got the chance I decided to try and get as far away as I could – I ended up in Miami and fell in love with it. It’s an entirely different culture down here and yet, it’s still part of my country. It has allowed me to explore. Food became my passion in high school. They offered two years of culinary programs, upon graduation, I immediately enrolled in culinary school. Finding your way isn’t easy, but I suppose having a passion does make it simpler. I always knew what I wanted to do, just sometimes in this industry, it can take a long time to reach that position. I’ve always encouraged others to explore different avenues – to build something for themselves and give it meaning. “