Get ready for what we're calling the most exciting and anticipated Kitchen Chat episode of the year! Host Margaret McSweeney traveled straight to the heart of the culinary world in New York City to sit down with a true legend: celebrated restaurateur Drew Nieporent, the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group. The reason for this dynamic, can't-miss conversation is the release of his insightful and candid new memoir, "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" written with Jamie Feldmar.

This episode, like the book, is an intimate, compelling look at one of the world's most impactful hosts and multi-talented men in the hospitality industry. From establishing iconic eateries to shaping the entire modern dining landscape through the preservation of the legacy hospitality style, Nieporent's influence is unparalleled. Join Margaret as she invites Drew to share the stories behind the man—a titan of service, a visionary entrepreneur, and, as you'll quickly discover, a genuine genius who is one of the kindest people in the industry. (Photo below is when Margaret met Drew in 2015 at the International Association of Culinary Professionals celebration of Chef Jacques Pepin's 80th birthday).

As Ruth Reichl says, "If you go out to eat, you need this book." Here is a link to the must read "I'm Not Trying to Be Difficult: Stories from the Restaurant Trenches" by Drew Nieporent.

Savor the day!

It's time for a holiday kitchen confession… I grew up in the South, yet somehow never learned how to make biscuits! Thankfully, my dear friend Chef Carla Hall—along with the wonderful Chadwick Boyd—brought Biscuit Time to this special encore edition of Kitchen Chat.

We rolled up our sleeves at Chicago's Merchandise Mart, where Chef Jaime Laurita joined us for a fun, flour-dusted biscuit lesson. One bite of a warm, fresh biscuit instantly transported me back to my childhood and the flavors my father used to make with such love. This is an episode you'll want to cherish.

With Carla and Chadwick as your biscuit buddies, you'll learn exactly how to create tender, perfect biscuits every single time.

✅ Be sure and visit KitchenChat.info for more interviews and recipes.

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040
• Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9
• Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv

Congratulations to Kevin Boehm on the launch of his compelling book The Bottomless Cup: A Memoir of Secrets, Restaurants and Forgiveness. In this Kitchen Chat, Kevin shares the highs and lows of his personal life along with key components of success in his professional life. He also discusses the importance of mental health. You will be inspired by his story and strength.

Link to the book (Launching November 4, 2025) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1419775243

Margaret McSweeney and Kevin Boehm first met in 2016 at The James Beard Awards in Chicago after their first Kitchen Chat. Kevin is the co-owner and co-founder of the highly acclaimed and award winning Boka Restaurant Group which he started with Rob Katz. In 2019, Kevin and Rob were the recipients of Outstanding Restaurateur at the James Beard Awards.

✅ Be sure and visit Kitchencaht.info for photos of this amazing property.

Savor the day!

Subscribe to the KitchenChat audio podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kitchen-chat-margaret-mcsweeney/id447185040

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3PpcTPpvHEh8eOMfDUm8I9

Webtalkradio: Webtalkradio.com

This podcast is also available on Apple TV, Roku and Amazon Fire Stick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors App and go to the Kitchen Chat series page or visit: www.Expertsandauthors.tv