Chef, restaurateur, and Top Chef Masters champ Rick Bayless joins Jaymee to talk about the mission that’s guided his kitchens for decades: celebrating regional Mexican cuisine through technique, nuance, and joy. He shares the “why” behind signature sauces and masa, and how insisting on real control over sourcing and recipes helped turn Tortas Frontera into an airport game-changer.

Then Rick previews his turn in the judge’s chair on Bobby’s Triple Threat and what he looks for first. He talks about how risk pays off only when rooted in skill, and the advice he’d give any chef walking into that kitchen. Rick also reflects on his day-one Iron Chef America duel with Bobby Flay, what he learned from that battle, and wraps with rapid-fire favorites from go-to chiles to perfect street bites.

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• Learn More about Bobby’s Triple Threat : HERE

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Chef, author, and fashion icon Marcus Samuelsson joins Jaymee to talk about identity, style, and the journey that took him from Ethiopia to Sweden to New York. Marcus shares how his grandmother’s handmade clothes and early sneaker love shaped his look, why Harlem feels like home, and the global experiences (France, Switzerland, Japan, Singapore) that taught him to mix discipline with street-food soul.

Then it’s competition time as Marcus previews his rare turn from judge to gladiator on Alex vs. America: Alex vs. Chopped Judges, facing Alex Guarnaschelli alongside Maneet Chauhan and Scott Conant. He breaks down how judging thousands of dishes informed his strategy under the clock, what people underestimate about Alex, and the camaraderie among long-time Chopped colleagues. Marcus also reflects on Bobby’s Triple Threat, why competing keeps him sharp, and shares rapid-fire favorites… from bucket hats to a cocktail that blends sake, aquavit, champagne, and honey.

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• Follow Marcus Samuelsson on Instagram: HERE
• Learn More about Bobby’s Triple Threat : HERE
• Learn More About Alex vs. America: HERE

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Food Network star Zac Young returns to the pod to catch up with Jaymee to talk about the 10-year anniversary of his viral PieCaken creation, from humble beginnings to holiday tradition, and why it still surprises him every year. He dishes on Sprinkletown, his shop that balances playful creativity with customer favorites, and how his love of pastry unexpectedly translates into home renovation projects.

Then it’s all things Halloween as Zac previews Season 11 of Halloween Baking Championship. He teases the haunted mansion set, outrageous costumes, and the new twist that forces bakers to “bake for their lives.” Zac also shares behind-the-scenes stories with fellow judges Carla Hall, Stephanie Boswell, and host John Henson. Rapid fire covers everything from his biggest fear to Broadway dream roles, guilty-pleasure snacks, and which childhood treat he wishes would return.

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• Follow Zac Young on Instagram: HERE
• Learn More about Halloween Baking Championship : HERE

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