Meet Chris Busone | Chef & Spice Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Busone and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
That you need to “pay your dues”. This will certainly upset some chefs and those who spent years working hard in kitchens to build themselves a wonderful career. But, I think this is an antiquated piece of advice that has been said to so many younger people, both in and out of the food industry.

If you want a career in something, YOU find a way to make it work. There is no strict guidebook for every industry. Sometimes, carving out your own path is a much better way to get your foot in the door and get to where you want to be. I certainly did not break into the food industry in the most conventional way. I was not a dishwasher turned line cook, who worked ungodly hours and sacrificed their relationships in order to advance.

That being said, there is NOTHING wrong with doing that, I have more respect for line cooks than I do most chefs. Working that hard and long is not for everyone, so being able to do that requires something inside of you that not everyone possesses.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I certainly have found ways to make money with food. I have sold hot sauce and spice rubs, hot honey. Worked with businesses creating them custom products for their brands. Nowadays, getting paid to cater and cook.

But, I am first and foremost a creator. This page started as a cooking blog where I would share my food and review others’ food. Give my unhinged and unwanted hot takes on food opinions and topics. Once I realized people were actually listening, it gave me motivation to create more. Like starting a recipe blog, creating a podcast, doing live recipes. I think what has helped me get to where I am both personally and professionally is just continuing to be myself. As raw and uncensored as that can be for some, it is part of my brand.

Too often we see bloggers and brands censor themselves. Talk like they’re on a travel channel, but then when you have coffee with them it’s like listening to a pissed off sailor. I think being your whole self allows others to trust you. It’s a big rule of sales: People don’t buy a product, they buy people. People want to feel like they’re interacting with a real human, not a version of someone. Whether that be watching a cooking video or buying a car.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Itineraries should always be built around food. Find the best breakfast spot, follow it with a nice mid-day event, then go all out for lunch. Dinner can be more relaxed. I have found that when I myself am traveling, by the end of the day you are usually pooped. So, a big lavish dinner is not always ideal. Sometimes the meals to focus on are the ones that are during the day. Focus your energy into planning the first two meals, and then take it easier for dinner, and believe me, everyone will be happier.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To anyone who has ever encouraged my cooking. To my parents for allowing me to play with hot pans and fire from a young ages, and teaching me how to properly use a knife. To Dylan for always willingly trying some weird experiment I had just cooked up in one of our kitchens late at night, and for always matching my passion and keeping that food spark alive. And most importantly, my wife. She has been a relentless support system for my cooking, and my life. And has never once discouraged me from following this passion for food. For that, I will always love you.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captaincooksfood/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/captain-cooks-food

Facebook: facebook.com/captaincooksfood

Image Credits
Image of slicing tomato in kitchen: Lindsay Chapin photography