Culinary Journey with Vivian Chan: From Food Network to Motherhood
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Vivian Chan, a culinary producer at Food Network,
the creative force behind Viv’s Tips, and the engaging host of the Simmer Down with Viv podcast. In this captivating
episode, Vivian and Kelly engage in a vibrant conversation covering a wide range of topics, offering valuable insights
into the food industry and beyond.
- Discover what sparked Vivian’s passion and inspired her to transition from the demanding restaurant environment
to a fulfilling career in food media. - Hear about Vivian’s invaluable experiences working under the guidance of renowned chef Anita Lo and how she skillfully
navigated the often-challenging male-dominated restaurant landscape. - Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a typical day in the life of a Food Network culinary producer, uncovering
the diverse responsibilities and creative processes involved. - Share in Vivian’s heartfelt hopes and understandable fears as she embarks on the incredible journey of becoming a new
mom in just a few short weeks.
Show Guest
Vivian Chan
Vivian Chan, a proud native of Brooklyn, is driven by a deep-seated passion for connecting people with food through
feeding, teaching, and engaging experiences. As a dedicated Culinary Producer for Food Network and Discovery, she
plays a vital role in creating compelling content for numerous digital platforms under the Discovery umbrella. Vivian
is also a prominent face on Food Network Kitchen, where she shares her culinary expertise and infectious enthusiasm.
Her talents extend beyond production, as she frequently serves as a judge on various cooking competition shows, lending
her discerning palate and insightful commentary. In addition to her television work, Vivian is the host of Viv’s Tips,
a series of engaging culinary tutorials, and the creator and host of her very own podcast, Simmer Down with Viv, where
she explores a wide range of food-related topics with captivating guests.
Currently, Vivian resides in Brooklyn with her loving husband, Jason, and their two adorable small dogs, Peanut and
Coco Bean. Her life is guided by the empowering motto, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your
life,” a philosophy that reflects her unwavering dedication to her culinary pursuits and her genuine enjoyment of her
career.
Vivian’s journey into the world of food is a testament to her dedication and passion. Starting her career in
restaurants provided her with a strong foundation and a deep understanding of the culinary arts. Working alongside
Chef Anita Lo was a pivotal experience, teaching her invaluable lessons about leadership, creativity, and resilience
in a demanding industry. This experience shaped her perspective and fueled her desire to explore new avenues within
the food world.
Her transition to food media allowed her to leverage her culinary expertise in a dynamic and engaging way. As a
Culinary Producer, she plays a key role in bringing culinary concepts to life on television and digital platforms.
From developing recipes to styling food for the camera, Vivian’s attention to detail and creative flair are
essential to the success of Food Network’s programming.
Vivian’s work extends beyond the kitchen. She is a skilled communicator and educator, using her platform to share
her knowledge and passion for food with a wider audience. Through Viv’s Tips and her podcast, Simmer Down with Viv,
she provides practical advice, insightful commentary, and engaging stories that inspire others to explore the world
of food.
Her commitment to excellence and her genuine love for what she does have made Vivian Chan a respected and admired
figure in the food industry. Whether she’s developing recipes, judging cooking competitions, or sharing her insights
on her podcast, Vivian is always striving to connect people with food in meaningful ways.
Resources From This Episode
Simmer Down with Viv
Viv’s Smoothie Recipe
Viv’s Tips
Pickle Brine Chicken
This episode provides a comprehensive look into the multifaceted career of Vivian Chan. It highlights her journey from working in
restaurants to becoming a prominent figure in the food media landscape. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the culinary
world, the challenges and rewards of working in the food industry, and the importance of following your passion.
Whether you’re an aspiring chef, a food enthusiast, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes world of Food Network, this
episode is sure to inspire and inform. Vivian’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a genuine love
for food.
Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation with Vivian Chan! Tune in to learn more about her culinary journey, her experiences
in the food industry, and her tips for success. You’ll also discover valuable resources to help you explore your own culinary
passions.
This interview is a celebration of food, creativity, and the human spirit. It’s a reminder that anything is possible with
passion, hard work, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Join us as we explore the culinary world with Vivian Chan and
discover the joy of creating delicious food and sharing it with others.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Vivian is also a dedicated wife and soon-to-be mother. She embodies the spirit
of balance and demonstrates that it is possible to pursue your career goals while also prioritizing your personal life. Her
story is an inspiration to women everywhere who are striving to achieve success in all aspects of their lives.
The episode also touches upon the importance of mentorship and collaboration in the food industry. Vivian credits her success to
the guidance and support she has received from mentors and colleagues throughout her career. She emphasizes the value of
building relationships and working together to achieve common goals.
Listeners will also learn about the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving food media landscape. Vivian
discusses the impact of social media and digital platforms on the way we consume and engage with food. She shares her insights
on how to stay relevant and innovative in a rapidly changing industry.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who is passionate about food and curious about the inner workings of the food
industry. It provides a rare glimpse into the life of a culinary producer, offering valuable insights and inspiration for
aspiring chefs, food media professionals, and anyone who simply loves to cook and eat.
So, grab your headphones, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by the incredible story of Vivian Chan! You’ll walk away with
new knowledge, fresh ideas, and a renewed appreciation for the culinary arts.
Finally, remember to check out the resources mentioned in the episode, including Vivian’s podcast, Simmer Down with Viv, her
smoothie recipe, and her Viv’s Tips series. These resources offer a wealth of information and inspiration for anyone who wants
to deepen their knowledge of food and cooking.
This episode is more than just an interview; it’s a celebration of food, creativity, and the power of the human spirit. It’s
a reminder that anything is possible with passion, hard work, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. So, tune in and
discover the culinary world with Vivian Chan!