Say Grace
Say Grace
Podcast Description
A soulful exploration of the hospitality industry through the eyes of celebrated restaurateur and author Steve Palmer. Combining the richness of grace—a pre-meal tradition in the South, a gift freely given, and a timeless virtue—with the transformative journey of hospitality, this podcast dives deep into the stories behind the industry. With heartfelt conversations, Palmer uncovers personal journeys of resilience, mental health breakthroughs, and sources of inspiration, showcasing how lives are shaped and changed by the world of service. Say Grace is your place to reflect, connect, and savor thoughtful narratives. Pull up a chair, and join the dialogue about food, people, and the grace that sustains them both.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Focuses on personal narratives and transformative journeys within hospitality, touching on topics such as mental health resilience and the importance of community support, with episodes exemplified by the discussion with chef Mike Lata about local culinary traditions and professional growth.
A soulful exploration of the hospitality industry through the eyes of celebrated restaurateur and author Steve Palmer. Combining the richness of grace—a pre-meal tradition in the South, a gift freely given, and a timeless virtue—with the transformative journey of hospitality, this podcast dives deep into the stories behind the industry. With heartfelt conversations, Palmer uncovers personal journeys of resilience, mental health breakthroughs, and sources of inspiration, showcasing how lives are shaped and changed by the world of service. Say Grace is your place to reflect, connect, and savor thoughtful narratives. Pull up a chair, and join the dialogue about food, people, and the grace that sustains them both.
Chef Alex Harrell brings a blend of classical technique and deep respect for Southern technique and seasonal ingredients to his cooking. Raised in southeastern Alabama, he spent childhood weekends on his grandparents’ Gulf Coast farm harvesting produce and cooking with his father. After earning a biology degree from Hampden-Sydney College, Harrell discovered his passion for the kitchen while working at a beachside seafood restaurant. He then moved to New Orleans, cooking under acclaimed chefs Susan Spicer and Gerard Maras. Harrell later led celebrated restaurants including Sylvain and Angeline and opened The Elysian Bar. Today, he serves as Executive Chef at The Gloriette in Covington, Louisiana.
In this episode, Alex sits down with Steve to talk about his journey to sobriety, his leadership role with Ben’s Friends, a support group for hospitality workers navigating addiction, and what first drew him to the hospitality industry, as well as what continues to keep him there today.
If you or someone you know that works in the hospitality industry is struggling with addiction, visit bensfriendshope.com to find resources.
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