What happens when the Michelin dream doesn’t feel like the dream anymore?

In this episode of Fugitive Chefs, we sit down with Josh Whitehead — MasterChef UK semi-finalist, former fine-dining chef, and now founder of pie business Finer Pleasures.

Josh takes us deep into his journey:

• Growing up dreaming of stars and TV kitchens

• The harsh realities of restaurant life and mental health struggles

• What MasterChef really gave (and took away)

• Why pies became his creative, personal, and professional salvation

From kitchens where 100-hour weeks are glorified to finding purpose in shutting shop at 5PM, Josh’s story is honest, relatable, and a bold rethink of what it means to be a chef today.

If you’ve ever questioned your place in this industry — or felt stuck between passion and burnout — this one’s for you.

🎧 New episodes every Tuesday. Follow, rate us & subscribe for more stories from the culinary underground.🎙️ Hosted by Furqan from the Fugitive Chefs PodcastFollow for more episodes with culinary misfits, rebels, and thinkers.Furqan`s Personal Insta : https://bit.ly/4dtiyTvPodcast Instagram : https://bit.ly/43ndATOSpotify : https://spoti.fi/3F6j25AApple Podcasts : https://apple.co/43vBtbT

🔗 Connect with Chef Josh WhiteheadInstagram: @joshwhiteheadchef

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fugitive Chefs Podcast

00:25 Evolving Perspectives on Culinary Success

10:17 Understanding the Culinary Industry's Transition

15:06 Finding Personal Fulfillment in Cooking

19:22 The Reality of Working in Hospitality

25:32 MasterChef Journey

29:48 Journey Through Culinary Experiences

31:25 The Impact of MasterChef on Career Paths

36:32 The Influence of Cooking Shows on Public Perception

40:46 Culinary Traditions and Mental Health

40:47 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship in the Culinary World

45:13 The Journey of Culinary Exploration

53:12 Navigating Mental Health in the Culinary World

01:01:16 Building a Business with Purpose and Passion