From the Kitchen to Top Chef: The Rise of Kristen Kish as a Culinary Icon

      Welcome to Second Life, a podcast that highlights remarkable women who have successfully transitioned in their careers and embraced the change. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, co-founder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode provides an opportunity to connect with women who are innovators in their respective fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform to stay updated.

      Kristen Kish has established herself as a culinary force. As a chef, author, and host of Top Chef, she initially enrolled in college to study International Business but quickly realized it wasn't her passion. Drawn to the culinary arts, she left college to pursue culinary school, a daring decision that paved the way for her extraordinary career. Kish refined her skills in Chicago and Boston, gaining invaluable experience in various restaurants that helped shape her distinctive culinary style.

      In 2012, Kish made her mark on the national scene as a contestant in the tenth season of Top Chef. Her talent, creativity, and composure under pressure led her to win the competition, solidifying her status as an emerging talent. After her victory, she opened Arlo Grey, a renowned restaurant in Austin, where her inventive dishes showcase her culinary journeys and fine dining expertise. She also authored a cookbook, offering her culinary insights to home cooks everywhere.

      Kish’s charm and knowledge made her an ideal candidate for television. She has hosted programs like 36 Hours and Restaurants at the End of the World, where her passion for food and culture stood out. In 2024, she returned to Top Chef for its 21st season, this time as a host, skillfully combining empathy and authority in her approach.

      This April, Kish added a new accomplishment to her portfolio with the release of her memoir, Accidentally on Purpose. The book serves as a heartfelt and insightful account of her life, covering her adoption, coming out as queer, and her rapid ascent in the culinary industry. Tune in to the latest episode of Second Life to discover how she continues to redefine what it means to be a chef, storyteller, and innovator in today’s culinary landscape.

      Next: Meet the Founders Behind Halfdays: Ariana Ferwerda and Kiley McKinnon.

      Explore More: Second Life