Help! I have an opportunity to interview Michael Symon. His people want a list of questions in

traca

Well-known member
advance, and I am stumped. I know this is a common practice among some folks, but this is the first time I've been asked for a list in advance. Usually I have questions, then the conversation evolves. If I can't come up with a decent list, they'll pass. Thoughts? What would you like to know from chef/author/host of the Chew/Iron Chef Michael Symon?

 
I have no idea but I know I sure would try to make him laugh. His laugh

can't help but make you happy. For some reason I think of the gift of a wonderful laugh like his on the same level as being born with a beautiful gift to sing.

 
How he became involved in his charity (Autism Speaks). If his wife's...

Southern roots have influence his cooking.

What's it like when his Greek and Italian relatives get together?

Is being on The Chew as much fun as it seems to the audience?

What's his relationship with Bobby Flay?

Who was your roommate at the CIA?

How long did it take you after your first restaurant job to know that this would be your life's work?

 
You no doubt have already thought of this, but Google his bio...as you read it

it may inspire you to think of more questions. You already have a great start with the suggestions above.

 
What attribute does he look for before hiring a new employee? Does he

consider attending a Culinary Arts program essential for success.

What do you think of the Slow Food Movement.

 
What fun! Some ideas:

What 3 things about him will surprise your readers?

Does he prefer his restaurant kitchens to be focused and calm or a high-energy and boisterous?

What's his favorite thing to do in Cleveland?

 
Traca, I wish I could be a fly on the wall..... I would ask him

What is the most important thing he learned from his "Paps."

Also, what has he learned from his relationship with Jonathan Waxman and what was his biggest influence on him.

What great fun for you. He is one of my favorites.

 
Here is one..Symon describes himself as a "meat centric" chef.....

when suddenly you find out there will be vegetarians in the group you are cooking for, what delicious side dishes to you turn to?

 
C1, I heard that also, was it Michael or Mario? I was listening to the Chew, do not remember the

episode, (Not watching)... It was background noise, but I do recall being surprised that about a vegetarian wife.

I just really enjoy the chew. It makes me smile, and I like the interaction between the group. They seem to enjoy / respect each other.

His laugh is spectacular. Makes you smile, even when you missed what was funny!!

I am intrigued by his garden. He has mentioned it a few times. He enjoys / appreciates / spends $$ on his own garden at his home. (Admits that he has gardeners take care of it, but enjoys the fresh veggies, herbs, etc).

Not really a question, but an observation. He really seems "likable". He comes off as a regular guy who enjoys cooking and being with people that make him happy. Observation is that is very different from other chefs that are on TV. I don't want to go down the road of bad mouthing, just recognize that in order to achieve their success, (Long hours, expect perfection, creativity, etc), he comes across that he was able to "make it all work" and balance. This observation applies outside of cooking. In my experience, most of the top leaders of an organization are really rigid and in focused mode in and out of work..... He seems very fun and lively....

Have fun! And kudos!! That fairy dust is really working!!

 
barb, I have not watched this guy at all, really do not know that much about him....but

am going to search him out now...only thing I have heard about him is that he is a very likable guy.

 
I think he is totally likable==and a terrific chef, but unlike others

his laugh is totally irritating to me--I think it has somewhat toned down on The Chew.
His restaurants are apparently incredibly good.

 
How fun for you! I enjoy following him on Facebook (michael d. symon). He's very

personable and shares not only recipes but his opinions about life and current events.

 
These are great! Thanks everyone. I was totally stumped. Starstruck, I guess. smileys/smile.gif

 
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