In this inspiring episode of Arizona Lives: Legal Truths, attorney Travis Meltzer sits down with rising culinary star Chef Beatrice Heirigs. Born and raised in Flagstaff, Arizona, Beatrice shares how her upbringing at local farmers markets and her family’s beeswax business shaped her work ethic, social skills, and love for food. From washing dishes at Alpine Pizza to becoming a finalist on Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef, Beatrice’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and ambition.
She opens up about her challenging but eye-opening externship at Michelin-starred Jean-Georges in New York, the lessons she carried into her current role at Cactus Wren, and how Gordon Ramsay’s mentorship helped sharpen her culinary discipline. Beatrice also reveals her future plans beyond the kitchen — a bold journey through Europe and eventually pursuing culinary freedom with a traveling “van life.”
This episode offers valuable insight into perseverance, the realities of the culinary world, and staying true to your passions while navigating high-pressure industries.
Key Moments00:02:30 – Flagstaff Roots and Farmers Markets 00:05:00 – From Dishwasher to Cook at Alpine Pizza 00:07:45 – Adjusting to New York’s Culinary Scene 00:10:00 – Externship at Jean-Georges 00:13:30 – Lessons from Gordon Ramsay on Next Level Chef 00:15:00 – The Wellington Challenge That Proved Her Place 00:18:00 – Behind the Scenes with Gordon Ramsay 00:20:00 – Looking Ahead: Europe, Van Life, and Culinary Freedom
Show DescriptionAttorney Travis Meltzer sits down with Next Level Chef finalist Chef Beatrice Heirigs, who shares her incredible journey from Flagstaff farmers markets to Michelin-starred kitchens in New York City. Beatrice opens up about lessons from her early jobs, the influence of her Arizona roots, her experience with Gordon Ramsay, and her bold plans for the future. This candid conversation highlights resilience, creativity, and the drive to succeed while staying grounded in personal values.
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