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October 3, 2025 28 mins

What does it take to rise to the top of the pastry world? In this episode of The Perfect Rise: Conversations with the RBA, Executive Pastry Chef Matthew Ratliff shares his journey from the Culinary Institute of America to competing (and winning) on Food Network, earning elite certifications, and leading the pastry team at the prestigious Everglades Club.

Chef Matt opens up about:
 • The lessons competitions teach that kitchen work cannot
 • Why sugar artistry remains one of the toughest (and most rewarding) mediums in pastry
 • How organization and foresight are the secret weapons of every successful pastry chef
 • The value of certifications like CMB, CEPC, and WCMPC
 • Why financial planning matters just as much as technical skill for a long-term culinary career

Whether you’re an aspiring pastry chef, an established baker, or simply curious about what it takes to excel at the highest level, this conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice that reaches far beyond the kitchen.

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