First L.A. Female Chef President in a Century: Chef Fionna España

Walk-In Talk Podcast

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When Chef Fionna España was told she should "just stay home" because she had "too many kids" to become a real chef, she didn't just push back—she made history. As the first female president of the LA chapter of the American Culinary Federation in over 100 years, this proud Latina executive chef has transformed barriers into stepping stones.
"I didn't realize that it was a male-dominant industry," Fionna reveals with characteristic candor. "I thought women belonged in the kitchen until I got my first job and didn't see a lot of women on the hot line." Rather than accepting these limitations, she used them as fuel, setting an ambitious goal to become an executive chef before 40—a milestone she achieved at 38.
What sets Fionna apart isn't just breaking glass ceilings but how she's using her leadership to lift others. During the LA wildfires, she mobilized resources to raise over $20,000 in just one week for first responders. "I used my powers for good," she reflects during a rare moment of self-acknowledgment. This community focus extends to her approach with the next generation of culinary professionals, whom she encourages to balance work ethic with self-care.
Meanwhile, Chef Thomas Parker dazzles with his culinary wizardry, presenting three show-stopping dishes including a mojo-crusted carne asada f

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Walk-In Talk Podcast
Where kitchen culture meets raw storytelling.

Hosted by Carl Fiadini, founder of Walk-In Talk Media, this #1 Apple-ranked food podcast dives deep with chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and frontline pros. From trade shows to short films, we bring the food world to life—one honest conversation at a time.

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Walk-In Talk Media proudly serves as the North American media partner for The Burnt Chef Project, supporting mental health in hospitality.

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Chapters

1. First L.A. Female Chef President in a Century: Chef Fionna España (00:00:00)

2. Welcome to Walk and Talk Podcast (00:01:34)

3. Chef Thomas Parker's Culinary Creations (00:03:02)

4. Introducing Chef Fiona Espana (00:11:32)

5. Breaking Barriers as a Latina Chef (00:15:46)

6. Using Power for Good in the Community (00:24:17)

7. Navigating the "Old Boys Club" (00:34:56)

8. Building a Legacy for Future Chefs (00:40:23)

9. Final Thoughts and Social Media (00:46:47)