Beyond the Podium with Two-Time Culinary Olympics Champion Sebastian Pettersson

On this episode, Ragnar speaks with two-time Culinary Olympian Sebastian Pettersson. From his journey as a pastry chef and chocolatier to leading the Swedish Junior Culinary Team to victory as their coach, Sebastian shares insights into the intense training, teamwork, and attitude required to clinch gold on the world stage. Tune in for a great episode on craft, competition, and the transformative power of mentorship in shaping future culinary stars. Hear more on Episode 103: Beyond the Podium with Two-Time Culinary Olympics Champion Sebastian Pettersson.

Dive into the world of culinary competitions with Culinary Olympian and coach Chef Sebastian Pettersson as our guide. He shares key insights on the importance of teamwork and dedication, and navigating the highs and lows of competitive cooking.

Tune in and LEARN:

1. Behind the Scenes of Competition Preparation: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous planning, intense training regimen, teamwork, and dedication required to prepare for prestigious culinary competitions like the Culinary Olympics, from menu development to mental preparedness.
2. Navigating Changes in Culinary Competitions: Ragnar and Sebastian discuss the evolution of culinary competitions, particularly in response to environmental consciousness and sustainability, and how chefs and culinary teams are adapting to these changes.
3. The Importance of Team Dynamics: Sebastian reflects on his approach to coaching the Swedish Junior Culinary Team to victory, showcasing the bond and camaraderie essential for success in high-pressure competitions. Learn how fostering a positive team spirit, effective communication, and mutual respect among team members can significantly impact performance and success in culinary competitions, and how Sebastian has prioritized this on the Swedish Junior Culinary Team.
4. Balancing Passion and Professionalism: Sebastian shares the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a competitive chef to a mentor, and how passion for the craft drives his commitment to excellence in the culinary world.
5. The Art of Culinary Mentoring: Sebastian provides advice for aspiring chefs, emphasizing the value of finding a mentor and maintaining a humble, open-minded attitude in the kitchen. Discover the essential qualities and attitudes that make for a successful culinary mentor, and how mentorship shapes the next generation of culinary talent.

I’ve never been with such young chefs fighting so hard for this common goal. My team ended up being so close to each other, like a family, spending a lot of time together and really showing that they don’t want anything else but a gold medal.

Sebastian Pettersson on his experience coaching the Swedish Junior Culinary team to victory at the 2024 Culinary Olympics

Resources

Read more about Sebastian and check out a few of his recipes here.

For more on mentorship, check out Episode 99: Mentoring the Next Generation of Chefs with Isaiah Gerrard & German Lam.

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About Chef Sebastian Pettersson

I’m always saying – to get somewhere, probably no matter what industry you’re in, you should find a good mentor that respects you and you respect his or her profession. And you really stick tight to that person. If that’s within competition, then you’re lucky. If that’s in within a restaurant, then just keep to that. I’m pretty sure that most of the countries have a chef association, so if you’re interested in a team, just reach out to them.

Sebastian Pettersson, a two-time Culinary Olympian hailing from Sweden, has made waves both as a pastry chef and chocolatier.

Currently serving as Head Chef at the Hobo Hotel in Stockholm, Sebastian’s culinary journey began with a passion for food fostered in his grandmother’s kitchen.

He rose to prominence in competitive cooking, leading the Swedish Junior Culinary Team to victory in 2016, clinching a gold medal for his plated dessert. Two years later, he repeated his victory at the Culinary Olympics, showcasing his innovative approach and ability to handle pressure in high-stakes competitions.

Transitioning from competitor to mentor and coach, Sebastian guides young chefs, sharing his knowledge and expertise to shape the next generation of culinary talent.

Earlier this year, Sebastian led the Swedish Junior Culinary Team to a gold medal at the 2024 Culinary Olympics as Coach. His dedication to excellence and belief in the power of mentorship continue to shape the culinary landscape in Sweden and beyond.

For the latest from Sebastian, him on Instagram.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to Sebastian Pettersson for joining us.

World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and our podcast sponsors.