“I loved every minute” — Chef Michelle Reflects on her Yes! Chef Journey

Chef Michelle Francis came to NBC's Yes! Chef determined to save her daughter Sophie, who is suffering from a life-threatening disease, and to test herself in a demanding culinary competition. Michelle, a seasoned Los Angeles sous chef, contributed heart and talent to the kitchen. Her experience was life-changing, even though she had to overcome severe obstacles and early elimination.

Reflecting on her time on the show, Michelle shared:

"I did my best. I loved every minute and had fun. It was stressful, but I pulled through and I’m proud of myself."

Along the way, she had human as well as culinary struggles. The competition was particularly drama-filled due to her back-and-forth with fellow competitor Chef Katsuji Tanabe. Michelle was no quitter, despite the odds. She stressed the importance of perseverance. Her time on Yes! Chef tested not just her culinary skills but also her determination and love of the kitchen.

As she looks to the future, Michelle continues to be involved in the culinary scene as a private chef and finds motivation in mentors such as Nancy Silverton and Patrick Clark. Her experience on the show is evidence of her fortitude, commitment, and passion for cooking.

Michelle Francis reflects on her Yes! Chef journey: Growth amidst the heat

A remarkable competitor on NBC's Yes! Chef, Michelle Francis combined her culinary skills with her fortitude. She experienced tremendous personal and professional development throughout her time on the show, despite being eliminated early. Michelle was inspired to compete by a personal goal in addition to the chance to hone her culinary abilities.

She shared, "My daughter told me that I would really learn something about myself and learn what a great chef that I am."

Even though she was new to televised culinary competitions, this support inspired her to take on the tasks head-on. Michelle faced challenges along the way. She faced fierce rivalry and strategic gameplay, especially from competitor Chef Katsuji Tanabe.

Considering these relationships, she said:

"We were just deflecting him all the time, like he would be a little gnat. He would constantly be there, and we would just be trying to swat him away."

Michelle stayed focused on her goal of developing as a chef and a person in spite of the pressure. Finding confidence in her voice and cooking style was just as important to her as winning dishes in the competition. Regardless of the outcome, victory or criticism, each obstacle turned into a teaching moment.

She developed close relationships with other competitors off-camera, many of whom she remained friends with for a long time. Yes! Chef for Michelle marked the start of a new, powerful chapter.

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