#246 Chef Josh Work - Chef & Mental Heath Awareness Advocate
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Chef Josh Work - is the culinary force behind The Wildflower Cafe, where elevated comfort food meets deep respect for land, season, and sourcing. Known for his relentless commitment to quality, Josh builds his menus around locally raised meats, responsibly harvested ingredients, and flavors inspired by both travel and tradition. But Josh isn’t just a chef — he’s a craftsman. A skilled butcher with a nose-to-tail philosophy, he understands food from the ground up. His work is rooted in sustainability, conservation, and honoring the animal — values shaped by his time as a hunter, angler, and dedicated forager in the Colorado mountains. Outside the kitchen, Josh shares a different side of his story under the moniker @emotionalsupportviking, where he speaks openly about emotional well-being, resilience, and the importance of honest conversation. It’s a raw, grounded extension of the same philosophy he brings to food: intentional living, connection, and respect for what truly matters. A lifelong traveler and student of culture, Josh draws inspiration from kitchens and wild places around the world — blending global influence with Rocky Mountain grit. In this episode, Josh joins Bobby Marshall in studio for a dynamic conversation and live culinary experience. They dive into wild game, butchery, foraging, sustainability, mental health, Colorado mountain life, conservation, and the deeper meaning behind gathering around food. This one is about more than cooking — it’s about heritage, stewardship, and living fully connected to the land. Subscribe and follow The Mountain Side Podcast for more conversations rooted in authenticity, adventure, and the mountain way of life.
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In the latest episode of The Mountain Side, host Bobby Marshall sits down with Chef Josh to explore a delightful blend of culinary arts and community values. Chef Josh, a head chef with an extensive career in the restaurant industry, shares his journey from being passionate about plating food to becoming a pivotal figure in mental health awareness. This blog post highlights their enlightening conversation, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and culinary innovation.
Chef Josh's Culinary Innovations You're listening to The Mountain Side, where returning guest Chef Josh brings a taste of life in the kitchen and beyond. As a head chef, Josh's commitment and love for food preparation shine through, making every dining experience at his restaurants memorable. From hosting pasta nights to crafting a special Valentine's menu, Chef Josh is constantly pushing the boundaries of culinary arts. His innovative approach to cooking, such as offering midnight Mediterranean-themed meals, reflects his passion for delivering unique and savory experiences.
Bringing Italian Cuisine to Life in Evergreen During their conversation, Josh shares his enthusiasm for Italian cuisine. As a chef who embraces creativity, he discusses the possibilities of opening an Italian restaurant, creating dishes inspired by his travels, and his Italian heritage. From sweet potato gnocchi to carbonara, he offers insights into making these delectable dishes at home, including using double zero flour for that authentic Italian touch. His culinary experiences in Rome further fuel his desire to introduce enriched Italian flavors to his local community.
Fostering Community Through Food Chef Josh's dedication to his craft extends beyond cooking; it’s about building community. His restaurant, Wildflower, is not just a place to enjoy meals but a cornerstone of the community. It’s where friends gather, and the spirit of Evergreen shines. Josh’s future vision includes expanding this community into a restaurant group, further embedding his love for cooking and community service into the heart of Evergreen.
Navigating the Challenges of Mental Health But Chef Josh’s influence doesn’t stop in the kitchen. He is passionately involved in mental health awareness, using his platform to support those in need. He shares stories of loss and resilience, underscoring the significance of being there for one another. Josh's efforts emphasize the power of open dialogue and the impact of simple acts of kindness, which can make the difference in someone's life.
Surviving the Wild: Unforgettable Encounters The conversation takes an adventurous turn as Josh recounts his vibrant experiences in nature, from close encounters with wildlife to the idea of living harmoniously within the ecosystem. His stories of encounters with mountain lions and bears shed light on the beauty and unpredictability of nature, reflecting a life that is as adventurous as it is rooted in community.
Chef Josh’s story is a testament to the importance of community, culinary creativity, and resilience. From his innovative foodie experiences to his heartfelt work in raising mental health awareness, he exemplifies how one person's passion can leave an indelible mark on an entire community. His conversation with Bobby Marshall on The Mountain Side Podcast invites listeners to reflect on the significance of community, the art of cooking, and the transformative power of human connection. For those interested in exploring these dynamic themes further, visit the Wildflower in Evergreen for a culinary experience that embodies the spirit of community and growth. And stay tuned for more episodes of The Mountain Side Podcast that continue to explore the heart and soul of those who shape our world.