S2 Episode 025 - Al Roberto - From Smashing Drum Sets to Smashing Painkillers and Alcohol

We Recover Loudly - Serving Essential Hospitality Conversations

In this new episode, Shell is joined by chef Al Roberto who shares his remarkable journey from rock star on global stages and to smashing success in the kitchen back in his home town of Yorkshire, and beyond. The episode takes a deep dive into Al's early influences, from the rituals of post-shift beers with his father to the adrenaline-fueled culture of the 90s dining scene. Al reflects on how societal norms and early experiences set the stage for his future battles with addiction and mental health. They explore the significant generational shifts in the hospitality sector, contrasting the hard-partying ways of the past with the healthier lifestyles that younger chefs are starting to embrace.
Al shares his story of how creating pizza kits with his son during lockdown reignited his culinary passion, ultimately leading to the opening of his dream restaurant, Simmer Kitchen. They discuss their shared struggles with addiction and the importance of taking breaks from drinking - That it does not always have to be forever, even a short time gives your mental and physical health so many benefits.
In the episode, they also discuss -

• The complex nature of addiction, from gambling and substance abuse
• The unspoken epidemic of pain killer addiction
• Struggle of maintaining good mental health in a demanding industry.
• Al's personal struggles, the impact of being a role model, and the importance of setting positive examples for the next generation.

This episode really emphasies the necessity of moderation, mental health support, and a balanced life for longevity in the industry. Check it out, and connect with Al on his instagram account-
@simmer_kitchen

For more information on We Recover Loudly and to reach out for speaking engagements or support email [e-mail]

@werecoverloudly
www.werecoverloudly.com

This episode is brought to you by our proud sponsors:

Low No Drinker Magazine @lownodrinkermagazine

www.lownodrinkermagazine.com

Hoofdstukken

1. Chef Al Roberto's Hospitality Journey (00:00:00)

2. Early Influence of Food and Drink (00:11:15)

3. Navigating Generational Changes in Hospitality (00:19:01)

4. Battling Addiction and Seeking Balance (00:27:55)

5. Struggles With Addiction and Recovery (00:40:37)

6. Navigating Mental Health in Hospitality (00:53:07)

7. Navigating Addiction Challenges in Hospitality (01:03:34)