Connecting People with Food, Culture, and Storytelling – Ep822

Featuring Interview Guest, Chef Charles Webb, Voted #1 Private Chef in Chicago, Entrepreneur, World Traveler, Producer, and Host of #ChefonTour; and Performance Guest, Rama Duke, EDM and Rock Artist, Singer / Songwriter, on The Life Changes Show, Episode 822

Interview Guest CHARLES WEBB; and Performance Guest: RAMA DUKE

CHARLES WEBB

Chef Charles Webb: A Culinary Visionary with Global Purpose

Chef Charles Webb is not just a chef; he is an innovator, storyteller, and connector of people. Born in Chicago and raised in both San Antonio, Texas, and Irapuato, Mexico, Webb’s early life was marked by resilience and independence. With a childhood shaped by financial struggles and family challenges, Webb found his first lessons in the kitchen as a young boy. Encouraged by his mother to cook with real ingredients during her long hours at work, Webb’s passion for food and self-sufficiency was born.

However, Webb’s journey to becoming a celebrated chef was far from linear. After graduating from the European School of Economics in Rome, he began a career in finance on Wall Street. But a pivotal moment—witnessing 9/11 from a SoHo street corner—led him to reconsider his path. He left the corporate world to pursue his love for food, embarking on an extraordinary global journey.

From honing his craft at Michelin-starred Noma in Copenhagen and The Mercer Kitchen in New York to working at Casas Brancas Resort & Spa in Brazil and aboard mega-yachts on the Côte d’Azur, Webb absorbed culinary influences from every corner of the globe. Across 92 jobs in nine countries, he gained the skills, perspective, and entrepreneurial spirit that define him today.

Returning to Chicago, Webb founded Avanti Gourmet Catering, a business that reflects his belief in food as an experience rather than just a meal. Drawing on his multilingual abilities, international network, and deep appreciation for diverse cuisines, Webb creates unforgettable moments that transcend the plate.

Webb’s impact goes beyond the kitchen. He is a philanthropist, contributing to organizations such as the One Goal Foundation and Lurie Children’s Hospital. He is also the creator and host of #ChefOnTour, a digital series that merges culture, community, food, and art with travel. Visiting cities around the world, Webb collaborates with local influencers, chefs, and artists to craft intimate, purpose-driven dining experiences in extraordinary settings—from Buddhist temples to historic landmarks.

At the heart of Webb’s work is a commitment to connection and purpose. Whether raising funds to provide cooking appliances for underprivileged families in Medellín, Colombia, or sourcing innovative ingredients like Lion’s Mane mushrooms and cannabis, Webb’s vision is expansive. He believes food is a universal language—a way to foster dialogue, inspire action, and bring people together.

As a culinary leader and cultural pioneer, Webb continues to push boundaries, blending his passion for storytelling, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. He invites the world to join his journey of discovery, collaboration, and impact—because, as Webb believes, together, it all tastes better.

Find and Follow Chef Charles Webb at: www.chefcharleswebb.com and https://www.instagram.com/chefcharleswebb/

Photo Credit: Meagan Shuptar Photographer