Focusing on food for health

John Lawson is the owner and head chef of the health-orientated restaurant FOOD by John Lawson in Essex, England. He has worked in numerous kitchens around the world and has trained under world-renowned chefs including Raymond Blanc and Gordon Ramsey.

During his culinary adventures, John landed in Australia where he opened and worked as the executive chef of No.8 at Crown Melbourne. Everything seemed to be going well - he'd trained with the best, he'd opened a top quality restaurant, he was doing all the things he loved, he was happy and healthy. But then, in 2015, everything changed.

John suffered from a seizure and, after being rushed to hospital, was found to have a large brain tumor. Even with the diagnosis, John didn't let that stop him from loving food. Putting his career on hold so he could complete rehab, John hopped back across the pond to somewhat sunny England to be with family.

During his recovery, John fell in love with how simple, healthy food could help the body and mind repair itself naturally. Once given the all-clear by doctors and told he was cancer free (hooray!), John's culinary career got back into action. But this time, John focused on healthy foods sourced from local farmers. Thus, FOOD by John Lawson was born - a venue where you don't have to feel guilty about enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

In this mentor session, John talks about how you should never give up, no matter what life throws at you.

Learn hospitality skills for today’s world, including:

• The importance of persevering
• Why you should follow your culinary passions
• The importance of training under a great chef

Whether you are just breaking into the kitchen or feel like you are stuck in a rut, watch this mentor session to learn how to keep going when the times get tough.