4 MIN READ
MetroStar was honored to host Chef Opal Poullard, a two-time Food Network Chopped champion and former Air Force member, on our Civvies podcast. Chef Opal, a Certified Executive Chef and Certified Culinary Educator, has a unique story that blends military discipline with culinary excellence. Her journey from serving in the Air Force for over 20 years to achieving culinary stardom is a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of dreams.
Early Culinary Beginnings
Chef Opal's love for cooking sparked early on. She whipped up her first creation at just five years old: SpaghettiOs with shredded cheddar and pepper. This playful start hinted at her future in the culinary world. Joining the Air Force through the delayed enlistment program, she aimed for food service but landed in security forces instead. With resilience and determination, she embraced the challenge.
Challenges in Security Forces
Transitioning to security forces proved demanding for Poullard. She remained committed to her culinary passion despite working 12 to 14-hour shifts. Her days were filled with the rigorous demands of her new role, which required physical endurance and mental resilience. However, in the evenings and during her rare free time, she eagerly learned new recipes from friends and experimented in her kitchen.
This dedication allowed her to keep her culinary skills sharp. "I cooked anyway I could at that point," Poullard said.
Pursuing Culinary Dreams
A turning point in Poullard’s journey came after a deployment in Afghanistan. Realizing the brevity of life, she decided to pursue her culinary aspirations actively. She turned to YouTube, watching over 400 videos by Chef Gordon Ramsay to hone her skills. This self-guided education paved the way for her later success and formal culinary training.
Balancing Duties and Dreams
Poullard balanced her professional duties with her culinary ambitions throughout her military career. She stresses the importance of perseverance and goal setting: “Keep your eyes on your final goals, and focus on how you can get to where you want to be in life.”
Advice for Fellow Veterans
Poullard’s journey offers valuable lessons for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Her path underscores the importance of resilience and continuous effort in achieving one’s dreams. Having faced numerous challenges, Poullard remained steadfast in her pursuits, balancing her military duties with her culinary ambitions.
“Do your best with where you’re at, but focus on how you can get to where you want to be in life,” said Poullard.
Stay Tuned for More Veteran Stories
Poullard’s appearance on Civvies wrapped up season two with a bang! Dive into her incredible journey from military service to culinary greatness by streaming her episode. Her story is a testament to the unique strength and determination of the veteran community. At MetroStar, we're committed to supporting veterans like Chef Opal Poullard, ensuring they have the tools to transition to civilian life successfully.
Don’t miss out on more stories of resilience and success in our upcoming seasons. Subscribe now to stay in the loop on future episodes and join us in celebrating the fantastic achievements of our veterans.
