You (and Junkyard Dawg) should check out Food Network's 30 min (or maybe it was an hour) bio special on Guy Fieri. How he got into cooking, what he's like, etc. I don't think you'll dislike the guy or think he's a tool anymore.. I thought it was pretty interesting/nice
Seriously though. If anyone hasn't seen this show (it is on the Fine Living Network), I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! The host is awesome and aside from the fact that he is lit 75% of the time, the show's content is very interesting.
Sad but true, this industry is not easy on women. Is she a member of Les Dames d'Escoffier or Women Chefs and Restaurateurs? Often these groups are great for support and Les Dames in particular is filled with professionals in every area of the culinary world and who love to network and help each other try something new. It might be easier to find something with better hours (and better pay) this way. Good luck!
That's exactly what I figured happened on the show. Given the complexities of those dishes, no way they go in blind. I just figured they knew exactly what the secret ingredient was and were allowed to prepare a menu and gather ingredients beforehand. Every reality show is scripted in some way, can't deny that. The original Iron Chef was better though.
