I'm pretty actively involved with the military because I think they're incredible human beings. If I can give back to them for what they're doing for us, it's a good thing. And I think to have happy soldiers, you need to feed them well.

I make some of my best recipes with a simple homemade stock. Keep shrimp shells stored in a plastic bag in the freezer. When you have almost a gallon-bag full, you can make a stock in 30 minutes that you can use in soups and sauces. You can then freeze the stock in ice-cube trays.

Books make great gifts because they expand your horizons and keep you cooking.

One big reason I do what I do is there's no two days alike. It's not work for me. It's my life. My passion.

Many of my staff have been with me for over 20 years. I have a great team, and I make sure they feel respected and appreciated.

My favorite Aspen memory is saving an upside-down cake that had exploded from the high altitude.

I think you've got to keep it simple, keep it fresh. Stay away from all that processed stuff, read the labels.