What happens when someone leaves the bar but not the industry?In this episode of Fugitive Chefs, we talk to Jack Muirhead — a former high-end bartender who went on to design hospitality education at the pioneering MAD Academy in Copenhagen. Jack shares his journey from behind the bar in Australia to building programs that tackle the hidden challenges of hospitality — from burnout and lack of mentorship to poor financial literacy and cultural blind spots.

We talk about:

His early years in cafes, bakeries, and bars across Australia, the US, and Japan

Why front-of-house voices deserve more space in food discourse

How MAD Academy is helping reframe food education

The need for non-chef professionals in building a better industry

Why curiosity and confidence matter more than clear career paths

His hopes for hospitality in a post-COVID world

This episode is for anyone asking: What’s next after restaurants?Because change in food won’t come from one person — it’ll come from all of us.

🎧 Fugitive Chefs is your window into alternative culinary careers and bold food innovation. New episodes every Tuesday.

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🎙️ Hosted by Furqan from the Fugitive Chefs Podcast

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🔗 Connect with Jack Muirhead

Instagram: @jaacm

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:48 The Impact of MAD Academy

17:04 Community and Ecosystem in Copenhagen

19:43 Personal Growth and Opportunities

22:22 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

24:12 Finding Your Path in Hospitality

26:24 The Importance of Community and Mentorship

28:48 The Role of Education in Hospitality

33:37 Navigating Financial Challenges in Hospitality

35:04 Creating a Supportive Work Environment

38:31 Understanding Regulations in Hospitality

43:07 The Future of Food Education

47:21 Navigating Career Opportunities in Hospitality